PA takes OH

July 14, 2017

6 months.

6 months ago I took a huge step of faith and moved 400 miles away from my home.

6 months ago I began an incredible journey that I can only describe as God ordained, faith-filled, and breath taking. It has been crazy, wonderful, stressful, exciting, amazing, growing, and perfect. It hasn't been perfect because nothing has gone wrong but because I am here because God called me and I know that his plans and purposes are far greater than mine.

Here's a summary of the last 6 months.

July 14th began a love-hate relationship with my beloved car, Leia. My parents were traveling with me to help me move when 15 miles from my newfound home, my car decided to eject a spark plug. Then it almost happened again two months later. Then my belt broke twice, my AC compressor busted, and the seal on my sunroof is going.

But you see, this saga of car trouble isn't a bad thing. In fact it's quite amazing because every single time, God came through. He was with me through every malfunction and broken part. He gave me friends here, specifically one, who so freely and joyfully helped with repairs and finding parts. He gave me opportunities to trust in him with paying for repairs, with managing anxiety, and everything in between. God using stressful things like this for good - to show that He there and ready and willing to step in and help us.

July 14th also began my role as the Legacy Kids Preschool Leader at Legacy Church. In just 6 months God has already taught me so much about myself, these kids, ministry, and so much more. While writing lessons and prepping activities I find Him whispering to me the things I greatly needed to here at that time.

I remember one lesson specifically that hit me. It was back in October. I was laying on the couch typing up the lesson about how Jesus calmed the sea. I typed this sentence and just stopped.

They didn’t believe that God was going to take care of them in the storm, so they woke up Jesus to make the storm go away.

It made me realize that maybe we need to stop praying the storm away and trust that God is holding us in his hand in the midst of the storm. Sometimes it helps to here things in "kid language" so that we can take to heart what God is trying to say to us - to help us hear him clearly. And that is just one reason why I love my job so much.

Actually, I love both jobs. During the day I teach preschool at Columbus Early Learning Centers in downtown Columbus. We are an early headstart/headstart non-profit center that does everything in it's power to provide services for the kids and their families. We fight to give our kids the best education before they head to kindergarten. We feed their minds, but we also feed their hearts. We let them be kids, we teach them that it's okay to be angry but the right way to deal with it, and we teach them what it means to be a kind friend.

I get to show them the love of Jesus every day, and I couldn't be happier. While it is stressful, crazy, exhausting, and full of hurt for these kids and what they deal with, I am so blessed that God chose this place for me to be.

A year and a half ago I felt God nudging me to move to Ohio. Did I listen? No. I wanted to focus on school, my job, and my family and friends. But really, I wanted to focus on me. I wasn't ready for what He had in store for me. I spent my senior year of college ignoring the quiet nudges He was giving me because I was so caught up in what I was doing. I wasn't focused on what He wanted for me.

Then one day last February it just hit me. I whispered to myself, "I'm moving to Ohio". I graduated college on May 14th, and just 2 short months later I was on the road to my new home.

And now 6 months later I am in awe of all that God has done in me, Legacy Church, and Legacy Kids.

I can't wait to see what He has in store for these next 6 months.

Much love + blessings,

Becky

Cornfields to Skyscrapers

July 14, 2017

This date is so so dear to me. On this day, I took a giant leap of faith and moved me, myself, and I out to Columbus, Ohio. God has such a funny sense of humor and there are so many small stories that line up into one big story. God's story. His story of getting my attention and giving me the courage and boldness to follow him passionately and joyfully, wherever that would take me. On July 14, 2017, I packed up my life in PA (because who actually calls it Pennsylvania) and made the 7 hour road trip with my parents.

And now I've been here for a whole month. I wanted to write sooner, but my life in Ohio took off almost immediately and I just haven't had the chance. I moved on Friday and started my job on Monday. I am SO excited to tell you that I am a full-time preschool teacher in the city of Columbus! I also now attend and work with Legacy Church as their preschool children's leader! Now, if y'all know me at all, you know that I am NOT a city person. I like my cornfields, cows, windy roads, and open skies. But let me tell you. God has a funny sense of humor. He took this woods-and-water-and-open-spaces-loving girl and stuck her in the city with traffic, big highways, and lots of people. He took me from cornfields to skyscrapers.

