Tam and the kids are in Utah right now having a blast visiting family.  It has been almost a week since they left and I miss them SO much.  We both felt like it was good timing since the 5th quarter is really starting to heat up with tests every Friday and Monday, I think til the end of the quarter, which is Thanksgiving break.  So while she has been gone, I’ve tried to take advantage of the extra time that I’d usually spend hanging out with my family and playing with the kids by studying my guts out.  I’m not sure how much of an advantage it has been.  I think I NEED that time each day to relax and forget about my studies. 

I have realized how much I miss the little things about my family.  I miss our dinners together.  I miss walking into little Jonah’s room when he wakes up from a nap and he’s standing in his crib with the biggest smile.  I REALLY miss dancing with my little princess Preslee. (For the last month or so, as soon as we walk into the front door she sprints to her room and changes into her leotard so she can dance.)  Most of all, I miss having my wife to come home to. 

One of my biggest concerns about starting medical school was if I would be able to keep my faith and family as my top priorities and still succeed in school.  I am so glad that the answer is, absolutely!

I believe that ATSU and the city of Kirksville create an environment that helps you keep that focus as well.  They provide so many activities and opportunities for families and spouses, you begin to realize that there actually is quite a bit to do in Kirksville.

For the next few posts I’ll find some pictures of the all the fun stuff that we have found to do while here in Kirksville.  Until then, wish me luck on my Pharmacology test tomorrow!