november 2022.

Hello friends! Can you believe we are already in December? As always, the days seem long, but the years short!

November, was a milestone month for me as I successfully completed my Masters of Special Education! The certification exam was very challenging and I give all glory to God for seeing me through this program. Two years really flew by! I was showered with love by my coworkers and am grateful for this extra time on my hands. I have been pleasure reading a lot more lately and spending time with friends! It feels so nice not having looming assignments and deadlines. Thank you to each and every one of you who sent encouraging words and prayers for me as I completed this endeavor.

“Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think.” -Ephesians 3:20

This month at school consisted of a class taco party, learning about fossils and the creatures God has made, mastering our multiplication facts, and filling up our gratitude journals! I love my group of kiddos so much! They bring so much joy and light to my life. What a gift it is to be their teacher. My gratitude journal had an entry just for these sweet students at least every day!

While there have been many exciting things happening, truthfully this month has also been very difficult for me. Last month, I shared with you my decision to not sign on for another year at this school. I had hoped I would begin to feel the anticipation of moving closer to my family and return to the wonderful country that is Canada exciting, but in reality, I’ve been met with a lot of mixed emotions. This country and the life I have built here is beautiful. I am so thankful I trusted in the Lord’s call in leading me here. I am so grateful for the three years I have lived here. I know that I need to trust in His plan for the next season of my life. I would really appreciate prayer as I navigate what God is calling me to next, how to live this year out well, and to feel His peace amidst all of the unknowns. I have always found transition challenging and this one feels very big! I sincerely thank you for your prayers!!

This month also held American Thanksgiving, which for me, meant a long weekend! I am so thankful for the opportunity for some much needed rest and time spent with God. I found this amazing lodge a few hours away called “The Ark,” an ode to Noah’s Ark! It was built around a watering hole, so I was able to see some awesome animals grabbing a drink while I spent some time in God’s presence.

Some updates/items for prayer:

-These next two weeks of instruction, grading, report cards, and teaching students why we celebrate Christmas and where our focus should be.

-One of my dearest friends is coming to visit! Prayer for smooth travels, safety, and a time of wonderful memories to be made.

-My family.

-Prayer for me to feel clarity and confidence in stepping out in obedience to what God is calling me to.

-My local Kenyan friends this Christmas season. For time with family, finances, and authentic faith.

-One of my coworkers, him and his wife, lost their baby at 8 months pregnant. Please pray for them during this time of loss and grieving. Prayer that we can come alongside them as a community to love and support them.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to let me know how I can be praying for you this season too!

-j.