Ten.

As this semester comes to a close and my life will be forced to change once again, I can't help but be reflective.

In ten days, I will be a junior.  I can't fully comprehend it.  But, I embrace it.  I'm excited.  I am ready - I am trusting and following.

In ten days, I will be moving out of my apartment and will be temporarily relocated.  This is interesting, but it will work.  I will be staying in Minneapolis for the summer and, unfortunately, I will not be a Summer Missionary this year.  But as sad as that makes me, I have plenty of things to keep me busy here.  I am continuing my research into the summer - more time and more freedom.  I will still be volunteering at HCMC and then adding shadowing to the list.  I am also playing softball, teaching Sunday school, and looking for another job.  Oh, and I'm writing a children's book.

And in ten days, I have to say goodbye.  I guess there are several things that I have to "say goodbye to", but the only thing I'm concerned about it leaving my best friends.  I would be lying if I told you that I haven't been brought to tears over the thought of saying goodbye.  I know that this probably sounds silly or excessive or whatever, but I'm so incredibly blessed to have these people in my life that it's overwhelming.  I've realized the beauty in Christian fellowship, love without judgment, and unspeakable joy - and it scares me to put distance between that.  They both know that this year was incredibly difficult for me, but they were always there.  So friends, here's to you!

----------------------------------------------------------------

-Bekah-

I love the story of how Bekah and I met and came to be roommates - clearly orchestrated by our Father.  I love the person that she has been in my life; she has listened to my frustrations, held me while I've cried, and calmed my anxieties.  But, I don't only love her for the person that she is to me - I just love her for who she is.  She is a strong and beautiful artist, friend, and woman of God.

Bekah, it breaks my heart to realize that you won't be coming back in the fall - but, I am so excited for where the Lord is taking you.  You'll be great - wherever you end up and whatever you will be doing - you will be great.  Thank you for all the late night conversations about our futures, our fears, Jesus, Utmost, theology and for all the laughter about nothing and everything.  

I miss you already.

----------------------------------------------------------------

-Beth-

I'm trying to think of one of the first times that I was with Beth and I can't stop thinking of the night when we rearranged door decorations.  In the dorms last year, a few of us decided to swap the name tags on the doors.  And after we were done, we were going back to Mike's room - but, Beth busted into a strangers room instead and scared some unsuspecting students.  So good.  As our relationship has gotten stronger, Beth has become more of a voice in my life - and I'm not sure that she believes that.  But, we've grown into a mutual trust and honesty that I cherish it so much.  I excited to continue to grow in the Word with you.  

Beth, you are so beautiful.  You have this optimistic way about you that is so awesome and something I desire.  I'm so glad that I can laugh with you, go on silly adventures with you, and bond over all we have in common.  Your have this incredible desire for life and happiness and fun - it's exciting and contagious.  I'm looking forward to next year - it will be great.

----------------------------------------------------------------

It feels like you two have always been in my life.  And I can't imagine you ever not being there.  Love.