We Did It, Eh!!

46 shows. 3 months. 22 states. 1 bus. 11 guys.

This was my life since January. And while I've slept less than ever before, gotten more colds than I thought possible, acquired countless mystery bruises and have eaten more than 15 funnel cakes, it was the best three months.

While driving home from unloading the trailer one last time, I found myself suddenly full of every emotion. I audibly "woo-hooed" in my car, fists in the air, punching a little too hard, and I now have a new bruise on my knuckles.

Then I realized WJ truly was over. Now don't get me wrong - I am BEYOND thankful for this next season, which hopefully will include some much needed rest. But, everything I've known for NINETY DAYS is suddenly over. The people I've spent countless hours with, who knows when I'll see them again. Just like that my "woo-hoo" was replaced with unashamed tears rolling down my face.

What in the what?!

WinterJam is over.

We made it to the end, and now it's done.

Am I supposed to feel something specific? Because even though I loved every second of my 4-hour nap today, I'm sad that I won't be procrastinating on my laundry and trying to bake 6 loaves of banana bread the same day I have to load the trailer and catch the bus.

I suppose that's why the term "bittersweet" was invented. It IS sweet to be done, to have a break, to get rest, to go home. But it's also bitter, because what I've known for the last three months is suddenly no more. And the people, my FAVORITE people in the world...I don't know when I'll get to see a lot of them again. So for whoever reads this, know that you all have made such an incredible impact on my life and I have much love for all of you.

Okay, sad sappy stuff over.

My team - Russ, Corey and Adam was the best team ever. Russ is and was the most incredible boss and friend, and he led our team to sweet, sweet victory. Corey may have tackled me a few times and made me the butt of her jokes, but I am so lucky to have been on tour and worked side by side with my BEST FRIEND. Also, quick note: CONGRATULATIONS TO COREY AND ANDY ON THEIR ENGAGEMENT. I could not be more excited for what God has in store for the two of you!!! Adam, who was a late addition to the team, was the best addition. His ability to kick butt and give us all time to rest and even shower was amazing, not to mention he's one of the funniest people I've ever met. Anna, thank you for sharing him with us for the last month. I love you guys so much and couldn't have asked for a better group of people to work with on this crazy tour.

My other team can't go unnoticed either. Each day, I assisted with volunteers, as did Jonas, Mike, Laurie, Russ and Drake. Perhaps one of my favorite parts of the day, you all brought much laughter and happiness and I am so thankful for all of you. Also, to Paul and Courtney - this tour could not have happened without you guys. Your hard work was not overlooked and we are all so lucky to have had you both on this tour.

This next group was perhaps one of the best parts of this tour for me. I was lucky enough to travel with 11 of the greatest guys I've EVER had the privilege of meeting. From "tea parties" (there was no tulle or pink flowers) to late night movies (Mighty Ducks 2 was a real winner), I loved every minute of my time with those guys. They'll only know if they read this, but I will be forever grateful for their friendship, for sharing life with me and welcoming me with open arms. And even though I couldn't get them to put the seat down in the bathroom, I still love them and wouldn't change a thing. So to my guys, thank you. Y'all will never truly know how much you mean to me, and how thankful I am for all of you.

So now that it's over, I truly have NO idea what's next. In fact, the most productive thing I've done since I got home today was take a 4-hour nap. But, I know that God will provide. In the meantime, I'll continue catching up on sleep, sort through everything that I acquired over the last 3 months and hopefully get my bedroom back in order.

To ALL of my WJ friends, thank you for making this one of the best tours I've had the privilege of working on - I can't wait to see y'all again!


Bus 9 Forever,
Eleanor