Fearless for You!

I have been terrible at blogging! So my deepest apologies to you loyal readers! Life has been busy here in Costa Rica. I would like to blame my internet connection, but the more truthful answer would be that I am exhausted by the time I would have time to blog! :) I will work on being better!

School is going great! I seriously don't know how many ways to say that I have the best group of students I could have ever imagined. We have become a little "family" and are growing and learnig so much from each other every day. My favorite part is the innocent and eagerness that the boys still have for school. They love finding new, artistic and imaginative ways to do things and present materials. As a teacher, I couldn't be more proud! The boys also now insist I eat lunch with them ALMOST every day. That way none of the girls talk to them. Oh, to be 9 years old. :) I've also been invited to play soccer with them...That's a pretty big deal here! This week we are reviewing materials that the students have learned this trimester, and next week we have exams. It's pretty serious and the students all stress a little more than I'd like, but we will celebrate by having a party Friday before we go on vacation for three weeks!

I'm SO looking forward to vacation. My dear friend Lesli flies in on the 28th, and we will explore Costa Rica a few days and relax. I am really looking forward to her visit...she's the best friend I could ask for! And I miss her terribly...THEN! Kevin and Vinnie fly in July 4 for a week! I'm equally excited for them to visit and explore and spend some quality time with. :) And if that were not enough (which its more than enough!) My friend Corrine flies in on the 9th! It's going to be a great time!! :) I am counting down anxiously! I can't wait for my friends from home to see my new HOME! and way of life, and meet my sweet new friends!

God's been so gracious with surrounding me with supportive and amazing people here in Costa Rica. On Sunday, I celebrated my 22 birthday with them. Meghan insisted we go out to celebrate Saturday, and then everyone came to my apartment for a pool party and bbq on Sunday. They all told me that when you move to another country, you become instant best friends, and I was speechless to see their words ring true on Sunday. We had a blast Sunday and I am thankful to them for making my birthday so special!

Life is good here. I am amazed every day at some things that I see and learn about Costa Rica. (Some good, some bad - of course!) I have come to realize how beautiful diversity is. And in diversity there is STRENGTH. Some of the local people I meet just amaze me. I continue to ask for prayers for strength so that I can provide all of myself to these beautiful people. I also am asking for prayers for my family back home. As I am living my dreams out, I know that it's been hard to seperate myself from the people I care most about. I hope my family all knows that they are always in my heart and my thoughts.

Tonight I pray a little harder and bend a little lower at the feet of Jesus.. "Abba, Father,” he said, “everything is possible for you. Take this cup from me. Yet not what I will, but what You will. Whatever YOU will, Father - I will do my best.

Sweet blessings<3