Living in Maryland

Living in Maryland for the last 10 months has been quite...well... interesting. Soon after we moved we learned several things right away. Like Maryland doesn't have Blue Bell ice cream, caffeine free Dr. Pepper, or Sonic!! One could compare driving in Maryland to a small town Nascar race! If you don't drive 20 MPH over the speed limit you will get run over! People here laugh and think I'm kidding when I tell them that they would get pulled over in Texas for that! The accents are a big thing....yes since I am now an outsider I do have an accent and they do make fun of it on a daily basis. The first thing someone says to me after I talk is "Where are you from?" Although I do make fun of theirs too! 

I can honestly say God is showing me a lot through this adventure. I was so set on staying in Wichita Falls and never moving that I never for a minute thought I would end up moving! God had different plans. I am learning to rely more on Him, and on Eric. We have met some great friends that have been very helpful when we need them, but as for family we just have each other here. Which has been hard on me. I miss Texas and my family and friends.  I am trying, however, to see the positives in the journey and keep in mind that it is just a small step in our life together. I have never looked at the seasons the way I do here. My dad has always said to look at all that God gives you, the spring flowers, the fall and this Fall was absolutely beautiful! The trees I'm use to look like shrubs next to the ones we have here. Our backyard resembles a small forest. When the leaves begin to change it is simply breathtaking! I didn't think Winter could compare to Fall, but after it snowed (and the snow here actually stays for weeks) the neighborhood looks like it is covered in a white blanket. I love looking out at night, with the moon shinning off the snow it looks soo bright! I can't wait to see what Spring has in store, but I've heard the Cherry Blossoms are gorgeous! What will make it even better is that my parents are coming to visit then! We are so excited! I can't wait to show them our house and take them to Washington DC! Thankfully it will be a lot warmer by then!

Nothing says Welcome to Maryland Winter like walking 3 blocks to work from the parking garage in 20 degree weather (that feels like -7) in the snow! I did have my first adventure driving in the snow and thankfully made it to and from work safely! Eric woke up early and shoveled me out of the driveway, then he and Keith spent the day at home! They made a snowman which Keith appropriately named Frosty! 

Keith is making friends and doing well! He played T-ball last Spring, Soccer this Fall and is playing Basketball this Winter. He loves it! He is doing great in school and really seems to enjoy it here. Although he does miss Texas and more importantly our family and friends there!