Adventurous

Genuine

Compassionate

Adventurous    Genuine    Compassionate

Someone once asked me, "What three words do you want to describe you?" These are the words I chose. Let me tell you a little about why:

Adventurous...is NOT a word I would have used to describe myself not too long ago. I have always been very "play it safe," even as a child, and careful to pass up on anything frightening or out of my comfort zone. However, that all changed after I was forced to go on a white water rafting trip. We had planned a family vacation to visit extended family in Wyoming. While there, my husband had promised to take my three older kids on a white water rafting trip down the Snake River. As we drove toward Jackson Hole, we could look down the edge of the steep canyon to the raging river below. It was running at a record high that year because of all of the snow run-off late in the season. My only thought was, "Thank HEAVENS I'm NOT riding that river on a flimsy little inflatable raft!" Little did I know! My husband ended up not being able to go, and the kids were devastated at the thought of missing this new experience. Reluctantly I agreed to take his place. I was terrified!

Low and behold, I SURVIVED! Not only did I survive, but when I let go of my absolute need to feel in control, I realized I was truly ENJOYING the experience. I learned a valuable lesson that day. I can't stretch and grow as a person by hiding away from anything scary or new. I must push myself a little past my circle of comfort in order to widen that circle. Since then, I learned to drive a four-wheeler, ride a motorcycle, went snorkeling (which is deceptively difficult for someone who dislikes feeling out of control!), and learned to surf. I also jumped all the way in and started my very own really real photography business! All of these things I did in part thanks to my supportive and wonderful husband. I have tried to be true to my new understanding that every day I must do something that scares me a little.