Happy Happenings

Hey guys!!

I just wanted to post a new update!!

David and I went on a retreat last week. What I thought could be a potentially dull weekend, (that I was very excited about doing) turned out to be an interesting weekend to say the least. Let me preface this by saying I DID HAVE FUN. Of course in this case there is a BUT involved, so let me elaborate. I have decided that I will list the pros and Cons of what happened during our trip.

PROS

1. I got to spend some time with my husband (always a plus!!)
2. I spent some time outside enjoying the beautiful creation of the Smokey Mountains.
3. I was able to learn some things.
4. David and I got into an interesting discussion about Ethics (the seminar/ retreat was for his Ethics class at JBC) and how we are to make decisions concerning ethics as Christians.
5. I was able to reconnect with some people that I dearly missed seeing.
6. Fellowship time with other Christians that I do not normally see.
7. Learned a few things about myself.
8. Met some of the professors and thier spouses.
9. Got to enjoy traditional camp fire w/ praise music and all!!!
10. Reexamine some goals and directions.

CONS
1. was the only spouse there that came along for the "ride."
2. Had to think of ways to entertain myself while David was in his classes.
3. Was made to feel unwelcomed by a few of the students (thats for another time and place)
4. had moments where I felt pretty bored!!
5. missed my dogs! I know its a lame con!! LOL

Aside from the retreat, David and I have been going about our usual routine. David has been working and I am still looking for another job. (Please keep praying about this one!!!) The holiday season is approaching quickly and we have been making preparations with friends and family for visits and celebrations. This will be slightly different for David and I this year, since we have two families to balance and our own traditions to establish. I look forward to the visits we will have with my family, but of course the holiday is tainted by the fears and musings as to if this will be my paternal grandmother's last year. I can't help but think that life has changed very rapidly in the course of just 5 months, but I am learning to roll with it! Life is insane and you can never tell what it will throw your way. All I can think is that if God didn't think we could handle it, then it wouldn't be happening.

I'm also learning that I am a much stronger person! I have handled things much more gracefully than I would have four years ago. I have lots of counseling, a transforming God and a patient support system to thank for that! I truly believe that much of who I am at this second can be attributed to the changes that have occurred in me through my faith in Christ! What an awesome, loving, an d amazing father we have!!

I am also coming to a better understanding of my parents. Particularly my mother. I have been able to understand her a bit better and I can only attribute this to being married. In all honesty, I understand that my parents aren't all full of fluff and really do have my best interest at heart. Sometimes I am frustrated with them, but I still love them and have grown to respect them. I guess its true what they say, you grow up, move away, get married and start your own family only to realize your parents weren't full of crap all along! (The family part will come much later, but you get what I'm saying)

As David and I continue to move forward in our marriage, plans, and relationship we ask that you continue to pray for us! Your prayers are being heard and are coveted!! I ask that you pray that God will continue to strengthen our marriage. I also am asking that you pray for wisdom for the two of us. Keep my paternal grandmother in your prayers. Moving forward in the coming months she will have surgery (the Monday before Thanksgiving) for the mass on her thyroid. Pray for Doctors and that they will do what is best for her. And finally, my former roomate and her family in your prayers. Her husband's grandmother passed away. Pray for safe travel and for support durning this difficult time in thier lives.