Adventures of a Small Town Girl: Grateful

I would not believe you if you'd told me I'd be sad about leaving home after spending my summer in Andalusia. Not one bit. I guess it is kind of hard to go from the transition of "kicking and screaming" all the way from Auburn (mentally, not actually) to then enjoying my time here. I learned that my time does not necessarily have to be all planned out by me for it to be meaningful. Or spent with my Auburn friends (although I do love you dearly!). It does not have to be all of my favorite things. In the beginning of the summer, I went to see if I could volunteer with the dietitian at the hospital. Being the assuming person that I am, I judged that he was harsh. It is quite funny now to compare how I feel now to then. Now, I feel like I have another grandpa. He always treated me with honor- never did I ever feel in his way or stupid. He works hard and diligently. And never failed to ask how my day was going or what I should be doing differently this semester for school. I can't thank Mr. John enough for being gracious with his time to mentor me.

I will miss omelet days! (War eagle)

I also spent part of my weeks babysitting a year and a half old baby. It was a time where my patience was tested. I would get so frustrated when I couldn't figure out how to stop him from crying or whenever he'd pick up dog poop or whenever he'd stick his hand in an ant bed. As time went on, I started to really like our time together. I saw his personality shine and see that maybe he didn't really 100% hate me. Although at times I was frustrated, I would never trade it. I'm gonna miss that cute little blue eyed nugget.

Lastly, this was valuable time with my family. This could potentially be my last summer at home and it meant a lot to be able to see them every day for 3 months. I know I'll remember this summer forever!

The first month and a half I spent here trying to pick out everything that is wrong- just about how things are different from where I've been the last 3 years. I had yet to get over being selfish about where I was and to stop comparing a place to another. How unproductive and unloving is that?! I was reminded that- Heck, I love these people. I love the work that The Lord is doing here even when my little brain can't see it. tonight, it is hard to say goodbye. But I am so thankful for all that I've learned.