without borders: What we've learned

Clinging to God, and each other

We don't know a lot of folks here. It's not like I can drive across town and spend an evening with family or go out to eat with friends on a weekday night or see familiar faces at church on Sunday. Sometimes it feels like just our little family: Austin, Tucker and I, all alone out here.

It can be good and bad. The bad side is pretty obvious, we miss our family and friends. But the good side is that I have my husband. I have learned more about him and seen a different side of him these past few weeks. I can be pretty independent, but I'm learning to trust him more, because I have to. I need someone here to share new experiences with, to help me through tough days, and to daily remind me of the truth in the Gospel.

Some days have sucked. We are both adjusting to new roles- me providing most of our income and Austin taking care of things around the house and managing some side projects for work. It has not been an easy transition. I have been angry with Austin. Austin has been angry with me.

And here we are, out here on our own together. Crap.

Just today we had to remind each other of the truth of the Gospel. We are not married because Austin is the perfect man. And Austin is not married to me because I am the perfect woman. I am not here to shame him into becoming the perfect husband. The purpose of our marriage is to remind each other, and be an example of God's perfect grace. This must be the base for all of our relationships. It's the only way they will survive.

So here I am, attempting to daily give up my expectations, anger, and pride. Clinging to God, and to my husband.

The Gospel is alive in New Mexico.

We have experienced it! People have invited us into their homes. We have worshiped together. We have experienced community.

We are so thankful that the church we have started attending here in Rio Rancho. They have shown us what the church should look like. They have invited us in and made us part of their family. Even though we are from Alabama. Even though we won't be here that long. Even though we don't really like green chile.

We are thankful for their obedience to the Lord!