Farewell, Lancaster

Dearest Lancaster,

I can't believe it's finally here; the day that I am no longer a resident of 518 N Plum Street. It brings such bittersweet emotions. There are so many things that I will miss about you...walking your streets, in every season...First Friday...coffee shops that are open late...Central Market...the small town feel, with an urban/international flair...yummy restaurants...the sense of community during a snow storm...greeting people on the street, whether you know them or not...the Fulton Theater...the pianos, oh the pianos!...

And that doesn't even begin to mention the people. Lancaster is more than buildings, it really is the people that make it such a great place to live.

How does one even begin to say good-bye to the dear, dear friends they're leaving? I'm not sure. But, I do know that last night's going away party was a blessing. Thanks to all of you who came out for it. And, for those who it didn't work, it's just a "see you later" kind of thing...because I really do hope to "see you all later".

I have been blessed with some amazing friends. I am overwhelmed with gratitude. Thank you, Lord for each one of them. Pour out your blessing upon each of them.

So, with few words that can truly express all that's within me, I say, "Thank you, Lancaster! You've been a great place to live."

And, thank you, dear friends, for allowing me into your lives; for loving and accepting me; and now for believing in me and sending me out to follow God on this crazy walk of faith He's called me to. Know that you will be missed and that I will be praying for you as well. With much love, and many other emotions, I bid you "so long."

Oh, and if you ever want to see Prague... :)

The question of the hour is...

...so what day are you leaving?

Such a simple question; such a complex answer.

While I have been released to purchase a plane ticket, I don't have a visa yet. Do I go on faith and buy a plane ticket for the time I want to leave, hoping and believing that the visa will come in time? Do I wait until I get the final letter from the Czech Republic before purchasing the ticket? Who knows.

Oh, and the advice from my dear brother; "if you can't get a Visa, try Mastercard or Discover." Helpful, Brad, helpful. :)

My hope is still to depart for the Czech around the 28th of August (yes, that's less than 2 weeks away).

In the meantime, I'm again learning to trust. God is in control. And He's never late.