Spring is in the air!

Ok, so I have been absolutely horrible at updating this thing. But, it's time for an update and to fill you all in on some new things going on here and in my life. I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter and celebrated it with family and friends. Christ is risen!! He is risen indeed!!! What a wonderful truth we have to hold onto and celebrate not just one time a year, but every day.

My Easter holiday was wonderful. One major reason was the blessing of a visit from my FIANCE!!! That's right! I'm ENGAGED!! My boyfriend, now fiance, came to visit me in Germany over Easter. We had an amazing time together and he totally surprised me and asked me to marry him on Easter Sunday night. What an amazing God we serve who has provided for us so abundantly. Coleman and I met while preparing to serve overseas and have been "dating" long distance for over a year. I won't bore you with all the details of our story but let's just suffice it to say that the Father has provided more strength for us during the past year and more direction and peace than we could have ever imagined. And now, we are getting married!! I rejoice in HIS goodness to us!

Along with new things like engagements, the weather is beginning to change here in Germany. Trees are sprouting green again and the temperature is rising. I mean, it's not as warm as east Tennessee yet, but it's getting there. Actually, I'm still wearing my winter coat a good bit of the time but the sun is certainly making more appearances than it has in months. I LOVE IT!!! I love the energy that comes with warmer weather. The streets are filling with people and the cafes have set up their outdoor seating. It's just so much fun!

I have also started an English club in my apartment and it is going fairly well. Numbers vary from 9 to 1 or 2 from meeting to meeting but it's been wonderful to spend time with my neighbors and know them better. I've especially began spending a lot more time with my neighbor, Marty. She is wonderful!! I can't tell you how blessed I am to have her in my life. We have coffee together, go on walks and just visit several times a week. She is a great friend and I am really going to miss her when I return to the States. More than anything though, I want to leave knowing she has a relationship with the Son and is experiencing the joy that comes from knowing Him and resting in His love. She is beautiful inside and out and I pray she knows it through Christ!

I've only 9 months or so left here in Germany and I want to make the very most of it! My plan is to spend time with friends, loving them and serving them and to leave this place exhausted because I gave it my all. The Father has been more than gracious to allow me to live and serve Him here. It's been an amazing experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything! Pray for me to finish well and to pour out His love on everyone I meet. I thank you all so much for your prayers and support. Know that I couldn't have made this journey without each and every one of you! Until next time...