Most of my time this summer has been spent in Canadian, Tx. Alvan and I aren't exactly a normal couple, most of our relationship has been long distance, so we decided it was about time I got to know his family, hometown and spent much wanted time together.
Living in Canadian has been wonderful, who knew how great it would be to actually live in the same town as your fiance', right?! Canadian is a beautiful secret hidden way up in the panhandle of Texas. I was a little nervous moving, but it has been awesome getting to know Alvan's parents, brothers and so many others in the community that have had a hand in raising him. It was so easy to feel at home. I've learned so much more about Alvan, I have learned so much more about myself and above all I have learned so much more about the grace and love the Lord has on us every single day.
A lot of my learning in this time has been through watching Alvan's relationship with His younger brother. One situation that has really stuck with me is when recently Alvan and I were hanging out at his house one evening and he receives a text from his younger brother explaining that he dropped and shattered his IPad that Alvan bought for him. Alvan was a bit disappointed and replied back to him. I expected the texts to be full of frustration and Alvan getting on to him. Honestly, that's what my immediate reaction would have been if I were in Alvan's shoes. Later on when his little brother came back home Alvan gave him a hug, told him he needed to be more observant about things he was doing and went on to discuss how they could trade phones so his little brother could have more memory to hold all his songs and games. I was so confused. That is upside down love. It doesn't make sense, but that is exactly what the Lord has shown us and asks us to do for others. It may seem like a simple insignificant story, but the love and grace Alvan shows to his little brother absolutely blows me away. The love and intentional grace Alvan shows to anyone that surrounds him is beautiful. I am so so excited to marry this guy so soon and continue to serve those around us together!!
Thank you to the community of Canadian who took me in as one of their own. It was so great getting to know everyone!
Here are some photos I shot the last few days I was in Canadian with my 5D classic. Alvan has been pushing and encouraging me to shoot more. I like that about him a lot =)
Enjoy!
The Canadian Bridge. I love taking walks in the evenings out here.
The Morales Home.
My view from my room. Probably my favorite place in the house. The light is so great!
This is where Alvan's dad spends a lot of his time. He is one of the hardest workers I know.
The beloved chihuahua Apollo. He's family.
The boys room.
Alvan and Aaron, his little brother. One of the coolest kids I know.
I learned that it isn't a false generalization that boys love video games.
A lot.
Front porch. Alvan and I often sat out here to read and drink our coffee.
Alvan's parents. I love how his dad was always willing to help his mom in the kitchen. I learned a lot of spanish from these two.
Alvan's mom LOVES kids. She often babysits for others.
Sometimes I would help a tad bit tehe (photo by Alvan)
I also learned more about the world sport of futbol! World cup fever definitely got me. Alvan would play in the evenings with other guys in Canadian, while I would watch or read.
That's my guy.
A big portion of my time while in Canadian was spent baking for the local City Drug Soda Fountain. Never would have imagined this happening, but I screwed up quite a bit and learned a lot.
Hand mixed milkshakes are the best.
It was always sort of a dream of mine to waitress at a cafe or barista at a coffee shop. It is funny how the Lord is attentive to even the tiniest of our desires.
After 10 years of business I am sad to say that the Soda Fountain is no longer in business. So blessed I got to work there and be a part of the soda jerk family before it did.
This is Alvan's oldest brother Ali, yes I am Allie and he is Ali. We are all the A's, including his parents.
We didn't serve these at the Soda Fountain, but Alvan would grab these for us for breakfast sometimes at "The Bucket". This baby is known as the Jed Burger. It is awful for you, but absolutely delicious. And I am not ashamed to say it was one of my favorites about Canadian! Grease glory!!!!
Thanks a latte Canadian, I will miss you! Be back soon!
