You're up and you're down

Hello all. I haven't forgotten about you. Sorry it has been a while since my last post. I would like to say that I have just been so completely busy that I haven't had time to write, but that would be a lie. I have been going through some emotional ups and downs lately. Since I have last blogged I went back home and had a wonderful visit with my family and friends. Several people have asked me over the past few weeks if my body has started to acclimate to this dreadfully cold climate. Just at the time I thought my body was getting used to it, the temperature would descend below the freezing point and I would realize that I was wrong.  Not until my trip home did I realize the difference. As soon as I stepped out of the good ol' Hartsfield Jackson International, I started sweating and anyone who knows me knows that I do not sweat. I love hot weather. I long to live in a tropical climate. This was a dramatic change for me.  I did not feel uncomfortable or too hot, but I definite noticed a difference.  

Amy, Bill and Marty picked me up at the airport. I was so happy to see them (btw, Marty is Amy's new puppy). I was grateful for the time to catch up with my old friend. It made me miss home even more. Being part of someone's life is much harder to do from hundreds of miles away. We met up with Mom, Dad, Mindy and Justin for dinner. I know I had to be glowing the whole night because I was so happy.  We ate at my favorite place, Cracker Barrel, where I had some deliciously, southern brewed sweet tea. 

The rest of the weekend I spent with my family. Mindy and I went shopping for her birthday. Joan and I had lunch at my favorite Mexican restaurant. We had an amazing family dinner for Mindy's birthday. I was grateful to see everyone. We had a fabulous time eating, talking and especially playing rook (warning, next time India and I are going to wipe the table with all of you).  Sunday I went to church with Mom and Dad. I realize that you take a lot of things for granted when you have them everyday. I didn't realize how much I missed the people and services at church. I consider myself very lucky to have grown up in such a wonderful church. After Sunday lunch with the fam, Mom and Dad drove me back to the airport. I have the best parents in the world. No matter what they are always there for me when I need them. I have been continuously blessed in my life.  

Returning to Columbus was harder than I thought it would be. Although I have had friends warn me about going home and having to leave again, I didn’t think I would be so greatly emotionally affected by my return. For several days I was very sad and lonely.  I am once again adapting to being here alone.

As you all know I have been scoping out churches and trying to get up the courage to attend one by myself. I am happy to report that I attended an amazing service this morning. I really feel that God directed me to that particular church this particular morning. The worship service was very uplifting and the sermon was equally fulfilling. Today my cup runneth over.  I am very excited about the opportunities that are here to be involved in the church and community as well as the opportunity and guidance to grow in Christ.    

I know this is a long read. I will try to do better about posting more frequently. Hope all is well with you. I would love to hear from everyone.  Comments or emails are welcome!