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As my husband and I move from Louisiana to Ohio for his next stage of medical training, I muse on the next season of life.
Hey, folks! Most of our worldly goods are in boxes (stacked 6 high in the kitchen), the cupboards are nearly bare, and we’ll be pulling out this weekend – Ohio bound. I wanted to drop in and say hi one last time before we head out because I have no idea what the rest of the summer is going to look like!
As I told my email subscribers yesterday…
Above you see the handiwork of my husband: box stacker extraordinaire. 😛 We’ll be heading out this weekend, so we’ve been packing our Louisiana life into boxes. The only problem is that we currently live in a small house, and once you start pulling things out of cupboards and cracks and crevices, there’s not much space for the boxes themselves!
It’s a little sad to be moving on from this stage of our lives. This little house is where we’ve spent our first two years of married life. I’ll miss our neighbors, the walking trail by the river, our church family, easily accessible shopping with little traffic, my friends at the post office and Kroger and bank, the little library within walking distance. I’ve found a life here that I wasn’t sure I’d find when I got married and moved away from the only home I’d ever known for 20+ years.
But we have the memories, and the life we’ve made here gives me hope and excitement for the life that God will give us in Ohio. I’m leaving Louisiana a different, more mature, more at rest person than when I arrived. That’s life, ya know? Always learning, always growing. And knowing that God goes before us gives me peace for the next stage.
The incredible peace I’ve been given through this entire season of change – as we applied for gastroenterology fellowship, went through the interview process, played the waiting game, MATCHED IN OHIO!! then got hit with a global pandemic when we were trying to find a house and move 16 hours north – the peace is nothing short of miraculous. This is only the second time in my memorable life that I have moved – the first being when I got married and moved to Louisiana from South Carolina to join my husband. (I also moved as a child, but that was before I can remember anything.) At that point all my possessions fit in my mini van, and my husband-to-be was already settled in Louisiana so there wasn’t the added dimension of finding a house long distance or changing jobs at the same time as moving.
In general, I don’t like change, or not knowing what’s going to happen next, or feeling like life is out of my own control. Moving is all of those things wrapped into one semi-traumatic event.
Seriously, I can’t tell you how amazing this peace feels. Especially since I’m not typically an easy going, flexible person. I have a long history of control freak-ism combined with obsessive compulsive tendencies that really have a habit of being triggered by CHANGE. The fact that I am currently functioning as a mostly sane human being and not completely losing it when moving plans change 4 times in a row (true story) is a testament to the grace of God alone.
Can I just say how proud I am of my husband? The unflappable way he’s handled all the moving details despite multiple setbacks and changes of plans (oh, and did I mention the global pandemic and long distance house hunting?) has been a serious source of calm to me. If I were in the hospital, I’d want him to be my doctor, just saying.
By the grace of God, I am actually excited about this move. Excited about a new house, new neighborhood, new friends, new park, new church, new opportunities, new job focus for Ryan, new season of life. I carry the memories of the current season we’re wrapping up, and they will enrich and guide and inform the next season, which will in turn color future seasons. To the best of our knowledge, we are following the will of God, and there’s really no safer place to be.
What I’m eating
Now that my kitchen and pantry items are packed up, mealtimes have no choice but to be simple. 😛 Honestly, I feel like I’ve barely cooked in the last two weeks. Ryan has been working a lot and hasn’t been around for many meals, so I’m mostly just heating up leftovers for myself and trying to single-handedly clean out the fridge and freezer.
About two weeks ago I baked a turkey that really needed to come out of the freezer, so we ate on that for awhile and then I used my Instant Pot to make bone broth from the carcass. The broth got turned into a yummy soup filled with natural gelatin. I added the last of the turkey, veggies from the freezer, and some quinoa and lentils to add some body. Not really worrying about crossovers right now – cleaning out leftovers is more imperative.
I did leave a few staple ingredients in my cupboards, which I’ll pack up last minute and keep handy for the week or two of transition after we move. Things like oats, salt and pepper, stevia and Sweet Blend, peanut butter, collagen, and cocoa powder.
Breakfast
This morning for breakfast I made Easy Chocolate Oatmeal (basically my breakfast every morning) with added collagen for protein and topped it with some frozen mango that needs to be used up + a few sugar free chocolate chips. THM E
Lunch
Lunch today was scrambled eggs topped with shredded sharp cheddar cheese and some pepperoni slices (I did keep a frying pan out to use for the next few days) with a side of sliced cucumber drizzled with Italian salad dressing. Just a storebought dressing. THM S
In storebought dressings, look for 2g net carbs or less per serving and no added sugars. The oils usually aren’t ideal, but I’m big on making things work. I also enjoy making things like kefir and sourdough bread…go figure. I guess I just enjoy fussing over some things more than others. 😛
For lunch I also made a fried taco (based off of this Fried Cream Cheese & Berry Taco) using a low carb tortilla, reduced fat cream cheese, Sweet Blend, some sugar free chocolate chips, a sprinkling of defatted peanut flour, a drizzle of Strawberry Freezer Jam, and some sliced fresh strawberries. A lot of stuff I’m trying to clean out of the fridge before the weekend.
