Here ya have it...

So, Im sure a lot has happened in my life since I moved to Abilene 6 months ago, but to me it doesnt feel like it. It seems like all I do is work and sleep. Occasionally I get a meal or 2 in! So, I guess I'll just start at the beginning!

I decided to move to Abilene for a couple different reasons. One was because of that boy, but that didnt work out. The main reason though, was just because this is where I felt the Lord wanted me as this time, and since I've been here His plan has begun to unfold and Im understanding more and more everyday why Im here. I dont know how long I'll be here, Im just going with the flow!

When I first got here I started working for Liberty Tax Service. There was several members of the church who worked there and they hooked a girl up with some income to get on my feet! I was a waver. I only stood out on the strreet a couple times and waved (dressed as Lady Liberty herself!), the rest of the time I was doing business to business marketing stuff either here in Abilene or in San Angelo (1 1/2 hours away!)...also dressed as the Statue of Liberty. It was an interesting experience to say the least! I almost felt like a missionary again, but this time what I was talking about wasnt nearly as important! It was interesting to me how much better people treated me as Lady Liberty vs. Sister missionary. It helped me realize that I often judge people based on the title they wear. I mean, I was the same Jessica, but I had 2 different titles and I was being judged on what I was, not who I was and I didnt like it! So, I've been trying to look on the heart more.

During tax season, I was also able to find an opportunity to get certified as a nurse aid. Classes were being taught at a nursing home here in town. I was hired and the class lasted about 3-4 weeks. It was there that one of the reasons the Lord wanted me here was shown to me. I met someone who I now consider one of my greatest friends. Her name is Tracee. She was actually my teacher. She has been such a huge support to me while I've been here and I just adore her!

I worked at the nursing home for almost 3 months. It was a learning experience for sure! I worked on an alzheimers hall. I love the little old people there, but didnt feel like I was being challenged very much in my job. It was the same thing everyday. So, Tracee, who is a nurse at the local hospital was able to help me get a job there. I now work at Hendrick Medical Center on the neurology floor. I love it! I love being in the hospital, it makes me feel like Im in an episode of Greys Anatomy! :) Im learning so much! I work the night shift- from 7pm-7am, 3-4 times a week. Its great!

After tax season ended, I needed another part time job (being a CNA doesnt make a whole lot, which is dumb considering how much we do!). It just so happened that another church member was in need of a part time secretary for his financial planning business. So, Im also working at Advanced Financial Strategies. On the nights I work at the hospital, I work here from about 9-1, and then sleep in the afternoon. On the nights I dont work, I work here 9-5. So, I wasnt lying when I said all I do is sleep and work!

I moved into my own apartment in May and I have loved it so much. Its so nice to have my own little space, and its been so much fun to decorate! I have my living room pretty much done, except for a coffee table and other little decorating kind of things. But this wall is pretty much my favorite part of the whole apartment:

They are pictures of temples that mean something to me. The middle is Manhattan, where I was endowed. The outside ones, are LA, Mesa, Jordan River, and Lubbock. This is right next to the door so everytime I leave Im reminded where my treasure is, and what is really important in life.

My bathroom has been so much fun to decorate too. Its red, black and white. The frames still need some more pictures, but this is what it is right now.

My bedroom is still in the planning phases, but I have refinished the furniture. Pictures will come when I actually finish all of it!

Well, I think that pretty much sums everything up. Im loving life right now and just trying to figure out what I want to do next. School is definitly on the agenda! Im going to visit the local community college here and see what I need to do to get started on a career in the medical field. Im thinkin physicians assistant...

I hope everyone is great. I sure do love and miss y'all! Come and visit me!!