I'm not really sure where to start. Obviously, there is a lot to write about ... but I don't really feel like writing much. I go through stages where writing here comes so easily, and other times where it's a struggle to put anything into words. Right now is one of the latter times, but I'll do my best to try and put a few things into words for those of you who want to hear how things are going in my new life.

All in all, things are going really well! I made it safely out to BC, and have enjoyed starting to get settled in. I started work last Monday, and it has gone well so far. I was exhausted after work the first couple days - it was hard work to be back at work! But by the end of the week, I was feeling much better in the evenings. Friday was an insane day for me, and definitely proved what the profs told us all along - Fridays will always be the busiest day of the week ... all the emergencies will show up! I really enjoy the whole staff, so I know that going to work will be an enjoyable experience ... most days, anyways! It is really strange to be addressed as 'Dr. Slywka', rather than Jill. I know I'm a doctor now, but I'm still just Jill!

I love my condo! I spent my first night there last night ... sleeping on an air mattress. It was fun to be in my own place, although I think I'll probably not stay there full-time until the rest of my stuff arrives in a couple weeks! I've been staying with the other doctor and her family. They're great people, and I've really enjoyed getting to know them. They have four kids, one dog, one live-in nanny, and one exchange student from Japan ... so it's a busy house! It's been nice to have people around though, and to have a comfy bed, home-cooked meals when I come home from work, TV, and internet! I am really looking forward to getting established in my own place in a couple weeks though.

I had my moments when I first arrived of 'what am I doing here?'. I felt alone, and questioned whether this was where I should be in life right now. Thankfully though, God has answered those doubts, and I can say now, just one week in, that I am confident that I am in the place where I am supposed to be right now. I've had to shake my head a couple times in the past week, as I start to fully realize that I am actually doing it. I made it here, past all the worries of classes, exams, and everything else that comes with school. Unbelievable.

It's through the little things that God reminds me that He is ultimately in control of my life. He's brought great new people into my life - starting with the other doctor and her family. They are a great Christian family, and it's so awesome to work with people who share the same faith as me. Another girl from work has become a quick friend. She's close in age to me, is also a Christian, and is just so, so nice. I hung out with her the last couple nights at the local Junior A hockey games, and I know I'll spend more time with her in the coming weeks. It's nice to have a good friend already! I'm going to do FriendSpeak with the Japanese exchange student, living in the doctor's house. She is such a sweet girl, and would really like help with her English. She was happy to hear that I have experience in helping people practice their English! I'm glad to be able to use that, and to have the opportunity to spend time getting to know her.

So, I'm definitely happy and getting comfortable here! Sometimes when I'm driving, I have to tell myself to look up, and just take note of the beauty that surrounds me. It truly is beautiful around here, and I still can't really believe that I actually live here now!

More coming soon ...