Quick recap - since my last post in July 1, 2013 I:
*Got engaged / AND married to Noah at the funnest summer camp-out wedding I've ever been too (biased, I know....and yes - I am aware that 'funnest' isn't actually a word, but this is my blog so back off).
*Finished nursing school (FINALLY).
*Passed my boards. (75 questions. YEAAAAH!)
*Started working as a prison nurse (at a maximum security institution I might add) - because why the freak not right?! Someday....when I have kids...I want them to know that there is a little bit of bad-assery in their mom - and I plan to demonstrate said bad-assery with prison stories........my kids are going to be ruined.
*Bought a house with the hubs - committing to a life in Boise for a few more years, at least.
*Got a dog - who is the best little animal that has ever lived (I mean...it's just my opinion, of course, but it really is the truth).
*Started school again (Blech. I hate school) for my BSN.
Annnd I think that about sums it up?? We've made some incredible new friends here in Boise - which is one of the big reasons we opted to stay. It makes such a difference to live in community...there is so much joy there.
So...yeah....that's kind of the last two years in a nutshell.
This day in particular has been one of reflection for me. I've been running around all day long getting ready for a big family camp trip that will commence TOMORROW...and I couldn't be MORE excited about it. I would just like to declare publicly, right here, right now - that I have the most incredible family In. The. World!! I just love them....and can't WAIT to see them!
Annnnnnnd cue a new subject!! -
Last night, our (tiny) home group from church read a bit of Philippians Chpt 2....specifically: "Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if any consolation of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection, and compassion, complete my joy, so that you are in agreement, having the same love, united in spirit, having one purpose. Do nothing according to selfish ambition or according to empty conceit, but in humility considering one another better than yourselves, each of you not looking out for your own interests, but also each of you for the interests of others." (Phps 2: 1-4)
I have been pondering this most of the day. Living united with my community, with my husband, and my family, that I've already mentioned I love so much...living selflessly....living humbly, and for love. It's such a stunning picture - something I yearn for, something I desperately crave...but something I fail at daily (like, seriously). How does one truly bow down, casting aside their own selfishness, and live for others? Live for a greater purpose? It is SO HARD. But it's so beautiful. Failing, and then rising up, and learning so much in the process. I love this journey - and I pray that most people do. I know so many wonderful friends that are hurting so hard right now - and I just pray that even in those dark, dark moments - they would know that there is light. Those moments are there to sculpt us into something we could never imagine. They put a spotlight on the evil that taunts us. Don't let it engulf you. On the flip-side of that darkness there is unbelievable beauty, and joy...and that....that is what we must cling to.
My particular actions while weathering a storm include crying my eyes out, screaming, yelling, throwing things, and eating lots and LOTS of cheetos...or something of the likes. It's nearly impossible to see that beautiful calm after the storm, but it's the whole reason we go through those seasons - to reach those moments of stunning peace. That peace that is hidden SO deep...it's just...indescribable, really. Everyday I learn more about myself, my heart, my faith, my marriage....my soul. And each day those revelations push me to be more. I love it, and I hate it. I love the hard stuff, because it makes the good stuff so much sweeter. So much more tangible, and real. I hate the hard stuff....because it's so damn hard!
For my sweet friends that are weathering one storm or another - hang in. Reach out. You are so loved, and you are NOT ALONE.
Now....it is time to post some pictures, and continue the camp prep. :)
Here are some favorites from the last couple years:
St. Luke's representin!
The best annual girls trip that there ever was!! I promise to resume this next year!
Honeymooners in Costa RICAAAA.
Jumpin in yellowstone!!
This is my favorite place in Idaho. I'll tell you where it is, but you have to ask. I can't have too many people knowing about it.... :)
WE GOT A GOOSE!! Well....a sweet little freckly pup that we then named Goose. :) Naturally.
MY SISTER GOT MARRIED!!
And then on the day of their blessed event, my new brother-in-law tried to cut off his finger! Oops!
We bought a house! Clearly Goose is excited....
Pam and I are stoked! Best. Neighbors. Ever.
Like seriously. Who else would they kill chickens with?!
Hangin with my best. My love.
This is Goose's best love....Mowgli - or Mowgs as I like to call him.
My little guy.
Gimme some of your FOOD.
Our first family photo. :)
Oh yes. And we did this. :)
Love you all.
