How Do I Even Begin to Say Goodbye

I do not look forward to saying my goodbyes, but I feel my feet itching to reach the terminal and board the flight. As difficult and daunting as it is to imagine the next seven months of my life without my friends and family, I see the grand adventure awaiting me. Without risk, there would be no great reward. I have no certainty for what that reward may look like, but I rest assured that it will be worth every penny, every loss, and every moment I have dedicated to fulfilling my dream. Spreading my wings and preparing to soar across the sky gives me the anticipation for the brief moment of the feeling of freefall.

14 Days Left in America

Today marks the 2 week countdown before I leave for Chile. So much has happened in the past few months, and I've been strapped in on an emotional roller coaster. I am now looking forward to stepping into the plane and venturing toward this great new adventure that awaits me. Preparing to go by creating a facebook group, shopping for the things I still need, and attempting to tie up all my loose ends at home has been quite a bit of work, but I can see the light ahead. Once again, I am embarking on this journey with nothing to lose. I will spread my wings and pursue self discovery in a way few people are able.

The question most asked at this time is whether or not I am afraid, nervous, or worried, but I am not. I look forward to venturing into a new place with no one to rely on but Christ. There will be ups and downs along the way, but because of it, I will become more of the woman God has designed me to be.

Thank you to everyone who has been encouraging me along this journey already. A special shout out to my incredible parents who have been nothing but supportive and more than helpful. I love you both and will miss you so much!

Time Really Does Fly

Alright, I am exactly a month away from getting on a flight to go to Chile for 7-8 months. I'm filled with so many emotions right now that I don't know where to begin. I guess I'll begin with excitement. More and more, I'm seeing the potential of what this trip will be for my life. I know that I will come back a more well rounded person, more empathetic to others, and much closer with God than before. This trip being something that I've wanted and hoped for over the past few years is actually becoming reality to me. Daily, I pray that God uses me in a big way down there and allows me to be part of something big.

Everyone keeps asking if I'm afraid. I keep asking of what. It's definitely a little stressful not having all of the information for this trip yet. I don't know if I'll be allowed one check in luggage or two. I don't know if I need to pack for snow or summer. Don't even get me started on how on earth I'll bring my shoes! On the other hand, if I had my packing list, I'd already be packed....and then re-packed....and maybe re-packed some more! God definitely knows what He's doing by teaching me patience again.

God also threw a little curveball into the mix as well now that I have a boyfriend. My mom is happy since he's definitely given me the perfect reason to come home. It will be so difficult to be apart for 8 months, but he will be able to focus on beginning his career here while I focus on living out one of my dreams. Neither of us saw it coming, but we both see God's hand at work in us and our lives. Guess we'll be getting very good at Skype and email!

Well, as I work on my certification, I am finding out why they recommend 8 weeks to get it done. I've been working on it for around 4.5 weeks and I'm about half way finished. Between holidays, procrastination, and a new relationship, I've definitely found myself behind on my work, but I think hitting the one month point before I leave has given me the motivation to kick my butt into gear and get going again. Well, wish me luck!!