Christmas break was a whirlwind of wonderful activity! It seemed like every day was some sort of party or family gathering. The time with our families was too short but we tried our best to soak in every moment of being home. A main theme of thought for me the past month is how very precious both time and people are. The older I get the more I appreciate the moments I have with my family. Growing up, every Christmas was the same - each tradition was held from year to year. Now that both of my brothers are married and Alex and I are together, Christmas looks very different than it used to. However, it no longer matters nearly as much whether or not we carry on the same traditions. What matters most is getting to be together. I felt so blessed to be included in Alex's family celebrations!! And it was so amazing to finally have Alex as part of our family!
In addition to spending lots of time with our families, a very special occasion occurred over break - Alex and I got engaged! The proposal was absolutely perfect! Alex's sister Latisha led me to each destination which had a clue attached to it. Each place held significant memories for Alex and I - where we first met, had our first date, etc. My dad drove me to my last destination: the river where Alex was all dressed up, flowers in hand, ready to propose. It was a beautiful moment I will never forget! Also,the ring is better than I ever could have imagined! Afterwords, we went home and celebrated with our families for a bit before Alex and I went to the Cheesecake factory for dinner. He did such an amazing job of making the day fun yet sentimental, shared with our families, and a special time with just the two of us. But the best part of all of this is...ALEX! I'm so incredibly thankful to have a fiance who is so dedicated to the Lord, generous, caring, thoughtful, loves me, supports me, encourages me, and makes me laugh. I'm so thankful HE is the one I get to spend the rest of my life with!
We are back at school again and attempting to get back in work mode. Coming back to school felt surprisingly different this time around. Since we know this is our last semester here, I have a greater appreciation for the moments we have left in this stage of our life. Although this place isn't home, it holds great memories with people we love and also represents for me a place where God has shaped me. This semester will certainly be a very busy one, but I look forward to all God has for us in these months left at school.
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| My wonderful family! It is just so fantastic to be reunited again! |
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| Alex's beautiful family! I feel so blessed to be part of it! |
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| Me and my handsome FIANCE!!! |
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| The gorgeous ring! |
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| So in love :) |
