The Crazy Adventures of an American Mzungu

I returned to Boise on January 3rd. And let me tell you -- it has been a whirlwind of emotions! I cannot explain the way my heart longs to be back with the beautiful faces I had the pleasure of meeting. However, I love seeing familiar faces once more, and watching eyes light up as I share the triumphs and hardships I faced, and the plans God placed on my heart. I am amazed at those who have that spark in their eyes. People I barely knew (and even people I never met until coming home) are some of the most excited. I cannot even express how that blesses my heart! On top of meeting with loved ones, God has been working greatly in my heart. The church I attend always starts a new year with three weeks of fasting and prayer. I have taken that time to seek God in my reentry. I need God's direction in my life, as well as a job as I start life over in America. I know God is a mighty big God (as my favorite Ugandan worship song says, "He is always by my side"). I know He will put...

No part of me can believe that I have been back in America for a month. This concept blows my mind. Every time I wake up, I feel the need to wake up from my dream, to wake up under the safety of my mosquito net. To already be drenched in sweat, even though the sun just rose. However, I am no longer in Uganda. Slowly this reality is setting into my mind. Adjusting has been interesting. I have learned that store clerks do not appreciate it when you try and bargain. I mean come on, I am giving your business plenty, the least you could do for me is give me a good deal! I also had to teach myself how to drive all over again. Speed limits. Traffic lights. Stop signs. Traffic police that are not just stationed in one place. These all seem so foreign to me once more. But praise God! I was able to purchase a Subaru Legacy last week. I named her Sandra, and she will be an excellent car while I am still around. I am excited to see where she will take me! I have been in Vancouver with my family ...