I have been praying a lot lately. (For obvious reasons.) But, like everyone else, we still face the same day-to-day stresses and worries that consumed our pre-cancer world. So I continue to pray for the things that I prayed for in my pre-cancer life.  And one of the big items on our plate is being relocated for Scott’s job. 

Even though it sounds shocking and out of the blue, it has actually been something that we were aware could happen when Scott took the position in 2012. It’s just amazing how fast the time goes and life changes in a few years. 

Originally, we thought we could be moving this past January to California, but due to some restructuring within the company (and a very loving God) that didn’t work out. In May, the conversation was brought up again, to which I told Scott that “my plate is full” and didn’t have time to think about it.  So, over time, we received more information and decided it was the best thing for our family and our future. 

In all honesty, I do not think there is a right or a wrong answer to this situation.  As all individuals and families face big decisions in your life, you use different things to help you come to the best way to proceed. 

And for me, I have been asking God for His guidance on this very big decision. Literally saying in my night prayers, “God, I lift this up to you. I am not strong enough to sleep on this.” And to my friend’s Kristi’s point, she reminded me to “make sure you are listening!” To which I responded, “how do I know He is talking?!” 

But over the past weeks, I have felt God’s guidance. One, I think the recent cancer scare (the concern if it was spreading to my liver) was a good scare. It grounded Scott and I and brought us back to reality by reminding us that even though we are focused on the 12th and last round, that cancer is and always will be apart of our lives. I also think with the ultrasound being clear was a sign that we will be ok in a new city. 

Now, even though it may be the best decision, doesn’t mean it’s going to be easy.  I have been in St. Louis for 15 years. I have developed friendships that will last a lifetime. And being an hour and half from home, its so nice to make a quick weekend trip to see my family or come to town when Scott is busy at work. We also have Scott’s dad, and Steve and Rose in St. Louis. So this was not as easy decision when we knew we would be further away from our family and the people we love the most.

But, who knows what the future holds. The position is 24-36 months, and the Midwest is on the map for us to return to in 2018. As I say, “all roads lead to Effingham.”  

And in this case, that is true. Just jump on 70 East and head to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and that is where you will find us by November of this year.
Nikki commentary: are you struggling or stressed about something in your life? Don’t be afraid to ask or give it to God.  Even if you don’t consider yourself a “religious” person. Why not have some help along the way and don’t forget to listen!! 

© Nicole Szymonik and This Is the Pause Button, 2015. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Nicole Szymonik and This Is The Pause Button with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.