I can say that this has been the most eye-opening, heart-breaking, motivating transition of my life. This is my city.

I'll say it again.

This is MY city.

In my city, in my school, these kids are broken. They don't all have the life I did or that we hope each child has. Some kids don't sleep, some don't know a parent, some switch houses frequently, and some have parents who don't understand the value of a child.

This past week has been a little crazy. I was kicked. I was hit. I was spat on. I was yelled at, disrespected, and ignored. All by children. But you see, this just makes my heart break for them even more because I KNOW they have been created for a purpose and I KNOW that they have a heavenly Father who loves and cherishes them immensely. Through all of this misbehavior, I see brokenness. I see loneliness. I see a child who just needs some pure, honest love.

It may be stressful and crazy and overwhelming, but I know that God uses these situations to help us to grow into the people He created us to be. And I know that while I am here, He is going to use me to make a difference in the lives of these children. His children.

God has brought me hear for a purpose, and it's a divine purpose. He has a plan and His plans are for good.

It's been a crazy month. But it's been a good month. And I am thankful for the many more months to come full of learning, growing, stretching, and getting uncomfortable.

Much love + blessings,

Becky

So I Will Go

My whole life I have been chasing the plans God had for me. Yeah, I had some bumps along the way. You could say I fell into a ditch and struggled to climb my way out. But I've always been faithful in stepping into the next adventure God placed at my feet.

I've been on some great adventures: traveling with Holy Hands, working with FL Kids, being on Youth Staff, teaching in Honduras for almost 2 months, teaching in North Philadelphia, embracing the life of kindergarteners, and attending the best university in the state (I promise that's a completely unbiased opinion, obviously).

//Bravely following God's call all over the world with coffee in hand and joy in my heart//

This is my mission statement. This is why I'm here. These words echo through my thoughts with each
decision I make and each step I take. There are a few more words that I strive to make true about myself.

"Living a life full of adventure."

I don't want to lead some boring, monotonous, stale life. I want excitement. I want change. I want challenge. I want to joyfully and passionately embrace each new season that God brings to my life. Each new season is a new adventure.

I'm on to my next adventure. I am so filled with joy to tell you that I will be faithfully pursuing God's plan and purpose for my life by taking a leap and moving to the suburbs of Columbus, Ohio.

It's sad to think that I will be leaving the church I have called home for the first 21 years of my life. Freedom Life has taught me so many things and brought so much passion and love for Jesus into my soul. I've met some amazing people and made the most wonderful, life-long friends. Freedom Life with always be family.

I am taking all I have learned from my pastors, mentors, leaders, and friends and bringing it to Legacy Church in Columbus, Ohio. This July begins a new season full of fun, growth, challenges, and new experiences.

I said this before beginning my student teaching, and I'll say it with each new beginning.

In the wonderful words of Bilbo Baggins, "I'm going on an adventure!".

Much love + blessings,

Becky xoxo

He Said "Go"

People ask me a lot why I like paper airplanes and why I have a tattoo of one. Well here it is kids. It's story time.

I have the coolest parents who love Jesus more than anyone I know. Their hearts for people and our Father are SO great. God called them to reach people, just like He calls all of us. But for them it was special. From the first moment I can remember, I was taught to serve. 

My earliest memories are from Florida because when I was 2 years old, my dad took a giant step of faith and moved our whole family to Pensacola. God told him to go into ministry and attend Brownsville Revival School of Ministry. I don't remember much other than our tire swing in our giant tree out back, lighting fireworks in the driveway, riding my bike with my brother and our friends, hopping the fence to go to the neighbor's, and Missionettes. What's Missionettes? Picture the Girl Scouts, except we were taught about serving, honoring, and glorifying our Lord. However, my proudest memory is standing in the kitchen with my mom while Craig ate cereal out of his green bowl with a straw and giving my life to Jesus at 5 years old.

