Friday 29 November 2013

Past Days

One year ago, I lived in beautiful Sheffield, a city of rolling hills (miserable to walk upon) and frequent outbursts of snow and rain. Although I miss it more than I could express in words, I am thankful for the months we spent in Sheffield. 

Two years ago, we lived in beautiful Edinburgh, a city of bustle and history, filled with abundant, delightful pubs and the most wonderful international food selection I have ever had at my disposal for an entire academic year. Edinburgh is home to our extended church family, a thousand walking and cycle paths (each with their own charms and challenges) and two beautiful and amazing academic libraries. I am so grateful that we were able to live in Edinburgh.

Three years ago, we lived in St Andrews, a location in which I spent the very happiest year of my life, and a place that is home to some of the academics who have changed my life in wonderful ways. I am thankful for the not-quite-three years I was able to spend in such a beautiful and wild place.

Five years ago, I. and I (then unmarried!) celebrated our second Thanksgiving together with dear friends and members of our church family in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I am thankful that Isaac did not wait another year (from then) to propose, and that we were able to have a year together with such wonderful friends.

Ten years ago, I celebrated Thanksgiving with my adopted brother C. and his family, who provided a home away from home in the midst of the bustle of final exams and last-minute projects. I am grateful for all my longsuffering college friends, and for the three wonderful years I enjoyed within that community.

Below is my current home, or (rather) an image of the view from our back door at the prettiest moment possible. I have captured Tennessee, here, on a pretty day: one on which I was a little more relaxed and on which we were graced with weather that was not sweltering.

Tennessee is pretty, but I am weary. I can do very little about the weariness, but I am determined to focus, at least in part, on the beauty. Therefore, for the third time, I have enrolled myself in the December Photo Project, and I think Tennessee may make a decent subject.

December Photo Project 2013