Winds of Change

As many of you already know, the last 7 weeks have been a whirlwind of activity and change, all beginning with an unlikely meeting online. I won't lie, getting out of my comfort zone and driving to High Level to meet her in person was a little scary. That first coffee date I was as nervous as I've been in a long time, and I've been told that the feeling was mutual. Despite the nervousness the two of us chatted non-stop for around 3 hours, though I'd be hard pressed to recall a single thing that was said. As we parted ways she informed me that she'd like to see me again, a feeling I shared. I do remember feeling happy on the drive home, glad that the two of us had taken the chance to meet in person. Over the next few weeks we managed a few more dates despite busy summer schedules.

A little less than 3 weeks after first meeting, Leona and I were officially dating, the whirlwind continuing. The days after making our relationship official brought many questions to the surface, fear and panic coming in waves at times. I was happy and content being single, having all but decided that I was going to remain that way for the rest of my life. There were many times I was ready to throw in the towel and go back to my comfort zone, but there was something about her that made me want to get to know more about her. After so much time spent alone over the years I wasn't sure how I'd adjust to having a girlfriend, and though it's taken some getting used to, I've enjoyed having someone to share some of my life with. I know that I would survive being single again but the thought of going back doesn't look like a fun prospect. No matter what I've felt at times, she makes me happy and that says a lot.

The schedule has felt busy compared to what I'm used to, but it's been a breath of fresh air in my life. I've met all of her family members now, some of her church family, and some friends. She's met all of my family as well, and they all really like her (which doesn't really surprise me, she's pretty awesome). The thought of meeting her family was a little nerve wracking, but they are great people who have made me feel totally at ease. They are easy going, down to earth, easy to talk with, and fun loving people. If any of her family reads this, know that I've really appreciated how accepting you have been, and spending time with all of you has been fun!

She's smiling on the first bike ride with me, that's a pretty big deal!

Leona and I have been dating for a month now, mostly spending time together on weekends and countless hours on the phone during the week. I feel like a teenager again, looking forward to weekends and spending time with her. She is intelligent, feisty, fun loving, pretty, has a big heart, sincere, and loves Jesus. I don't know how a girl with all those great qualities was single, but I feel blessed that God brought her into my life. Thank you for making me feel special every time we are together Leona, and for awakening parts of me that have been buried for a long, long time. Hopefully you can say the same. I kinda like you, think I'll keep you around for a while longer;-)