Rexburg

I graduated 4 1/2 years ago. But it feels like not long ago that I rushed through those halls from one class to another. In my last year of school it was hand in hand with Shea. It was special and perfect, well looking back it was. Even if then I was stressed and frazzled and exhausted 90% of the time.

I thought things were going to work out just as we planned. But we didn't anticipate life's interruptions and beautiful surprises.

I went to BYU-I in 2006 anticipating leaving Rexburg 4 years later.

I never imagined everything that would take place in Rexburg. And I never imagined how attached I would become and the large place in my heart that would always belong to Rexburg.

Rexburg was...
where my first home away from home was.
where I made friends for life.
where I took the coldest breaths I will ever take on the coldest days I hope to ever have.
where I got my first paid job, at Jolynn's (Bagel and Smoothie Shoppe).
where Shea and I met and fell in love.

where Shea and I were married.
where I graduated college at BYU-I.
where Shea and I brought all three of our newborns home to.
where I helped two brothers get started at BYU-I
where we enjoyed countless drive-in movies and cheap greasy but delicious Teton Drive food.

where I got addicted to Jamba Juice smoothies, and Thai food.

where we played at Porter Park splash park too many times to count.
where Shea and I took walks to the temple.
where Connor and Bella went to their first "school", pre-pre-k.
where we shared numerous cups of Hot Cocoa and cupcakes at Cocoa Bean.
where we called home. (College Ave, The Village, Raspberry Gardens, and Hyde Park)

As we begin this big new adventure ahead of us I can't help but think of the times I had, and the ones that are so vibrant and strong I will carry them with me forever; in a way Rexburg has defined me. I suppose every place you live does.

I have awaited this time for so long. The time to leave. And now that it is here ... I realize I'll miss it more than I ever thought possible.