Last night was our farewell celebration and we were quite blessed to have shared the evening with such an amazing community of family and friends. I think it really hit me as I said goodbye to a dear and great friend of six or seven years… We are moving, actually moving away and saying goodbye.

I look forward to the new relationships that await in Texas. And I know that we will keep in touch with many of our friends here in Iowa. But it doesn’t make the goodbye’s any easier. I have laughed and cried so much with so many and I would not be the woman, mother and wife that I am had it not been for so many wonderful ladies here in Iowa who have been true and loyal friends and mentors to me. What I have to offer Texas is in great part due to the wisdom, advice, love and inspiration that I have received in Iowa (and I know that (he) would agree and say the same)…