до свидания

As i sit here in the airport in Moscow, getting ready to fly out for the last time, there are many thoughts and emotions that I am dealing with. We'll see if I can get through typing this blog without losing it completely (I'll let you know at the end). 15 & 1/2 years ago, God brought me here, and I had no idea what He had in store for me. Looking back, the only word that comes to mind is "WOW!" What a journey it's been! In one sense, I am closing the book on this chapter in my life. I know I will be back to visit, but my life is getting ready to take a completely different route on this journey, and just like 15 yrs ago, I don't have any idea what is going to happen.

There are many things that I will miss about Moscow and many things that i won't miss. At one point I had started my Top 10 list of what I would and wouldn't miss, but never quite finished that. So let me tell you some of those top 10. I will miss the beauty of summer here and the beauty of winter. I will miss the snow but not the bitterly cold temperatures or the winds that literally chill you to the bones. I will miss the ease of public transportation and not having to deal with car repairs, insurance or gas; but I will not miss the throngs of people that crowd into the metros, nor the lovely smells that accompany them. I will miss the view from my kitchen window, but not the late night drunken parties or the constant flow of car alarms. I will miss a lot of Russian food -- blini, schwarma, Black bread, pelmeni, and smoked cheese. I will miss being able to walk most anywhere. In Florida it's too hot to do most anything outside, especially walk from place to place.

But most of all, I will miss the people who have changed my life. I will miss my roomates, my close family at Hinkson, and the most amazing students in the world. I will miss their hugs and their laughter. I will miss late night poker parties at my apt. I will miss the interaction that comes with being a teacher and relationships that I have built here.

All of this being said, I know that wherever God leads me next, I will carry Russia in my heart forever. I am leaving Russia with 3 suitcases, and 2 carry-ons but I am leaving pieces of my heart here.

P.S...I didn't cry during this blog write. In the words of Michael Card..."There is a joy in the journey. There's a light we can love on the way. There is a wonder and wildness to life, and freedom for those who obey." Here is to finding that joy!

до свидания.