Spring Break!

One of the wonderful things about being a teacher is the built-in vacation times, like Spring Break.   I had the great joy of spending Easter with an extensive  amount of family up in Northern California, many of whom I haven't seen in several years.  It was a wonderful few days of laughter, stories, encouragement, and lots of food!!!   It is such a blessing to have a family who is so supportive and affirming as I take this bold step of faith in moving to Costa Rica. 

After several days at home, I flew back to Boston to visit two dear friends from college.  Again, I was so encouraged by their fellowship and support.  Also, oddly enough, being in Boston made me even more jazzed about the work God is already started in Costa Rica.  In the last year and a half I've become very focused on the work God is doing in the California Central Valley.  This isn't a bad thing, but I hadn't been paying too much attention to what He was doing in other pockets all over the country.  Being in Boston and seeing the work God was doing there (and the continued need), reignited the intensity of my desire to see God's work all over,  especially in Costa Rica.  While I'm joyful to be finishing the work God has for me here in the Central Valley, I cannot wait to see what He has in store in Costa Rica!!!

Spring Time!!!

  

I don't know what it is about blossoming orchard, but their beauty overwhelms me.  Each tree speaks of God's amazing creativity, grandure, and gentle love for us.   It's such a joy driving to school every morning through various orchards.  I feel like my heavenly father is there waiting for me and saying, "Good morning.  Look what I have created.  I can't wait to show you what I'm going to do in the rest of the day."  

The trees are a beautiful reminder of his continuous presence and attention to detail in the world he created.

Jumping!

Recently I began reading the book Velvet Elvis, by Rob Bell.  The title for this blog comes from the book.  Bell uses the metaphor of a trampoline to describe the Christian faith, and it is an image that really resonates with me. In talking about sharing your faith he says, "you rarely defend a trampoline.  You invite people to jump on it with you.... You rarely defend the things you love.  You enjoy them and tell others about them and invite others to enjoy them with you."  This is what I am striving to do with my life.  I hope that you will join me in my journey as I continue to follow Jesus as He leads me towards Costa Rica. Come jump with me!