Joy for Days.

Yesterday after I finished my last final exam I felt UNSTOPPABLE.  That deep breath taken after you turn in your last exam is an incredible, joyous, and oh-so-satisfying feeling which is the cherry on top of a great semester sundae.  I felt so accomplished knowing that I studied my rear end off, and that it had its rewards in the end.  On the drive home to St. Louis, I sat back and thought about what had happened over the course of the semester. I just marveled at the GREAT semester I have had and this reflection, has given me JOY for DAYS.

This semester my classes were hard (I am not going to lie about that one!), but I loved them. I studied more than I ever had in my entire life, and I also learned so much!  Just a little fun fact about me, learning is one of my favorite things. Ever. I find it so amazing that there is a never-ending supply of knowledge out there just waiting to be absorbed.  God has blessed and continually blesses His beautiful, curious little creatures with this gift, and for that I am eternally thankful. This semester fed my sweet tooth for learning and always kept me on my toes (and humble while it was at it!).  Also, I am so happy that I feel confident in my decision to major in nursing.  I start my classes at the hospital next month. Shhh...it's on the DL, but I think Santa has a shiny, new stethoscope under the tree with my name on it!  I cannot wait to see what God has is in store for me next on the academic front.  (I would upload a pic of me studying, but you don't snap too many glamour shots hitting the books in the library......)

Another awesome thing that transpired this past semester was running my very first half-marathon!  A year ago, I never would have believed I would be saying that.  To my surprise, running has become one of my favorite hobbies because it gives me time to think and pray.  I have had my fair share of bad, not-so-fun runs, but the grace that God gives from the good ones is worth it all.  For the half (and for many runs prior) I had the opportunity to run with my roommate and my best friend, Tori.  The conversations and encouragement I have received from her are something I wouldn't trade for the world.  Together we persevered and crushed those 13.1 miles with a smile on our faces!  

Another thing that brings me such joy from the past few months are all the incredible people I have met and friends I have made. Rockhurst has truly become my home away from home this year, and I cannot be thankful enough! First of all, the girls I have gotten to know through Alpha Sigma Alpha are awesome.  My sisters, inspire me daily and provide me with meaningful conversations that help the stressful days pass a little easier.  They have shown me how to love life and joyously live each day to its ultimate good. Secondly, the ladies of LIFT (Ladies in Faith Together) have given me such hope because of the supportive community that they are. Finally, I have grateful for all the girls of the floor, my CLCs, and all the new people I have developed relationships with.  You guys are the BEST.

All of this and SO MUCH MORE has given me... 

JOY for DAYS.

AL