Welcome back!

It's been a while.

I know I said back in January that I would try to make this an everyday thing, and I knew back in January that it probably wouldn't happen, but I am feeling inspired and motivated again. So, I am just going to pick up where I am right this minute and go from there.

This is the first full week I have had off since my spring break (which was in March). I am an Orientation Guide & Frosh Camp Counselor at the University of Memphis this summer, and boy is it keeping me busy! I really love it though. I couldn't see myself doing anything else these few months. With that said, I spent my week off working full time at the daycare. I sure missed some of those kids! It has been hit and miss when I can make it over there, and I haven't been able to work there for about two months. It was good to be back, but I am also ready to get back to campus.

I have been home this week, and it's been pretty nice. If you know me, you know that my baby sister is my world. It's been so great seeing her everyday. She's actually in bed next to me right now watching a movie while I type. I just love and miss her so much. We're both stoked about me having this week (and a half) off though for the simple fact that we are heading to the BEACH tomorrow! I haven't been to the beach since I was 6 years old (I went to Disneyworld for my 6th birthday) and Charlie has never been to the beach. She, mom, and I have been shopping and getting pedicures in preparation to go. We are so excited! Daddy is flying us out tomorrow in the Baron (a four seater personal plane) around two, and the four of us will be in Destin until Wednesday afternoon. We can't express how anxious we are. With our crazy schedules growing up, we have never really had a family vacation for just the four of us. It will be different! I plan on updating this during our visit, so check back for a few pictures. ;)

Another exciting thing going on is Luke and my involvement within the college ministry at Bellevue. It has taken me a year to get my feet wet within the church because it was truly a culture shock for me. I was scared that would happen, but I am stoked I am finally diving in. Luke has been to a few services/outings without me because of my schedule, but I think I like that. He already has a feel for how things go and knows a few more people than I do (he has grown up with most of them) so it makes the transition a bit easier since they already know who I am through Luke...well sort of. We're joining a college co-ed sunday school class together! He will, of course, go without me the first time, but I will be able to make it consistently after this Sunday. It's just nice following his lead. I am so thankful I have Luke by my side--especially through my spiritual walk. I could not thank him enough.

One more thing--I am on a mission to lose 15 pounds by the end of the summer. I am doing a "Challenge" with a group of ladies from different states through one of my old (and favorite) teachers. It's about physical, emotional, and spiritual growth--not just "weight loss." The Challenge is a life style change...not a diet program. I have dropped 3.1 pounds in the last two weeks, and I can't wait to work hard (after vacation, of course) to meet my goal. I haven't been this motivated and dedicated to get back to feeling good in a long time, so I am excited to prove to myself I can do it. I'd appreciate the prayers, also! It's tough to live away from home with an inconsistent schedule and follow the "rules" of eating healthy. But I am busting my tail! I want more than anything to finish the last month strong. 

I know this post was kind of long, but I guess I had a lot to share. I'm excited about the next few weeks ahead. Thanks for taking the time to be interested in what's going on in my crazy world. I hope you have a blessed night, and here's a verse to think about--it's from my devotion today: 

"Within your temple, O God, we meditate on your unfailing love." Psalm 48:9. 

Thank the Lord for his unfailing love.

Bailey