Supper
Ryan probably won’t be home for supper, but I thawed a rack of pork ribs last night (success – the last meat in the freezer!) and baked them today. I’ll tackle those tonight with some leftover veggies and whatever else needs cleaned up from the fridge. Last week I also made some Trimtastic Chocolate Cake (from the THM Cookbook) to use up some shredded zucchini I had in the freezer and there are 2 pieces left, just sayin’….
For the ribs I basically followed the baking times given in this Bri’s Baked Barbecue Ribs recipe, but I skipped the sauce because hello, empty cupboards. And finished them with a bottle of sugar laden storebought sauce (not on plan, Trim Healthy Mamas!) in the fridge, because seriously, is it just me, or is it impossible to get rid of the fridge door full of condiments?? I keep regular barbecue sauce around for my husband, who loves it (and has a tendency to buy it himself now and then if he sees a flavor that sounds good). I generally stay away from it because that stuff is loaded with sugar, but let’s just say I’ve been throwing a few particulars out the window recently with everything we’ve got going on.
Some songs that have blessed me recently
I came across both of the following hymns recently as I was practicing my nominal piano skills by playing through the Hymns of the Church hymn book. The first one perfectly fits the theme of new seasons in life fraught with unknowns:
“Thy Way, Not Mine, O Lord”
(#925, Hymns of the Church)
Horatius Bonar / Uzziah C. Burnap
1 Thy way, not mine, O Lord,
however dark it be;
lead me by thine own hand,
choose out the path for me.
2 Smooth let it be or rough,
it will be still the best;
winding or straight, it leads
right onward to thy rest.
3 I dare not choose my lot;
I would not if I might:
choose thou for me, my God,
so shall I walk aright.
4 The kingdom that I seek
is thine, so let the way
that leads to it be thine,
else I must surely stray.
5 Take thou my cup, and it
with joy or sorrow fill,
as best to thee may seem;
choose thou my good and ill.
6 Choose thou for me my friends,
my sickness or my health;
choose thou my cares for me,
my poverty or wealth.
7 Not mine, not mine, the choice
in things or great or small;
be thou my guide, my strength,
my wisdom, and my all.
The following hymn also fits in that it describes the journey from independence and self will to full surrender to the will of God. Only in that full surrender can we find true peace in the changes of life seasons (which are often beyond our human control).
“O, the Bitter Shame and Sorrow”
(#926, Hymns of the Church)
Theodore Monod / James Mountain
1 Oh, the bitter shame and sorrow,
That a time could ever be,
When I let the Savior’s pity
Plead in vain, and proudly answered,
All of self, and none of Thee,
All of self and none of Thee.
2 Yet He found me; I beheld Him
Bleeding on the cursed tree;
Heard Him pray, Forgive them, Father,
And my wistful heart said faintly,
Some of self, and some of Thee,
Some of self, and some of Thee.
3 Day by day His tender mercy,
Healing, helping, full and free,
Sweet and strong, and ah! so patient,
Brought me lower while I whispered,
Less of self, and more of Thee,
Less of self, and more of Thee.
4 Higher than the highest heavens,
Deeper than the deepest sea,
Lord, Thy love at last hath conquered;
Grant me now my heart’s petition,
None of self, and all of Thee,
None of self, and all of Thee.
You may also enjoy these other “Musings” posts:
- The Love Story: Part 1
- The Love Story: Part 2
- The Wedding
- Setting Up House!
- A Change of Identity
- Our Gastroenterology Fellowship Match Story
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Why I’m no longer selling my cookbooks on Amazon:
You may have noticed that I’m no longer selling my cookbooks on Amazon. (Other sellers may have them on there, but that’s not under my control.) This is due to the really high seller fees that Amazon charges + the fact that I prefer supporting the small privately-owned company that prints my books and ships them out for me. It’s also just one less thing I have to keep track of. You can find my books for sale right here on my website under the Shop Cookbooks tab, where you have the option of buying just one, or both of them together to save on shipping.
The books will usually be cheapest directly off of my website (unless you’re close to a privately owned store that carries them, in which case you can save shipping!). Check out the Shop Cookbooks tab for answers to FAQs (including info about international shipping).
