I passed!

I took my end-of-training language test on Friday, and not only did I pass, but I got a score higher than what was expected. I want to continue studying once I get to Israel, but I'm so relieved to have this test behind me.

Now comes the preparation for the move next week. Dave purchased neon duct tape to label everything (by air, by sea, or storing at in-laws). We have so many random tasks to take care of between now and then that include getting Dave's suit re-weaved, taking our car to the auto shop, and deciding what to do with our wedding photos (still not scrap-booked).

What would you bring with you? Would you leave behind the things that are irreplaceable? Or would you bring them with you because what's the point of having nice/sentimental things if you can't enjoy them?

Have a great week, friends! Mine will be full-to-the-brim, but hopefully fun and exciting as well.

You Are There

My friend Lauren posted this poem the other day, and I am going to repost it because it seems very appropriate. My move is rapidly approaching, and I just need to be in the moment and enjoy the days as they come. As my friend David said, "You are about to embark on a great adventure. All of your training has led up to this, and you will never again depart for your first post."

You Are There

by Erica Jong

You are there.

You have always been

there.

Even when you thought

you were climbing

you had already arrived.

Even when you were

breathing hard,

you were at rest.

Even then it was clear

you were there.

Not in our nature

to know what

is journey and what

arrival.

Even if we knew

we would not admit.

Even if we lived

we would think

we were just

germinating.

To live is to be

uncertain.

Certainty comes

at the end.

Can't help myself

Here are a few more beautiful pictures from the weekend. I didn't have any close ups of the bride and groom. Enjoy!

Photos taken by Bill Mapes, a close friend of the family. Please do not reproduce.

Tying the Knot with Pizzazz

This weekend we celebrated the wedding of my sister-in-law and new brother-in-law. The couple partied through the summer heat surrounded by their best friends and caring families. I love this simple picture of Cait bursting into laughter. To me, it embodies the whole spirit of the wedding.

Here I am getting some ink to commemorate the event.

Big Meadow

This weekend I went camping in Shenandoah National Park. We used our new tent--and thank goodness David taped the seams because there was an epic thunderstorm Friday night. Despite the rain, it was a wonderful weekend with friends and family (my little brother was in town) and I feel refreshed and ready to tackle S.I.L.'s wedding, language exam, and our Big Move. Below is my favorite picture from the weekend. I posted more pictures from the weekend on my Facebook page for those of you who know me there.