It's been five months, and I've been MIA to much of the world. On one hand I rejoice, it's been lovely, but on the other hand I am sorry for being away! And on my imaginative third hand, I have MISSED blogging! Oh my! There is something about 'publishing' thoughts - it affirms something in my heart. So, along with a newly styled blog, I'm back. Feel free to be here with me!
It's been a summer!
I went to California - San Fran, LA, Laguna, Newport, San Clemente and everything on the I-5 inbetween, with two now dear friends Anna and Nancy! The weather was a bummer because of the Iceland Volcano believe it or not, which made for crummy camping and crummy surfing. But, alas, God is faithful to teach in all situations and it was a joy to experience His creation down the coast. Unfortunately this also meant experiencing the obnoxiously ridiculous amounts of urban development in Southern California which I am just fine with never visiting again. It's not all that Hollister tees make it out to be, folks. San Fransisco was awesome - I will be back there one day to wander the coffee shops and drive up and down those crazy hilled streets lined with magnificent Victorian architectured homes! It's a very romantic city, lots of character! Next time I'll be sure to creep on the Full House home...
Moving.
After a fancy night of fine food and dancing! |
Camp Qwanoes, Vancouver Island.
What a life chapter.
I remembered loving rural community. Non-city landscape. Trees, stars, ocean, mountains. Simple life. Little farms and plenty of wild flowers, vegetable farms and berry picking. Slow movement. Rivers and lakes. Wild life.
Nicki, myself and Amanda |
I was at camp for two months before campers arrived, being a part of the developing team, getting the camp ready and hosting guest groups and retreats. My role this summer was Assistant Head Counsellor, which was essentially leading and supporting the 80+ female counselors with my two dear sistas Amanda and Nicki. They are phenomenal women to work and do life with, what a joy! Also: Alicia Marshall - a joy, a sister-friend, a support, a giggle and heart mesher, thank you for being my friennndddd!
It was new for me to step back from the front lines of working with youth and to lead and support staff. But WOW what a sweet time it was - the women that God had at Camp Qwanoes this summer are top choice, strong, compassionate, gentle women who passionately love God and are following His call for their lives!
Laura Hill, folks! |
Seester, you rock my world, thanks for being in BC this summer!
What a summer of restoration.
I was so scared to enter back into ministry this summer after last year's terrible burnout.
I learned how God delivers us from our fears.
I really learned to trust Him and soar under the shadow of His wings. He raised me up and restored me.
I am now staring at forgiving some things from last year, and what that means.
I learned how His truths identify and blast out lies that Satan tries to deceive us with.
I've learned about being truthful, even in the little things, the sarcastic, seemingly innocent things.
How living under God's authority brings freedom.
This summer was such a growing season for me and I'm only beginning to look back and reflect on what God's done!
"I have called you back from the ends of the earth,
saying, ‘You are my servant.’
For I have chosen you
and will not throw you away.
Don’t be afraid, for I am with you.
Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you.
I will hold you up with my victorious right hand."
-Isaiah 41:9-10
Andrew + Sarah = LOVE!
Andrew popped outta the bushes and surprised me on my birthday! |
What a summer of strengthening and growth. And wretched apartness.
About 5000 texts, hours of phone calls and ferry commuting, dozens of letters written and received and $452.00 in phone bills later... and we love each other more than ever, haha!
Andrew was my biggest support this summer, faithful and strong, honest and real. His commitment and support to me is a true gift from God and I am so grateful for the man that he is. We're excited to see what this next season will hold!
(He's glad I'm back!!)
All that to say... this is life!
To all those who held me in their thoughts and prayers this summer - THANK YOU! I was seriously carried by God's grace these past five months and I am so thankful for you.
I'm back in Vancouver now, heading to Ontario for the last week of the month, then back to a new job and new apartment and stepping forward, eyes on God.
Peace yo.
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