Thank you so much for your continued interest in my cookbooks!
UPDATE: thank you all for your kind comments! I read them all. You’re the best. <3 Hopefully we can “chat” sooner rather than later!
Regina Coblentz says
I just discovered your blog. I’m starting my THM journey. That’s how I found you. Welcome to Ohio!! I live about 20 minutes from Sugarcreek. I go to Holmes County all the time. My husband is from Millersburg. I grew up in Hartville. Thanks for sharing your THM journey! Hopefully I can learn more in the future.
Jacqui says
What an exciting time in your lives! God surely has great things in store. And it will all be ok in the end, though struggles may try to blind you from His loving face. They can’t! Because darkness can’t win over Light. Light always wins! 🙌❤️
Just wanted to share with you that Ohio is known for having gorgeous colorful rocks! As in collecting rocks…you might google “Rockhounding in Ohio”, to find a good area, hopefully near you. 😊 It might be a fun break for you sometime when you really need one! 😃 I’d love the opportunity to do so! I’ll just drool from here! 😉😁
I’m an RN, and nursing school was tough! I know that what your sweetheart is battling is surely even more challenging. Pray for him! Many times throughout the day! Nothing will help him more.
I have two nephews and a niece that are drs (one did a residency in Ohio, in fact), and a niece and a nephew that are RNs, so I’m familiar with the journey. 😉
I just found your page tonight and look forward to exploring it! (Don’t know if Louisiana is home or not, but I’m at home in Mississippi. 😊)
God bless your little family, and give you peace!
Jacqui
Melisha says
Congratulations and welcome to Ohio! We live in Hartville, a quiet village in Stark County, halfway between Akron and Canton. I just had my first appointment with a Gastroenterologist who informed me that I have mild Barrett’s esophagus and there is nothing I can really do to change that – except take the medicine to prevent the progression. But I don’t believe him! lol. I am changing my diet and I’m very much looking forward to your healing recipes!
Briana Thomas Burkholder says
My mom grew up in Hartville. 😊
Regina says
I grew up in Hartville. My patents still live there. I live in Bolivar which is 20 minutes south of Canton.
Kathy says
Welcome to Ohio! We live between Springfield and Columbus. Sounds like you have the whole moving thing covered 🙂 I just want to add how much I love all of your THM recipes!!!
Shannon says
I didn’t realize you were in Louisiana. My home state 🙂 My family is still there, but I’ve been in Texas for 17 years now. 🙂
Renee Galvis says
Oh my goodness!!! I’m SO excited!!! I can’t believe that we going to get to have the one and only Briana Thomas Burkholder right here in Ohio!!! I’m SO excited for you!!! I hope you love it!!! ❤️❤️❤️
L says
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
May you be blessed as you move from Louisianna to Ohio!
Kris Chatfield says
Can’t wait for an update on the move and to hear that you’re settled in your new house!
Ginnie says
Greetings from Australia Briana
It is always lovely to hear your news and see your life unfold.
With His guide and the love of a faithful husband you are covered
Enjoy Ohio
One day, despite the cost I am going to gift myself your cookbooks..I trust your THM recipes and very grateful for the effort you go to make them flavoursome
Jill Westlund says
I loved the songs that you shared and can truly relate to your stress. My son and his wife just moved 15 hours from where he did his transitional year of residency. They purchased a home without physically seeing it because of Covid. They sent their belongings on a truck which has disappeared! Stress is high, but I know who is in charge. God is bigger than all of this. My thoughts and prayers for the two of you as begin this next chapter. Blessings to you both!
Jacqui says
I hope good things happened for your family. ❤️
Kay Ripley says
Blessings on this new fork in your journey.
Kay
Tracey says
Best wishes on your journey!! You faith is an uplifting reminder that God is in control and no need to worry ❤️
Peggy Tackett says
The best of luck to you and your husband in this life journey. I am looking forward to when you can once again write you blog and recipes.
Suzy D says
Thank you for your post! God bless and keep you!
Stephanie Pavlantos says
I live in Ohio…NE Ohio between Akron and Cleveland (in Stow). I grew up in Dayton. It’s cold, but we do have beautiful weather when it gets warm and gorgeous parks. I love your recipes and wish you blessings in the next stage of life.
Beth Nutt says
Thank you for sharing. I always appreciate your outlook on life matters and your sweet spirit. May the Lord continue to guide you each step of the way. I’m a Buckeye by birth and most of my family lives there.