Because of my parents' faithfulness and dedication to serving Jesus, I grew up knowing who Jesus was, what He did for me, and loving Him for it. When I was just a little girl who still loved pink and pig-tails, I went on my first missions trip with my parents. I may not remember it, but I can guarantee that I am who I am now because of that experience. 

Every minute of every day of my life, I've been taught to serve. I've been taught to honor. I've been taught to show grace and to forgive. Every day I have been taught to show Jesus to those who don't know Him, and every day I learn more and more of what that looks like. 

I was heartbroken when my parents wouldn't let me go to England with my brother on a missions trip. I even wrote them a letter explaining why I should go. 12 year old Becky wanted nothing more than to travel and serve Jesus. I am thankful that they wouldn't let me go because it lit a fire in me that has yet to fade. A fire and a passion to see the wonder of God's creation and to spread His love among the nations. 

Little did I know at 12 years old that I was born into a missions-centered family and that God put that fire in me for a reason. I grew up watching my parents travel, watching my brother travel, and traveling with them to follow the great commission. My greatest memories, moments, summers, and adventures involved hopping in a van or plane or car and traveling to nearby cities and distant lands to do what I was created to do. Serve Jesus. 

Just for fun, here's a list. 

2009: one week in Philadelphia

2010: one week in Philadelphia

2011: one week in Haiti

2012: two weeks in Honduras

2013: five weeks traveling PA + NY with Holy Hands (One18)

2014: one week in Honduras

2015: seven weeks in Honduras

7 years. 7 trips. 18 weeks.

2016 was a rough year for me. I had such an itch to jump on a plane and fly off to the place God had for me next. I committed to going to Romania, but that trip was canceled not long after it was announced. I had options and I prayed. I asked God to show me where to go next and told him that all I wanted in life was to follow the path He had for me. What He told me has stayed with me since. 

He said, "Go somewhere you don't want to go to do what I have created you to do."

Now, this has a few significant parts. Isn't it funny how God knows EXACTLY what will get your attention because of multiple prayers you've prayed? 

"Do what I have created you to do."

I talk to God a lot when I'm in the car. That's where I spend most of my Jesus time. We had a conversation about a year and a half ago about what He wanted me to do. At that time, I had a few semesters of school left and was looking for what direction He wanted me to go. I knew I was called to work with kids, but I didn't know in what capacity. That day He told me. "You are created to teach kids about Jesus."

"Go somewhere you don't want to go..."

I have a list. It's a long list. It's a list of all of the places I want to go, all the places I want to see, all the places I wouldn't hesitate to travel. There were countries I didn't have any interest in, never crossed my mind, or just plain didn't want to see. So when God told me somewhere I didn't want to go, I was surprised that I didn't hesitate. I said, "Okay, God. Use me. Stretch me." I knew exactly where he was talking about.

I have had less than 0% interest in going to Africa. One of the options I had was to go to Zimbabwe to help in an orphanage and go to schools and put on assemblies. I had instant peace when God answered the way He did because I knew what He meant. I was called to go to Africa. Or so I thought. 

I was more excited than I had been for any other trip. I started fundraising right away. God provided in some amazing ways, right down to getting my airfare money in THE DAY IT WAS DUE. My heart was so full and I was so ready to get on that plane. I was broken when the trip fell through only a few hundred dollars short of my overall cost. I thought He called me to go to Africa, but it turns out He called me to trust Him in ways I had forgotten were possible. I learned to rely on Him when all seems lost, to pray bold prayers, and to bravely follow Him.

These are lessons I keep close to my heart every day. God has called me to a life of missions. He has called me to a life of serving Him, loving kids, and bravely following him. 

Bravely following God's call all over the world to teach kids about Jesus. 

So really, the paper airplane is only a part of the story.

Much love + blessings,

Becky

Little Victories

I have been up hours and hours past my bedtime almost every night this week. 

