Departure date: June 25

Dear friends,
The long goodbye is almost over. It's been a fabulous time connecting with friends and families near & far - sharing our story & hearing updates on theirs. The sister trip to Sarasota was great, but it sure was hard to say goodbye to my mom and sister, Helen. I'll have to say, we've eaten out more times these past few months than we have in the past few years, but what a memory bank we now have to take with us to Swaziland. Our "last" Sunday at Bethel church was especially meaningful. Bethel has truly become our church family, and to have the entire congregation cover us in prayer will sustain us during our absence. The Dubuc's had a lovely party to wish us, and other Bethelites who are departing for new ventures, a fond farewell.
I hope we can host such gatherings in our new home, to share the warmth and love we've received from all of you.
Thank you, thank you, current Swazi peace corps volunteers. Your YouTube videos and packing lists have been invaluable. Somehow it's a lot harder to pack this time around, but we feel pretty confident that we're bringing mostly the right stuff. Hopefully, we'll certainly be able to "make do" with whatever we forget. 80 lbs. in 2 suitcases actually is quite a lot for 1 person to bring. We're anxious to meet all of you, esp. the ones we've been bothering with packing questions.
This weekend we travel to Wash D.C. to gather with almost all of our children (Troy couldn't get off work) to be together one last time. Until then, here's hoping we get our last minute things done.. Gail & Mike