The summer after senior year: really kind of an odd time. But that’s the chapter I am entering, and it has met me with an appreciative attitude that I won’t have to do a homework assignment again for quite some time and a solemn heart that I have to leave behind all the people and memories I absolutely adored throughout high school. What’s making this limbo of a summer a little more exciting is the upcoming adventure I am about to embark on. I am so grateful you are taking the time to read some of my thoughts, and if you are willing, I would love it if you could take a moment to pray over some of my concerns. I am absolutely thrilled for this journey and all the incredible people I will encounter along with the sweet, intimate moments I will share with the Lord. That being said, there are parts of this trip that still leave me a little uneasy. Good nerves, I believe, but still nerves. So if you don’t mind and have a moment, here is what I am a little nervous for:

1. The Goodbyes: I am 100% a people person, and I love the people in my life with my whole heart. I don't know how I am going to go days or maybe even weeks without talking to my best friends, and don’t even get me started with my family. 

2. Packing: I don’t know if you have ever tried to fit your entire life in a 60 Litre backpack, but I have been having some trouble with it. I don’t know if I just like a lot of stuff or if I am missing some sort of pivotal packing technique, but the day that backpack closes is going to be a good one. 

3. Preparing my heart for servitude: The American mindset that I have gotten comfortable with is one that surrounds self interest, and that is the opposite of how I want to go about this upcoming year. I am praying that the Lord gives me a heart of compassion and eyes to see others like He does. 

I think it is really easy to write blogs about all the incredible parts of this journey without touching the challenges that come with it. I anticipate this next year to be absolutely life-changing, but surely not without some hard parts. I want to make the commitment to being transparent and vulnerable throughout this whole thing. I am human and am undoubtedly going to struggle, but thankfully the God I serve isn’t. It is a blessing to know that no matter what happens, the Lord will remain the same. Hallelujah for that! I can’t finish this blog without saying a huge thank you to the many people that have gone out of their way to show their support to me. I never imagined that my community would come together to support God’s work in me in such a way as they have. It is absolutely humbling and I don’t take it lightly. So to everyone that has shared encouragement, made a donation, prayed over me, or given me advice, thank you! You are part of making this adventure so so special before it has even begun.