See You Later

Every time I prepare to leave, I get nostalgic. I think about the time spent with family and friends---the laughs we've shared, the fun things we've done together, the lazy mornings of sitting around and sipping that morning cup of coffee, and so much more...

I always go back to the coffee shops and taco trucks I love because I have to have "my fix" before I depart.

I make sure to take an extra deep breath of the salt air and the Redwood trees because there is nothing quite like those smells anywhere else in the world.

I think about how I'll miss autumn, so I make sure to pack a few extra pumpkin candles and pumpkin pie spice to use during "fall months specifically." I also wish I could pack up fireflies and southern thunderstorms, but I think that is next to impossible.

I try not to think about the fact I won't be there to help celebrate my nieces and nephew's birthdays, that I might miss out on Christmases with the family, and I won't be "present" for the little day-to-day things that we often take for granted.

The "goodbyes" do not get easier----you would think they would, but they don't. The tears do not always come right away. Sometimes they come after the fact while I'm driving, listening to music, or even packing. But, when they do come, it's usually like an open floodgate. I always have to remind myself, "it's not a goodbye, it's a see you later," because goodbyes seem so permanent. (And, I don't think my heart can handle permanent.)

I am not writing this for you to feel sorry for me. More than anything, I am sharing this because

1. it has been on my heart,

2. most people in my line of work do not feel like they can openly talk about this particular subject, and

3. it is something many people have to face, process, and in a sense, mourn.

Some of you may be thinking, "Well, you chose this line of work, so..." And, you are absolutely correct! I did. Often with choices we make, there is a price to pay--sometimes good, sometimes challenging, or difficult. This is one of those. I do it because it is what I love...because it is the cry of my heart and because it is what I have been called to do. I do it because a child needs to hear they are loved and loved by a Heavenly Father.

In all reality, despite the mixture of emotions, I am beyond excited to be going! I am looking forward to visits from family and friends and showing them my new home. FaceTime chats from loved ones are fantastic as they make you seem like you are not that far away and, even though I probably won't be able to receive "care packages," it's the thought that counts when someone says they wish to mail me something.

I believe this may be one of my last "updates" from the States. So, as my little cousin always says, "see you later, alligator..."

Praises, Blessings & Updates:

• My time in the Golden State was busy but well spent. I left with a full heart and was overwhelmed by everyone's love and support.

• I am leaving for CIT "Training" on the 3rd of August! This is a four-week course, which helps one prepare for life overseas, adjust to a different culture, work with different personalities in ministry, and much more. The days will be filled with lots of information, and I will also have homework, but I hope to have some time over the weekends to go hiking as we will be in a lovely location.

• We have a new boy in our Children's Home in Manila! Please pray for him as he adjusts to life at the Home and the other boys as they welcome a new face and settle into a new routine.

• The Dream Centre, in South Africa, dedicated our second site last Friday.

Our Co-founders flew in for the special event, and the kids were super excited to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

fullsizeoutput_10a0

Prayer Requests:

• I am currently at 74% of my funding goal! Although I am super excited about this and all, I cannot buy my ticket for Ecuador or start apartment hunting until I have reached my 90% mark. (I will actually remain stateside until this goal is reached.)

• With that being said, I still need to raise $1,185 in monthly support. This can look like: 4 people at $100 a month / 7 people at $50 / 15 people at $25 / 6 people at $10. If you feel led to journey with me and help pour into some beautiful children, click here: Jessica to Ecuador.

• Please pray for my time at CIT.

• Pray for my transition to Ecuador, apartment hunting (for when I'm able to start), and find a great church to join.

• Also, please pray for health or to remain healthy! I came down with a cold upon my return to Georgia. Unfortunately, I don't have time to be sick (does anyone?) as I have a list of things to do to file for my visa application papers here.

To read Extreme Response's "10 Reasons to Celebrate," click here.