The Background

I wouldn't describe myself as an adventerous person.  I like having control over situations and some comfort.  However; in the past few years, i've felt myself little by little being stretched out of my comfort zone.  It started for me when I moved across the country from Virginia to Seattle about 4 and a half years ago.  I was absolutely terrified to take this step and leave my family and the familiar.  I expected the change to be difficult and pictured many obstacles in the way.  What I encountered was quite the opposite.  I have been extremely blessed by new friendships, a wonderful teaching job, and beautiful surroundings.  My life has been richer because of living in the Northwest.

Now I find myself at the next big adventure in my life.  I have always had a desire to teach those less fortunate and to be a part of a different culture.  I absolutely love teaching and have always seen this as an avenue to one day serve overseas.  After graduating from college, I went to Haiti where I was able to volunteer in an orphanage.  My plan was to teach there for 6 months, but due to the political climate, I had to return to the states after 3 weeks.  This trip solidified my desire and made me hope for something more to come later down the road.  I have now been teaching in Washington for 5 years.  I couldn't think of a profession i'd rather do.  I have a blast learning alongside my students and enjoying the time we have together, discovering new things and growing together.  I now get to take all that i've learned through my first five years of teaching and apply it in a different culture. 

I will be working at the African Bible College Academy in Lilongwe, Malawi.  This is a Christian school that provides an education for both missionary children as well as local Malawians.  I will arrive in Malawi on August 1st and spend a year there teaching 1st grade.  I am both excited and nervous as I begin to prepare for this experience.  I know I will miss my family and friends tremendously and cannot imagine not sharing my experiences with you.  I have never blogged before, but I see this as an outlet to share my life with you in this next year.  I am truly grateful for your support and cannot wait to share with you!