Embracing Friends. . . & Embracing Change!

Preparing to move to another country definitely keeps you busy! I've put together my packing lists, booked my airline tickets, packed my bags, and paid the down payment on my new apartment!

... and now, it's time to say "good bye." And, "hello!"

An important part of the past couple of weeks has been saying good byes. My delayed departure for Prague has been a blessing in several ways. For instance, I was unexpectedly able to attend a dear friend of mine's wedding in Virginia! Many of my friends from Grove City were there to celebrate. (I was even able to visit some of my friend's new apartments along the way!)

(The ladies of Grove City College and the beautiful newly married "Mrs. Aljets")

(And the Bride and Groom depart . . . to live happily ever after. . .)

(My visit to my friends' (Katie & Brandy's) new "apartment!"

Many Grove City friends traveled out to celebrate their new space! )

(Katie & I went to stay with my friend Emily after the wedding.

We were able to worship with her at her new church! Such a blessing.)

I can't say that these moments were all happy. Many tears were shed as we parted ways-- Who knows when we will all be able to gather together again?

I've also been able to spend some quality time with my family. We have had some pleasant family dinners, I've been able to babysit for my younger cousins, and I've had a few game nights with my little brother!

(Day trip to Lake George... :) )

(Visit to the Saratoga Battle Fields. I challenged my brother to a duel and

he wouldn't even fight back. Maybe he thought I was kidding! ;)

Bring it on, little bro!)

In the midst of all of these "farewell embraces," I've been embracing the idea of upcoming change. For instance, tonight I went to get my hair trimmed. . .

Yes. . . just a trim.

(I honestly had no idea I would walk out with this extreme of a haircut. . .

apparently I am ready to "embrace change!")

The next several days will be filled with many hellos. As of Thursday morning I will be living in a new country, hearing a new language all around me, and meeting my new students and teachers. Adjusting to change takes time-- (for instance, I no longer need as much shampoo to wash my hair... :) ) Please pray for me as I embrace bigger changes than this!

Join me in Prayer:

• Please pray for the transition between my substitute teachers & myself. May this transition between teachers be as smooth as possible for the students at CISP.

• Pray for my relationship with my three new roommates. Pray that we will be able to support and encourage each other this year.

• Pray for peace in a chaotic time of life. May I trust in God's timing and in His faithfulness. (May I lean on his strength through these huge changes!)