out of the Caribbean and off to the races!

 Before I left to start my new adventure in Toronto I had one final hoorah with my youth group and church community; a mission trip to Belize. Boy was it amazing. We had an amazing opportunity to bond with each other, serve a community and encourage the ones who have made Belize their mission field full time. We didn't go down their with the expectation to take on any tasks we weren't invited to and we didn't lose sight of the main objective, to build relationships. The team grew in some pretty incredible ways and I felt blessed to be a part of it. I will certainly miss Belize but I have every intention of going back and making it a permanent spot of outreach. God is truly doing some interesting and amazing things there. We had the opportunity to worship with 240 youth from across the country at the YWAM base, what an experience.

       The girl beside me was one of the girls I fell absolutely in love with; her name is Covenant. She met me one time and I gave her a ride on my shoulders haha. I'm a huge softy with these little ones. Another little gal I wont soon forget is Demaris; I spend more time with her but interestingly, never got a picture with her. Travis was a little boy I spent some time with, he was a great little guy with a hugely soft and tender heart. I understand why Jesus had such a tender spot in his heart for these kids; the innocence and tenderness of a child is therapeutic and refreshing.

       When I got back from Belize I had 4 days to say goodbye to everyone in my community and life in New Brunswick. Unfortunately I didn't have time to see them all. I was thankful to see the ones I did but I know that this isn't a forever deal. I already have plans to return as soon as May potentially. I had time to go and see some friends from Fredericton on Thursday and it was a fantastic trip, one I wont soon forget :). Friday arrived before I knew it and it was off to the races.
That whole day included my parents and I packing up my entire Apartment. Apologies to Andy and Andrew my roommates for taking your stuff. I promise it was an honest mistake. We filled an entire 14' U-Haul truck, or my parents and I came to call it "the bathtub". We called it that because it would have been easier to drive one of those to Toronto than that thing. Around 6 we headed to Mike and Annas for the going away party that they so graciously hosted. It was a great time. So many people showed up to see me off; it was humbling and warm. Thank you to all that came, that was the best farewell party I've ever had or been to. I also had to say goodbye to the youth group earlier that week. It was also a humbling experience. I was overcome by the words and emotions of the youth at the church of the resurrection. They truly are a unique bunch.
      After 17 hours of driving over 2 days, we finally arrived to my new home in Stoney Creek (just out side Hamilton, about 50 mins away from Toronto). Unpacking was an adventure for sure. I never realized I had so much stuff. Now that its all done my apartment is very cozy. The landlady is a great gal named Lydia who has already been super accommodating and helpful. I've been home by my self for about 2 days now. I know there are challenges to living in a new city by yourself, but more than ever I feel ready and equipped to deal with those challenges. God has led me on an incredible journey to be a part of advancing his Kingdom in some incredible ways. I know he wont abandon me now. Stay tuned everyone, the adventure has just begun!