Manry Family

I remember saying over a year ago, “I can’t even imagine what the moment of good-bye will look like.” And now it has come and gone. I’m sitting in my hotel room in London with my swollen feet from traveling propped up on a pillow, recalling the last forty-eight hours. My slightly puffy eyes are evidence of many tears shed and as I’m writing this I’m realizing the lovely picture of myself I’m presenting for you. It’s not my cutest moment that’s for sure, but it is a precious one. After months of constant change and heightened emotions, I feel the Lord restoring me and giving me rest.

As expected, leaving was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. The airport scene was like one you might see in a movie. It was so difficult to turn and walk away from the faces that are so familiar and dear to me, knowing I won’t see them for a long while. Even the boys began to understand the reality of what was happening. After we walked through security, I looked over and saw Connor leaning over a chair with glossy eyes and a quivering lip. When I asked what was wrong he began crying aloud over and over again, “I want to be with Jack.” Sweet Connor was feeling this sacrifice just as I was. Recalling the separation is difficult for me, but my heart is filled with gratitude and joy as I sit here and recall the other special times of this past week.

We shared so many sweet moments with our family and friends, receiving blessings and confirmations and charges. We were encouraged and loved and prayed over by so many. These memories will forever be thread into the fabric of who we are as a family. I want to express my gratitude for our dearest family and friends. Thank you for being committed to this journey with us, and for being a part of it in such a special way. We love you and appreciate who you are. Knowing we are loved and supported by you gives us so much strength to enter into this next phase of our lives. Thank you for being vessels of God’s love and encouragement. I give God the glory for all we received for I know it was from Him. He knew the ways in which we needed to be encouraged and he provided so perfectly through you. Thank you.

Comments (12)

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Guest said:

Heather What a great website !!! I have been thinking and praying for all of you!! Got to hug on your mom on Sunday and find out how you are all doing. You are missed already!! God bless you with His peace today!! Love, Heather

November 17, 2005

Guest said:

Tessa Sweet Lori- So good to hear your voice the other day! We love you dearly & are already missing yall tons.

November 14, 2005

Guest said:

Amy Ok...so this has been the longest week of our lives - I can't imagine how it's been for you guys! Many a day has gone by when one of us girls will call or email each other and we always ask, "how are you doing today?" and I must confess we're all a mess! Of course that's supposed to be how it is because it's evidence of how much we love you guys and how proud we are to call you family and friends. Speaking of friends...can't wait to have a girls night in Uganda! Love you tons! -Amy

November 12, 2005

Guest said:

The Ebeling Kids We love you so much. We miss you a lot. We hope we can come see you someday. Lots of love. XOXOXOXOXOXO :grin :x :p :sigh :zzz :upset :eek :roll :cry :x

November 11, 2005

Guest said:

The Ebeling Kids We love you so much. We miss you a lot. We hope we can come see you someday. Lots of love. XOXOXOXOXOXO :grin :x :p :sigh :zzz :upset :eek :roll :cry :x

November 11, 2005

Guest said:

Aunt Lori Hello Aunt Lori! Please tell our cousins that we think it will be fun and nice in Africa. Maybe Luke can have fun making banana leaf soccer balls to play with Connor. I hope that they will show God's love to other kids there in Africa too. I heard that you are going to be the teacher to Luke and Connor and Lydia Jane and that is going to be neat. Love, Daniel

November 10, 2005

Guest said:

Emily Do your eyes look like you just gave birth to Connor? If not, then I am sure you still look absolutely fabulous! I looked like I was punched and slept horribly for 2 days. Just when I think I am doing okay with you being gone, I check the website and am reminded that you are SO MISSED, because I start to cry again. Come May, Come! Love you bunches! Em

November 09, 2005

Guest said:

... I hate this site!!! Everytime I'm on it I become emotional. I really can't believe you guys are gone! We love and miss you! Ashley

November 09, 2005

Guest said:

... I hate this site!!! Everytime I'm on it I become emotional. I really can't believe you guys are gone! We love and miss you! Ashley

November 09, 2005

Guest said:

Kara I love you Lori and I am so proud of you! :grin

November 09, 2005

Guest said:

Ross Fine! Go be with your new friends, see if I care..... I have a good feeling about today and days to come for ya'll. The days will become easier to face each morning you wake. I'm really looking forward to being with you guys again. (in your new home!!!)

November 09, 2005