Chapter Endings

      Today was officially my last day at school. I can't explain exactly how that felt. I am excited to follow where God is leading me, but Grandview has had a big part of my life. I went to high school there for two years, and then I came back after college and taught there for two years. God has taught me so much from all of the people I have been blessed to know. The teachers had patience as they taught me what I needed to be doing and my students challenged and encouraged me more than they will ever know. I can see God's hand in  all these experiences-He was using all of them to prepare me for going back to Ecuador.
      As I was thinking today (my mind has definitely been doing a lot of that lately), I remember how almost ten years ago I was preparing to move to Ecuador. However at that time,I didn't want to move back; I was not the most pleasant 13 year old (just ask my mom). Now, God has molded my heart to long to go back there-that is all of Him.
      God was kind once again in the area of the visa. My dad made the trip with me to Chicago (about 5-6 hour drive), and we had absolutely no problem getting the visa! I am pretty sure we spend more time sitting in traffic than the consulate building. God has been so faithful to answer prayers-He keeps reminding me this is where He wants me. That is His grace because He knows that I am prone to over think decisions. He has left no room for over thinking, once again leading me through the unknown.
      For now, I am going to try and make the most of the time God has me here. In 12 days I will leave the place I call home, with the friends and family that have been so dear to me. I am thankful for the body of Christ, and that no goodbye will truly be permanent.

33 Days and Counting....

   In 33 days I will be leaving the country, and I am definitely looking forward to it. Leaving will be challenging, but God has made it abundantly clear that this is where He wants me. The closer things get, the less scared I become, and I am thankful and humbled He has lead me in this direction. A lot of mystery still exists, but the truth that God is always present is such an encouragement.
   Friday I am off to the consulate in Chicago to try and get my visa. I am not exactly sure how everything will go, so I would appreciate your prayers in that as well. My dad is going to go with me, and I am glad for that. This area with all the legal papers and documents is not my forte, but the school I am working with is very well established. They have a good working relationship with the consulate and how to conduct this type of business. God continues to show Himself faithful and provide in every possible way.

" Only fear the LORD  and serve Him faithfully with all your heart. For consider what great things He has done for you." I Samuel 12:24