I'm sorry.
My intention was to keep updating regularly throughout my entire time in Italy...however, a crazy life and crazy schedule got the better of me and I got out of the habit of blogging. But here is my attempt to catch you up on my life and continue to do so from now on. :)
Well, the first big news I guess is that I am home. In America.
My roommates and I flew home just over a week ago and I have pretty much been in my bed trying to get over jet lag since. :) But the fog is clearing and I am starting to get back on my feet. Hence the blog entry at midnight. :) I am happy to be back home and back in America for a while and am enjoying luxuries like clothes from the dryer, ice, air conditioning, and large glasses of free water.
After a lot of thought and prayer, I have decided to go back to Italy for another year starting in September. God made it very clear to me that He was calling me to Italy over a year and a half ago and I believe that is still where He wants me to be. There is still so much work to be done and I have just begun to invest in the language, culture, and friendships. I am excited to be going back in a few short months!
Italy is beautiful...but that is not why I keep going back. My eyes have been opened. I have seen the need. The need for the gospel, the need for God's love in action - helping, serving, giving, and just loving Italians. I can't not go. God has put a passion in my heart for this country and for these people and a call on my life to be used by Him there. So I will be faithful to do what He has asked me to do. I will go back. As many times as He asks me to.
This summer while I am home I will be raising financial support again. God has been so faithful to provide for me over the past year [see previous entries] and I know that He will continue to give me everything I need.
Thank you for your friendship, prayers, and giving. I need you. I am so thankful for the support system of friends and family that God has given me.
Please continue to pray for me this summer as I am raising support. Pray that all of the money would come in quickly, but also pray that God will be glorified in the process and that His name will be lifted high.
[with teammates and italian friends one of my last nights in italy]
