the move - part 3

The weekend before we moved, aNother Ellis boy got married!  Shawn, again, had the distinct privilege and honor of performing the ceremony.  The Ellis backyard was transformed almost over night into an enchanted forest.  It was a perfect setting for a beautiful event.

Chris Ellis.  What more is there to say about a faithful friend who challenges, exhorts, encourages and loves?

The very next day, in that enchanted woods, the Ellis family graciously hosted our Farewell Party.  It was a day we'll never forget.  One of my all time favorites, for sure.  Where all of our worlds collided into one big backyard.  Baseball, neighborhood, church and beyond.
We were so honored and humbled by all of you who made a point to come hug our necks and share with us in that special evening.  No words will ever express just how much that meant to each of us, so I'm not even going to try and put it down.  Just let us say a big ole "thank you" from the bottom of our hearts to all of you.  We love each and every one of you so, so very much.

*A ginormous thanks and bushel full of gratitude to Pam Weber for capturing the event on "film".

Mwah and huge hugs!

Pastor Richard yuckin' it up with the Barrons

Me and Steph

food galore!

desserts too - yum!

guests arrive

Lots and lots of loved ones.

Kathy and the wee littlest Mitchellette

Laura chattin' it up with the Schmidts

da boyz

what's a party at the Ellis house without a game of football??

Gathering around to pray and eat

We are the blessest of the blessed.  Honestly.

Ronnie and Amber.  We love him despite his Cowboy allegiance.  *wink*

The Mayes!  Another family met through Allstar season.  A friendship bonded immediately.
Thanks for your prayers and encouragement, Mayes!  We miss you all!

 Yogi and his girlies. A humble example of a servant.  Thanks, Yogi!

 The Burbank family - affectionately known as the Hollywoods

 Van and Anne Clifton - prayer warriors!

 How many Phillies shirts do you own, Cunninghams???
Ha!  We loved coaching with ya'll ever single minute.

Do not be confused.  Corey and Shawn are NOT friends.
Corey already has two friends and doesn't need anymore.

 Walter and Stephanie, pictured in the center, drove up to help us move in.  She's a Jersey girl.  I liked her right from the start.  Walter done good.

 Look at that set up!

 Reliving Rolesville times with Alycia and Sara

 Here I am sandwiched in between the Davis "sisters" - hahahaha!
Seriously, they could be.  But they're not.  Mother, Christy and with daughter, Erin.  Love these two and the men in their lives.

 Todd and Louise Thornton - love.

Elijah and Dalton

 Of all the years we've played Rolesville, this past All Star season was our first encounter with the Patierno family.  Fell instantly in love.  Thanks for changing your work schedule to bid us farewell, Vito!

 Chris gathered the party guests around a circle to share some memories or good wishes.

 This man is precious to both of us...

 Chris gets the ball rolling

Good laughs and good times shared!

 Oh, this is a treasure of a night...to be sure.  Humbling and so personal.  We savored every word spoken.

 Danny shared on behalf of all the Roberts.  We missed you Court, Walk and Tay!!!  We love you all so very much.  What a blessing you were to us for those 6 precious years in Wallridge.  So much more than good neighbors...

No words...
Andrea, you never cease to amaze me with your deep love and faithfulness.
You know what I'm talking about.  So glad miles will not keep us "apart".

 Oh boy.  That's a trio.  Danny Roberts and Rodney Maye.
My hunch is they are talking about Rolesville baseball.

 Anna Beth and Claire representing half of the Lewis team.  Field trips and classroom parties will never ever be the same without you by my side, AB.

 Andy Weber.  Dangit.  Why didn't I think to get a picture of his wife, Pam, our personal photographer for the day.  Shoot.  Love you both and thank you for all your support throughout.

Chris and Sarah, "we love you more and miss you already."
Seriously, thank you for sending us off with so much love and encouragement.
You are wonderful, wonderful friends.