Fifty-five

55 days.

7 weeks and 6 days.

One month and 24 days.

That’s all that’s left.

Plans have changed a bit and I won’t be returning to Indonesia in July. I don’t need to go into all the details, but just letting you know that June 16^th is it.

I have no idea how my time in Indonesia has gone by so quickly. I was standing in church this morning during worship when, out of nowhere, I thought, “I have to take my name off the ushers and greeters list!” I do it the third Sunday of the month, and I won’t be able to do it in May, and by the third Sunday in June I will be back in America. Last Sunday was my last turn!

I’m entering into a season of “lasts” here.

In case you don’t know this about me, I am strange when it comes to saying goodbye.  If you’ve ever had to say goodbye to me, I’m typically very composed and matter-of-fact about the whole ordeal. Dry eyed and smiling. In the moment.

To me, saying goodbye is a grieving process that begins long before the departure. In church this morning I teared up many times when I began thinking about leaving this dear church that I have come to love. I have learned countless lessons and matured in my faith here. There are friendships I’ve made here that will last. I’ve been in denial about my impending return to the States, and when my friends mention it, I have retorted, “That’s a long ways from now. Let’s not talk about it.” :)

I think from here on out though, the reality of my leaving is going to settle in, and it’s going to hit me at strange times and places. So, for my Indonesian friends, just as a warning, if my eyes fill with tears when we’re together, don’t worry, I’m alright.   I’m thinking about how hard it will be to leave.

Only God knows if /when I will be back in Indonesia. I have already let Him know that I won’t mind coming back here if that’s in His plan for me.  :)

And for my friends in Idaho, I’m really going to need your help in readjusting to life there. I have so, so, so much to look forward to when I come home, but nonetheless, it will come with challenges. Here’s a “thank you,” and a giant hug in advance for listening to my many stories about Indonesia.