Gratitude and Anticipation

I was walking home this afternoon carrying groceries thinking about the numerous things I appreciate about life at the moment. Since we're facing the prospect of big changes, I think it's appropriate to take a moment to list the things we enjoy as we start our second year of marriage:

- living within walking distance of a grocery store and the library

- not living within hearing distance of a train or church bells

- being able to see friends often (not all friends, but some great ones)

- free internet thanks to generous neighbors

- a level bed (I kept complaining about it when I was sick until thanks to my parents and Eric, they figured out how to help... you have no idea how a crooked bed can mess up your back!)

- his/her closets

- good water pressure

- good flavored water from the sink

- a quiet and safe suburban neighborhood

Things we're looking forward to someday acquiring:

- a guest bedroom

- more kitchen counter space

- air-conditioning (more for E since he's used to it)

- a bigger bed

As I write this, I'm thinking about you Kenny and the lifestyle you've chosen living in a slum. I never wanted to be the suburban wife, never wanted to be comfortable in American culture. I can definitely say I'm not comfortable in the culture around me, but Sherri reminds me not to be sucked into the "bigger is better" mentality that surrounds us. How difficult that is when some of the people we love show that mindset.

I certainly married the man who said he'd be willing to move to Uganda with me but here we are making our home in one of the wealthiest states in the US. As the dean taught me, it's just a phase. We'll see what future phases hold.