Honestly does life get any better than this?

I spent my afternoon at Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Soaking up the sun with some of my closest friends and really admiring God's fingerprints in a part of the world that feels so much like home yet is nothing like it. Funny how that can happen. The people herere unbelievably laid back and have the shortest work day of anyone on the planet. They use phrases such as "mate" and cheers" to show that you are kin. There world is so beautiful, so untouched by imperfections (that I can see). They are surrounded by ocean, yet have been in a five year drought! I take evening walks and morning runs through some of the most inspiring neighborhoods I have ever seen. What brings me here? Is it the sheer beuaty that I long to soak up? Is it my interest in cultures other than mine? Or is it a calling that only my Lord who makes me weak in the knees has placed in my heart? Most days I would answer all three of those. I do, other days however, wonder what it is I am doing here. Ican tell you that this trip into the unknown has not only given me the discernment to see God in the small things, but has also given me a heart to find him abroad.

I have to tell you that the last three and a half months have been incredible. There is no way I could have even dreamed up being in some of the places I have been. I have climbed the Great Wall, spent the night on Mt.Fuji and watched the sunrise from the top, gone Zorbing in Rotorua, New Zealand, and snorkeled the Great Barrier Reef. Not to mention met people in every corner of the Pacific Rim. To say the least, I have been blessed by the one and only King of Kings. There is no other way to describe it...truly blessed.

Oh Lord, as I finish up my journey into new parts of your Kingdom, I thank you for the woman you have made me, the soul stretching you have done inside me, and the wonderful sisters and brothers you have placed in my life along the way. May I never forget the change that has been made in me. I ask that the encounters that I make in the coming weeks be ones that show you in every moment. Lord, may I be blinded by your love and captivated by your spirit. I confess my weakness and ask for you strength. I long to bring your people the true message of unfailing love and abounding joy. Break my heart dear Lord and cast away all my fears. The power is yours...this I know.

so it's been awhile...hope all is well in xanga world.

I have been super busy this summer...you would think that when school isn't ruling my life I would learn to slow down a little...unfortunately that is not the way I work.

I have, however, enjoyed my busyness. I am spending time with people that I haven't been in touch with for quite some time. I am doing MaryKay like crazy this summer trying to get rid of my inventory before I leave for the Pacific Rim in the Fall. I guess this is my disclaimer...letting you know that if you need anything I am your girl!

I am babysitting, attending weddings (holy cow I am too young for this) and making up for lost time with my family.

God has been so good to me. The money for my trip has been showing up even more so than I had expected. He sure knows what he's doing with me... I wish that was the case with other guys! I love knowing that my time will come...God Bless this life of mine!

I had an amazing hour long conversation with my best friend Erik on the phone this morning....I miss him so much. So good to know that the Lord is using both of us in this season of stretching and growing. Thank you Jesus for your amazing sacrifice and the hope for tomorrow!!!!

It's Friday! Another week has passed...so much to do so little time...

Today is for real I hope you make it yours!!! In Him I put my trust!