Farewell to Nova Scotia

When I first arrived in Nova Scotia you would have thought I had landed on Mars. 

It was that foreign to me. 

By the time we left, I was leaving my home! 

-There has to be a change that takes place in that space of time.

One of the reasons why I will always love Nova Scotia so much is because it granted me that change. A change of heart, change of mind, change of scenery and ideas. 

It opened my eyes, gave me experience, knowledge and acceptance, and helped me in so many ways to understand what I value.

The experience was a refiners fire for me, and there were many times when I struggled. 

But I learned during those struggles that turning to the Lord is not something we just talk about. 

And I learned how to do it with all of my heart and soul. 

I learned life lessons.

I learned to be strong, and to be tough. 

But, most importantly, to be Good. Kind. Gentle. Patient. Understanding. Willing. Hopeful. Trusting. 

I learned to keep my eyes open to the blessings around me, and to always stay grateful. 

I learned that being kind to a stranger can truly mean everything in this world. 

There are good people to be found all over this world, and without any doubt the Lord is aware of us all, and looks after us no matter where we might be. 

I absolutely believe there are special people placed in our path to help us through. Helene was definitely one of these people for me. She helped me in more ways than she will ever know, and I am so grateful I had a sister in NS to count on for anything and everything. She was then, and still is an inspiration to me. I am beyond grateful for the time we were able to spend together living near by, and sharing so much of our lives in the same experience. We spoke often of what a blessing it is, and it remains that way. A tremendous blessing from above - this divine friendship of ours. 

Helene was given that dreadful assignment of delivering us to the airport on the day we left. She came to the hotel to pick up me up with the kids. These final moments together felt like my heart was being put through the shredder. We knew however, this was not goodbye for us, but instead only the beginning to our story and life long friendship. I put my game face on, but have to admit~ Closing this chapter was harder than expected. 

farewell to Nova Scotia, you sea-bound coast
let your mountains dark and dreary be
for when i am far away on the briny ocean tossed
will you ever heave a sigh and a wish for me?

*

~These little 'Moments'~

:)

 I'm so glad Helene was our final send off. 

I love to feed off of her encouragement and positive outlook, she makes anything hard seem like a beautiful blessing. I love her for that. 

Before we knew it, it was happening. We were loaded on a plane westward bound. 

Halifax Nova Scotia Canada served it's time, and just like that, the journey through this part of the country was over. I believe we were ready to move on. Looking hopefully into the future awaiting us, and taking one step in front of the other to get there. 

You would be amazed how many times I have thought of the early pioneers while traveling from Nova Scotia to Utah. Because a twelve hour day on a plane with three little ones is not a piece of cake. I know there were many who crossed that treacherous distance on foot! My humble reminder not to complain~ 

Long story short, it's a long way. Our trip home was completely exhausting (even with the help of 2 other adults) but we were lucky to have zero complications. I was so very grateful to have help from my parents getting home. It made all the difference. The kids and I haven't been used to getting this kind of help, and so I feel like we are a little rusty at receiving it. But, we'll work on it. ;)

The kids seemed melancholy to be leaving all they have ever known, but I was proud of their courage to move forward. Mom looked down at Scotlin and asked how he was doing and he told her "I'm going to miss Canada." Then looked up brightly at her and said: "Do you have any questions about Nova Scotia?" :) 

I think it was on this flight home where Miley formed her special bond with Papa Kerr Kerr. She had clung to him and felt so safe and loved ever since. I know that feeling. Kerry is such a blessing to us. 

I knew if her heart felt uneasy in anyway, being with him made her feel at peace. I can't thank him enough for that. Our transition was made as smooth as possible with this loving help. 

It was a long long day. But we made it! We made it home!

Utah never looked so much like a desert. ;) And, it never looked so good. It is such a beautiful city. The mountains are incredible, and have us captivated! 

Our focus now is getting adjusted and settled in for our time spent here in Utah. 

Justin was still in his pursuits across the Country, and it felt as though our lives here couldn't truly begin until he had safely joined us.

Here's to letting new adventures begin!

Welcome to America! Welcome to Utah! 

Home Sweet Home.