The Beauty of getting an "F"

So I did the math today and I need a 46% on my final exam to pass the class. Funny huh. This whole process of getting into physical therapy school can really get to you. First, you get into school and then you think of every possible thing that could keep it from happening. Did they get my health requirements? Did I get all the paperwork in? The biggest one... I have to take my final exam 2 1/2 weeks early, can I fail and still make it? The answer is, "yes!" I won't, but it's nice to know that I have that freedom to let my grade slip that far and still make it. And I know I shouldn't worry about that stuff so please don't email me letting me know I shouldn't worry about it, I know that. I'm just being honest. Don't tell me you don't struggle with it either.
Anyway, lots to do. Almost done on the packing and cleaning will happen when it does. If it wasn't for being forced to commute by bike and foot everywhere I would be incredibly out of shape. I haven't lifted more than a school book in the last few months. I stood in front of the mirror today and jumped up and down and could see fat bouncing up and down. That's ok, it will keep me warm down in California.
If tears fall they will be this week. Lot's of people I care about I won't be able to see for awhile. No goodbyes, just see you later's.

Memorial Day "getaway"

My lovely date to my sisters wedding. (i'll post those pictures soon) I get impatient with her for the length of time she needs to get ready but she always wins the battle cause she looks so good when she's done... not that she doesn't all the time. Anyway...

A grapevine in the back yard one morning at Mom and Dan's.
This picture means a lot to me. I made this wind chime for my mom when I was in pioneer club as a kid at my church. She kept it up all these years (it shows). I can't look at an American flag without thinking of my brother David who is honoring his country in the center of the conflict in the middle east. I chose not to focus on the flag because our service men often do a great deal for us but we will never know how or often take it for granite. This picture represents one sons love, another ones bravery and a mother dedicated to both of them.

This is the patio. Mom and Dan spend a great deal of time here.
A bird bath in the backyard to accommodate the many different birds that have migrated to this particular yard for the warmer months.
A candle, hanging from a tree, gives added light at night when the bonfires take place...which happens a lot here.

Today is Tuesday and on Thursday we leave for Ohio. My sister Ashley is getting married on Saturday. I will get to see most of my family and Katie will have the opportunity to interact with them, something she hasn't had much time to do because of the distance. It is crazy to think that when we get back from Ohio we will only have four full days left in Spokane. Most of the stuff is packed and those last four days will be crazy. I have my 3rd exam this thursday morning and my final next friday.(Im taking my final 2 weeks early.) This all being said God is good and his provision for us is always consistent and timely. We are less than two weeks away from moving and we yet to have a place to live. I don't worry though. No sense in worrying when God is in control of your life. I enjoy seeing important things like jobs and living situations play out. I always get to look back and say, "see, He took care of it." If I do worry about anything its my own work ethic. Ex.. did I study enough? Am I working hard enough? Am I doing my part? Those types of things. I guess I'd rather be like that than never questioning anything.
Anyway, it is starting to rain now. The sky is cloudy and the temp is low 60's. The trees and grass are a rich green that takes me back to home in Ohio. We don't have days like this very often in Spokane. It's cold but its a break from the upper 80's we've been having. So it is comfortable. The picture taken is off my back porch. It is enjoyable right now but come 1:30 I will have to ride my bike to work and that will suck. I'll want the 80's back then.

Pickleball championships

Me celebrating a victory over my opponent.
Jeremy returning a lethal serve from his brother Jason.
Me taking it easy on Jason who was afraid of the plastic ball.
My 4 inch verticle

Jason, making an attempt at a stellar shot by Jeremy.

Spring

Mighty men that will be missed. From Left: Branden, Me, Jason, Kaleb, Nick, Jeremy, Mr. Rich
Never trust a woman who kisses with her eyes open.

So we decided we needed a vacation. The short weekend adventure trips we often take weren't enough. I have a buddy at Oz fitness where I work get us some incredible deals on plane tickets.(he works for Alaska Airlines) I wanted Alaska the state but Katie and I agreed on Mexico. Zihuatnaejo to be exact. (Above)
Zihuatnaejo is a fishing village with a few vacation spots. It is close to Ixtapa which was supposed to be the Cancun of the pacific. It never really took off so it is kind of a hidden treasure. Both towns are only 15 minutes away from each other. Also, Zih, is only 15 minutes from the airport which is in Ixtapa.
There will be lots to do: Kayaking, snorkeling, the market, hiking, and my favorite...taking pictures. We chose this place 'cause it is safe but more like true Mexican culture.
So just an update. We are excited. The dates are June 6th-11th. Yes, that is over our two year anniversary.

End of an era

Besides a change of scenery and a new schedule, moving forces you to take inventory. It makes you gut everything you own and question whether or not you need it. "Do I really need these flat tennis balls?" No, so I throw them away, give them away, or sell them. Katie and I have done this with every piece of everything we own together. She encourages me to get rid of this and that and I do the same. We have made over $600 in stuff that we haven't used over the last year and now we don't have to worry about moving it. The lovely truck above has been a blessing. We sold it and the money we made will be what we live on till our first loan and Katie gets a job. This truck was my grandpas before I had it and he will be happy to know that it went to an older couple in northern Washington. Kettle Falls to be exact.
It is great to know that when I purchase something, someone will buy it years later after I used it. Its like getting 10-15% off at the end of its use to you. Whenever I buy something now, I think,"how much am I going to be able to resale this for in a few years?" Anyway, it's good to know that we have been frugal with our money. They say money problems are a main factor in divorces in America. I rest in knowing that Katie and I have started our marriage looking out of the best interests in each other. Whether that includes money or not.

The new "Elk," a popular pub in Spokane. It is walking distance from our home. They have good food but the environment is going to take some getting used to.(For the guys that is since we will be gone by end month.)
My buddy Branden, the worst frisbee thrower on earth, hitting his mark.
Jason being able to stay on his board says only one thing...he has great balance.
Our friend Joel who is in Korea graced us with a visit from his Physician dad from Bishop California. His one mistake was telling us he was paying before we ordered.
My lovely wife preparing us breakfast on Saturday morning. We had mancakes and bacon.
Mancakes are quite delicious. Here's how you make them:
1 Cup of beer
1Cup Pancake mix
1/2 cup water
Vanilla or Plain yogurt for the top
Syrup for the top
Mix the ingredients, put them on a hot pan and flip 'em.






The whole purpose of this weekend was to celebrate the graduation of Kaleb our friend. We did not hold our applause till the end.