The path not taken

Jeremiah 29:11
"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."

I used to stare at this verse for hours. Actually, I stared at this verse for long periods of time until very recently. I guess I always thought that when God's plan for my life would be revealed that it would be some grand moment.... the light of Heaven beaming down on me, trumpets sounding... you know... that kind of stuff. I guess I never really realized that He has slowly but surely been guiding Johnny and I down the path of "the plan" all of along. Some of you may not know this, but I really struggled with my decision to become a physician. I was guilty honestly. I didn't want to take time away from my husband and future children. And Johnny... well... he just didn't know what the heck he wanted to do with life. The more I think about the last two years, the more I am blown away by the evidence that God that been by our side every step of the way and working in our favor to guide us in our callings. I can now say, more confidently than ever, that we are finally on our way. I am overwhelmed with excitement to become a physician now and start my family (eventually). Dr. Carpenter has a nice ring to it, don't you think? I really think that I'm more excited about the lives that I can impact in Mississippi and throughout the world with international missions. Johnny is the same way. He is currently in training at the Mississippi Law Enforcement Officer Training Academy. He has such a heart to serve. I am so incredibly proud of him and how he stepped out in faith to start his career in law enforcement.

Just in case you haven't heard... Johnny and I received some amazing news this week. I received the Rural Physicians's scholarship which will contribute $30,000 towards my medical education each year. Not only will all of my school be paid for, I will get a small stipend each month. God is so good :)