It's happening...

Hi friends, 

       There hasn't been too much to post since last month, but I do know a couple things for sure...

       It's looking like August 23 is the BIG day to fly over, and after a few days with my aunt and uncle, I'll move into my apartment in Edinburgh on Aug. 26 or 27 (which is a lovely wee single-bedroom flat near Princes Street- right downtown by all the buses I need! Thus, no car needed.). The apartment's availability and affordability is a bit miraculous, and though I would love to live with roommates at some point, living alone may make it easier to have family/friends visit (on a hopefully-comfortable futon). I'll start work with Liberton Kirk as soon as I'm settled in, and also begin to fit into the Young Life ministry. 

       Transitioning from CCS is still in process, but we do have an excited new English teacher, so that is a big relief! Mrs. Dawn Reed is going to be a wonderful fit with the students and community at CCS. And one by one, the other roles I have are gradually being covered, so I'm trusting that the Lord will continue to bring exactly who he needs to for each area. One of the most difficult things has definitely been the idea of not directly being part of the CCS community this year- especially as it's our "20th Anniversary" year-, because CCS IS family to me, and every area I'm involved in (English, drama, Development, seniors, web page, you name it!) are challenging and delightful. If you're led to help with one of those, this is a good year to step in! :-) 

       And as far as friends, church, and family... the thought of leaving them is getting increasingly surreal, bittersweet, and scary, but everyone is so darn supportive that I guess I can't quit now! Seriously, amidst all the mixed emotions, the inner peace is still there. I have to keep remembering that a geography change doesn't mean any of those relationships are over, they'll just look different for a while. And the technology of the modern world will make it possible to stay in touch in ways that were unimaginable just a few years ago...this blog is a good example! 

       For those that have asked about financial support, I will be starting to raise that for the Young Life portion of my work, but the actual amount needed for a year of part-time work is still being figured out (partly because I'm a bit of an tax/health insurance anomaly as a dual citizen), and a tax-deductible way to give through Young Life may not be available until after I move. Their early estimate is $20,000-$25,000. I've already been given or pledged over $7,000 (almost without asking), so I have a complete peace that God will provide that when it's needed. Once there is a more specific amount and way to give tax-deductibly, I'll share that. 

       It's true that finances are a significant need, so I don't want to downplay that or minimize what God has and will abundantly provide in that way, but honestly, words of encouragement and the prayers over me have meant just as much if not more. I'm a "words" person, so to hear or read words (especially Scripture!!) that bless and support what God is doing in this season is so meaningful to me. Thank you, thank you, thank you for any prayer or encouragement you have given me- those (many) times of fear don't stand a chance against affirmation of God's hand in this. 

       Last but not least, if you read this in time, there's a "Scottish Send-Off" at CCS (35716 Royalton Rd, Grafton, OH 44044) tomorrow on Sun, Aug. 11 that is open to anyone and everyone from 2-4pm (open house style, come when you like). It's a chance for me to say good-bye to as many people as I can at one time! :-)

       Thanks, all! Feel free to comment (hopefully I set that up right) or email me at rachelewillis@gmail.com with any thoughts or questions. Hope you have a lovely day today. :-)