Time

I know I often comment how fast time is flying by here in San Juan, but in the past, time was never at risk of running out. I still always considered the amount of time I would have here in San Juan indefinite. And although we do have plans to return at some point, now that our August 6th leaving date is coming closer, I feel both the excitement for the next step and the panic that we're almost "out of time."

With June always being full of reports and deadlines within the nutrition program and student sponsorship, it was easier to keep focused on the tasks at hand and keep "the move" out there somewhere. Now that we've hit July 1st and all of the reports are turned in, it's a little unnerving to say the least.

As conversations and visits with Nicole and Kamanda have begun to take shape for the transition, I often think back to the beginning. The amazement and the joy I felt when first winding our ways through the mountains to the campos to visit families in the nutrition program. The jokes and fun made while trying to figure out the process of student photos. It was so crazy, so confusing, that laughing about it was the only way to get through some days. 

Pics from my first ever trip to El Cercado.
It's easy to see why I fell in love with it.

Over the years I have had to be more conscious, more intentional to celebrate the small victories, to count and recount the blessings. At times it has been easy to get bogged down by the challenges, the sadnesses of life here. But together it's woven a rich tapestry. Yesterday as I attended CCED's end of the year luncheon, tidbits and snapshots of almost 6 years working alongside them flooded my mind. It's all been a bit of a wild ride, and I remain thankful.

CCED Luncheon
(Happened to be where Wellington and I got married)

So with that, I'll leave you with some photos, and ask you for prayer. This move is BIG both individually and as a family, for our family here and our family there. Please pray for buckets of unity, patience, and understanding for Wellington and I as we maneuver through this, and a little fun in the midst of it wouldn't hurt either. Thank you for the many ways that you have poured out your love and support over us.

Whether with the CNP families or students at the school,
Owen has brought joy and opened new doors for connection.

As I was going through my drawers, I came across

this gem. My friends in PA are the best and hilarious.

One of them made me this "magazine cover" as I 

prepared to move here in 2011. I am looking forward

to being an "in person" part of life with them again.

And, of course, my two biggest blessings.
I never would have believed you if you had told
me that they'd be part of my journey here.