Ch-ch-ch-changes...

We've been living in Rome about two and a half months now, and I think I'm only just now catching my breath from all the changes our family has gone through this past summer.  It's all shaking out okay, but I think part of my weariness the past week or so has been a bit of a crash from everything catching up with me.  Since June, a few things have been different for our family:

First change:  We moved from Hawaii where we'd lived for eight years and put down roots.  The PalmKids consider Kailua their hometown, and we're all still homesick for it from time to time.  We have close friends there and a church that will always be special to our family.

Second change:  I left my job at Trinity Christian School.  I loved teaching there, and I miss the students, staff, and ministry.  Leaving that job meant I left a crazy busy schedule.

Third change:  PalmBoy has gone to college.  He loves Covenant, and I'm happy he's happy.  But we miss him badly.  Last night I pulled four napkins out when setting the table, so I guess I haven't come to terms with his move still.  And I can't wait until he comes home for Christmas.

Fourth change:  We moved to Italy.  We love the adventures we're having in Rome, but there is some culture shock and much to learn.

Fifth change:  I'm only homeschooling one child now.  My work load has lightened a great deal.  I don't feel so under the pile in my preparations, and that's a feeling I haven't had in years.

Sixth change:  Our apartment lease includes a cleaning lady.  Sweet Monika cleans for us three hours a week, and this has changed my life significantly!  For the better!

Seventh change:  Travel!  PalmPilot's school here includes the best field trips ever, and I get to go on them.  We've got two more big trips coming up, and I'll be an expert packer by the time they're over.

More changes are on the horizon as we have another move coming up in February.  When the orders are in hand, I'll share more about that.

As I contemplate all that's happened in the past few months, I can't help but thank God for going before us, sustaining us, and blessing us far beyond what we could ever deserve.  When everything else changes, He never does.