New Adventures

I'm half way through my first week of being in my new home, figuring out life in a big city and learning how to relax. Yes, relaxing is not something that I am good at. I know I need to take time and rest and enjoy things a little, but I've gotten so used to have every moment spoken for that when I have a week to use for my own enjoyment,  I don't know what to do with myself. I have enjoyed catching up on sleep, I haven't read anything yet, which is surprising, especially since I love to read.

I have done lot's of exploring though. I went Kayaking for the first time this week and loved it! It was funny because I launched and got headed towards the center of the Willamette River and then doubted my abilities to get back to shore. Never a worse moment to doubt your abilities then well after you've committed.  But the doubt only lasted for a second and I had an absolute blast, spending a couple hours on the river, just praying and enjoying the beauty of the day. Got a tad bit sunburnt and I'm pretty sore now but really happy with that choice in adventure. Today, the adventure was eating mango peel. Last summer I ate a lot of mango, but it was always either prepared (like at a hotel or part of a meal at a restaurant) or one of the other interns knew how to prepare it. Well as I was eating my mango today peel and all, I had this feeling like the peel wasn't supposed to be eaten, but I couldn't remember why. So I looked it up. Apparently mango peels have the same compound that is found in poison oak and poison ivy that makes them ichy. Which explained why my throat kept getting this burning feeling. Needless to say it was one of those "note to self" moments and I will make sure to peel any future mangos. I have gotten to the point where I am now recognizing the major roads and where they lead. I have certain spots were I can turn Siri off and get myself home. Every day that spot is getting further and further out. I am also remembering where different locations are and how to get to them. That part is happening faster then I expected. My neighborhood is absolutely fabulous!! And I couldn't ask for better roommates!

Surprisingly the homesickness hasn't been has bad as I was expecting. I had spent one night in my new home before heading to Joni Camp while my family stayed on the other side of Portland, and I was more homesick that one night then I've been in the last several days. The first night after camp I was too tired to care I think, not to sound hard hearted or anything, but its true. The only thing now is that I've gotten tired of my own company. Like any major change in life there will be a brief season of loneliness. After spending the last couple of days primarily by myself, I almost can't wait to start school, don't get me wrong, I'm excited about school, but at the same time I'm very aware of my need for a break.

One of my most favorite songs ever is by Kings Kaleidoscope called Fix My Eyes. It is a great reminder of all that God has already done and is doing in my life. Kinda my fight song if you will. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.