Survival of the Fittest

This past week marked the end of Josh's first year as a police officer. At his swear-in ceremony, the chief of police described the instense training they would face and the statistic that only an average of 50% of recruits make it to solo status. I remember thinking that nothing could possibly be that difficult and they were probably just putting the fear of God into those poor recruits. A year later, I can say that that chief knows his stuff - Josh has endured countless schedule changes, sixteen weeks of police academy, a grueling FTEP (training) with some pretty tough calls, has managed to work every holiday known to mankind . . . and is one of two out of four recruits still employed and working solo - only six months remaining of his probation period now. It has stretched him (and our family), but has revealed to us God's sovereignty for our life and the immense blessing that comes with trusting our lives to Him.

I am the worrier in our family (big surpise I know), and I questioned Josh's decision to leave construction and follow this new dream. Yes, I knew he hated being cold in the winter, hot in the summer, and just plain miserable during the rainy season, but that's life in the construction industry (the only thing I have ever known, by the way). It took me awhile to come around, but as I watched my husband diligently apply for position after position, I knew that he needed my support 100%.

I will never forget the week of his interview with the city of Salem. He also had an interview out in Monmouth (where he ended up their number 2 choice for the third time). He wanted to look professional for his interview and we found the "lucky suit" the night before at the Nordstrom half-yearly sale. He thought that the Monmouth position would be a sure thing and was so crushed when he found out they hired someone else (who happened to be a friend of his). But a few days later, he found out that he had made it into Salem's background check and we were thrilled. I was on a walk the morning they called with his job offer and I think I stopped in my tracks. He had made it!

I have never been so proud of my husband. He has worked so hard to get where he is today and I am grateful for his integrity, work ethic, and compassion for those he comes in contact with. It is an exciting job that brings new experiences every day. While he will be working graveyard for what feels like eternity, work every holiday in 2009, and always be questioned by family and friends about the law, the calls he takes, and guns . . . I wouldn't change it for the world. He has never been so happy and proud of his job. We are excited for our future in law enforcement and all of the opportunities he has to advance, especially in a larger agency like Salem. It has strengthened our marriage, our faith, and my prayer life as his wife! I am so thankful for such a big God working in our small life.

The Swear In (feels like joining the mafia)

The badge handoff (that is the Police Chief)

Josh and his very proud parents at his Police Academy graduation