Growing up is hard to do.

As you all well know, Austin and I are getting married in a short 5 or so weeks here. I think that the reality of adulthood is staring me in the face, spooking me out a bit... meaning jobs, insurance, rent, or finding an apartment to hold us, moving. I could continue, but I do not want to risk sounding full of self-pity. Don't get me wrong, I am so thrilled at the excitement of my upcoming marriage to the most wonderful man, and a new life together, but nobody really tells you how emotionally taxing this whole growing up thing is. At least, nobody warned this girl that I would be discovering new emotions of fear and trepidation (not quite, but I like the word...) as the uncertainty of life starts to creep in and make me shake in my boots.

It has been quite comical as I have rejoined my parents in their home for these last few months as a single woman. It started out as a plea to my mother to recongnize me as an adult, capable of making my own decisions about when I would like to do my laundry or clean my room... you know, things that moms tell their kids to do... but should be careful to give these instructions to their adult children. Now my saying, "Mom, I'm an adult" generates giggles, as all of us in the Richardson household can still tell that I am still holding onto Mom and Dad with a few pinky fingers... not quite ready to give up this state of dependence when it comes to dining out, shopping, or cooking meals... but I am admittedly ready to become an independent adult when I say "I'm an adult... (hello)?!?!"

I'm kinda that in that between stage, where one is not quite sure how to be an adult while they are living with their parents, but they so desperately want to be esteemed as one.

But anyway, Austin has been on a job hunt for several months now, and we haven't heard much yet. So as you may guess, my sense of security is somewhat lacking. I know that the Lord will provide something, and so many are good to remind me of that. But I would ask that you would pray that Austin would find something, and soon, as our wedding date is scooting up quickly!!!

To say the least, I love where my life is headed, and I'm thrilled to have Austin as my partner to share in all the uncertain adventures... But please, pass the tissues until it happens :)

Goodbye May, Hello June.

Yes, it is already the third of June (only 2 months til Aug. 3rd!!!), but still early enough in the month to welcome June. May was busy, full of weddings, birthdays, practicums with Amish, beginning my job at the bank, wedding planning... and cold weather. It has officially started feeling like summer. The busyness of my schedule in May was reminiscent of my harried schedule at school, I can feel myself relaxing, and settling into my summer.

I think my birthday was a perfect way to welcome June. My family made a wonderful summer meal: steak on the grill, baked potatoes (sweet and golden), salad, and corn. We couldn't just sit around with the beautiful day it was outside, so I decided that for my birthday we would go for a hike. We all forgot how busy we were, and trudged down a beautiful wooded path, and got some exercise, singing "Onward Christian Soldiers", and "I'm in the Lord's Army". What a sight we were. After a long scenic drive through Waite Hill and Kirtland Hills, we arrived at my parents home and had a fire complete with S'mores! I hope June is full of days like this one.

Anyway... Summer's here and the time is right for dancin' in the streets.