I don't say this to complain. I say this because with every goal, dream, and desire we have comes dedication, strong will, and sacrifice. These things come from passion, and remembering why we have that dream in the first place. 

I am only a handful of months away from graduating and becoming a teacher. While that thought is a little scary and overwhelming, I am overcome with emotion because I know that all the late nights, tears, and frustration will be worth making a difference in the lives of students. It's not easy and I get discouraged more often than I care to admit. But teaching is what I love doing. It's what God has called me to do. 

I want to tell you a story about a student I had in my classroom in Philadelphia. This boy, let's call him Michael, would come into class crying every day. He would walk into the room, sit at his desk for a moment, unpack his backpack, then return to his seat with his books in front of him. He never said a word. He just cried. For weeks, it was the same routine. My heart broke for him almost immediately. All I wanted to do was help him, to figure out what was going on and to make it better. Being a teacher is more than just teaching the curriculum and giving assessments. Being a teacher means you are filled with compassion, empathy, patience, and grace. 

It took lots and lots of patience with Michael. Every morning I would greet him with a smile, help him with his things, and sit next to him during morning reading. I would talk to him, offering him encouragement and an ear to hear what was wrong. He hardly spoke. It was mainly head nods and more tears. After the first couple weeks, I noticed he started to follow along with the class and pay attention to the head teacher's instructions. He would complete his work in class, still clearly upset with the occasional outbursts of tears. But then he started raising his hand. I remember that moment, the first time I saw him participate in class. He would answer questions and write on the board. My heart leaped because I knew that a bigger breakthrough was coming. 

It only took a few more weeks until the day came when he didn't cry at all during class. This may not seem like a big deal to some people. Maybe they're thinking, Finally it's quiet in here and I can focus. He was so disruptive. I'll be honest, I didn't notice at first. I saw a student who was eating breakfast and reading his books in the beginning of the day. That was our routine. I think that I didn't notice at first because I saw a student working towards being successful. I saw a student who wanted to learn. I believed in him from day one, and when I saw him working it was like that's how it had always been. I saw the student I knew was there all along. 

Those are the greatest joys of teaching; the little gains. Knowing you helped a student take one more step forward when they never thought they could. I still don't know what was going on at home or in his life that made him so upset during the day. But I know that being patient and showing him grace showed him the love of Jesus, whether he knew it or not. 

It's these seemingly small victories that make it all worth it. It's seeing the breakthroughs, the success, and the joy in a child's eyes while they're learning that reminds me why I do what I do. 

"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." - Psalms 127:3

Children are a gift. I am honored that God has called me to share his love with them and to teach them about His son. I am learning more every day that teaching children about Jesus goes beyond a Sunday morning. It's every day, in every moment, with everything you do. 

Every action, every word, and every expression has the potential to show Jesus to a child whether you mention his name or not. 

Let's make them count. 

Much love + blessings, 

Becky 

Embracing the Uncomfortable

I am not a morning person. 

In fact, I am the last person you want to talk to in the morning. That is, until I've had my coffee. Waking up when it's still dark out isn't fun. The only thing I really like getting up early for are deer, fish, and planes. 

But this semester there's a new reason: school. I have the honor of teaching and assisting in a 1st grade classroom at Julia de Burgos Bilingual Elementary School in the heart of Philadelphia twice a week. In all honesty, when I found out I was placed in the School District of Philadelphia I was less than thrilled. I immediately began to think about traffic, driving, my dislike towards cities in general, the differences between me and my students, and pretty much every other negative thing you could think there is.

My first day did not go as I had hoped. I was pouring, dark, gloomy, and stressful. That was just the 2 hour commute to the school. Once I was in the room, I felt at home. But after that commute I began to think about everything that could go wrong throughout my time in Philly. However, this morning was a different story. 

I woke up a little late and thought to myself, "Great, it's only day 2.". 

During my drive, my attitude began to change. It started with seeing the sunrise, something that I had not experienced on my first day. The sky was full of cotton candy clouds as the sun made it's appearance. I thought, "Wow! THIS is what I get to see twice a week!". 

