Do you believe it? World Race Launch is in six days! On my way to Georgia, for launch, I look a detour to Little Rock, Arkansas! I lived there before Washington, so this week has been filled with seeing old friends and visiting familiar places. It’s only been four days since I left, but I’ve surprisingly learned things I didn’t even think of from the beginning.

First, I learned something very important about traveling. Definitely something that should’ve been obvious, but Julia needs to pack WAY lighter. Just because I want everything doesn‘t mean I need everything. Leaving for nine months is a full step of faith. You should bring what you need rather than want, and need to seek God everyday so that you can be content anywhere you’re at.

Secondly, no matter how many times you do it, goodbyes are alway difficult. I’ve moved four times before. Every time it’s a little hard. Its a time to start over again: to make new friends, say goodbye to good ones, get new jobs, and find my place at a new church. The only constant was that I always had my family. So saying goodbye was a change that I’ll have to get adjusted to. This change teaches me to rely on God and the people he’s going to put in my life to walk with me every step of the way.

Thirdly, God is great at providing friends. Since I’ve been in Arkansas, I’ve gotten together with many friends and every time we hang out like we were never separated. Of course, we talk about the three years apart and our new goals and plans. However, even though we’ve changed, when we get together we just pick up where we left off. I am so thankful for the friends God has provided. He already has a plan for my life, chose me before I was born, and hand picked the people I would come in contact with. Everyday proves the glory of God.

So it’s been four days since I left Washington. If anyone asks, “how’s Julia’s trip going so far?” It’s been terrific! I got to my first stop safely, been seeing many old friends, and learning things I’ve never thought of before. Thank you God for being right beside me!