Another Year Down

       I can’t believe that I just turned 22. I literally felt like it was two weeks ago that I turned 21. It’s so crazy how a year can change things. I’ve definitely felt very blessed in this last year. And, just like any other year it was filled with ups and downs.
    As this summer is coming to a close, I really can think of how this summer and the jobs I’ve recently gotten into are setting me up for a future that I can’t wait for. Working at the High Plains Food Bank has been so rewarding. I’ve gotten to see how the work I do can help change lives and help feed people. It’s great to hear the stories of people and all the different struggles they go through. Makes me so grateful for my life and the position I’ve been put in.
    About halfway through the summer I was hired as Marketing Director for Jump-N-Jive. It’s an inflatable playground here in Amarillo. Now before you laugh, it’s actually a lot of fun. I have definitely gotten my fair share of work. I did not realize how much work is put into having your own budget, making and following up on phone calls and corporate meetings. I can definitely say I understand why people in this industry are the way that they are after having this real-world experience.
    At 22, I couldn’t imagine being in a better position. I’m closing in on my final year in college and my final soccer season. 10 months ago, I was taken out of the game again, for the second time and it’s crazy to think that I get to step back on the field again after surgery. When I thought about quitting, I would step on the field and remember why I played: because I loved it. That’s something I’m realizing while watching the Olympics, how much passion I have for my sport and for being competitive. 2 weeks until my last pre season as a college athlete after playing the game for 18 years. That’s insane.
    I have been so blessed not only this summer but with this life Christ has lined up for me. I have realized that when I drop my own plan to follow His, it works out a lot better. I’ve been super involved in FCA ( fellowship of christian athletes) and I love it. It has definitely shown me that everyone has their own struggles and it’s how we deal with them, that make us different.
    I’m fortunate enough to be able to visit New Jersey/New York this next week and I am so excited. It doesn’t seem like it was two short years ago that I had left Rider for West Texas. I cannot wait to visit my friends who I’ve been able to keep in touch with. Those are the friendships that I know are truly special and I’m ready to see my future home (NYC baby!) I cannot wait to see what’s in store for this next year, but I’m ready. Here’s to another year of life!