My thoughts are not from “afar” anymore. I realize this as I think about picking up blogging again. I also realize that the breathtaking whirl and now the steady plod of my life isn’t conducive to consistent writing.
J and I are thinking of starting a garden. I’ve never gardened before in my life unless you count the times as a child that Mom coaxed us out of bed to weed the garden before the summer sun got too hot. Oh, and I did manage to keep a pot of spinach alive for a few months when I lived in Spain.
As I write, I can see the rectangular plot of brown from the office window. Brown, spotted with yellow dandelions and a general air of forsakenness. These are the moments that I realize I’ve romanticized gardening. Imagine: me slipping out the kitchen door to pluck two ripe tomatoes, a cucumber, and some fresh cilantro for supper.
Yep. I forget that we must select, then plant, and wait, and weed, and water, and wait, and wait.
Likewise, I’ve romanticized my time and ability to keep up a blog. One must be attentive. Attentive I have not been. Attentive I will not be.
This is to say that my blog will continue in its general air of forsakenness until it closes down in April of 2026. It has served its purpose of giving me the space I needed to process my life overseas. Now, that is done.
Life here is every bit as interesting as my life was overseas. I’m basking in the white blossoms of springtime, learning the nooks and crannies of a new area, spending every possible moment with my companionable husband, and starting that long and beautiful process of cultivating relationships in a welcoming community.
But blog, I will not.
So, this is my goodbye. And my thank you for investing time and energy into reading my ramblings week after week.
My Thoughts From Afar | 
Thank you for this glimpse into your present life!! It’s been such a joy to get acquainted with you via your blogs/writings! Blessings on this next phase of life as you adjust to a new area and gardening and “wifery”!! 💕
Naomi
Well Tricia, I for one have greatly enjoyed reading your blog as you’ve processed so many changes, and challenges, and joys over the years, and seeing thru your words your heart of love for our Heavenly Father and your desire to dig into what it looks like to be His child. All that said, I love that you’re embracing your new stage of life & new relationships & responsibilities God has brought to you!
And I love that picture of the bare, brown dirt in your yard! I see a picture of potential & possibilities- not unlike life! – and I’m excited to see what God has for you & J from here going forward! I pray God’s richest blessings on you both!
Thank you, Jeanette! I’m thankful to be able to keep up regular contact with you here in the States. You have so much wisdom to share. And, even more than that, you have so much heart. 🙂 I’m privileged to call you my friend!