We’re home from a weekend of travel and running around, this time in Birmingham, Alabama. Our dear friend (who I met through Livejournal 11 years ago!) got married to a wonderful woman and David stood at his side while it happened. I shouldn’t be surprised that it was the most cheerful, most beautiful and moving wedding I’ve ever been to. We are so happy for our friends.

Because David was in the wedding I ended up with a lot of free time alone and explored a bit on my own. This has been a more regular occurrence the past year in particular and I’m proud of myself. Fear has kept me from doing so much and I’ve felt guilty and burdensome at times for needing David to be my guide through untold scenarios. But I seem to be breaking free of that, and whether it’s a true desire for growth and change or simply that I feel there’s no other option anymore, I’m okay with it. In three weeks I’ll be heading to Cincinnati to visit my sister so I’ll get another chance to loosen my grip on my reliances. I’ve visited before, so the long drive alone doesn’t terrify me anymore, but it will be the first time I’ve taken a bus and navigated a bus station by myself. First time activities or new places, no matter how insignificant, are my nightmare. I’m glad to have a husband who encourages me to take these small steps toward self-sufficiency.

I was not my best self on this trip and gave in to the sin of irritation often. Social anxiety coupled with the sinus infection I developed made me a grumpy, complaining mess. Truthfully, though, I chose to respond negatively when I could have been gentle and kind. David loved me and showed me grace (but of course he wasn’t perfect either) and I’m thankful those moments of tension didn’t completely overshadow the joy of celebrating.

I liked Birmingham because it reminded so much of Augusta–a place that’s growing and finding itself. I wish we’d had more time to get to know the city but I know there will be more of that in the future. I didn’t take too many pictures and have doubted lately whether things are worth posting at all, but I enjoy doing it and will keep it up for that reason alone. Here are a mix of iPhone and SLR snaps.