Never Say Never

Growing up in Utah, I always longed to get out.

It's just the truth.

I was never particularly in love with where I lived. I felt like it was dull and unsophisticated. I hoped to move on in my life and live somewhere more interesting, more exciting, more... something!

But, if my opinion of my home state was poor, or even somewhat apologetic, there was still one place in my mind that was worse. A place more backwards, less interesting, and surely less impressive to say that you called home: Idaho.

Truthfully, I think my exposure to Idaho involved having driven through it twice (about 10 years apart) on the way to visit family in Washington. So, I had no basis for my opinion and judgment regarding the virtues of the place.

I just think it was my own form of "little man's syndrome," my own pathetic human way of justifying that while I came from an entirely unimpressive locale, there were worse.

If you would have asked me, even two years ago, if I would EVER live in Idaho, I would have sworn in no uncertain terms that it was as likely as the Tea Party and President Obama EVER getting anything truly productive accomplished. Not happening in this lifetime!

So, no one is more surprised than I am that Jeffrey just accepted a job in Boise.

A job we feel really good about and are excited for him to take. A job we have spent the last few months praying would work out.

Yep, I am moving to Idaho.

I keep thinking of that quote from President Benson (a former president of our church) about how the Lord will have a humble people... either they can choose to be humble or they can be compelled to be humble.

Not sure if I am choosing or being compelled, but I am humbled.

Humbled by how little I can predict my life. By how little I really know about what is best for me and my family. Humbled by how life unfolds and doors and possibilities open up in such unexpected ways. Humbled by how prayer and experience and seeking the guidance of God in my life can change my desires and perspective so much.

Humbled to admit that I really am excited to be moving to Idaho.

I am also nervous and uncertain and very sad. But, I am excited too.

Most of all, I am sad to leave behind so many wonderful friends we have made here. I love our ward. I love the sense of family and community that I have in it. I love the church and opportunities to share the gospel living in Virginia. I love the springs and falls here, that I don't think are matched in their beauty, mildness, or length anywhere else. I love my home and the woods. I love DC: the culture, the opportunities, the beauty of the city.

But, I am hopeful for the future. For new friends and opportunities. For new job experiences and the chance to build a legal practice for Jeffrey. For NO commute or long drive times. For living closer to family.

Now, I just have to hope we can sell our house. Anyone interested in a beautiful home in Manassas, Virginia?