Today is the day!  Although I have been anticipating this day for so many months, it has only become more real to me in the past couple weeks. I’m leaving for 8 months...how many times have you heard me say that?!! :)

The other night some very wonderful people came over for dinner and after they left, my mom said, “You are so lucky to have these quality people in your life.  They have been such a rich blessing … and so much fun. I’m very glad they could come over to send you off.”

Good friends saying goodbye to Roni and I

I agree. I am very blessed to have you all in my life as you’ve led me, strengthened me in my faith, and made me laugh! I honestly can say I don’t know what I would have done without your influence in my life to help me grow. You all have challenged me and filled me up with God’s love. I cannot thank you guys enough for your love and support. God has been preparing me all along for this journey.

This past weekend (my last weekend home) we went camping with a group of families from our church of whom we go with every year. I’m very glad I could be surrounded with such wonderful encouragement and love from you all as I leave today. It’s going to be a crazy journey for me and I’m glad to have every one of you partner with me. With all the prayers and love I don’t think I could be any more ready!

The entire camping family!

I love you all so much and will miss you dearly. Thank you so much for your love and support throughout this journey so far. I’m going to go change the world, so PEACE!

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." -Philippians 4:6-7