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Today is my last day in Indiana.



I've been trying to avoid thinking everything in terms of "my last ______" or "my last time doing ________." But as I sit here, editing the template for this blog, it is really sinking in that tomorrow I am leaving the country and not coming back for a year. I've said good-byes to loved ones, I've packed up two 50 lb bags, and I've felt both relieved and nostalgic about not starting school for the first time since I was five years old. From the way I'm describing it now, you'd think I was being dragged to Israel. But the truth is, big change is hard no matter how prepared or excited you are.

So many people have asked to receive updates on what we're doing in Israel, that even though I'm usually not the blogging type, it seemed appropriate. Every journal entry from here on out will be written from somewhere in the Middle East. I have so much beloved family, and friends that might as well be family, that I hope you can picture where I am--and hopefully feel that much closer to me. Chances are, if you're taking the time to read this, I wish I could be closer to you.



First we arrive in Amman, Jordan, and then we are going on a staff retreat to the Galilee before we settle in Jerusalem. Even now I can still picture the lush greens and water of the Galilee region--it was probably one of my favorite places we went last time. Needless to say, I'm looking forward to going back.

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Just so there's no confusion, I truly am very excited about living in Jerusalem. Nonetheless, please pray for my husband and I. Even the seasoned traveler I am married to feels some trepidation as we transition our lives to the Middle East. Our flight leaves tomorrow in the evening, so please keep us in your prayers. Thirteen straight hours on a plane leaves you feeling like someone beat you up.



Thank the Lord I have the opportunity to travel and live abroad, and be a part of something truly meaningful.





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