Since 2009...

My aunt got me started on the tradition of writing in a birthday journal. Since I just turned 24, it was time to write again. This is a bit of it. Since 2009...

• I've prepared to leave the country long-term and not gone.
• I've resigned from an organization and joined another.
• I've surrendered marriage and been given a husband.
• I've had many vaccinations and not needed their effect.
• I thought I was done at SIL-UND and was blessed with another summer taking literacy.
• I've said "goodbye" to my 4 siblings and gained 7 more.
• I've said "goodbye" to 2 nieces  and 1 nephew and gained 2 nieces and 6 nephews.
• I've grieved leaving my parents and gained another set.
• I've talked about moving from "home" for a mission field and seen my parents move to Alaska, a mission field.
• I've given my car and other earthly possessions away and have been given them back.
• I've taken leave from graduate school and have begun helping a husband through school.
• I've studied my identity and calling and gained a whole new set.
• I've prayed about a host family and have begun hosting my brother.
• I've prayed about a partner in ministry and have gained a partner for life.
• I've prepared for the village and moved to the city.
• I've worried about safety and have been given a protector.
• I've done pre-field counseling that turned into premarital counseling.

I've walked with the Lord.

I've seen His hand on my life.

I've been encouraged and affirmed.

I've been provided for.

I've grown.

I still love people.

I still want to be a missionary.

I still want to do Bible translation.

I just gave it all up to marry a man 

who wants to give it all back... and more!

Good thing that God does what He wants. 

His way is way better anyway!