"home"

Isn't it funny how people always say time flies at the end of something? It's always at the end, when people reminisce, and realize how fast 24 hours actually goes.

Well, the past 6 months flew and almost forgot to wave on it's way by. It's really coming to and end - tonight is my last night in my room surrounded by the mountains that have become my second home.

My brain has been going in 100 different directions lately and I'm not even sure how to consolidate it into something that makes sense even to me. I've been thinking a lot about my future, a lot about what I want to do, and trying to discern the Lord's guidance. I think I am on the right track with what I have in mind..but that's for another blog. What's really on my heart today is the past 3 months. This fall season has been one where the Lord has grown me from a young girl with a free spirit heart to a young woman with a passion to follow His lead.

My time here has been more than an internship - it's been crucial to every area of my life. This fall, I have realized that my life is up to me. It's no longer up to my parents or this step by step life-plan that I've had up until this point. I have no idea what's next but these last few months have given me more hope in an unknown future then I've ever had in a known one.

I have found my direction here. I have found a direction that lights a fire in my heart when I think about it. I've found a direction that is exciting and purposeful.

I've found friends here that I want to be like. I have found a group of people that care about me and my passion for Him. I have found people that I unashamedly want in my life for the long-run; people whose love for the Lord that is contagious.

I have found the first place away from home, that feels like home. I have learned that home is more than a place; in fact, "home" is simply more than I ever thought.

Needless to say, I'm sad. I'm bummed to be leaving these people, this place, these mountains, this new life that is exciting and challenging.

That's where I'm at tonight. I'm excited to be with family and friends for the holidays but tonight, as I lay here for the last time, I can only hope that there is an open door waiting to allow me to come back. Soon.

almost over.

I can't believe that it's almost time to leave. I remember so vividly the sunny day of May 15th when Abby and I loaded my car up and headed west.

It has been a few of the best months I have ever experienced. I am walking away from the past 6 months a completely new person - in such a good way. I have been challenged and stretched in ways that I'm sure I'll keep learning as I head down the mountain.

I have no idea what is next for me...but I can say that I am working hard at trusting Him with that knowledge. My applications and resume's are flying around the state of Colorado hoping that I don't have to say goodbye forever - but I know that He has a plan that is way better than all the plans I have concocted in my head.

The thought of possibly moving out here at the new year is one that excites me beyond belief. I have an incredible friend group and can't let myself think about saying goodbye and camp family that would be located in every city I visit. I am waiting to hear from an at-risk home for girls...hoping that my desire for the job and a new life out here is lining up with His desire as well. We'll see.

I have begun to realize that this past summer and fall were a risk for me. I knew at the beginning that the reason I wanted to choose this path rather then a full-time job at school was because Jesus was going to have to come through. Well, here I am. I am at the end of the road and awaiting his faithfulness...but the best part is that He has never let me down.

So, all that to say, Colorado and I have two more weeks together with hopes of many more - but if not, it's been one heck of a ride.