Funny how I find myself....

So, this is an after new years post (I wanted to make sure I didn't miss anything). Sometimes I feel overwhelmed when I think of 2010. It was a crazy ride. It began with my parents pushing me into the security line at the LaGuardia airport to board a plane to Buenos Aires, Argentina. The 3 month trip through South America was a bumpy one at times, but filled with learning a new language, amazing scenery, crazy people and some fun nights! This is where I started making revelations about my life- what was important, what I thought I would be doing at this point, and how I wanted to look back on my life. I felt a pull to do "more" with my time and resources.

Upon arrival back in the states, I spent a few good months on the Oregon Coast. I seriously loved it there. The people, the small town, the ocean, the farms.... just wonderful! Man, it was great to back in the Pacific Northwest. I started my journey through trying to discern God's plan for my life. This was one of the weirdest times of my life- unemployed and homeless at 25! I saw His faithfulness through my friends and family during this time. It was a period of waiting, doubting, listening, freaking out, being excited about possibilities... it was a long few months! As the period of waiting felt like an eternity, I left Seattle in a whirlwind.

My involvement with the Mennonite Voluntary Service began in August and I'm thankful for this opportunity. There have been good times and trying times. My job is challenging and exciting. I've been learning new things in life and nursing. Living in community is not my thing, but I'm trying to think more about the purpose of it. Starting a home church has made me think more about what church means. Through death, I learn to celebrate life- my own and those around me and those who have passed by. I'm learning to share my life, it's not my own.

It's just funny to think about the girl who got on that plane a year ago to travel for fun would be living in the middle of nowhere and volunteering!

Highlights from South America (Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, and Peru) Jan-Mar:

Highlights from my time back in the PNW Apr-Jul:

Highlights from my time in the valley so far Aug-Dec:

Here's hoping that 2011 is just as exciting, but not so crazy!