Joanna says
Thank you so much for sharing your life with us! We also recently moved, and while I am a little more of an expert at it (we have moved a lot, both hubby and I get restless and are prone to wander the earth (though our hearts never wander from our Savior), you sure did better at staying on plan than I did that last week or so! 😉 May the Lord richly bless this next chapter in your life! Life surely is a journey, and we never know what exciting adventure laus around the next bend. ❤
Debra Wetzel says
Congratulations on the fellowship. I know you will be happy settling in. I will be praying for y’all and praying for a safe journey. Love the songs you listed. Happy Trails to y’all.🤗
Sharon Routzon says
Welcome to Ohio! Have lived here in NW Ohio my whole life, except a for the year in Chicago while my husband went to Northwestern University for a special police training.
I enjoy reading your life stories! They are so refreshing and honest! I can understand how you must feel about leaving Louisiana, the walking trails and having places you are able to walk for your daily routine. It sounds like you had found a “small town” community that allows people to keep things fairly simple. It sounds a lot like our town.
We are planning a day trip to the Amish country this Saturday for our 51st anniversary. We love the area, the peacefulness we find in driving the back roads, getting away from our “normal”. Looking forward to eating at Mrs. Yoder’s Kitchen (it is our understanding that it is open as Ohio restaurants begin indoor seating) , a must everytime we are in the area, which is usually 2 or 3 times a year!
Prayers to you and Ryan as you make this trip and begin a new chapter in yiur life’s journey!
brenda brand says
Wishing you both the best in your new home . God has for sure surrounded you with his mighty angels. Peace and many blessings. Thank you for all you do.
With love and much respect.
Brenda Brand
Sheila says
Enjoyed hearing from your corner of the world. Your task of literally emptying out food from freezers and refrigerator? That makes my head hurt as I think of our 2 big freezers and 2 refrigerators! Go Brianna! I like how you are practical and “make things work”. Blessings to you as you journey on, both personallywith God and with real life. I can relate to what you shared on a spiritual level, calm in the midst of chaos.
Sally says
I just received my order of your books and have already tried some recipes. Thanks for all the work you put into them – the beautiful pictures, the clean lay-out. May the Lord bless you in this next phase of your life in Ohio.
Ginger says
Thank you so much for sharing with us. I love the hymns you have chosen to focus on! May the Lord bless you.
Rene’ says
Oh, Briana, I know how difficult moving can be, so I can relate wholeheartedly! My Dad was in the Air Force and we lived in Europe, Guam, and several states. Moving is h.a.r.d., but you’re so right: having total peace that you are following His will and plan for your life, makes all the difference!
Little side note: You mentioned making sour dough bread: I have been trying so hard to get my starter going and haven’t had luck! Any tips? 🙂
Briana Thomas Burkholder says
I can’t imagine moving countries! Wow – those in the medical field may have it bad with training and moving and schedules, but I think the military has it worse.
I just watched some YouTube videos before making a starter, kept at it for about two weeks, and eventually it worked! Maybe you just need to go a little longer? I hope to do some sourdough posts after we get settled in as I have time, but honestly there are so many more qualified individuals out there with great info on the subject! Just research and experiment – those are my best tips. 😛
Holly says
Welcome to Ohio! I think you’ll like it here.
Anna James says
Thanks for sharing this exciting update. I look forward to seeing more about the next part of your journey, and hope you will be able to share a glimpse or two when time allows.
Northernmama says
Moving and change, starting new chapters can be so exciting and scary at the same time. We recently moved to a Ohio. Right before the shut down. My husband is still not back to work. We too feel like we are following Gods will and we are thankful for his provisions. Ohio is a beautiful place. A lot of farms and fresh foods. Wonderful churches. I pray God will bless your move and you will flourish in your new community.
Victoria Walker says
God is so good and will keep giving you confirmations along the way! Peace and Joy to help guide your path! will be praying for you!
Ann says
Thanks so much for sharing with us. Wishing you & Ryan the best !. Take care . God’s will is the best place to be!. Happy we got to share Louisiana for a while with you two.
Toni says
Many blessings on your new endeavour.
Wilma Burton says
Good morning! Haven’t written lately but have kept up with your journey and so enjoy your posts. Feel like I know you because our spirits are connected through our Lord. Bless you two as your begin another time of growing . Hope you enjoy Ohio ( as I do) and the weather that changes daily and sometimes several times a day! Safe travels . God Bless !
Sherry says
I always love reading your posts, and am praying on your move!! Thank you for all that you do and say to inspire and teach!!
Glenda says
Good luck on the move. I so enjoy following your story. My oldest son is the same year as Ryan and we just moved him from one apartment to another in San Diego where he will do a year as chief resident before going a fellowship in nephrology. Live your books and use many recipes you have created. Look forward to more once you get settled. Keep posting when you can I enjoy following along