An Unexpected Blessing

It's always a little nerve-racking moving to a new place. We probably move more than the average couple thanks to the military, but we still have the same thoughts/apprehensions each time we go. Will we find a church we like? Will we like our new house? Will we find good friends? That last one is usually the one I get the most wrapped up in. 

 

When we moved to Pensacola, we found the best friends we could have asked for. We really just hit the jackpot and got so, so spoiled. We loved that group and still remain close with all of them, but we are spread all across the country now. Leaving them was so hard, but I really hoped we would connect with people in Kingsville and be able to establish new friendships there as well.

We prayed for solid friendships, especially for me. We knew Parker would be part of a squadron and be close with those guys. They all fly planes, so there is never a lack of conversation or camaraderie between them. Sometimes, it's a little harder for the wives. I still had my best friends from Pensacola, now living on opposite ends of the country, but I prayed for friends locally as well. All I can say is God works in mysterious ways. The first day we moved here, I met Joni. 

 

Joni isn't a military wife and she is more than double my age, but she has by far become my favorite part of Kingsville. She is our neighbor across the street, but she became the person I went to for advice, to rant about this and that, and for prayer requests. She became the person that would watch Jenny in a heartbeat or bring over dinner when she knew Parker was away. She became the person that I looked forward to sitting on her swing together and just chatting about our lives in the evenings. She became my best friend here. 

 

It really is amazing when God blesses you in ways you wouldn't expect it. I know I will be friends with Joni for life, and I really wish I could take her with me and plant her next door everywhere we move. Goodbyes are always hard, but I am so thankful for the time we got to spend in Kingsville. I am so grateful for a friend who was more than I could have asked for. We love you, Joni!