Visitors from afar

I have lived the past 11 years away from family-- four years in Virginia, two years in China, 3 years in Indiana, and now over a year and a half in California.  Sometimes I was only able to see my family once a year.  I have always been incredibly close with my family, but how then have I lived geographically so distant from them all these years?  Do I not really love them like I think I do?  Am I neglecting them?  Am I selfish person?  I know all those things aren't true, but it still doesn't mean I don't miss them everyday.

They are probably the reason I have ventured out into the world to see, do, love, and learn so much.  Knowing I have people in my life who will always support and challenge me to continually grow and become the woman God intended, has helped me explore the world and do things that most people in the middle of the Kansas prairie haven't even dreamed about.  I'm not naturally a brave person, although I have always longed to experience new cultures, places, friendships, and jobs.  Yet my family has encouraged me to step out in faith, take risks, and live life to the fullest.

Last month I was blessed with a visit from my Mom and Andrea.  I took five work-free days to hang out with them.  The three of us stayed cozily in my cute little studio by Lake Merritt, which Andrea loved walking around nearly every day.  They helped me see Oakland through new eyes, while also helping me accomplish a lot of things on my wedding checklist.  Andrea made us stop and smell just about every gorgeous flower in bloom, and both Mom and Andrea seemed to make Oakland a happier place.  They radiate a joy and happiness that can cheer up the gloomiest soul in Oakland.  I was surprised at how many people smiled and said "good morning" to us when we were trekking all around the Bay Area.  Hmmm... Maybe I could smile a little bit more too.

Here's a little snapshot of some of the fun:

 Visiting the Golden Gate bridge up close.

 Had a nice little jaunt around Muir Woods.

 Andrea, one of my helpers at the wedding dress boutique in Berkeley.

 The moms meet for the first time in Chinatown!

Eating at hole-in-the hole Geta Sushi in Oakland, where we ate about five pounds of amazing sushi.

 And hiked some more in Redwood Regional Park!