Southern Thanks.

Recently, I've had the privilege of discovering Nashville. My international travels have settled down a bit and this has given me the opportunity to truly begin to make my roots in my hometown. I'm loving it and beginning to see more clearly why God eventually establishes us in different cities, countries, etc. Our home is always in Him no matter where we go, but there's something particularly beautiful about being established and "at home." I'm forever amazed at the Lord's timing. All the seasons in our lives are truly about timing. And I can happily say that Nashville is a more established season in my life. And I'm loving it! 

I've been brought back to my southern roots full circle, while being able to venture out into a new area. It's beautiful and I love it! One of my "full circles" is getting to live down the road from Kate and Dustin Wise--two dear friends from my YWAM days in Australia. Not only do we live nearby each other, but we have been able to be in the same Bible study together. I love how God works! Last weekend, Kate had another YWAM friend, Jeremy, come for a mini-vacation to Nashville and we explored the famous Nashville Farmer's Market. If you've never been, you must go. Great food, music, and ambiance. As we stuffed our faces with delicious food, took photos in a side doorway, and laughed the night away, my heart smiled because I realized that I was home. The warm summer air that sticks on the back of your neck, reminded me of my childhood and of how life is this beautiful, precious gift that we get one shot at and I found myself thankful. I was so thankful to be able to see where I've been, where the Lord has taken me, and excited to where we would go next. But for the moment, just ever so thankful for the moment of being home.

So, here's to the rest of the hot summer days filled with lavender ice cream, windows rolled down, and laughter. Here's to being home. I pray that you are thankful wherever you are. Take a moment to see the good as He does.

Missing Italy

Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life. -Anna Akhmatova

There is something about Italy that gets under your skin like no other place. Maybe it's the way the light hits the buildings there or how much more delicious the pasta, the wine, and the gelato are. Or maybe it's the sounds of the language itself or how at every turn, life seems to be more beautiful! Whatever it is, my heart has been longing to return ever since I left. Now, don't get me wrong, I love every place that I travel to. Each country has something unique and alive about it. Honestly, I believe that it is this way because God created it out of his incredible design. But Italy truly speaks to a place in your soul like no other place ever does. It's like a dream that reminds you of how life used to be--the color, the casual, but purposeful pace, and the stimulation it brings to your heart and mind. It is truly a place that calls you back.

And right now, I'm being called back. I wish I could tell you that I have a plane ticket in hand and that I'm ready to go, but I don't. All I know is that I will return to Italy--the most romantic and lively place I've been. So, for now, I'll eat my pasta and watch Roman Holiday and dream of the day I'll return. May you also be blessed to encounter the beauty of Italy and sing: La vita e bella!