The "Perks" of being "The Perkes": reflect.

One year ago this week, I was in Roma, Italia and scared out of my mind.

Was I excited? Of course. I was embarking on an incredible journey, one that would change my life forever! I was in Europe, somewhere I'd always dreamed of going to.

But I was homesick. I was scared. Unfamiliarity swarmed me and filled me with uneasiness.

It took me a little time to let go of those insecurities and fears, once I did-- I didn't look back! I enjoyed every minute I could and made lifelong friends. My testimony grew immensely as well as the relationships in my life (distance really does make the heart grow fonder). I saw beautiful places and incredible historical sights. I learned so much! About history. About life. About the gospel. And about myself.

Here's a peak into my life one year ago this week vs. my life this week this year. A lot has changed. I am happy. Both weeks of my life were important! I loved my life both years. I'm blessed. :)

Monday, July 6th, 2009:

Journal excerpt: "It is towards the end of our flight now and they just brought us breakfast. I can't eat it though, because I'm too nervous. I have to change planes in Paris pretty soon and I'm really scared."

Monday, July 5th, 2010:

Laying in bed, barely able to move, sick as a dog from something I think was the flu. Happy way to end my Holiday weekend-- not.

Tuesday, July 7th, 2009:

"I am in Rome-- finally! We are at our apartment right now and it is pretty dang hot. I have a feeling it is going to be a lot worse during the day. Yay! Our apartment isn't too bad. The showers are TINY... All the girls seem way nice in our apartment. I do feel a lot better being with them. But I still miss Tyson a lot."

Tuesday, July 6th, 2010

Going crazy after another sick day in bed, anxious to see my husband and starving-- but afraid to eat anything besides soup. Still loving life, especially when Hubs lays by me and rubs my back.

Wednesday, July 8th, 2010

"Right now we are being "blessed" by the Pope. We just spent some time outside the Vatican. It's really beautiful and huge! The architecture here is incredible. I've met most of my group and really like most of them! I am very excited to spend time getting to know some of them better. It kind of feels like EFY. Haha. I am just trying to soak up the experience while I can. It's 43 days that I'll never forget."

Wednesday, July 7th, 2009

Worked all day. Went to Cafe Sabor with friends. Computer time. Cuddle time. Bed by 11:15.

Thursday, July 9th, 2010

"Italy is a lot different than I ever expected it to be. But I have come to love it. Mostly- anyway. There are some parts that have been so divine. I love the classic feel and look, the gelato and the food, learning so much about history and gaining a cultural experience."

Thursday, July 8th, 2010

Work. Made some steak and corn for dinner. Ran some errands after dinner and made sure to grab a snow cone with the Maxfield's after. Hanging out at home, getting ready to go to bed with Hubs in a cool apartment.

Life has changed. Obviously. But for the best! Last summer was incredible. I loved Rome. I loved my friends I made there (still do:). But quite happy to be sharing a bed with Tyson tonight, rather than a blazing hot apartment with 9 other girls. :)

First week there: