It's Already OCTOBER???

I should start with an apology and then an explanation. I'm so incredibly sorry it's been so long since I've updated my blog. It's funny how the things you really enjoy doing are always the hardest to find time for. But time isn't really what I have been searching for, but I have more so been playing a waiting game: waiting for results, updates, pictures, etc. Well, the wait is over for many of those things and those things that I am still waiting for, well, I'm not really surprised, I am still waiting. Things happen on their own time, the best way to overcome the anxiety of the wait, is to simply put it out of your mind--only visiting it periodically, as needed. So let me start giving you a long overdue update...

Since the last time I wrote, I have successfully completed my Exhibition of Readiness for Student Teaching. I was very happy with my portfolio and when it came time for my presentation, I was extremely nervous and anxious, but I have wonderful friends and family that gave me the strength and confidence to succeed. But the person I should be thanking the most, is God. He answered every prayer I had and gave me more than I could ever ask for. It's not that He answers prayers and provides us answers to our questions as we need them, He does that, but He does more. He guides us, gives us confidence, and reminds us that no matter what, everything will work out as it is meant to be. Luckily, He sided with me on this one and I not only received a great review on my presentation and portfolio, but I also got the 15 weeks I asked for in a school (TBD) in Gwinnett County. I am extremely excited and blessed, even though I still have to wait to find out who my supervising faculty member is, what school I'll be student teaching in, and what grade I will get. But I have won the biggest battle--getting my student teaching and I could not be happier!

That same week, Sohum and I had out engagement party and ceremony with our closest family and friends. It was such a treat having everyone over and together to celebrate our engagement. It is funny because Sohum and I have had three engagement celebrations--something so rare and unusual. The first was the actual proposal in Athens with our closest friends, the second was our puja with Kothari Swami,  and the third was this party. All three were PERFECT and AMAZING in their own way and I know we will never forget these memories. But of course, I have pictures to share and they speak louder than words, for sure.

We were lucky enough to take a mini-vacation to Denver. It is not somewhere people usually opt to go, but it was wonderful! We were able to do a lot of hiking and site seeing in a relaxing and fun way. But we ended our trip in the city, with watching Memphis at the performing arts center, experiencing a zombie walk (one of the largest ones in the nation), some shopping, and two really awesome vegan restaurants with amazing desserts! Needless to say, it was a lot of fun!

Other than that, wedding planning is at a lull right now. We have gotten so much done, now we just need to wait a little before moving on. I have officially booked my flight for India, so I definitely cannot wait to go shopping for all of my wedding stuff! This year is flying by and I can't believe it is already the end of October! So much has changed and will continue to change, but it has all been very exciting and different.

Here are some pictures, sorry this is so long, I hope it was worth reading! I'll try to be better about posting more often! Until next time, enjoy these photos! I absolutely love them!