A Bittersweet Good-bye

I really thought I would have the time in Africa to reflect on my life and what is next. I imagined that I would have lots of time to journal and pray and get comfortable with solitude. Instead, I feel like it has been a whirlwind since the first week until the last week in South Africa. This has been a blessing in a lot of ways. It's kept me from becoming homesick and it means I got connected into the life of the church quickly. There is such a need in the community that I could keep myself busy at all times. But, I am still seeking some of that alone time to force me to figure out the next step. I have the feeling that Malawi will be just the place for it.

My time here in South Africa has been "more" than I could have ever expected. More growing, more challenging, more fun, more rewarding. God has grown me hugely here and I won't be the same because of it. It has also been preparatory, preparing me for Malawi and the things I will encounter there as a nurse. I'm so thankful I came here first and that my time was extended. It will be hard to say good-bye to new friends, but I have a strong feeling that I will be back here. I'm not sure yet in what capacity or at what time, but I know that I will return.

My last week here will be just as busy. My dear friends, John and Erin, from Newberg arrive today continuing there around the world adventure. I get to spend 5 days with them before I leave and we plan to visit Soweto and some museums, eat great food, and catch up. This weekend is Cherish, a women's weekend here at the church, so I'm also hoping to go to that before heading out on Sunday to Malawi. I will hopefully post one more time before leaving.

A few pictures of my past few weeks:

The clinic threw a going away party for me. They were so sweet and I really appreciated it.

More clinic party.

Doing a training on blood pressure to the home based care team. Ignore how terrible of a picture this is of me. :->


Anna practicing taking a blood pressure. I did 4 trainings on how to take blood pressure and it's importance for the home based care team.

Mowing the lawn in the township. Takes a little longer than at home.