Embracing Austin

Some of you out there in blog world may have to brace yourself for what I'm about to say. There are some who can't imagine life outside of Austin or think you'll have arrived if only you could get to Austin (and I love you dearly). However, that's not my story. Now, all you Austinophiliacs, don't tune me out just yet. I never really knew what all the fuss was about. And there were other things, too.

I heard a pastor say recently, "Almost all of us have spiritually what is called a desert. Almost all of us have had that month, that year...where God feels far from us. If it happened to the men in the Bible, it's going to happen to you."

So, this has been a hard year. We've even questioned whether this was the right decision. But, a good friend said, "Maybe the fact that it's been hard is confirmation that this is where God wants you." (thanks Will) I think he's right. 

So, now it's almost a year since our move. The hard days are fewer. My relationship with God is deeper. And I can say with the psalmist, "Why are you cast down, O my soul and why are you in turmoil within me? Hope in God; for I shall again praise him, my salvation and my God."

There have been some pretty ugly pity parties, but I'm at least learning to make the most of things. My mom calls it "that program that I'm on". I call it embracing Austin. Basically, we do Austiny things and snap pictures with our new camera. Don't laugh; it's helping. Yes, I realize it makes me look like a tourist. I don't care. It's a funny thing that happens when God makes himself greater in your life. The world becomes less, and you care less what others think.  So enjoy our life in Austin, just as I'm learning to...

walking Charlie in the Hamilton Greenbelt...

Gospel sunday brunch at Stubb's BBQ with the Tippins

celebrating new life with new friends (me, Sarah & Nolan, Kristin & Grant, and Kaely)

the sign says it all. 

pancakes at Kirby Lane

dinner at the Hula Hut with Amy

more to come...