...and the livin' is easy.

Yep. It's summertime, and I've got no more excuses left in my bag of tricks for not updating this thing. So that it won't be too tearfully boring, here's a few photos to go along with all the catching-up:- Marc and I are throwing ourselves headlong into Operation House Recruitment. We have 5 or 6 contacts who are interested in moving in with us in the fall, but so far the only definites remain me, Marc, and Brent. We're still doing our bible study on Sunday nights at Cafe Envie, and are going to start looking for properties this month. Ideally, we're looking for a shotgun double with a backyard, where we can designate one side as girls' house and the other as boys' house and have garden in the back. For more info on the House and updates throughout the summer, check out the rockin' website that Brent set up for us at www.houseoftherisingson.org

- A picture that Leanna, one of our potential housemates, took of me walking her son Zebediah's stroller outside Cafe du Monde. Notice anything different? Yup. I HAVE DREADS AGAIN!!!! I'm really excited, can you tell? Brent flew down this week and Leanna drove in with Z, and we had what amounted to a three-day dread fest. When all was said and done, there were 90 locks created - 40 on me, and 50 on Leanna. I couldn't be happier with how they came out (back combing, rip-n-twisting, no wax whatsoever). What's funny is just how much they mean to me already. Besides remembering all the advantages and things I like about having dreads, I told Marc today that they honestly make me feel more like myself. Like I'm being true to my personality for the first time in a long time, instead of always trying to be just mainstream/traditional/non-threatening enough to placate my friends and family. I have a feeling that this set is going to be around for quite a while. =)

Leanna and her little man on the river

- As for summer plans, writing, House stuff, and making money are my triumvirate of priorities. I was fortunate enough to get a truly kick-ass summer job at the Magnolia School, an organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities. I work 4-5 days a week and get paid to do things like cook, go to the park, and watch America's Funniest Home Videos. What more could I possibly ask for? On Monday nights, some UNO friends and I are getting together to do an informal workshop designed to keep our lazy butts productive during the non-school months. Seeing as this is my first summer in two years spent at home (as opposed to studying abroad), I'm trying not to overload my schedule and just relax and enjoy life for a bit. So far, so good, although Marc and Jac do have to remind me of that goal every once in a while. =) The only traveling I'm going to do is to Cornerstone at the end of the month (my first time--another coming-into-my-true-self milestone) and a possibly weekend trip to visit Violet in Virginia. Other than that, I'm going to be a homebody...even moreso now that I don't have a car. So come visit me during my final months at the Metry house!

- Still learning about photography, and loving it more and more. I just upgraded my gear to a Canon 20-D with a bunch of great lenses, a tripod, etc. My friend Thea was kind enough to offer my first paying gig, but mostly I'm still just shooting for fun. This week I'll be doing a portraits with my friend Lauren and her baby Reed, another friend April and her dog Jazz, and yet more friends Jenna and Mike to do their engagement photos. Fun times. Look for the results on my Flickr account.

- And last but not least, the man and me. Things continue to be wonderful, as we continue to learn more about each other and work together to pursue God's heart for the Quarter. After almost four months together, I can tell you that Marc is an honest, passionate, charismatic person who loves the Lord and people with everything he's got. He's also hilarious, a great kisser, and a darn good bike mechanic. Chelsea took this picture last time she was in town. 

In short: life is hard, God is good, and I am learning. That's the update.