Happy 4th of July! I've read a lot of articles this last week about whether Christians should celebrate a day that basically encourages pride in our country and worshiping a man-made entity, but I don't think it's about pride or worshiping idols - today is the day we celebrate our freedom from oppression. all kinds of oppression, freedom of religion included. so many countries persecute those who express a freedom of religion, and because I live in the USA, that's not something I need to worry about. I'm thankful for a country that allows me that privilege and will celebrate that freedom today with a day at the lake and some explosions in the sky later tonight.

Yesterday, the church that we live right next to had a free family freedom festival thing, complete with inflatable bouncy houses, a dunk tank, and potato sack relays. The interns and I only participated in the free food part, but had fun watching the rest of the families enjoy the games. We then went inside for a "freedom concert". This church has got some VERY talented musicians in it and the concert was fantastic. songs that celebrated our country and the freedom we are granted through the country and though Christ's death - both were included.

Hope your day is full of hot dogs, potato salad, and sky explosions.

Alright. So, I'm leaning in. I'm getting connected and building my nest. Like a bird who's gone south for the winter, I'm here for the season, so might as well get comfortable. (Tired of my awful metaphors yet?).

Anyway, I've decided that this summer is going to be all about self-improvement. Hip hip, horay! I'll focus on my health and my spiritual walk. Starting with boot camp three times a week at a local facility and connecting with a great local church referred to me by a friend back home, this summer is really starting to look up. 

You've never experienced a thunderstorm until you've experienced one in the Midwest or southeast. The storms today have been out of this world. From driving on flooded interstates to the deep boom of the thunder, it's been surprisingly beautiful to experience.