What It's Really Like

So, I've really put off posting on what it's really like since we stepped into our new appointment as ARC Trainees, (for drug and alchohol addiction) training to become ARC Administrators next summer.  Several times, I've started a post and then stopped.  I aim to be honest, but haven't always come from the best or realistic places.  A running theme for me for awhile was feeling so trapped in a lot of ways, even my husband's livelihood and ministry depending on my compliance as an Officer and wife.  But I'm having more peace about it now.  I still feel the "blood and fire" and I'm not letting anything stop me from obeying and serving the Lord the best I know how. 

     While I love a new adventure,  moving is still hard and unless you've *been there, done that* it is hard to truly grasp.  Leaving behind friends, memories, and years of hard work and hope.  Not to mention just the logistics of finding where things are, packing/unpacking, establishing new healthcare, changing all the addresses, making new relationships, and so much more.  Ugh!  It's especially hard for me when I talk myself into feeling like the stupidest person on the planet for allowing someone else to make life decisions for me and my children.     I am trusting like never before...  I thought I've surrendered it all only to find that yet... there is MORE!  I guess we never truly "arrive" anywhere except in the place that makes us wholeheartedly trust Him and rely on Him.    And life is so sweet right now!  It makes little logical sense, but here it is all sweet and solid and good ... amidst the busy-ness, challenges, temptations, and unexpected turns.  Thank you Lord for your amazing ways.

There's more...  
     I was praying for months and months for God to give me a passion for the addicted.  And then, I realized, or rather, God   spelled- it- out for me, that I already have a passion for people.  Especially the marginalized.  Injustice is my hot button, ever since I was little.   It just so happens that my new ministry will be to a more specific group.  I am trying to learn how best to minister to them,  whatever small part I might play.    Everyone else seems so much better qualified, but I am learning from them and seeking God's ways.
And surely, since God orchestrated all of this, I belong.

And more...
     I love our house.  This is my favorite Quarters out of 4.  It's got 3 big bedrooms, 2 bathrooms right next to eachother, an eat-in kitchen, dining room and living room.  It totally works for us.  There is also a guest apartment downstairs that has been frequented enough to aid my lonely heart.
     We walk all over the place here.  I walk to the beach, the forest park, several playgrounds, markets, shopping centers, Walgreens, etc.  I have always wanted to live in a place that I can walk everywhere I need to get.  Thanks for the freebie God.

     The children are such troopers!  Elijah had one breakdown of missing The Dalles after getting a letter from a friend.  Hannah and Ann have had a few, but the overall tone has been -- this is one great adventure!
Paul came up with the great idea of making and posting our Camp Chouinard poster since this is really just a transitional move and the kids are already anticipating the next one.  Despite a very frustrating and mess of a problem with the children's education, they are all settled and doing fantastic with their learning.
     We have had the most un-stressful Thanksgiving/Christmas season ever- ministry speaking.  Seriously, since I was a teenager in the Corps.    I hardly know what to do with myself because I'm only going in 10 different directions instead of 50.  I am savoring this.  It will probably never happen again until retirement. And by then I'll have my Officer children's families to help. Smile.
     I live the closest to my family and childhood friends than I have in over 15 years!  I have already seen my family 3 times, one of which was on my dad's birthday, the day we traveled down here, and a second time at my brother's wedding.  They have also come down to visit too.   I have yet to get to do much with friends, but I seriously have to get a move on that.  Schedules are so hard to co-ordinate. 
     Paul and I have had to leave for 1 to 3 day meetings here and there.  God keeps providing childcare  for these meetings.  My dear sister-n-law all the way from Michigan is a life saver.  Our good friend from The Dalles with her daughter.  My mommy ;).  And soon my newest sister-n-law.  I hate asking for so much help, but here I am, the one in need, and God is meeting that need through these fine ladies, and making me take a hard look at my independant streak.  Plus... Paul and I have really started enjoying our little "honeymoons" away from the children.  

This is what the LORD says: “When seventy years are completed for Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my good promise to bring you back to this place.  For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call on me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you."
-Jeremiah 29:10-12