There's no 100% guarantee!

Sometimes we take a chance. Whether we try a new food, move to a new city, take a new job, get a pet, meet new friends, etc etc ... big or small, we take a risk. Will we spit it out, will it feel like home, will I fit in, will my pet pee all over my house -- you get the picture. I think life is about taking chances ... especially chances (even when they're hard) when you know the greatest benefit will come from it. I can gratefully say each experience in my life (whether good or bad) has taught me a lot about myself, other people, and life in general. There have been previous experiences that while in that particular place I wished more than anything that I could get out of it ... but all of that makes and molds us into who we are. I've had an interesting turn of events lately -- it seems like every now and then there is always some turn or change. It makes for excitement I suppose ... or stress and planning, but none-the-less it's all part of this journey.

We're not guaranteed tomorrow. We've been told in Scripture not to worry about tomorrow ... but we also know that there is no guarantee that tomorrow will come. I am thankful for the days I've been given to live my life -- and by all means, I want to live a full life ... and not just a full life pushed down by meaningless tasks and no purpose, but a life with happiness and purpose. Yes yes, I know there will be times of sadness or grief and what not, but I do believe that God desires my happiness. I do my best when I am surrounded by people who love me, support me, encourage me, etc and when I'm happiest!

I've lived in STL for about a year now and it really has been a great experience. I've once again had the opportunity to experience another city, a great job, and some winter weather. I've learned new programs, made new friends, learned the process of transition (again) and other things. I do not regret in any sense my decision to move to STL last year. I could go into lots of details, but that would bore most of you ... at the end of this month I'll be heading back down South. I've been offered a job back at Savannah Christian Church and along with great friends and family that will be a bit closer ... I've accepted and will be moving soon! I'm really excited for this next season of life ... and I have a feeling this season will be a longer than previous seasons in my life. I'm thrilled to settle down somewhere and make somewhere my home.

I do however hate packing! :) Thankfully my mom was in town this past weekend (that's another story for another time) but she helped pack some things I won't need for the next few weeks. I have some great friends who are helping me do the actual moving (driving the truck, loading, unloading, and such) and great parents who are supporting this move yet again! I've made some good relationships here in STL -- and this year will be a time that I'll never forget. Savannah is a great vacation spot so I'm looking forward to seeing my mid-west folk in the south! Just a few more weeks and I'll be on the road. If you're part of my STL family thank you for your love and support and encouragement along the way. If you're part of my SAV family I am so looking forward to being reunited ... and for the rest of you, come visit! :) P.S. - being 25 is nothing special -- but this year is going to be great, I feel it!