Consolidation Notes

Having caught up on last semester, Christmas break, and my favorite little Californians, it seemed fitting to give a brief update on the Bible School consolidation.

So here you are: the facts, plus a few feelings thrown in for free.

• Our campus's last semester has started, which is all kinds of strange and sad and hard to believe.

• I was asked to continue working at the consolidated school in the same primary roles I currently have: guest hospitality and business/finances.  It will look a bit different, I'm sure, but it's a less dramatic transition than some of my teammates are facing.

• My tentative (though not 100% confirmed) timeline for moving is mid-July.  This year.  (How is it "this year" already?!)

• I am thankful for those, particularly those in leadership, who have made an effort to reach out to us as individuals, to listen to thoughts or concerns, and to communicate regularly as more information becomes available.

• Some days I'm surprised by how routine and steady life seems.  Even though I know there is a big move looming on the horizon, daily life - for the most part - is a simple, predictable routine with a productive-but-not overwhelming pace.  I count this as complete grace, and I'm so grateful for the things the Lord has shown me in this area.

• Making lists and writing things down is infinitely helpful to me.  It helps me process things (like a big move).  It settles the ping-pong thoughts that sometimes bounce around in my head crazily (if they're written down, I don't worry about forgetting them).  It also gives me a better idea of the big picture (the visual of a list, whether written down on real paper or on the computer, is much easier to work with than a nebulous bunch of thoughts in my head).

• I will miss this place so much...the school itself, my church, our quiet unassuming little town, the state's gorgeous scenery, my cute house.  Every place I've ever lived has felt like home eventually, and I know that will be true for this move as well.  Still - for now - I'm quite sad about leaving and it would be dishonest to pretend otherwise.

• Not all of my teammates here will be making the move, and that makes me sad.  So many layers of change and goodbyes we're facing.  BUT...I'm so glad that some very dear friends will be moving with me.  Again, I know this such a grace-gift.