God's creation

Josh and I took the family to the zoo on Friday. I think the last time I went to the zoo was high school. Jack was in complete wonder at everything he saw. He said "See, look!" about 50 times or more. Isabel slept and ate as if it+ was no big thing to be hanging out at the zoo for an afternoon. I love her approach to life- go with the flow. We saw some crazy things- frogs with huge eyes, an albino alligator, a fishing cat who loves water, and vampire bats. My favorite thing is always the big cats- tigers especially. The gorillas were certainly a highlight because they put on an amazing show for all to see.
I admit that it is beautiful in Kentucky as everyone says. There is so much green and rolling hills and huge old trees. I love trees! Yesterday I saw this butterfly go past me as I was walking to my car, so Jack and I stopped to watch him flap his wings. The simplest things in nature cause me to worship God. Worship was really encouraging tonight- we went to Sojourn again. I still look at the clock around 6 p.m. and imagine all that is taking place at Oasis Church in Boston, however I am seeking God to trust Him for each moment. Sojourn has been a great picture of hospitality for us. We have met so many loving people in the two weeks we have been there. I am realizing what a challenge it is to "try out" a church and ask is this where God wants us.
We have one more week until Josh starts work. It has been an amazing blessing to have this time at home as a family. God is so gracious!

Living in Louisville

We still have lots of boxes to unpack but it is certainly livable in the house now. Our biggest praise is I think we may have found a church. We went to two churches on Sunday one of which was rather formal/traditional and the other we felt quite at home. Everyone was very friendly and praise God we got invited to a community group. We went to the group this evening and it was such a blessing. The other couples all have young kids and most of them are fairly new to the city. Everyone was honest and open with their life which was so refreshing. I'm not sure if we will be able to be a part of this group as they break for the summer but it was a reminder that there is community here and God will provide our needs. Jack got to play with some boys his age so he was worn out! We had a hard time getting him to come inside from their backyard. At the end of the night he was too tired to move so he just sat in this play car looking at me (if you know Jack you know him sitting still for any amount of time is a miracle). My emotions are still up and down, but I know God is with us and am thankful for the church he led us to. Just a sidenote- I forgot how many bugs are in the South. We seem to have an ant problem in the apartment. Once again another creature that congregates around Jack's high chair.
Tomorrow is my 27th birthday. I am excited to take a break from packing and do something fun. Somewhere in the city I will have a latte and a yummy desert to celebrate life thus far, my wonderful husband, and my children who bring me much joy.

Oh the South!

Well we arrived in Louisville last night but I must say it is strange to be back in the South. It almost feels like there is too much space and lots of strangers talking to our kids. Josh and I were glad to have time in the car to process this life change. We cried hard and laughed some and consoled our kids as they braved long days in the car. As we drove out on Monday, I continually had to trust God as we drove further away from Boston. All I really wanted to do was to go back to the Jones' house and stay there forever! A place where we have had lots of amazing times with our church family! Boston is such a great place but most of all we will miss the body of Christ that dwells in the Oasis Church. I moved to Boston to reach out to the lost and disciple but I leave Boston changed in every way. Maybe we will go back after seminary- we have no clue. One thing I am certain of that when we give ourselves over fully to Christ as a church he does the most beautiful things. I will miss Cavin's sweetness, Emily's smile, James' manly cry, Sharla's company and butterscotch pie, Brent's laugh and availability, Doug's support and love for snacks, Shelley's ability to make me laugh and desire for simplicity, Heather's honesty and yankee blood, Stacey's servanthood and efficiency, Kc's funny stories and love for everyone, Melissa's passion for truth and encouragement, and oh Clint. Clint's sense of humor! I love you all!