Schools out for the Summer!!

Where did this year go?  I honestly can't believe its over!  That's not to say I was not really really looking forward to summer- because I most definitely was.  This year was challenging but also rewarding.  I loved my little class.  We had our awards ceremony yesterday and it was harder than expected to say goodbye to them- especially not knowing what next year holds.  I have seen them come so far this year in so many ways.  I am so thankful for a job that I love.  

I have already kicked off my summer right-  lunch with the elementary teachers yesterday and then a latte and a pedicure (thanks to the parents in my class).  I am definitely looking forward to a summer break. Woo hoo!

And since I can't seem to post without a picture-  here is one of the many sweet sweet letters I got from my students.

Four Years

Four years ago today I married the man of my dreams on top of a mountain in Banner Elk, NC- that is hard to believe!  In four years we have lived in three cities, two states, moved three times, held various jobs, Nick applied to and completed grad school, and backpacked through Europe.  Through it all we have come out stronger and I am thankful for every day we have been blessed with!

I am crazy about you Nick!  I love you more today than ever before.

We don't have many digital pictures from our wedding, but here are a few to look back on-

The beautiful scenery at the Eagle's Nest where we got married.  This view sold me on getting married there.

Our lovely wedding party- so much fun!

A New Love- Farm Fresh Eggs

A few weeks ago when Nick and I were riding our bikes we saw a sign for farm fresh eggs.  We decided to pick some up and we have been hooked ever since.  

It doesn't get much fresher or free range.  The lady marks each egg with the date it was laid.  You pick  them up from the refrigerator on her front porch and leave your money in the jar.  Farm fresh eggs really make a huge difference in cooking and eating.  Definitely one of the perks to living in a small town!

Nick's Graduation

Yesterday we celebrated Nick's graduation!  Nick graduated from Virginia Tech with his Masters in Urban and Regional Planning and I couldn't be prouder of him!  The past two years have flown by.  This makes all those long nights in the library and dinner for him in the office worth it- he has worked so hard!  I am blown away by God's faithfulness and provision for us during this time and I am SO thankful we made the decision for Nick to go back to school.  You did it!!!  

 

Nick's parents came up to celebrate with us.  We had a great time with you guys!  We are all so proud of you Nick!

The job search is on- we appreciate your prayers during this time.  We know God has the perfect job for Nick and place for us and we are excited to see what that is!  We will keep you updated.

Congratulations to my sister Laurie as well- she graduated last week from UNCG with her RN-BSN.  I am so proud of all her hard work and awesome grades.  She has a job lined up and will start after she takes her state exam.   A special shout out to Pat as well for graduating from App!  Lots to celebrate in our family this year!

Nashville Half Marathon

Last week I made the trek to Nashville for the Country Music Half Marathon.  I've been training for this race for several months and I can say with out a doubt this is one of the most challenging things I have ever done!  Training stretched me in every possible way- physically, mentally, and spiritually.   Looking back, all the hard work was totally worth it and I am so proud that I accomplished something a year ago I never thought I would do!

I feel like I need to give an acceptance speech here and thank those who made this race possible-

• Thanks to Laurie and Mari, my running buddies-  with out you I never would have signed myself up for this crazy thing.
• Thanks to Nick for being my running coach/training partner and making me run when I didn't want to.
• For my SIL Cait who ran with me in London and encouraged me/was my personal trainer for our long run by the Thames (so cool!)  and helped me build some confidence!
• My cousin Blair for being a wonderful hostess in Nashville

                                                         
                                                   sisters and sister-in-laws (soon!)

The course was definitely hillier than I expected and much warmer than I was used to. By the end we were exhausted and could barely walk.  We finally made it back to Blair's and took a much needed shower and a nap.  Feeling refreshed we went to dinner at a fun mexican place in her neighborhood.

Nashville was awesome, as was the company.  Thanks for having us Blair!