1 Week and Counting...

It's been awhile since I've blogged (more like 2 years)...I think of a blog as a public journal of sorts and like to share when life takes me to exciting places. In just one week I will be embarking on a new adventure, and I can't wait to see what all the Lord holds for me in East Asia. If you had asked me a year ago, I would have never mentioned this as a possibility-it's funny how God takes our plans and reorients them for His purpose. So here I am, one week out from spending a year in a totally foreign place with brand new friends trusting that the Lord is sovereign over my steps.

I've been exposed to new cultures before but always on a limited timeline. My emotions are mixed between excitement, angst, wonder, and anticipation for what a year in a country I've never even stepped foot in will look like. Before I know it I will be eating unfamiliar foods, following new customs, and adapting to cultural norms that I'll never quite find normal. I am praising the Lord for His provision of community in the coming year: I am traveling with eight peers and joining a team of long-term staff. I often hear that the most daunting element of living abroad is a lack of community...looks like we've overcome that already as God has just paved the way with like-minded friends. I cannot wait to see how these once-acquaintances that are moving into friendships will soon turn to family. I'm praying for unity as we journey together.

Meanwhile I'm trying to enjoy all things "home" before I go. This means daily trips to Chick-fil-A, some sweet days at the lake, a lot of chocolate in every form, and seeking to spend intentional time with my family and friends (and even little Max) before I go! What's not to love, right?! This has been my longest season of living back at home, and I am more in love with the city of Nashville than ever before. It has been fun to rediscover the place where my roots remain, my foundation was formed, and my family favors.

I'm honored to have you joining me on this journey. I would ask for you to shower me in prayer for the many transitions and changes I am about to face. If you're wanting to check back, my plan is to blog weekly as I am able. This will be a great form of communication for me, and I hope it will provide a bit of insight into our lives in EA. I can't wait to "experience the wonder" that awaits...