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Emo day

Yesterday was a real emotional day for me and for a lot of other people as we said farewell to Pastor T and Misty, and their children Nate and Celeena.  They are more than staff members -- they are truly our family and will continue to be.

Larry and I have told the congregation countless times how much we appreciate the Mackleys so much because they have been our most loyal staff members, EVER.  I cannot underscore that enough.  Look up "loyal staffer" in the dictionary and their picture is there.  :)  Finding folks like them is like finding a needle in a haystack and we could not be more grateful for five wonderful years they gave us.  They know that Larry and I can be counted on to help them with anything in the future, in helping with whatever they need in life or ministry in exchange for the wonderful trust they have built with us and the way they were so honorable with our people.  (That's not to be taken lightly - we don't extend that to everyone, only those who deserve it.)  Not only did my husband and I never have to worry that they were ever doing anything inappropriate or disloyal with our people, but we knew they were always going the extra mile to speak well of us and carry our vision in their hearts and out their mouths!  Needless to say, we love them immensely.

After the service yesterday we had their farewell reception and many people shared what the Mackleys mean to them, and how sorely they will be missed.  Thankfully they are still in the state of Florida, although way up north, they are still just a few hours car drive away and it's a path that will become familiar.  My family will miss them most on the holidays.  For the past five years we've spent them all together.  Since their family is in Missouri, we became their family here and spent all the holidays in our home together.  They won't be able to do that anymore as they are required to work every holiday in their new job.  They do, however, plan to visit a lot otherwise.  And I'm sure we'll make a trip or two to Tallahassee!  Thankfully we can also talk on the phone as much as we like (unlimited long distance).  
 
Receptions like yesterday's have always been priority/important to me but none more important than yesterday's.  I'm so grateful that everything concerning that went perfectly.   Everything went great whether it came to food, people's sentiments that were shared, sending them off with our prayer of blessing, and tons of hugs.  I just wish we could have had a reception WITHOUT a farewell.  :)   But change happens, and we will all move forward with great things in store for the Mackleys and for Celebration Church.


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