March Madness

My March madness has nothing to do with basketball. Every time someone brings up basketball or anything normal I feel so disconnected. My brain is divided between Peru, Pine Lake, and CCC (in no particular order) and I have trouble thinking about normal life. Shopping no longer holds enjoyment and I felt uncomfortable in a mall. There is also this intense need to spend time with people and talk to my family on the phone. Spanish tutoring with my good friend SariElaine starts tomorrow!

This is the busy season at school and things are getting ready to wind up for the race to the end. The Evening with the Arts and my Chorus concert are a week apart in April, after that it is all down hill at school. I am presenting to the CCC mission board the same week as the Art Show. I am praying for the Lord to guide that meeting and my relationship with the church here in Huntersville.

I have been tirelessly preparing paperwork and documents to get ready for my move to Peru. Paper work is not my strength. I am praying that I don't miss a step.

The paperwork that is most nerve racking is the renewal process for my NC Teaching License. My renewal cycle is up in June. I worked really hard on getting all of my papers in order (almost 9 years of certificates and documents from 3 institutions). I mailed it out this week and the state of NC says they won't review the document until after April 15. This late date gives me no time to correct any errors, should any come up, before I move in June. I pray every day not to stress out and worry about this. I trust the Lord but not the NC Dept. of Public Instruction. The Lords will be done!

I have created and sent out my first round of prayer support cards and packets. I was really proud of the way things turned out and am learning how to trust the Lord more completely with finances and provision.

I have spent countless hours researching my new home. I am sure that nothing can adequately paint a picture of what it is really like there.

Here is what I have read so far (some are a little crazy):

• Miraflores is the area of Lima where the school is located. It is one of the most modern areas in Lima. With most of the comforts of the states.
• I am not supposed to allow government officials to bribe me should they ask.
• Ceviche is something I might need to try before I get to Peru
• Peru is foggy and humid most of the year and only sunny in the summer months. The climate is generally mild. 
• The poverty level in Peru is not rising but there are many "Young Towns" (shanty towns) surrounding the city.
• There are several bilingual churches in the area. 
• My biggest expense will be housing
• An average lunch out is $2-$3 (this includes appetizers, entree, and drink)
• I have to pack things I need in suitcases and can't ship things
• I can only pack one wind instrument (per the Peruvian customs)
• I shouldn't wear earrings because my ears might get torn off during a mugging
• I should line my purse with chicken wire to "knife proof" it from muggers

As you can see I've been incredibly busy. Through all the madness I am still so excited about what God has for me in Peru. I have a renewed sense of purpose and focus.

I am holding tight to Psalm 112:7-8 "I will not fear bad news; my heart will be steadfast, trusting in the Lord. My heart is secure, I will have no fear; in the end I will look in triumph on my foes."

Blessings for today,