return from the dead

So...I'm back! Did ya miss me? Of course you did- who are you kidding?!

Exactly one month has passed between entries-- and can you ever explain an entire month in a nutshell?...well- here goes!

So I cam home from Oxford and saw my wonderful family, passed out souvenirs and humorous European anecdotes, and then it was off to the sorority house to help out with the last bit of Formal Recruitment (in non PC terms: rush). Recruitment was cool- seeing my girls was the best part, but I continued to live out of boxes for about half a month. School began, work began, activities began, sleep did not begin, but Bart may have had something to do with that. I was so busy during the days that we only had my evenings to catch up on our relationship- which is normal for us...as normal as we ever were.

I was insane and zombie-like for quite some time, but eventually I returned to the fabulous young lady you all know and love. Classes are interesting and difficult, the BSM is off to a great start- God is so present there, and A Xi D had a kick-butt recruitment and we have a multitude of incredible new ladies. I am on the last of the unpacking- maybe my room will be finished by the time I need to move out. :)

Bart and I are another story. We parted at the airport yesterday as he left for Spain, not to return again to our current status. He travels as my friend, returns as my friend, and will continue to be a precious blessing in my life... but as my friend. God is in this, guys. As much as I want to fight it and hold on, God is in this. I haven't closed the door completely, but for now, my heart has to pretend that it is closed in order to heal. Time is on my side, even though I wish it would hurry up a little. I have, however, discovered a strength I didn't know I had, which is becoming a very dear companion. I say what is on my heart and mind, not holding much back, and it is gratifying to me. Things are good- I promise.

Please pray for Bart in Spain. He is there as a missionary through GO NOW mission, and he will be there until I pick him up from the airport on December 19th. Please also pray for his team mate Shannah and for Lindsey and Caleb, his contacts there. Bart is taking Spanish classes, tutoring English, and doing what Bart does best-- sitting in coffee shops and hanging out with people. Pray that he will be effective in his ministry and that he will have the wisdom to step back and allow God to work through him. And Bart- watch out for those Spanish women! :)

Photos and more to come- I'm just glad to break the silence. Is anyone still reading this thing?