I really am not a fan of this saying goodbye thing, which is probably why I have waited till the morning before Launch starts to write this. This past month has been so full of preparation, graduation, and more goodbyes than I can count. I finished college at the University of Georgia and moved out of Athens. I packed my pack again and again trying to find the best possible place for every item. (It stressed me out more than it should have. Daniel, sorry for all the hours you spent going through every item with me on Skype.) I spent quality time with old friends, and said my goodbyes as best I could. My heart broke a hundred times, but continues to be put back together by the Father and the excitement of this next year of my life.
Today begins a new chapter in my life. It will be full of tent living, bucket showers, and the miracles of the Father. This year will change who I am at every level. When I come back to the states, I will be a new person. I will have seen and experienced more than I could ever explain. So I hope that you continue to follow my blog as I continue to try to update it as much as possible. I dare you to ask questions and be challenged with what you learn. This can be as much your race as mine. 🙂
Finally, I just wanted to take one more moment to thank everyone so much for these last 9 months and the role each of you played in this adventure. Amanda and Emily, you encouraged me to apply. Caitie, you stood by my side through it all. Daniel and Austin, you were my rocks when I started to get stressed out. SAO friends that are too many to type, you financially supported and encouraged me over and over again. Donors, you gave more than I could have hoped for in amounts that blew my mind. Mom and Dad, you helped me buy my gear and more importantly let me go so that I could go out and do the Father’s work. There are so many more people I wish I could personally thank, but sadly, I have to leave in just a few short hours and should probably go take a shower. (2 showers in 2 days. Look at me go.) Before I do, I just want to thank you all so so so much for everything. If someone had told me a year ago that I was about to leave for an eleven month mission trip almost 90% funded, I never would have believed them. I am unbelievably blessed to have known each and every one of you. I love you and promise to keep you updated as much as I can. Peace.
