Such is our life

Things around the Vicarage have been this amazing combination of excitement, sickness, visitors, and anticipation. We have been so blessed to have visitors, some whom have been on our bucket list to see for some time. We've also had the great pleasure to make a trip back West for the VIT's ordination in December. We got some quality time with our people there, many of whom have become part of our chosen family.

I am settling into a new term and into life as the mom of 5 little humans. Each addition has presented a new and different challenge but also provides me with a glimpse into what my legacy will be. Hopefully it'll be kind human beings who love each other and their neighbors as themselves. They will do the right thing, even when that feels hard. They will be my greatest achievement. I do so enjoy the look on people's faces when I tell them I have 5 children...it's a mixture of amazement, fear, and sometimes pity. I'll say, all those feelings are valid. Most of the time though, it's joy. I love my kids. I love their beautiful mess.

We are also heading into a time of great transition. Where will the call be? Will we be able to stay in Texas? If Texas, will it be Austin(ish)? If not, where? What part of the country? Where will I work if we have to move? What are the schools like? Will it be a good move? Will Bryan like the church and it's parishioners? Will this whole seminary journey be the end or the beginning? Through this transition I have realized my kids are super flexible. In the small moments they may not seem like they are, but they are. They know Daddy has a very different job than most people and will require that we be flexible on the daily and overall. It's amazing to me that they seem to just get this. I love them for this. I know it makes the VIT feel better too. They also just know and seem to understand that Mommy works, sometimes A LOT. Sometimes Mommy has to travel for work. They get it. I love them and respect them for their flexibility with us both.

119 days of this seminary adventure left. So much time yet so little is left.