Today was one of the best ways to spend a Sunday. Kristin, Sara, and I slept in, got chocolate bread for breakfast (so healthy I know), and went on a hike in La Jolla. We even swam in the ocean which was the first time I've been all the way in since I've come here! (PS... Yes it is January and I swam in the ocean. We've only had one day without sun here since I've been back from break.) Our goal is to go hiking every Sunday. I love it! We get to spend time together and go exploring. And I love standing in awe of God's beauty from the way the sun shines on the ocean to the foam from the waves. We plan on hiking to a waterfall soon which will be amazing!
As this semester begins, I've realized how hard yet fun it will be. I'm taking 17 units and working two jobs. Needless to say, things may get stressful as the semester goes on. The other week a friend told me something that has really stuck with me. She said that whether I have these jobs or not God will provide for me because He wants to be here. He is using me to serve, learn, and grow from these jobs. This semester won't just be filled with work though. We have tons of fun activities planned (and so much more room)! Here is a glimpse into what the semester holds: whale watching, Grand Canyon road trip, spring break road trip/vacation which includes a lazy river, mini golf, dirtbike riding, and water slides, a Washington trip, and to top it all off... AFRICA! It's going to be a great semester!
It's crazy to think that I'll be leaving for Africa in four months. Last semester all I ever did was think about it and now it comes and goes in waves. It seems unreal, but I know it's happening. God has opened so many doors with this trip, and I know this is what He wants which makes me want it even more. We are ordering shirts to raise money for beds in Uganda, and they should be ready in a week or so. Plus the support we have gotten has been so humbling and reassuring. I can't wait to know the kids in Uganda and Kenya as more than a picture or story. I imagine what the trip will be like constantly. I can imagine the plane ride there and back easily, but my imagination cannot comprehend being there. There is this huge gap that my mind can't fill. The one image that is always in my head is playing in the grass with an adorable little kid. It so simple and peaceful. I can so easily get lost in daydreams with this child I've never met. Four months. Just four more months.
