thoughts on a long awaited visit

This trip has so many elements that have effected my experience. The hardest part of the trip is being in all the places where I used to have a doodle bug and recognizing her painful absence. From the empty seat in the shopping cart, to the missing dancing body dancing with the children at church. My heart carries this intense longing to have her with me. When we went to our old house I stepped into her newly painted room and took in a deep breath as I tried to take in the moment. It was the first safe room she ever slept in. I remember her sweet screams as she ran around the yard with Parker and Lucy. She is deeply missed.
Tucson has a feel and smell that warms up my soul with a remembrance of so many good things. I love the small homes with cacti growing all over and the additions that don't match and the yards filled with tables and chairs for evening events. I love the straight roads...so straight you can see for a mile ahead of you. I love the dirt, yes, even the dirt in my toes. I love the Tusconians, who in the 60 degree weather have thick winter jackets and go around commenting on how cold it is. :) I love sun beaming down as it awakens the night.
Staying at the Seneca House is also such a blessing. I have had so many conversations about the brokenness of our world of our community and of ourselves. I love how they encourage me as I walk into who God is making me. I love how they ask the really deep questions that make me ponder before I can respond. I love their honesty. I love their attempt to not live as this world asks.
I think the thing I need to remember is that God is offering me good things wherever I am. Enjoying my time in Arizona is a gift. But life right now is in Ann Arbor. It's Monday night dinners with Hannah and Micah, Bible Studies, Small groups, Thursday night potlucks...it's snow and grass and leaves and warm jackets. It's lots of water and great walks.
So yeah...those are my thoughts thus far.