September 1, 2013
     Well, I caved.  I decided to get a blog.  I figured it was a good way to keep in touch with people who may not have facebook.  Also, it's a great way to tell stories : )  I don't consider myself a writer, so bear with me, but I hope this blog will be just enough to give you a glimpse of my life here in Big Sky Country.

     Now if I was really on the ball, I would've started blogging the day I left.  Buuut unfortunately, I'm not that on top of things.  So let me back up and give you some highlights:

     Our last few days together as a family were special.  We spent a lot of time together, just enjoying each other's company.  We even hit up the mini golf course!  Dad and Grampy arrived back in Boston around 10:30 Monday night, and Mom and I flew out of Boston at 6 am Tuesday morning.  I already knew goodbyes are no fun, but this one was the worst.

     After a long 5 hour flight, we arrived in Salt Lake City, Utah.  Why Utah, you ask?  Well, I needed to take a regional board exam in order to be certified to give local anesthesia in Montana.  Wednesday morning was my scheduled exam, at the Utah College of Dental Hygiene in Orem, UT.  Long story short, I was planning on my Mom being my patient.  But it wasn't until orientation that I realized, Mom would not qualify because she was missing a tooth (that's putting it in lay terms : ).  PANIC.  I didn't know what I was going to do.  But I'm thankful that God provides...I had been visiting with another student at orientation, and in desperation, I asked her if she would be willing to sit as my patient.  She was!  And even cooler, when her exam time rolled around later that day, her patient bailed, so I was able to sit for her!  It's such a neat story, and I'm thankful for how God works things out the way he does.  Not only did I have a patient, but I made a new friend.

     Salt Lake City is beautiful, and Mom and I had a great time exploring, seeing the sights, eating at Ruth's Chris steak house, and visiting the zoo!

     When we arrived in Great Falls on Thursday, my Aunt Lisa was ready and waiting for us.  We spent the following days giving the house a make over.  It was hard work, but we had a lot of fun doing it.  Sunday after church, we headed west to Glacier National Park.  Words can't really describe how beautiful this country is.  You kinda have to see if for yourself...but until you come visit me, these pictures will have to suffice : )

     After Aunt Lisa left, Mom and I spent a couple days together.  We mostly hung around the house, but I also went into my new office to start prepping for work (I start Tuesday).  It was nice to have those days together, but bringing Mom to the airport was tough.  I'm thankful that God has already blessed me with friends here in Cut Bank.  Mandy Swenson, farmer's wife and mom of 3, reached out to me that night and invited me to the girls volleyball game.  It was a great way to pass the time and get involved in the community.  Yesterday, I joined her and her family on their farm to see how they harvest.  I love trying new things, so getting to ride the combine was really exciting for me!

     I've been here a little over a week now.  I think I can say I've officially settled into my new home...there are just a few details here and there to finish up (if you're interested in a virtual tour, check out my facebook profile).  There is a local Bible church in town, which I've been attending.  It's a fairly small group, but they are growing, and there are lots of ways to get involved.  I've already been asked to join a financial class as well as a drama coming up in October.  Tomorrow I'm going on a 10 mile hike with my pastor and his wife.  As time goes on, I'm looking forward to getting to know people, as well as starting my job on Tuesday.

     I'll try to post as much as possible to keep you updated.  Thanks to all who have been praying for me!

Let 'er Buck!