I have been back in the states for about a month now. I spent the first two weeks with family… recovering from jet lag and trying to adjust back to all things American. Hello reverse culture shock! Of course some things were much easier to adjust to than others. I forgot how nice it is to use a plush towel to dry off with, and how amazing it is to have water pressure again. It’s crazy how quickly and easily it is to take those things for granted.
Here’s a picture of me, my Dad and my sis at the Jersey Shore.
And here’s me with my Momma
After spending time back East, I flew to CA to stay/live with my amazing friend Mary. She is so gracious to let me stay in her place during this time of transition. When I walked into her home, it felt as though I had never left. She had the bed made up with a cute box waiting for me with the latest PEOPLE magazine and one of my favorite treats. She had also hung up a little frame with the word ‘Relax’ in it. Kind of an inside joke, but also a great reminder of what I wanted to do this month. It made me smile. I spent the first few days unpacking and getting settled. It felt strange and surreal to be back in Thousand Oaks. I was slightly overwhelmed thinking about all the people I should contact, visit, etc. So I’ve been trying to make a few calls everyday. (If we haven’t spoken yet, I hope to do so soon.)
In the midst of all my visits and catching up with people, I found myself feeling sad. The reality of the race ending was becoming all that much more tangible and real. I am trying to stay in touch with my World Race family as much as I can, and am missing them terribly but I know part of processing is letting go, moving on, and looking ahead to what is next. Part of the reason I wanted to make another post is because I know people are wondering what I am doing or planning on doing now that I am back. While it does feel strange not to be teaching, I still feel at peace with my decision not to return this year. I have been allowed another year leave, and am waiting and praying about what I will do instead.
As of now, I am planning on attending a conference in September called Kingdom Dreams Searchlight. It is a week long event that helps people discover and realize what they are most passionate about. I leave on the 14th of September for Georgia and will be there until the 23rd. I am excited because I am going to see quite a few people from my squad and will meet new people as well. I am hoping that by attending, I will have more direction and clarity for what lies ahead. In all of this, I am trusting that God knows and has a plan for me. I know that he will guide and lead me. If you’d like to read more about Searchlight you can check out the website: http://www.kingdom-dreams.org/
That’s the latest with me…I would love your prayers as I figure out what this next season of life holds. Thanks for supporting me no matter where I am in the world.
