Summer Highlights

After taking a few months off from blogging to soak up every second of summertime that I could, I am back! My arrival back to the United States started off with my little brother's graduation from high school. I am relieved that I am able to plan my trips around being here for monumental and memorable moments like those. I am so proud of my brother and how much he has grown in the past two years. He has become a great friend, advice-giver, and listener for me over the past few months.

My summer involved a whole lot of working. I worked day in and day out as a waitress, but took in every moment knowing it would not last long. I continue to be overwhelmed by how much I enjoy my job and the people I work with. It will be a sad "see you later" once again when I have to leave later this week.

While most of my days were spent working, of course I made time for fun as well! My family was able to vacation for a week at the beach and although it stormed most of the days, just having the family together was enough.

Other highlights include- days spent with friends, my 24th birthday, plenty of cuddles with Hampton (our cat), jump-starting my Plexus journey, getting my hair cut off, and just recently starting a gluten-free diet! These days it can be difficult to picture a clear future, but I remind myself to focus on the little blessings each day brings.

This week, my summer ends. I fly back to my second home to make some more memories, have some new adventures, and spend some much needed quality time with my husband. Our days are no longer spent counting down for our immigration paperwork to be filed and approved. That became less of a focus when we realized how much it was consuming our lives and keeping us from living in the present.

Upon my arrival to Arnemuiden, I anticipate seeing our new apartment as Pieter and his family have been working so hard to get it sanded, painted, decorated, and furnished. It is nice to know we will finally have a place to call "ours" when I am there. We have been in several different vacation rental homes during past trips and this will be a great, positive change for us!

As I fly out this week, I ask for continued prayer for safety, clarity of mind, and peace. I have flown more than sixteen times in the past two years, but I still get anxious about airport security, border control, and fellow passengers that will be accompanying me on my flight.
I will do my best to keep my "blog followers" up to date once a month on any news, trips, adventures, or progress that is made during my September to November trip!