While I got my first speeding ticket, was in my first car accident, was let down by some less-than-perfect humans, I struggled with leaving Nashville. My last two and a half years in Nashvegas have been full of ups and downs, but all the while I’ve been surrounded by incredible people. I have been truly blessed with 3 amazing jobs that made my (occasional) 72 hour work weeks a joy. Day after day I was continually poured into by my wonderful bosses, coworkers, friends, and precious babies. Not only was I paying the bills, but I was doing something I love; enjoying every minute, all while being completely spoiled in my workplace.
At Training Camp we talked about the different reasons for doing this Race. Some people want change, some people need to get away. Maybe there was a point in my road where I felt this way, but in the last few months I have been shown time and again that God is blessing me where I am. And, while leaving may be scary, I know this next step in my story is only a continuation of that blessing.
This next chapter is for Him. This Race, for me, is a sacrifice. Yes, it will be an adventure of a lifetime! Yes, I will be traveling the world, seeing things, doing things that some only dream of! And I am SO grateful for this opportunity, and extremely excited about this new life. But, my life in Nashville was beautiful. The relationships I’ve built are priceless. I have been overwhelmed with love and favor during my time here. Leaving my life behind was (and is) not an easy thing.
I was nervous to tell my boss and the families I nannied for that I would be leaving. But, I was met with an enormous amount of encouragement, support, and love. I’m not sure why I expected anything less from these beautiful people. While they expressed their sadness of my leaving, their excitement for me and support of this ministry only confirmed that this is truly the next step in His plan for me.
My last week in Nashville, although stressful with the time crunch for packing for three different timelines, was only a continuation of this love. Friendships were celebrated as one chapter closed and another one begins. I was showered with encouragement, sweet gifts, hours of manual labor (from those who helped me move from my third-floor apartment!), and lots and lots of hugs! I couldn’t have asked for a better “good-bye”.
Thank you Nashville family for making it so hard to leave. Thank you God for blessing me with these beautiful friendships. Thank you to the Kruspes, the Tuckers, the LeBlonds, the Brummels, the Freemans, the Fulwiders, and so many more who have helped me live and mourn Nashville well. You have blessed me in more ways than you know. Your generosity, encouragement, love, and friendship are priceless in my book. See you next year!
