I adore the scene in the Sound of Music where the children say good night. The Von Trapp family offers a charming dance in which each child has a moment to shine. Gretel simply curls up on the bottom step and falls asleep. 

 

"So long! Farewell! Auf wedersehen, goodbye! Adieu, adieu, to you and you and you!" 

 

I am saying good-bye to these daily stories. I will miss writing them, as well as the thoughtful responses from many of you. It has enriched my life immeasurably. 

 

Yet maybe it is more like Leisel and Kurt von Trapp. We are not leaving one another forever, just stepping out of the room. Thank you for inviting me into your lives, and so graciously holding the tender parts of mine. The miracle is, that even if the conversation takes a long pause, we still have the connections. For those of you who started with me back in 2010, it has been quite a journey. 

 

"The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious unto you. The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, and give you peace."