Blogging again... a new chapter in my life

So, I decided to start blogging again... not that I really haven't been blogging before on my home website or on my Xanga years ago. Then, of course, there's Facebook, but all of the posts are short and not in depth, and do I really want 400 "friends" seeing everything I think and feel all the time? Granted, there are a whole lot more people that could see this blog, but the chances are very slim, and I want only those who really know me to be able to glimpse into my daily world, without people "staring down" my every move...

I've missed blogging. I've missed being able to pour out my heart and my daily thoughts. It's been a long time -- a really long time. I love to write, and I love reading what I write. It causes me to reflect and think about all the good times of the past and in doing so prepares me for the future. Funny concept, huh?

I leave Norway in two and a half weeks. It's bittersweet for sure. I never thought I would be leaving after being here for almost 6 years, but God has called me back home. I can't deny it, and He has given me such peace about it all. A year ago, I wouldn't have even thought about moving back to LA, so I know it is God who has changed my heart and prepared me for what is next. It will be sad to leave all I love here, but I know that God is bring about yet another incredible season in my life. I am greatly anticipating all He has for me. God is good!

When I'm back in LA, I'm going to be looking for a job and buying a car. Highly practical things to do, but I really feel this is what God has called me to for the moment. Also, I want to serve in my home church. I want to give back all they have invested in me these past years while I've been in Norway. And I know God can work through me as a missionary wherever I go, so I know His hand is upon me in this process of moving back home.

I've already been looking for jobs, and I am hopeful. Even with the tough economic times lately, there are still jobs in administration -- tons of them! I am just praying for a job with a good salary, that I can get to easily (because I have no car), where I thrive with my work and co-workers, with good benefits, and good vacation time. I will, after all, be traveling back to Norway next year to attend a good friend's wedding. Date and time are still to be determined, but I am set on coming back for the wedding. It is one I would never dare miss!

Oh... so many things still yet to do and prepare and get ready to go. I've been sick all week and not much has gotten done. This has been an incredibly inconvenient time to be sick, let me tell you, three weeks before I go. I am extremely grateful that I got as much as possible done over the past few months. Stress is almost non-existent, and I keep chugging along, getting things done. Soon, everything will be over, but until then, I strive to get things done with the little energy I do have being sick this week.

Well, this post turned out to be longer than I expected, but it feels good to pour out my heart and emotions and life stories again in a blog... hopefully this will happen more often. It's a good release and a good place for me to keep writing.

Until next time,

Gretchen