Encinitas, day 2

While poor Jason had to go back to work, we spent the day enjoying his beautiful neighborhood. I honestly could move to Encinitas in a heartbeat. If Moonlight beach wasn't reason enough, then the hazelnut milk lattes at Lofty closed the deal!

Encinitas

Since I barely missed him when he first moved to California, I decided that visiting Jason in his new home was a must. It was a whirlwind of a trip, but it was so worth it. The fact that Jason pretty much lives on the beach doesn't hurt, but truly just getting to see where he lives meant so much to me. I'm so proud of my big brother and so thankful for his friendship. He is such a hard worker and has always been such an amazing example to me! I'm hoping I'll be able to visit him many more times in California before he ever decides to leave.

Thanksgiving hike

Thanksgiving just so happens to be the perfect time of year in Arizona, which gives us even more to be thankful for when we're there! We took an afternoon hike to the Wind Caves and the Bernals were able to join us. It is not often that we get to have both families in one place, so we certainly do not take it for granted when we do!

Vanderbilt Pinning Ceremony

I finally graduated from the Vanderbilt MSN program. I worked full time while I was in school so the last few months were pretty agonizing. As usual, time went unbelievably fast and now it doesn't even seem real sometimes that I'm done.

Ryan and my parents were so supportive during these past three years. Ryan picked up my slack especially during the homestretch by being my fill-in housewife. My mom never ceased to pray for me on test days and long clinical days. My dad boosted my confidence just by believing in me so fiercely. It was extra special to have these three by my side on the day my graduation became official.

Spring 2014

It's officially been a year since I have updated this blog & so much has happened. Let's see if I can get caught up, at least sort of. 

My parents came to visit, followed by Brendan and Jessica, right before Ryan left for Ethiopia. Since Ryan was preparing for his travels, we didn't take as many pictures as we usually do. However, we had just as much fun-- going for walks, eating WAY too much food, and savoring every moment of being together.