Thankyou New Hampton

To Our Dear Friends of Chickasaw County, 

These unexpectedly strange times have led to a rather simple departure for our family. I had planned to have more time reminiscing, laughing, and saying goodbye to many of you who’ve made our time in New Hampton unforgettable. 

This unassuming little town in North Eastern Iowa has won our hearts, and a piece of us will always remain here in Chickasaw county. Ten years ago when we made the long drive through the midwest, Shea and I could never have imagined all that was in store for us over the next decade. 

The last 10 years have brought us tears, struggles, bathed in deep relationships, and joy. We have watched our children grow up with yours. We mourned with your losses as you have mourned with ours. Shea and I have had the privilege of being at the bedside of so many of your parents, and grandparents as they have breathed their last. Likewise, We have been blessed to hold many of your children, and grandchildren in our arms as their first breath echoed throughout the delivery room. We have enjoyed sharing prayers with you before anxiety producing procedures/moments, prayers of thanksgiving at seeing God work, and even prayers of sadness as we were left confused at the outcomes of so many personal, and medical difficulties. 

As I look back on these years of memories, the greatest lesson I have learned is the importance of our relationship with Jesus Christ. Winds of life have blown, and inevitable “curve balls” continue for all of us, but the foundation of faith in Christ has kept my family, and many of yours  grounded.

If I could give one piece of advice with my parting thoughts, I would want you all to understand

the importance of faith in Jesus Christ. This life will continue to give us reasons for fear, as there 

will never cease to be diseases that end life prematurely.  Cancer will always be with us, heart disease won’t go away, and a variety of infectious diseases, such as Covid will continue to erupt. Thankfully, our fear in such things will always be defeated by faith in Him who has conquered death. True joy comes through Him! 

Romans 15:13

May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as your trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Thankyou for your love, and all the wonderful memories.

With Much Love,

The Epperly Family