Just a Couple of Pickles: Finally...a Pediatric Dentist!!

It's official!!! After 25 years, Andrew is a Pediatric Dentist!! On June 30th, he called while I was in St. Louis, elated (and even had to get off the phone before he got emotional) saying this was exactly what he's been waiting for! This is his dream career and I couldn't be any prouder of my husband. He has definitely been persistent and never gave up even after 2 years of applying for residency. It took lots of praying and following God to get through all the ups and downs.

It's been a long journey between June 2008-June 2010. God has definitely been a major part of every step. In the beginning before we got married, we talked about me keeping my new, well-paid job in Louisville while he completes 2 years of residency (thinking we'd be back in Louisville). After much advice, I decided to leave my job and start over on the job search summer of 2008. God quickly provided me with a FANTASTIC experience at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and income to support my husband while he follows his dreams! Then we kept our condo in Louisville thinking we'd come back. As it got closer to the job search for Andrew, he had office visits and offers in Charleston, SC, several in Nashville, TN, Louisville, KY, Elizabethtown, KY, and looking at Dallas, TX. Notice, St. Louis was NEVER on our radar. Well, God was in control even though we tried hard to make it work in Nashville (I was accepted into a Doctorate program there). All along, Andrew prayed that the decision will be evident. I think it became evident when I was accepted into the top occupational therapy program in the U.S. and given a scholarship!! In addition, Andrew was given an incredible opportunity in St. Louis. What sold him on the practice, are the genuine people and his senior associates. Andrew's friend from dental school called a year ago to tell him about working in St. Louis and it's amazing how we never saw this coming!! We surrendered, gave up our worries to God and trusted Him with our plans (Jeremiah 29:11). Andrew has sealed the deal with Dentistry for Children & Adolescents!! Check out their website here!!
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Below are the highlights of his graduation dinner (the day we got back from Panama City Beach!) and his surprise party on the rooftop terrace at a French hotel across from our apartment (the day before we move!). By the way, Andrew received the "goofy all the time" award...imagine that! It was CRAZY HECTIC that weekend - returning from family vacation, graduation dinner, loading the Uhaul/cars/van, and moving!!!

Just missing 1...JR became a new father that week!!

Surprise party at River Inn's Rooftop Terrace! Where we saw family, friends, professors, and friends from our church and small group!! Couldn't have asked for better support during all this time!!