I am currently on Day 9 post employment. I have to say that it has been wonderful! Although in some aspects, it feels as if I have fallen off the face of the earth. You may have noticed since I have not posted a new article in over a week. My days that used to consist of going in town to work, seeing other people, and feeling a part of something important have quickly changed into spending much of my time at home. I now stay up late (well…I guess I should say “later,” I still don’t think it is considered “late”), wake up to drink coffee and watch Regis and Kelly then add some variety by going to the Y, going out to eat with friends, or going shopping with my mom. I know, I know, I live a hard life. I
did this week make my last trip to REI and picked up all the essentials (shampoo, conditioner, etc) to see how they fit into my bag. The first attempt was not good. I looked at all the stuff I wanted to fit in my bag and it was just not going to fit. So, after doing some careful planning, organizing, and using many ziplock bags I was able to fit what I needed. My bag officially weighs 44 pounds. I also have a day back which probably weighs 15 so I will be carrying some extra weight this trip. Just think of the muscles I could have when I return. I think I am supposed to have those now though. (oops!)

On Saturday, myself and my two cousins (Alyssa and Audie) helped my grandma and grandpa put up their Christmas tree. It was a good time. It was fun looking back at the old ornaments we made when we were younger or were bought when we born. I’m the oldest, so I definitely had the most! I guess it’s just one of the bragging rights of being the oldest grandchild. 😉 Anyways, after setting up the tree we all went to see the movie, “The Nativity Story.” I have to admit at first I wasn’t too excited to see the movie. I was mainly going to spend time with my grandparents and cousins. I figured I already know the story and what happens so it will probably not be very exciting, but I was definitely wrong. I really enjoyed the movie! I know that the way the people looked, the town, etc is all how a person or group of people thought it to be, but it really brought life to the story! I was able to see what a sacrifice it was for Mary and Joseph to be the “parents” of Jesus, Mary’s interaction with Elizabeth, the journey they took to Bethlehem, etc. I think one of the best parts of the movie was after Jesus was born and the angel spoke to the shepherds and they came to see baby Jesus. The shepherds all had a look of awe on their faces. They fell to their knees to worship the Son of God. I think you just have to see it, because I am not doing it justice. It was powerful! Then, the three wise men showed up bringing their gifts and seeing how honored they were to present these gifts to the Son of God who was humble enough to be born in a manger. It was a truly powerful movie and am so grateful that I got the opportunity to see it! I know this is a cliché statement, but it is SO easy to forget “the reason for the season.” This movie encouraged and challenged me. We think we know the “Christmas story” because we’ve heard it every year at Christmas time, but do we always grasp the power of this event? I don’t think so. I would encourage all of you to go see this movie and would love to hear what you thought!