Tastes of Home

I've been told that the 4-6 month marker is one of the hardest periods in an adjustment to a new place. Personally, I would find that to be pretty accurate right now. I've been having a lot of moments when I've thought, "Lord, what in the world am I doing here?" or more often than not just really missing people back home and doing a lot of grieving. But in all of these feelings, frustrations, and bouts of lonliness, I've been noticing something pretty special- the kindness and care of my heavenly Father. And in one very tangible category that I've seen Him reaching His hand out and holding me is through providing me with tastes of home to encourage me along the way. I know that there are many that I've experienced that I totally didn't notice or took for granted (like rice pudding, conversations with my parents over the past few weeks, some encouraging emails and skype chats with people, etc), but here are a few that stand out a lot:

Getting to have lunch with my friend B, who was flying through on the way home. That was like a breath of fresh air!

-a care package from my cousin's kids, including letters that all of them had written to me, telling me that they're praying for me.


A massive bag of my favourite chocolate bar, which I can't get over here. Thanks to my sister's fiancee, who was over this week on business and brought me a big ol' bag of 'em (also very nice to have dinner with him and talk family).


A walk in the Autumn-struck woods on the east-end of London.





And to put a cherry on top of it all, I get to see my dear sister and brother-in-law today. So I just want to thank Jesus for these reminders of His care and love for me. It's like one of my team leaders told me on Thursday morning, "Your world is really good, E." Thanks Lord.