P-town

As most people that know me now know, I'm back in Portland for a little while. I expect to be here at least through the end of September, though I really don't know. It all depends on how quickly (or slowly!) the UK government process my work visa stuff. It's already been a long process, and they are way behind their own timetables, so it's anyone's guess how long it will take.

In the mean time I'm back in Portland, my hometown for the last 26 years. I really love this city at this time of year, and the weather has been pretty nice, even on the really hot days. I think having A/C (or "air con", as they say in the UK) in my bedroom might have a lot to do with my not minding the hot days.

It's been strange to be home, mostly because it feels so normal. I guess I didn't think I would click so easily into things being automatic here. I drove Kathleen's car on the first day I was back and I didn't even once feel like I was on the wrong side of the road or anything like that. I think it's because in this context it's normal to be on the right side of the road, so I just did what is normal in this context.

Although I'm loving seeing everyone, enjoying the weather and resting up in this season that feels like a vacation (though I am working some still in my volunteer post with 24-7 Prayer), I am finding myself really missing the UK. I think the best way I can describe how it feel to be here is that it's like going to your parents' house after you move out. It will always feel like home, but it's not home at the same time. Now that a few things have been settled about my ongoing role with 24-7 Prayer, and I know for sure I'll be settling long-term in the town of Reading, I am anxious to put this six months of transition and living out of a suitcase to an end. I'm eager to get back to the life I'm building in England, and the community of people with which I'm putting down roots. I miss the 24-7 "London Office Gang" even more than I thought I would, and I think about everyone all day long (and especially my partner-in-crime/adopted little sis Andrea, with whom I spend outrageous quantities of my time).

But just as with everything else on this adventure, I feel certain that God has this all figured out and none of it is a surprise to Him. I just keep choosing to trust Him to work out the details, provide me with favor in my visa process, money, (hopefully) some temp work while I'm here and generally work everything out in the best way possible. It's a walk of faith, but I love a good adventure. So for now I'm enjoying home while I can.