My apologies...

Clearly I wrote that last post a while ago and then never found the time or energy to just add some pictures and push the publish button.

The truth is I had a fantastic winter. I was able to work one trip and that one trip (Bali) was just enough money so I could relax a little and do the things I really wanted to. I was able to go home for my Dad's 60th birthday. I picked up a job in a bike shop working with some fun folks who somehow thought 3 weeks of work, 2 weeks of road trip with Dylan, and 3 more weeks of work was a fair arrangement.

Speaking of which, 2 weeks on the road with plenty of toys and my love next to me...a perfect break from jobs and life and reality. Free to roam with the roughest of itineraries jotted down only so we could plan how much gas money to bring. California to Utah and back again.

We shared many laughs with good friends all along the way, but I must say the littlest ones pack the biggest punch! I almost cried when I saw my little “fairy-god-daughters”. Emerson is so big and Makenzie is HEALTHY! I was still in Ireland when she first went into the hospital and I just remember talking to Erin trying to hold back the tears. Now it's just hugs all around. Hugs, slumber parties, pillow fights, and pancakes with hot cocoa. It's true that the challenges in life make us appreciate it even more. It is just too fragile and so very precious. I cherished every little chocolate covered, sloppy smooch was that much more...a feat I never though would be possible.

Upon our return, Dylan got a chance to use his newly acquired ministry certificate. Kirstie and Jason eloped in their home and I was truly honored to be their witness. Preparations involved a week of emotional ups and downs. Kirstie's recent diagnosis was yet another reminder that as I get older, life just gets that much more intense. Problems are bigger and we can no longer be sheltered from them. But as the lows get lower the highs also get higher. The reality is, Kirstie is the warmest, kindest person. She met me on a doorstep (literally) my very first day in Portland and in one afternoon made me feel like I was home. She defines beauty. Their wedding was the embodiment of love. It was palpable. Like I said, I was honored to participate and a better person for having witnessed such a beautiful exchange. There is no doubt in my mind that they will live a long and happy life together. (Check out photos by the VERY talented Jessica Hill)

My best friend also scared the tar out of me for a hot second. Beth is still in Japan, fortunately living on the southwest side of the island chain in the Nagasaki Prefecture. When I first heard of the earthquake I was initially just panicked. All I wanted to know was that she was ok and after I learned she was I was struck by relief and corresponding sadness for everyone else involved. My heart is heavy for all those affected by this tragedy. There are people just like her, teaching for the same program, a program I applied to nearly 3 years ago, that are still missing. And there are best friends and family at home waiting desperately, hoping for some answers.

This spring I just feel so fortunate for this life. I have an amazing job and incredible people supporting me while I do it. I am always sad to leave...it was sad when I had to leave my parents, it was sad to leave California friends, it was sad to leave Utah and know our travels were coming to an end and most of all it was sad to leave Portland. I miss everything about Portland when I am gone. But it is the people who led me there, convinced me to stay, and make me come back every time that I miss the most. I can't put into words how appreciative I am of the love that surrounds me. I can feel it...even in France. Knowing that you all are the home I come back to gives me the courage to take this opportunity and run with it.

So please, forgive the lack of blogging, but understand that I was busy loving, feeling and experiencing life. I am more grateful now than ever before and ready to tackle this busy season.