Well I’m back! Stateside again and acclamating very well.  I would like everyone to note in the minutes that I am a very skilled airport-er now and can handle the airport like a big kid. Customs was still very scary. Saying goodbye at the airport to the poeople that had become my adopted mom and dad for three months was sad, but not as sad as you would think. It’s not because I don’t love them, it’s because I know I will see them again. They are in my life now, a permanent part of my journey (as is Dove) and it wasn’t goodbye just see you soon!

I am forever grateful for the things I have learned and experienced in the Dominican Republic. I am so thankful for Lumos and Cynthia and Dr. Monteverde for providing me with the support  I needed to make this happen.  I am thankful to Nini, Dea, Marlenis, Terry and Demaris for taking me under their wing and allowing me to be apart of their families. It wouldn’t have been the same without them. I am thankful for Liz, James, Chulo and Bella my family who loved me through all of my moments and created a billion memories with me. I am also so thankful to every little face that let me be apart of their lives for three months, they let me teach and they taught me, I am so grateful. Lastly, I am thankful for my family and friends stateside that supported me in this adventure and welcomed me home with open arms.

I have learned so many things from this experience, but one of the biggest things I may have learned is that you can live that life you want. There is a plan for you and it is a huge adventure that you can make happen. This trip seemed crazy last December when I started thinking about going and one year later  have come and gone there.  I am now even more excited for the next amazing thing I will get to do.

I would also like to leave a challenge. If you are reading this you have more than most. You have been blessed by being lucky enough not to be born in a third world country. Use that blessing to help someone else. You don’t have to travel like  I did, but you do have a gift that you can use in some way. I would encourage you (whoever you are) to find that gift, tap into it and use t to help someone else!

I’m not sure if this will be my last blog so check back. I will def be giving a convo at Belmont in Jan. so more info to come on that 🙂