Half Way Done!

I am now at the half way point of finishing my year in England. Thinking about this is very bittersweet. I mean I miss everyone in Washington so badly and really cannot wait to see them again, but I also know the people I have met this year in England will forever share this bond with me and hold a very special place in my heart. Just last night I was talking to my housemate Caroline about what we will be doing when this year finishes and it was one of the first times I have stopped to think about how hard its going to be to go back home. This year in London has by far been the most challenging year of my entire life, but in the same way it has been one to make me really find out who I am and what I want to be.
Today is a beautiful Sunday morning and I sit on my bed just reminiscing about all I have been through thus far. I know alot of you guys in Washington here most of the struggles I face here because that's what I call on you to pray for mostly. But I haven't really stopped to tell you just how incredible it is here either.

Over this year I have really learned what it means to be an extrovert and an introvert. This may come as a shock but I am on the spectrum of extroverts. I get my energy from being around other people and I feel most comfortable in a large group. That being said I begin to think what in the world was I thinking coming all this way by myself then?? Amazingly enough, it is just what I needed. I needed to be pushed out of my comfort zone and into a surrounding where I didn't know anyone or anything. Let me tell you, I have never felt more like I could hold my own then after experiencing this. But it also made me realize that no matter where I go, I am not alone. So many times this year I have come home, ran up to my room, and just fallen on my knees crying out to God, needing to feel Him holding my hand. And every single time He hasn't just held my hand, He has wrapped Himself all around me. I don't find myself walking towards the cross here, I am full on sprinting trying to get as close as I can because His awe and power and mercy and grace, wow it astounds me!!! Just writing this I find tears running down my cheeks because I am just overcome with joy and peace and I feel Him!!

Nothing makes me happier then going into the schools I teach and being tackled with kids giving hugs and saying, "Jeralee Jeralee!! When are you going to take me for my lesson next?" These kids here are absolutely incredible and have taught me so much. They come from such rough backgrounds and experience such hard things everyday that I just am shocked by the strength they have. I know when I go back to Washington these kids are going with me. For the rest of my life I will hold each and every one close and dear to my heart. I want them so badly to see what Jesus can do for them, and although I will be leaving them I have faith they will find Him as I pray for them each and everyday for the rest of my life.

For those of you back at home reading this, I want you to know that YOU have been on this journey with me every step of the way. I have never felt more loved then when this ocean is separating us but yet the power of your prayers and encouragement has seemed as though it were right next to me!! Every facebook message and wall post, every text, every email, every letter, I truly cherish. You wouldn't believe how things you have written to me are posted all over my walls in my room here reminding me constantly of the love and family I have supporting me along this way!

Health this year has been rough and satan has tried to take the best of me, but he hasn't and he won't! No matter what goes on inside my body I am here to do the Lord's work and He has me right where I need to be.

I am on fire for Jesus and you better believe this is only the beginning of my mission work for Him!!

I love you all and though I don't always get the chance to say it, your support and prayers mean everything to me!!!

Let's go worship the Lord today and everyday people!!!