Lessons from Louisville

Our recent trip was a fun walk down memory lane. When we first arrived I immediately felt at home but Kentucky didn't always feel that way to me. Our first year there was difficult for me, but looking back on it I learned a lot and I think it is really good for a new married couple to move away. It really helped David and I to become our own family unit.

1. Families are so important, they make us who we are. Being near and around them really helps confidence. I am so glad that I have a close family and for the things they teach me. I had some great friends in Kentucky that were like family to me.

2. I love the manners that people have in Louisville. People are very civil to one another, everyone uses yes ma'am or sir. People from Utah could take a lesson.

3. I loved being around a variety of people. I was definitely the "different" one. It was good for me to learn to explain myself and for my friends to see that Mormons aren't as weird as they thought. I also learned that some of the best people I know do not belong to my church.

4. I learned to work hard and always try to do my best at work. The hospital I worked at did not have great conditions. We were always under staffed, we didn't have equipment that worked and our patients could be very mean. I am proud of the job I did and I am very grateful that I don't have to work there anymore!

5. I learned a lot about myself. I know that I am tough and can do hard things. I can stand up for myself. I enjoy spending time with myself.

I am very glad that David and I had the opportunity to live away for awhile. I am also very glad that I can raise my kids near my family and that they can grow up around friends that have similar values and beliefs.