8 days and counting :)

It seems surreal that I will be in South Africa in solely eight days.

Sitting at home in New Jersey in the pouring rain- it doesn't seem like it is actually going to happen soon.

My brother just got married to our beautiful new sister, Lindsay Jackman! It was amazing as well as encouraging to be at the wedding with so many strong Christians following what God has planned for them. The wedding was God- centered; I am so excited for their relationship with one another to see what is in store for them in both the close and distant future!

Financially, everything has been falling into place and has been a huge blessing. So many people have graciousally contributed to my trip which I am so thankful of and for. It is amazing how everything is slowly falling into place through support from my family and friends, to finances, to seeing everything leading up to being in South Africa loving these children.

Life has been bittersweet. Even though it sounds crazy, it is hard having so many amazing friends and family members in my life. It is such a blessing to have so many wonderful people in my life; however, it is extremely difficult to get up and leave the people you love. I know I am supposed to go to South Africa, and I know it will be extremely rewarding and have a purpose; however, it was nonetheless hard to say bye to my family and friends at my brother's wedding, and it will be hard to say bye to my parents and family/friends at home.

I think about how blessed my childhood was compared to how so many children in South Africa are abandoned on the streets: in public restrooms, trash dumps, toilets, etc. It is surreal to hear this; I can not fathom children actually being abandoned like this. I am trying to prepare my heart for these children.

This organization I will be working with sounds truly amazing. There is an adoption agency connected with the orphanage that connects the children to strong Christian households.

Only 8 days to go :) thanks for all the prayers and support.