I'm 'HOME'!

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...

I can say that it was the worst of times, because moving back to the DR after losing my sister was the hardest 6 months of my entire life.  Yet, it was also the best of times because the Lord allowed me to experience many memorable moments while growing and stretching me.  Although I didn't realize it, he also allowed the last 6 months to be a buffer time and preparation for moving back to the U.S.

6 months ago, I didn't view moving back to the U.S. as an option.  It was something that my heart was not ready for. As a TCK, I haven't always called the U.S. my home and transitioning back seemed like another loss I just wasn't ready to handle.  After a lot of soul searching and prayer, the Lord brought me to a place where I no longer viewed returning 'home' to be a failure.

The Lord also blessed me with an understanding pastor at my Dominican church.  Last year, he was also faced with the loss of losing a family member to suicide.  His wife is from Argentina, so he also understands the difficulties of living as a foreigner.  It was such a relief to be among people who understood! They were faithful prayer warriors for me during my time back.  It's amazing how the Lord brings people in your life for a short time in spite of pain and loss.

My pastor also encouraged me with these words.  He told me that everyone needs a break and God calls us to different places at different times. He said that going to the U.S. may be my time to 'live in the cave' before being sent out again. He reminded me of the story of Elijah, where God led him to a cave after he is fleeing and had just completed a great work.  After his time in the cave, the Lord sends him out again.

Transitions are hard. There are people and aspects of the Dominican life that I'm really going to miss.  Although I don't know what's coming next, I'm excited for this new chapter in my life and waiting on the Lord.  I want to take time for myself and rejuvenate without feeling selfish for doing so!

Here are some highlights of my last month in the DR:

Good times with the crazy house staff!

the squad!

Nature buddies!

Road trip to Constanza!

Last beach trip with the girls!