Notice the word get. God transformed my spirit of negativity into one that recognizes the blessings in the midst of change and new experiences. 

As I reached the outskirts of Philadelphia, I felt my heart begin to change - a stirring in my soul. A phrase popped into my head that has been on repeat the entire day. 

I feel like I'm going to grow to love this city.

Now, if you know me at all then you know that I don't like cities. I don't like the traffic, the congestion, everything being so fast paced and close together. I like my fields and back roads and wild animals. But I still felt this stirring and then an indescribable joy take over. 

I feel like I'm going to grow to love this city. 

I walked through the doors of Julia de Burgos Bilingual Elementary School with a new attitude. One of love, joy, compassion, and peace. I greeted the students, watched them unpack their backpacks, and saw a new generation rising up to change the world. It doesn't matter if they are from downtown Philly or the cornfields of Lancaster. They are sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, mothers, fathers, businessmen, teachers, pastors, counselors, secretaries, office workers; they are world changers and they are full of potential. 

My heart has already grown to love this city so much, and I thank God for making me uncomfortable. It's through our discomfort that we are stretched, and it's through being stretched that we grow. 

Allow God to make you uncomfortable. Don't remain stagnant because you're scared of what might happen. Instead, be excited for what could happen. 

Much love + blessings, 

xoxo Becky

Whispers

It's a Tuesday in the beginning of the semester, a time when I'm not really thinking about anything other than school work and deadlines and other responsibilities. But as I am sitting in the Outdoor Classroom embracing the gorgeous weather and scenery, God is whispering.

I was reminded of the intimacy we have when we are in relationship with God.

"It's nice to know I'm not alone. I've found my home here in your arms." -We Dance

We are never alone. God is just a shout, cry, or whisper away. He excitedly embraces us when we run to him. There is nothing too big or too small, no reason for us not to be welcomed into his arms. Even when we are angry with God, he still loves us.

I was also reminded that while it can be painful and difficult to have God close doors, nothing compares to what he has in store for us in the future. He closes doors because he loves us so much.

// I'm going to stop for a minute. I started this post in the morning, and have been trying to organize my thoughts into a somewhat coherent mess out of the the jumbled hot mess that they are, but I think I'm just going to run the train on the track it's going. Bare with me. \\

God uses music to speak to me a lot, and sometimes I don't even realize he's trying to get my attention. But this morning was different. Almost every song that played had a small, very specific message for me. And while I would love to write about all of them, I think the most important thing I took away from today encompasses all of them.

God whispers.

Let me say that again.

God whispers. 

I don't know about you, but when I heard about God speaking to other people I always imagined a strong, deep, clearly audible voice shouting from the Heavens so you wouldn't miss it. I quickly learned that that wasn't always the case (because it's God and he can do what he wants, if he wants to shout he totally could). I struggled with this for a long time, and I still do at times. I wanted to really know when God was trying to speak to me. I wanted it to be dramatic.

There have been times where I was 100% sure that God was talking, and other times I had to consult mentors and leaders. Today he showed up so many times with small, fortune-cookie-like reminders.

That's when I realized that he whispers too. All we have to do is listen. I needed to escape the craziness of senior year, field classes, homework assignments, and church responsibilities and embrace God's presence. I made my life a little quieter for an hour and began to worship his love and power and grace.

God wants to meet us where we're at. We just have to be willing to shut out the world and listen. Listen for his whispers.

I hope and I pray that you would rest in his presence and hear him. He hears you.

Much love + blessings,

Becky

Chasing Peace

Stress is something that is inevitable in life. Whether it be a job, a relationship, a fender bender on your way to the grocery store, making tough decisions, or a medical situation, we all experience some kind of anxiety and stress. Maybe things just didn't go the way you wanted or expected them to go.

According to my plans and desires, I should have just gotten home from Africa. But I didn't. And that's okay. Instead I am spending time with good friends and pastors in Ohio, something I probably wouldn't have taken time off work for. Despite being heartbroken and discouraged about Africa, my heart is full of peace.

