reflections

i've never been too great at goodbyes..or the first hello when meeting someone new for that matter..and seeing that both of these things are running back to back right now makes me nostalgic for the past and anxious of the future..

i truly enjoy the middle of things..it's where i'm most comfortable and content..with no ending in sight..because for me..more often than not..tears follow goodbyes..and hellos come along with those pesky..nervous butterflies..but i realize every exciting and inspiring experience must begin when others end..so even though i can't begin to describe how sad i am about leaving my friends and family..i'm equally eager to meet the new people that will be in my life in new orleans..

as some of you may know..i absolutely love collecting quotes..so i leave you with this one..

"You can kiss your family and friends good-bye,
and put miles between you,
but at the same time you carry them with you
in your heart, your mind, your stomach,
because you do not just live in a world
but a world lives within you." Frederick Beuchner

peace & love

jillian

hopes

As I'm busy tying up loose ends and packing my suitcases I have a steady stream of about a thousand different hopes and plans for my upcoming year.  For those of you who don't know I will be living and volunteering this upcoming year in the beautiful city of New Orleans with the Young Adult Volunteer Program run through the Presbyterian Church (USA).  I am still not sure of my exact volunteer placement but will know for certain within the next few days.

As part of my commitment, I need to raise 6,500 in gifts and pledges for my year of service.  If you would like to make a donation of support, checks can be made out to the Presbytery of South Louisiana with my name in the memo line and sent to the following address:

Kathy Lee
YAV Coordinator
Presbytery of South Louisiana
3700 Gentilly Blvd.
New Orleans, LA 70122

Throughout this entire process of preparing myself for a year long mission i can't help but be reminded of a certain church hymn I have always held dear to my heart.  To me, The Summons has always struck me as the epitome of what God calls us to do; trust in him and serve those in need.  I would like to sincerely thank everyone for your support whether it be in gifts, prayers, or friendship I truly appreciate everything you all have to offer. I look forward to sharing my experiences with you here.

peace and love,
Jillian