We’re here.

 Here, for now, being my father-in-law’s parents’ house, en route to my brother-in-law’s wedding. Wednesday we were at a memorial service for my mother-in-law’s father. Somewhere in between driving up and down the interstate I finished finals and we packed. J is still working on a takehome exam.

Finally, after the recommendation of a couple friends, I’ve picked up Ann Voskamp’s 1000 Gifts. It’s good. The first chapter left me shaking because it was so beautiful…that rarely happens.  Somehow, it feels like those quiet moments as the day is ending, or just before it begins. Those moments when I find myself half-asleep in bed, my husband laying on my left shoulder, my cheek pressed against his forehead, and I listen to him breathe and am simply grateful. 

I am glad to have been so quickly and easily welcomed into his family- for the laughter that surrounds us I’m thankful for friends from all over the world, for our quiet nest close to campus. I am grateful for this strong love that grew between us, so unexpectedly. 

I’ve had my share of dark days. We both have, and there will be more. But there can be peace and beauty in darkness.