Thriving.

Since returning to NOLA at the beginning of 2013, I've marked the various chapters in my life here as falling under the either "surviving" or "thriving" categories. Last winter/early spring for example was a period of surviving since I was navigating the move back home, a new job, a lack of friends and community, and a relative feeling of uneasiness all around. Surviving isn't necessarily a bad thing. Just meant that for me, I wasn't in a place in my life where I truly felt happy. Too many unknowns. Too many things up in the air. I've been reflecting back on the last couple months and I am happy to say that after a period earlier this year of being back in survival mode, I'm now thriving. There have been some curveballs thrown my way but overall, life is good. And for that, I am giving thanks.

Why thriving?

• Beach days with friends. The Mississippi Gulf Coast may not be the prettiest beach out there but when you need an escape from the city and sand between your toes, it does the trick!
• Adventures in the city. From Sunday bike rides to explore the Quarter, Marigny, Bywater, or the levees to happy hour patios, wine nights, and snoballs, I'm loving the cooler temperatures we encountered this spring and getting out of the house as much as possible.
• Work. Yes, work! My busy season is upon me and yet, I'm feeling fulfilled at work and greatly enjoying the countless hours I've been spending and will continue to spend with the 11 student leaders who keep me laughing around the clock.

The 2014 orientation team leaders!

• A relationship on the horizon. It would be inauthentic for me to blog about why I'm thriving and ignore a huge part of that is connected to someone special in my life. Though we are taking it slow and not jumping back into anything too quickly, the last six weeks of quality time with Ed have filled my cup in many ways. 

Even though I stayed local for the Memorial Day Weekend, it's been a perfect blend of action with rest and relaxation before orientation begins this week. While I'm hushing the grumbles of a beach weekend and slightly wishing I had accepted one of two offers I had to spend the weekend in Florida, I'm content with my weekend here and looking forward to seeing what June has to offer.

"We know we were made for so much more than ordinary lives. It's time for us to more than just to survive, We were made to thrive" - Casting Crowns, Thrive.

Cheers.