Week three..

Hanmer was a lovely gett-a-way for us staff. We spent heaps of time in intercessary prayer for the direction of the base and the schools. It has been so refreshing and I appriecate seeking God for the small and big things. I've finally settled in my room with the three other backbacker staff. It's been fabulous, I'm still with everybody, but can be a bit more independent. Us girls have moved our double beds together as one gaint queen sized bunk bed. I share a douve with a Kiwi!

My room mates are:
Kerian (NZ)
Natalie (USA) but lived everywhere, Germany, Thailand...
Nicki USA (OR)

We've been winding down staff training which has been a 9-5er every day, which can be a bit draining. We did personality and spiritual gifts tests yesterday and I loved getting the insights on people. It's been a wonderful month of close, but unforced community! I don't think I'd have the energy for the fast track right now anyways. God is slowly bringing back the joy in YWAM community, and I don't feel like I need to "get space". I've been reserved here, but I know it's not the time to hold back. It's a second chance really, and I'm so thankful God gave me the 2 yr time frame, otherwise I couldn't imagine where I'd be if I hadn't gone back to deal with this. I can see how toxic Oak Ridge was, and even in our staff training things are jumping off the pg in warning to what was happening. I feel so much stronger and sure of myself this time around. A shout out to Marion and Jackie, who read my blog every week together! I'm stoked this is a routine activity! It's inspired me to be faithful to write weekly on time!

My parents are coming to visit on the 24th of Nov. If ANYONE else feels inspired to come on down, I'd highly recommend it! Thank you sisters for your cards of support- I've started a new journal, and they've all made the first pg! I appriecate mail so much!
Loves from the South side,
Laura