Sunday Snapshot: Home sweet beautiful home

Things have been mighty quiet here of late. But today I just had to share with you the beauty of the place I get to call home.

Over the past few months, I’ve definitely begun the transition from calling this place home, to feeling like this place is home.

I know most of the roads now, and even some back ways of getting places. I’ve met enough people that it’s not unlikely for me to recognize someone when I’m out and about (have I mentioned I now live in a much smaller place than I’m accustomed to?).

But probably most importantly, Jeff and I have found a church body where community is slowly, but beautifully and surely, being built.

There are days that the tears flow because I miss China so much it hurts. Moments when the smallest thing (or large…like a giant blow up Bimbo bread loaf outside of Walmart) pricks my heart and brings a flood of memories of that former home.

But I’m beginning to see how a path has been prepared for me in this place, and I’m daily overcome with thankfulness for the one who goes before and behind.

And pretty darn thankful that I get to live in such a stunning place…a place that quite frequently takes my breath away.

Spring is slowly arriving, and Jeff and I took advantage of it with a long hike today. I made him cart my camera the whole way, but frankly, instagram on my phone was just much easier to use, especially as I was trying to catch my breath…not because of the beauty, but because of the incline. Winter hibernation has apparently taken a toll on my endurance.

We took a few wrong turns, resulting in some steep climbs, but rewarding views.

And I fell in love with this city again.

And maybe a little more in love with this man as well. Counting the days until “I do”…

Oh Lord, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I am far away. You see me when I travel, and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand!