Psalm 27

Oh the Baldwin Household...

It's summer time in good ol' Idaho.

The lake is refreshing.

The early morning bike rides are happening.

The backpacking training has begun.

The triathlon training has begun.

The school stuff is still not unpacked.

The week is full of having coffee, sleepovers, dessert, or outings with great buds from home.

I've been home for less than a week - I am exhausted. I forgot how go-go-go the Baldwin household is with my sister around. :) She is a motivator and encourager - just sometimes a little too intense for me to handle, though. I'm slowly getting back into the lifestyle I have here at home. It's strange transitioning from living "solo" and being responsible for myself to moving back in with a family where there are sacrifices to make, chores to do, and others to cope with.

I'm learning, again, how to be a part of the family. I am being reminded of all the great things that make home home. Brett's dry humor that only, sometimes, I laugh at; JoAnne's energy to never sit down - that includes her making wonderful meals; my mum's dedication and sacrifices she makes to make this family run how it does; and my dad's understanding and support that I am filled with every day. I couldn't be blessed with a better family - they love me day in and day out despite their frustration or contentment with me.

Nonetheless, I'm a happy puppy at home.

Your Love is Strong

I am currently listening to a playlist titled "Another Frosh Year," compiled of songs that remind me of this year. Jon Foreman's "Your Love is Strong" just came on.

I'm sitting in Gwinn, our school cafeteria, and reminiscing memories from these past 9 months. It's been a complete whirlwind. I cannot believe how fast it all went - I remember having my dad tell me that as we get older time goes faster and faster. He couldn't have been more right.

The service yesterday at Mars Hill was a great way to end the school year. Not only was it a blessing, once again, to attend church with some close friends of mine, but also enjoy the time in fellowship before heading out for 4 months of summer. I vividly remember singing "My God, My Father" with my parents at my side the first weekend of school back in September - sure enough, this song was one of the many great ones we sang yesterday. Being at Mars with friends and thinking back to how far I've come this year was incredible!

I have been so, so blessed this year. It's been a wonderful start to an amazing college career! As much as I am looking forward to the summer, I know September will bring joyous reunions and Seattle will be a place I am excited to come back to.