Rhode Island - Day 4

Got up early to head to Newport. I've driven over this bridge countless times.  Alone, with carseats and strollers, with my parents, in the Safe Kids van.  And never.  NOT ONCE did I ever stop being amazed and delighted with the good fortune that this was MY ACTUAL LIFE!  Newport.

My 40th Birthday was here at The Mooring surrounded by love and friendship.  It was and still is, one of the loveliest day of my entire life.  A life I had build from the ground up here.  I would learn just days later I would be leaving it.  Which makes the memory even sweeter as it was not yet tinged with the agony and heartbreak of leaving it all behind.  Little did I know that I wouldn't leave it all for ever.  I'm back a lot.  And those friendships have changed and strengthened in ways I could never have seen.  I feel so truly blessed.

"Brunch on the balcony overlooking the bay"... Just as those invitations read five years ago.  So special to spend my 45th here too.

Hopped in the car and headed to Connecticut to tour our new Temple.

Back from Connecticut to watch our favorite coach under the lights.  And he bought us all ice cream after.

Then home to their place where I love just "being".  Doing nothing.  But with dear friends in the warmth of their cozy home.  I love and miss them and being in their home so much.