ten weeks.

After Bali, I had no time to be nervous about San Diego. I wasn't afraid of what I was walking into. I thought "I'll just move out there for ten weeks, take some really cool pictures, and then graduate, no biggie! It's only ten weeks." Those first couple of weeks I was so excited about working for Auburn Christian Fellowship, I wasn't enjoying what I needed to about California. Sure, I loved the weather, but I felt like I was missing the point of why God brought me out here. My prayers became: Father, there's a reason I am here. That much is certain, but help me to discover why, open my eyes to the reason, and help me to not hurry away this experience, in hopes for the next one!

Driving in my car yesterday, I was overcome with emotion and the tears fell, after thoughts of having to leave this place. I've made a home here. It's comfortable, I have some what of a support system, and I am finally learning my way around! What I thought was going to be ten weeks of transition from Bali to ACF became a journey of spiritual growth, full of depth and realness. God hand placed people in my life to pour into me, to challenge my thought processes, teach me about grace gone wild, and to fill me up! Looking back, I firmly believe that God sent me to San Diego for a head and heart renewal, a type of retreat. I needed to be 2400 miles away from everyone in my life to learn about God and myself. He has taught me so much about who He is, what my eternal husband is all about, and who I am through Him. I feel supercharged spiritually, mentally and physically, in a beautiful way. He emptied me and broke me in Bali, and completely renewed me in San Diego, preparing me for an intense jump into ministry for ten months. I just marvel at how perfect His plan and timing is and giggle at the fact I sometimes think I can handle things better than He can!!

Ten weeks ago I thought I'd be leaving San Diego with only pictures however I am leaving with a full heart, lasting spiritual friendships, a church home, a new best friend, new knowledge of interior design, a new respect for people who work behind a desk, and a new perspective on grace. I thought ten weeks could never change me, but that's all the time He needed.

And he said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace." Luke 8:48

xoxo, va