The Allen’s Quest to the Wild West!

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Indian Beach (Oregon Coast) 2011

It was July of 2011 and we were hiking through the incredible forest (Ecola State Park/Indian Beach) along the Oregon Coast when Brian asked me, “So, when are we moving here?”  I just threw my head back and fake-laughed and probably patted him on the back and just kept on hiking.   Well folks, we’re finally doing it!  We’ve talked about living in Oregon “someday” for 3+ years and that someday is NOW.  WE’RE MOVING TO OREGON!! Whaaat??! Had you asked me a couple months ago, I would have cried at the prospect of selling our beautiful home (that we brought our first child home to) and giving up our wonderful church and community, being able to ride my bike to/around White Rock Lake from our house, Brady’s blessing of a Mother’s Day Out program where he’s blossomed, being a half day’s drive away from my parents in Houston, my photography clients,  etc…  The Lord has surely prepared my heart for this big transition.   We just can’t shake the magnetic pull to live a life of adventure up in Oregon.  We’re in a unique situation where we can live almost anywhere in the States right now for Brian’s job (he gets flown to/from the rig in the Gulf of Mexico for work). Now it’ll be a tad bit longer of traveling days for him every 3 weeks, but it seems like a small compromise.  We prayed for the Lord to throw up any big red flags if this is not His will… and so far, no red flags. Doors just keep on opening and paths just keep being made for us to move up to Portland.  So, the Allen’s are making a quest to the wild West this summer, Lord willing!

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Best view ever. Ecola State Park (Oregon Coast) 2011

We finally wrote out our family mission statement this January and one of the biggest themes is ADVENTURE! We want to live a life of adventure and not be gripped by fear. We want to trust the Lord more.  If he can bless us so abundantly here in Dallas, why can’t he do that in Portland, Oregon?  Are we a little scared? Sure, we have a little bit of nervous tummy with all the “unknown”.  This is a big transition/change and there will be much discomfort and inconvenience along the way, but God’s will is never convenient or comfortable, because it’s not about us. We hope to serve the Lord in this and find joy and glorify Him through our next adventure.

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

If you care to follow along on FB or Instagram #TheAllenQuestToTheWildWest

 

I mean, look at this view!!

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View of Mt. Hood from the Test Rose Gardens in Portland, Oregon (2011)

 

 

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  1. Congrats Lauren! I’m so excited for you guys! We moved to LA in October and while I was really nervous about the move it has been amazing and we are so happy here! I will be praying for y’all in this transition, I’m sure you will love your new life in Oregon!

  2. Lauren.Allen says:

    Thank you so much, Stephanie! It’s scary and exciting. I bet the weather is a tad nicer in LA vs. Portland ;). If you’re ever around Portland give me a shout! Any tips on moving with a toddler?

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