Well folks, time here in the U.S. has simply flown by! I was hoping that while here in Ohio the days
would slow down a bit and I would have the feeling of too much down time. I can assure you, that was not the case. Let me fill you in on what August has looked
like for me. My first week home in Ohio
I assisted with Vacation Bible School at my church. This is a time where we can share about God
with some kids from the neighborhood. It
is always a lot of fun but also a lot of work as there are stories, crafts,
songs/dances, snacks, and outdoor activities to plan. It certainly kept my family busy. After that week I began my preparations for
returning (primarily shopping). I had
rather large lists of requests and gifts I wanted to return with. I also was able to spend some quality time
with my grandparents and got to help them around the house a bit. Visiting with high school friends also
consumed much of my time, but I simply love getting to catch up on people’s
lives. Though we are apart for months or
even years, lots changes and often I have not idea how it affects other’s
lives. Thus running around town
collecting items to pack and visiting with people made the time fly!
This last week of Aug. I had the great privilege to go to
Chicago and meet up with some amazing college friends. I had not been back to Chicago since
graduating 3 years ago. I must admit, I
did not miss that city but the people I met there are missed. I loved getting to see these friends and
listen to their most recent stories. I
know that I have mentioned in earlier blog posts that I am blessed to have such
amazing friends, but really I have met some pretty cool people in my life!
Today I got to attend the wedding of a high school
friend. It was wonderful to see such a
kind and generous person commit to spending their life entwined with
another. I wish the both a magnitude of
happiness.
As Monday morning quickly approaches and my bags become
carefully packed, I have come to a few conclusions. This summer was a wonderful time of
rejuvenation through time spent with friends and family. All the encouragement I have received and
support I know will continue when I am in Chad makes me feel confident in my
decision to return. I do miss having
friends close by but I have been reminded that though lives might change,
friendships will continue. I also am so
grateful that I was able to speak in two churches sharing about my experience
and that a 3rd church has added me to the missionaries that they are
supporting. With all that prayer behind
me I look forward to how God will use me.
Finally I am excited to go back and teach the wonderful Kariuki
kids. They truly are great students and
I am so lucky that this is my first teaching position.
After an amazing summer of fun and connecting across the
country, I am returning to Chad for another school year. I will try to keep this blog updated to share
about my continued experiences. I will
miss all my family and friends here in the US, but returning to Chad allows me
to “make dreams come true” (a quote from Katelyn).
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