Tour de Arkansas

Little did I know that four years ago, when I made a decision to go to Ouachita Baptist University, it would effect my life the way that it has. Lifelong friendships were formed, my passion for teaching was deepened and my desire to serve others grew.
Cami and I went to spend time with our family in Crossett for a few days. We both had the privilege of serving as the Children's Minister for the past two summers (Cami in Summer '10, Me the following summer) at First Baptist. Our dear friend Leigha has taken on the role this summer. On Wednesday evening, I was able to share with the kids where God is leading me to teach in Hungary. Throughout our visit we certainly laughed, made a visit to the Zoo, played with some new puppies, cooked for some road bikers traveling across the US, shopped, walked around downtown, enjoyed Sonic milkshakes, watched October Baby and helped paint a children's Sunday School classroom. I am humbled and honored by the love of First Baptist Crossett. The children, church family and Staley's have made an imprint on my heart and are continually in my prayers.

El Dorado just happened to be on the way so I spent the night with Liz! She toured me around downtown, went on a walk in the park, went to a neighbors pool, ate one of Mrs.Ina's favorite dishes with her daughter and grandkids, she showed me the church, student ministry and made smoothies together.

A great place to call home, Arkadelphia. The Teed's welcome me with open arms and are a continual encouragement to me. We ate dinner and spent time discussing Scripture together. Mrs. Sarah and I went on a walk together like we have many times before. I had the privilege of visiting with the Wilbourn's (an elderly couple and their daughter - a group of friends would eat dinner with every other week throughout college) my professors (Mrs. Collins and Mrs.Sharp), Diana and Terrell (siblings that I helped take to church), Simone (my little sister),  Mrs. Robertson and Mrs. McBride, (my fantastic cooperating teacher and terrific teacher from Central), Mrs. Syler and Whitney (my wonderful cooperating teacher from Perritt and her daughter) and dinner with Andrew, Alison and Kendall! How I wished there was more time to spend with people who have had such an impact on my life.

My roommate Laura and I had lunch together at Jason's Deli. What a blessing she has been in my life to always be a listening ear, voice of discernment and sister in Christ to me.

I reunited with Cami in Hot Springs to stay with Sarah G. for a night. She has been in Austrailia for a year serving as a Children's Intern. I am thankful for time to spend time together to talk about life across the globe, returning home and serving an ever faithful God.

The blessings I received in Arkansas are forever embedded in my mind and heart for the love, friendships and memories that were made throughout the past four years. The transition after college is different than what I thought. Especially walking through campus knowing that I won't be coming back in August or for Homecoming was sad. Leaving what is comfortable, moving to a new city, meeting new people, a new language, starting a new job is quite overwhelming. Knowing God is always faithful and that He is my provider gives me peace.