The past seven days have been a whirlwind of goodbyes. Not just any goodbyes, but the kind that quietly mark the end of an era.

Our youngest closed his chapter at kindergarten, our first born wrapped up primary school, and I cleared out my office desk — each step a small signpost of change. On top of it all, we were ambushed (in the best possible way) by a crew of pirates who made us laugh, celebrate, and feel deeply seen. And just when we thought the emotions had peaked, our friends pulled off a surprise farewell party that left us speechless. “Servus, Shipards,” they said — a simple phrase packed with meaning, love, and the promise of return.

There’s something profoundly humbling about being surrounded by people who hold you up, not just in celebration, but in transition. The kind of support we’ve felt this week is hard to put into words. It goes far beyond logistics or shared playdates. It’s love. It’s tribe. It’s family.

As we spend our final hours packing, readying ourselves for the next chapter — a big adventure we’ve dreamed of and worked toward — I feel torn in the most human of ways. I know we’re doing something good. I know it’s right. And yet, it’s not easy. It’s especially not easy for Joe, who’s feeling the weight of change in ways that are hard to explain but deeply real.

Still, in the bittersweetness of leaving, there’s a beautiful clarity. It’s in these moments — the hugs, the tears, the spontaneous toasts, the quiet reassurances — that we see just how special this community is. How much we belong. How lucky we are to call this place, and these people, home.

Leaving doesn’t diminish any of that. If anything, it amplifies it.

This is the kind of love that travels with you. The kind that shapes your kids, your choices, your heart.

So to our tribe — thank you. For showing up. For sending us off with so much joy. For reminding us that we never walk alone.

We’ll carry you with us — in every mile, every memory, every new moment to come.

With full hearts,
The Shipards