As the end of Fall approaches I realize I haven't posted anything since June, where has the time gone?? I can't say we haven't done anything between then and now, we have! We've been to Montana, parents have visited, we road-tripped to Michigan, I survived the awful summer humidity, and much more.
However, I think the most important thing I did this summer was just to stop. I stopped wishing I was in a different state, (even though I still want to be) I stopped wanting to live in a different house, I stopped and started to finally enjoy married life, I stopped focusing on the pesky 5 (or 10) pounds I need to lose and focused on life in the present, life that God has given me right now. I tell you, it has done wonders. I'm happier, more content, and so happy in my marriage! The desires of living back west and every other dream I have are still there but I'm more content with letting God handle those and enjoying the journey.
The most shocking part of my new content, less cynical self is I, dare I say it, like Cincinnati. Ugh, that leaves a bad taste in my pessimistic mouth. However, before you think I've lost my edge, let me preface that I still hate the suburbs. The sea of Starbucks, Targets, and sub-divisions still disgust me. But, I really like downtown and the surrounding area.
When you travel through Cincinnati you feel the spirit of what it was and is becoming once again. It is the most "American" city I have ever been to. It was built by industry, blue-collar immigrants, which is the epitome of the American Dream. You can feel the determination and excitement of revival as you drive the cramped streets filled with classic art-deco architecture. Even when traveling through the "not so great" areas you don't feel threatened because the hope is there too. The four short years I've been visiting, and now living here I have seen a huge revival and change through the streets of Cincinnati. It's been amazing to watch and be a part of. I can't wait to see what's in store for this resilient city and while I'm here I will enjoy every minute of it.
While this post was short I think it sums up our summer perfectly. I promise (I mean it this time) I will write more! My encouragement to any who read this is to truly just be present and content in the moment and with the Lord. It's amazing what happens when you let it go....and now you're singing in Idina Menzel's voice. Stop it! I'm trying to be serious here. Truly, let go and let God.
Love ya'll!
