Bowling Green

You'd never believe how rejuvinating a trip home can be. Between the wonderful warm weather (no winter coat for me!) and the joy of being with family and friends in a town I love... I feel just so revitalized. Some people may be cool with the cold, but I realized just how low I've felt and that I've really been in a hibernative state. But this weekend I've felt awake and alive. And as much as I will dread going back to Midland (except to see Nathan and Mimi) and dread living all that I love, this trip has given me a sense of contentment. For the first time in a while, I'm truly just happy in the here and now.

I know Michigan isn't my first choice of places to live, but its been valuable for Nathan's career. He has a job in a field that is not easy to enter into at the moment. And not only that but he's thriving. And while he's not making much money, we have good health insurance. The winters are tough, but the summers are gorgeous. I've made it through the bulk of the winter... right now, spring is on its way.

I just feel like me. Its truly like a piece of my spirit died with the leaves, and I feel like if I hold on real tight... I can carry the new, fresh spirit back to Midland with me.

Back to the trip though... I've enjoyed my time with Mom and Dad, Austin, Casey and Jo, Bryan and Stephanie, and Mark. Today I got to take Mark out for a couple hours. We went to "Porto's" Mexican restaurant and then to the playground. We talked about all the things we did last year. He talked to Nathan on the phone and remembered Mimi. While we were eating lunch, Mark said "Kelly I want to hug you." He hugged me. Then he said, "I want to kiss you too!" And in the car he kept saying, "Kelly I love you." It was just so wonderful to see him and how grown he us. And to know he still remembered me! He will forever hold a piece of my heart.

Things are winding down and I'm trying not to think too much about Monday, but as I said, I'm going to try to accept this rejuvination and carry it with me back to Michigan.