Goodbyes are sad

Goodbye's are sad, even if they are not permanent. I had to say goodbye to the most loving, sweet congregation of Christians a few weeks ago.  I am taking a new step in my life, and preparing to take a job in Maryland at a Christian school. There are so many exciting things about this opportunity. But one of the saddest aspects was saying goodbye to this amazing group of people. 

My last Sunday morning, I taught the teen girls class for Sunday school, just like normal. Then I played the piano for the prelude and the church service. They surprised me with a huge gift basket of goodies and bath and body works products...food, gift cards and a beautiful scrapbook with pictures to help me always remember the church. 

After the service, there was ice cream for everyone. The my favorite people took me to lunch at the Fishermans Market in Palm Springs. On our drive, we saw this tell tale sign of a forest fire in the distance...

We stopped at this awesome huge rock to take a couple of pictures

I love these people so much. We would joke about it, but they are seriously like family to me.  I am going to miss them sooooo much

I will miss my wonderful piano students. This is one of my students; she has come so far in the year that I have taught her and she has worked very hard.

I'll miss this great girl who is part of my Sunday school class. 

This amazing group of teens and 'tweens' will be greatly missed...

And my pastor and his wife have been such an encouragement to me these past 3 years. I love them so much and their wonderful family. 

I took this picture of the beautiful gifts I was given.  One of the sweetest gifts was the memory locket from Origami Owl pictured below.  

It is personalized and so thoughtful. I wear it often now and think about this amazing church every time I do!!!!

Goodbyes are sad...I am excited for the future, but I am sad to say goodbye to so many terrific people who have touched my life in a very special way.