Maturity

Mature: fully developed in body or mind, as a person.

I believe that Marcus and myself have matured. Now, I am not just speaking of the maturing that is defined above, but in a multitude of ways. He has matured in his own way, and I have matured in my own way... yet, we have matured together as a couple, too. When I first met Marcus, he didn't care much about work or school. He went to classes and work and came home in the same fashion. He spent his money however he wanted to as well. Presently, Marcus is early for work, stays late, and doesn't mind. In fact, he actually enjoys his job and helping customers out. Marcus' hours are so scattered, that I never know when I'm going to see him. That is one downfall of his job, but we deal. He can usually get a weekend off when he needs it and they are great to try and work with his schedule if need be. I have seen Marcus grow and mature into a generous and caring guy. He is so ecstatic about being a father that every time the baby comes up, he can't wipe his permanent smile off his face. He makes me more at ease about becoming a parent, and for that, I thank him. Before we got married, we spoke with our pastor at our house. He asked each of us what qualities we like best about each other. I remember one of my responses was that "Marcus makes me comfortable to be who I am." That is still the case, 8 months later. I don't have to act around him. I can be myself and he is happy with that :)

As for myself, I feel my job and our move 8 hours away from my family has really helped me with maturing. I don't have family around whenever I need them. Yes, they are a phone call away, but it's not the same. The only person I have right here with me is Marcus. I find with recent issues that come up, where I used to go to my family right away, I now talk to Marcus before calling my dad up on the phone. My dad is a connoisseur of giving advice and never fails with the right answer. However, Marcus has his share of compelling advice as well and I feel that I need to give him credit where credit is due! Every decision that needs to be made, is now made by the BOTH of us... that is what marriage is about - a team :)
My job has made me realize that the "little things in life" are really the big things. I am so fortunate to have the life I have and I know that I forget often how blessed I really am. There are times when I will call my mom on the phone and just say "Thank You." She doesn't need to ask anymore because she knows that I was brought into a situation where I can easily see how lucky I am, compared to some of my students. My family has asked me if we are going to move home, and my response to them is... "I don't see it happening anytime soon." Like I previously said, my job is amazing and is what contributes to Marcus and I sticking around here for some time - sorry guys :(

In conclusion, our life is a splendid one down here in Omaha! (So come visit :) I am happy to report that Marcus and I are doing very well and are so happy together. We were told after the wedding that we were the "real thing" and that this move to Nebraska was going to be the best thing for us. I would like to say "Thank You" to my aunt Beth for those words, and boy, was she right! We have definitely grown as a couple and are in a good place in our lives.
I will leave you with a picture taken in October from one of our trips to the zoo.  XOXO