Closer and closer...

So things are really coming together lately!  I have an apartment all set and ready with cable/internet and utilities.  Essau has a stall that will be waiting for him a few weeks after I move in.  Mom and dad rented a U-Haul truck that we'll be taking over the mountain.  This is really going to happen.  Not that there was ever any doubt, but all of these things make it that much more real!  I'm really excited about a new city, new friends, and furthering my education. 

I'm trying to see as many of my friends as I can this last month before I head West.  I bought a camera for my computer and will be setting up Skype, so if anyone wants to video chat, please let me know!  Familiar faces will be a wonderful pick-me-up so don't hesitate! :)

On another note, things are also beginning to come together for the wedding.  I have contacted a photographer that I am 90% sure we will be using.  I am touring a reception location today with my mom and have contacted another.  I have looked at wedding invitations and have put together a rough budget.  It's so exciting to see things falling into place and I have no one to thank but God.  He has truly blessed me in so many ways and I am incredibly thankful.  I know this transition is going to be a big one, filled with some difficult times and a few challenges, but I am confident that God will get me through it and that I will have a blast along the way. 

Photo Shoot with the "Nephews"

Yesterday was a LONG, busy day.  One of my many activities included a little photo shoot with Chris and Sam's dogs.  They have a Yorkie (Gunther), an Australian Shepherd (Bumpkin), and a Pit Bull (Bug).  I had not seen Bug since he was a puppy, so I wanted to come see him and try out some action shots on my new camera.  Boy did they turn out good, I am so excited!  View the complete album here or you can see a few below. 

Summertime and the livin' is easy

So Summer has been going pretty well so far.  I've been riding a little more, more leisurely than anything.  Ivan continues to improve and his muscles are getting stronger every week!  Essau and I are enjoying our light hacks and also had an awesome trail ride with Crista, my dressage trainer, the other week!  There will definitely be more of those this summer! :)  I have been running three times a week in preparation for my very first 5K on June 12th (Race for the Cure).  Other than riding, running, and occasional lunches with friends, I have been scrapbooking, reading James Herriot, and taking pictures with my new camera.  I am taking photography classes every Wednesday in June to learn the ins and outs of said camera.  After these classes, I should have a fairly good understanding of how to take some awesome pictures!

As far as Tennessee goes, I now have my apartment set and ready to go.  I will be moving the last weekend in July/first weekend in August, with Essau coming the following week or so.  I am excited to register for classes, learn more about my research topic and start this new chapter in Knoxville!  For the time being though, I'm just hanging out, relaxing, resting my mind, and soaking up everything I love about my life here.