The novelty is beginning to wear off...

and reality is setting in.
This is my life.
I live here now.
This is what I chose.
I am here for a reason.
I am where I am meant to be. I need to...

Accept it.

Thomas Merton

Last night for spirituality night, we read a few Thomas Merton letters and discussed them. We let the conversation lead itself where it wanted. Sometimes to seriousness; sometimes to utter silence; sometimes to humor. Discussing God is profoundly different here with these ladies. I like that we do it, but I sense a bit of uneasiness or tension grappling with the subject. I hope this year and our exposure to God in one another is good for all of us.

The Rising Sun

I took this immediately after waking up this morning.
This is my Phoenician street.

Work is getting better!

I'm feeling more at home here.
I'm beginning to understand my place.
When to do what.
What to do when.
I like talking to the other staff.
I like interacting with the children.
I love holding the babies.
I don't even mind doing the dishes.
I like that I get to read 9 stories during nap time.
Even though it's hot, I like the bike ride.
This week seems to be going to by quickly!

I carried around a rock that says hope in my pocket today!
It worked. ;-)

a tad bit about from Phoenix

I'm sorry I haven't written on here recently. I feel like I have so much to say, but it's not coming out! Eh, no need to force myself. Ya'll have my email address. What I will say is that downtown Phoenix public library is sooooo nice! It's five stories of chic building! We've spent a few hours here today and I'm already infatuated.

Oh!!! It's been blazing hot pretty much every single day since we arrived. And then...last night...upon exiting our dinner location...it was pouring rain!! There was a thunder storm and I ran out into it without any inhibitions whatsoever. I'm not sure I've ever been so happy about rain! It was glorious and joy filled.

Some photos:

The giant cactus stationed outside the YMCA.

My housemates Eileen and Vanessa.

The beautiful exterior of the church we attended last Sunday.

And its even more spectacular interior!

And so I go.

let's hope it works out!