Goodbyes

Kristen and Meghann, somehow, in the midst of caring for their husbands, their homes, and their girls, managed to throw a party with over 50 people!!! They are wonder women. How incredibly sweet. I want to be just like them when I grow up. Thank you guys so much for your thought, time, energy, effort, and sacrifice that you put into making tonight happen. I am so blessed.

There was a bunch of uh-mazing food
 
...and we started the night off with tap dancing =) that's for you, Em
 
Reagan is sporting her leotard-over-pants look here. Priceless. She's ready for the Olympics! I loved having all my favorite little girls in one place.
 
There were little girls everywhere! (Steph, can you believe you'll be holding YOUR OWN baby by the time I return?!)
 

...and when I say everywhere, I mean EVERYWHERE
 
 
Amy made me an incredible book full of pictures, Scripture, letters, and encouragement that various people contributed to. That's when the tears began. I will cherish this gift so dearly in this next year. Thank you all for your very kind words, for your prayers, for your eyes of grace in my life. The LORD is using your encouragement to strengthen me before I go. What a gift!
 

Hugs and goodbyes
 
 
 
I know "goodbye tears" aren't bad. And I've been sort of holding everything in for tonight- only thinking about going and not about leaving. Well tonight, leaving hit me like a ton of bricks. I so love these people. With a deep, deep love in my heart- beyond words. That's why its sad to go. It doesn't effect my excitement of GOING, though. I am so glad to be heading on this adventure- and though this week there are many "lasts"...in two weeks, all of the "firsts" will begin!

We'll end on a happy note: this is my favorite picture of the night!
 

Charlotte peeps!

From left to right meet Taige, Kat, Ivy, Sarah and Mike. I'm leaving the country with them in 16 days!!! I can't wait!

Choosing Blessing

I don't have to choose between the blessings of Orlando and Wales. I get both. That's who my Master is! Never lacking in His gifts to me. Always giving more than I could expect, nevermind what I deserve.

Just got home from another Starbees outing (that would be Starbucks for those who don't know Ariel) with some of the dearest friends on earth. So enjoying fellowship. Laughter that makes my cheeks hurt...and as I sat there I thought to myself, "Enjoy. Enjoy these last 5 1/2 weeks. Enjoy these people. Enjoy these blessings." So I did. And I am. And I plan to continue. Not with fear of change (ok, who am I kidding? still battling that...)-- but change is inevitable...and necessary. And oh, I hope when I return I am changed. But enjoying who the King is in the midst of these relationships. Seeing His grace and His glory in these faces- His redemption in these lives and the testimonies represented; feeling a teeny portion of His love for His children, my friends, in my heart.

I hope to learn in this season to "pause" more. To soak in blessing. To wonder at God in amazement with joy and thanksgiving. Growing in love for His perfect character.

Oh how I hate to leave, and yet, can't wait to go.