Update (Stateside)

Mom and I :)

It's been four years since I've written to you from the backyard of my parents house.  Four years since I took a dip in my parent's pool.  Four years since I saw fourth of July fireworks.  Four years since I enjoyed my Mom's beautiful gardens.  Four years since I lived a summer stateside.

I left Jarabacoa June 26.  Even though it hasn't quite been 3 weeks; in some ways it feels like an eternity.  I officially have a stateside phone number and car.  I've visited family, friends and supported a friend in her wedding.  I've started thinking of where I would like to live more permanently (downstate NY) and what kind of a job I would like (working with immigrants/Spanish speakers).

but....my heart has not left Jarabacoa behind.

This past Sunday I had the privilege of passing the torch.  My sending church (Hopewell Reformed Church) sent a group of 20-something youth to serve for two weeks with Students International.  I had the amazing opportunity to pray for the team and see them off as they serve with the people whom I love so very much.  And encounter God in marvelous ways.

Goodbyes were difficult, but simultaneously oh so sweet.  My SI director, Brian, encouraged me to take the final two weeks I had in Jarabacoa to spend with people who had become so close to me.  And that is exactly what I did.  I spent hours conversing over lunches, dinners, jugo, cafe and helado with so many people who shared my day to day life.  My previous volunteer Helena came to support me in the tears and final hugs.  And we made some of my most favorite memories.  If I see you this summer I would love to tell you more!

My previous volunteer, Helena, came to the DR my final
week to help me say goodbye!

But,  through the sadness the peace in my decision to leave remained.  God was so gracious in making it clear to me that my time for now in Jarabacoa is finished.  It certainly helps that the community health ministry site is going STRONG!

If any of you follow the Community Health Site's Facebook page you can understand the joy I feel as I watch Katie Wulf, RN and Dr. Fernando Gonzalez's continual work within the communities.  I love that with social media I can still see Rosne's smile, hear Telma's laugh and watch Fernando lead worship.

Medical ministry in Buenos Aire going strong!

I know the next couple months will be filled with highs of living life again in my culture and lows of missing the DR.  But, I pray that I may continue to glorify Christ's name and carry His love with me wherever I may go.  Just as Katie and Fernando continue to do in our clinics in Jarabacoa!

Priya and I at her Indian wedding

playing tourist in NYC with visiting family