Summer 2022 Update - with pictures!
Dear friends,
I hope you are all enjoying your summer!
Last time I wrote, I was hopeful that I would be going to Japan this summer. However, that didn't end up happening. The main reason is because Japan's borders were still partially closed. The borders are slowly starting to be less and less restricted, and the good news is I’m still planning to go to Osaka next summer with Encompass!
I completed the application process with Encompass World Partners and officially got accepted! Applying to a missions sending agency has been such a cool process that I’ve really enjoyed. I’ve gotten to know the staff and also myself more through the process. I’m excited that Encompass will be my sending organization! I still have a few more steps to finish the application process for long-term workers, but for now I will be focusing on preparing for the 2-month internship in Japan next summer, with the intention of eventually moving to Osaka long term with them.
One blessing of not traveling this summer is that it has allowed me to focus on my health. I’ve dealt with some autoimmune and digestive disorders, and I am currently seeing a new integrative doctor to get some answers and healing so I’ll be healthy when I do get to travel! I’m also doing a life-coaching program to work on spiritual and emotional health and healing. My desire for the rest of this year is to rest and invest in my overall health so that I am able to fully serve others when that time comes. This year I’m also continuing to work as an intern at my church, caregiving for a friend, babysitting, and spending time with international students through ISI.
I've had a break from school this summer, which has been so nice! In the fall, I will attend the local community college to complete my general education classes, which will transfer to Eternity Bible College and allow me to graduate in the spring! Only 2 more semesters to go!
Here’s a few highlights from the past months!
(some have slideshows, scroll to see more pictures!)
My sister Kyla got married in April!! Woohoo! It was SO fun being in her wedding and getting to celebrate with them! Looking forward to visiting them in Colorado next week.
My church put on VBS last month, and I had the privilege of helping in the missions room as part of my internship! I had an amazing time helping plan, coordinate, decorate, and lead the room. We had about 250 kids come through in rotations each day, and each day we decorated the stage differently, dressed up, and “traveled” to different areas around the world. The kids learned about poverty, hunger, refugees, and natural disasters. They also raised over $2,000 for Children’s Hunger Fund, which sends food packs to families in need around the world!
Got to celebrate 2 of my friends, Amber and Zack, who graduated from EBC!
My birthday was last month and I'm so thankful for friends who celebrated with me!
ISI spring graduation party - we got to celebrate 2 students who were graduating. I always enjoy our Friday night dinners and discussions!
I got to see a friend recently who I haven't seen in over 4 years! She had a layover at LAX airport, so I picked her up and we hung out for a few hours. I'm so thankful for this sweet time and for our friendship!
I've been going on lots of hikes lately! Thankful for friends to enjoy nature with!
Painting class with my friend Rachel!
Thanks for being part of my journey. I am thankful for all of you! More updates to come later this year as I begin the support raising process for next summer!
Blessings,
Allana
