I realize it's been a while since I last posted, and I do sincerely apologize for that. Life has been so hectic, and time kind of just got away from me. I've been home from Liberia for four months now, and there's a lot going on. Like:
i) work, work, and more work! Not too long after I got home, I got a job at the Olivet Boys and Girls Club as the Mentoring and the Arts Program Coordinator. Basically, I run a program for inner-city teens that focuses on one-on-one mentoring and the teaching of various artistic components. I love the job, I love the kids, I love the people I work with. The only downside is that it's a part-time position. So I took a second PT job at a YMCA Early Learning Center, working as a teacher. So now, I work anywhere from 50-55 hours a week, which is great for my bank account--but not so great for my social life and sleep schedule. Prayers for energy, strength, and grace to make it through this chaotic and busy season of life are so appreciated. Thank you!
ii) getting in shape! I had forgotten how much I actually enjoy going to the gym. Since I've been home, I was able to get back into my routine. I've lost sixteen pounds so far, and I feel great!
iii) road trips! Since I've been home, I've spent a lot of time in my trusty Saturn, visiting places and faces I missed like crazy while I was gone. I spent an amazing day in Philly for the John Mark McMillan concert, and I'm headed out to Pittsburgh next weekend to visit a friend I haven't seen in way too long. And of course, I've made a couple trips down south to visit my new-found love, Virginia. And speaking of Virginia...
iv) thinking about a move! Yup, I'm letting the cat out of the bag. I am seriously considering relocating to Virginia (specifically the Newport News area). It's a long story, and I'll gladly tell you all about it sometime. But the short version is that I feel an undeniable pull that just keeps drawing me back there. After much prayer and conversations with God, I strongly feel like a move may be in my future. Prayer for wisdom, guidance, and clear direction is needed and appreciated. I'll keep you posted. Moving right along...
v) missing Liberia! Though I am fully confident that I made the right choice by leaving Liberia when I did, there are definite moments (and days...and weeks) that I miss it terribly. Plans for a return are still very much up in the air; I still am not sure when I'll go back, nor for how long. I am learning, however, that I don't need to have things all figured out before their time (no matter how much I would like that). I trust God, and I trust His leading. He'll make the way straight and the path clear when He wants me to go back to Liberia. (In the meantime, though, I can't help but long to hug my kiddos and see their beautiful, smiling faces. Sigh....)
vi) a health scare. Yuck. I've been battling an eye infection (actually, two infections...in each eye!) since I've been home, and it hasn't been fun. At one point, a doctor even told me that I was going blind--possibly irreversibly! I thank Jesus that things cleared up after a month or so of antibiotics and some eye drops. As of now, the infection is gone, but I have decided to still wear my glasses most of the time. My eyes are very dry and sensitive, and my contact lenses only irritate them even more. I definitely miss being able to wear contacts but, right now, they're simply not an option for me.
vii) getting the creative juices flowing! For whatever reason, I have been extremely inspired since I've been home, and art has become a really big part of my life. I'm still drawing and painting when I can, and I'm writing more than ever. I've long said that it's a goal of mine to publish a book someday, and I'm starting to seriously think about what that might look like. Whether it's in a journal, on a blog, or on a scrap of paper I pulled out of my purse, I'm constantly scribbling down ideas, verses, poems, even songs. (By the way, if you have any ideas or tips about publishing, I'm all ears. Seriously. Please let me know.)
So there you have it, folks. (I told you there was a lot going on!) I want to sincerely thank each and every one of you who has prayed for me, encouraged me, and loved me through what was truly an extremely tough transition. Your kindness means the world to me; thank you a million times over.
Finally, thanks for reading--and don't be shy! Feel free to send me an update of your own if you have the chance. I always want to know how you're doing and where life has you.
