XXV

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This is the start of something new. It is exciting. Overwhelming. Terrifying. Heartbreaking. Thrilling. Magical. The big move. In the past three weeks, my life went from a planned holiday in the States to permanently returning on July 21. 

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If you haven't heard... I decided that I am moving home after living in Berlin for two and half years. I have accepted a first-grade teaching position in a beloved elementary school in my hometown. I am very excited to join the district and start this next chapter of my career. 

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This was not an easy decision for myself and I continue to wrestle with it. Saying that I am confident that I did make the right decision for my career. I believe strongly that this is what God has planned for my life. It has been amazing how doors have opened so easily and everything is lined up one after another. I can't explain it but I'm oh so thankful that it has been a smooth process so far. 

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As you can imagine, one thing that makes this move hard is my students and friends. The news did not go over well with students and parents, alike. It broke my heart. With one parent, we hugged and cried together for five minutes. After having the opportunity to talk with them, they have been amazingly supportive and know it is good for me to be with my family. Every day I receive cards saying "We will miss you!" It pulls at my heart string every time. Before all of this, I planned a learning family picnic on a Saturday. This was a very special event that we planned back in February. Everyone brought food and we spent the day soaking up the sun. 

Spent the day at the lake with my kiddos. 

Got food? My families know that food is so important! Ha! 

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While all these changes are happening around me, I am planning and preparing for the move but to also enjoy every minute in Berlin. I have found a new love with Facebook events to search out new things to do. I have actually had to slow down just so I can rest a bit from time to time. As well as normal summer parties, the Eurocup is taking place. It has been a very nail-biting, exciting experience. Of course, I'm clearly rooting for Germany (can you believe that win over Italy!!?!?!), but I also have a friend from Portugal. I've been tagging along for those games and have fallen in love with the camaraderie between the fans. I will miss this city BIG time and can't wait for my return. 

After a long week, one can't think of going out... Eurocup, pizza, and wine. Best way to spend a night in. 

25

 XXV. That's right I have hit the big 2-5; half of 50; a quarter of a century. I'm 25. I'm not sure why but that number just sounds so adult. Like the number where your life should be together. And the funny thing is- sometimes I think it is. I figure things out. I make it work. I make the tough choices just don't ask me where I want to eat tonight. I mean, yeah, I cooked box macaroni and cheese tonight but who hasn't done that? OK, as I read over that I'm dying! I don't know what I'm doing with my life and that's alright. I don't need to. I will say 25 has been so good to me already- I'm going to love this year. 

For my birthday, my dear sweet friend organized to have dinner at my favorite Italian place. It was so amazing to have my very close friends there to celebrate and our favorite chief! Here are some photos from the night. 

Lastly, I want to say thank you. Thank you for those who are being patient with me as I make this transition. I know I will have reversed culture shock- I always do when I come home even for the summer. So thank you as you give me time and space. And thank you to those who have seen me stressed, excited, emotional, joyful and feeling overwhelmingly loved in the last weeks. You have been so kind and forgiving. 

All my love from the streets of Berlin. 

xoxox