Peace in our Father is something I have been continually chasing after for years. It can seem so far away at times, and other times it's just right there. When I get into tough situations or things don't go the way I thought God wanted (like Africa), I run to God and ask for his peace and comfort to cover me. Well, I try to do this every time. It doesn't always work out that way. There are times when I get angry at God and just cry out "Why?!". But I've learned a very important lesson about God through these outbursts and tears. 

The why doesn't really matter, it's the who. And that who is our Heavenly Father who loves us SO much that he sacrificed his son, who spins the galaxies in perfect harmony and placed each star thoughtful in the sky, who breathed life into the Earth and spoke the universe into existence. He is PERFECT in all his ways and wants nothing more than to see us joyfully and willfully chasing after him.

"Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."

All we have to do is go to him. That's it. Jesus I need you. Give me peace in the midst of the unknown. I don't understand what's happrning, but you do so I know that everything will be okay. Thank you for your love, grace,and peace. All of which I don't deserve. Thank you for your sacrifice and paying the price for my life. I love you and am chasing after your heart.

Much love + blessings,

Becky

He Hears You

"When You don't move the mountains I'm needing You to move

When You don't part the waters I wish I could walk through

When You don't give the answers as I cry out to You

I will trust, I will trust, I will trust in You!"

-Trust in You

Lauren Daigle has quickly become one of my favorite Christian artists ever since I went to Outcry Tour last year in D.C. I love whenever her songs come on the radio when I'm driving (which is pretty much all the time). This song plays often, but it caught my attention the other day. When I found out the trip to Zimbabwe was cancelled, I argued with God. I didn't understand why it happened after He had called me to go. He gave me a verse (which you can read about in my last post), and now He has given me a song.

There are so many things we wish for in life. We ask God to move mountains, part waters, and answer our cries. It's important to know that God hears. When he doesn't move the mountains, part the waters, or answer right away, that doesn't mean He's not listening. He knows the desires of our hearts. He knows every thought and every feeling. After all, He created us. 

He created us uniquely and perfectly for a purpose. So that mountain you're asking Him to move, He might not move it because there's a forest fire on the other side. He might not part the waters you want Him to because of sharp rocks on the ocean floor. He might not give an answer right when you demand one because you don't need an answer in that moment - you just need to trust Him. 

"I will trust in You"

Honestly, it took me a few days to get to this point. I trust God with my whole heart, and I know that his plans are far greater than mine could ever be. But when an opportunity for me to use my gifts and passions was ripped out from under me, I felt lost. Through angry prayers, an overwhelming amount emotion, and lots of tears, I found peace. 

Arguably the most important thing I learned from this whole experience is that God hears me. Our Father hears our cries, our frustrations, and our desires. But in the midst of our struggles and questions, don't forget that He also hears our thanks. 

Thank you God for entrusting me with this life. Thank you for giving me a passion to reach children, to teach them about You. Thank you for my family and friends who encourage, love, and build me up. Thank you for giving me a heart for the world, the desire to see all that You have created. Thank you for paying to price for my sins, thank you for loving me so much that You would send Your son. 

My prayer for you is that when you have mountains and waters in front of you and are crying out to God, that you would trust in Him and know that He hears you. Rest in His perfect love. 

Much love + blessings, 

xoxo Becky

I Don't Understand, But That's Okay

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'"

Jeremiah 29:11

God is so good, and knows exactly what you need to hear in a specific season or situation. Last week, I received a call that I was not expecting and hoped would never come. My long awaited trip to Zimbabwe has been cancelled. I was overwhelmed, heart broken, and full of questions. Some of those questions I may never have the answer to. 

My biggest question was "why?". Why would God give me this incredible opportunity to do what I love and what He created me to do, and then it be taken away? Why did I come so close to my fundraising goal just to have it yanked out from under me? Why did this happen so close to the trip dates? I was obedient in following your call, so why did this happen? Needless to say, I was a little angry with God. There are still many things I don't understand about what happened. I may never understand it fully. But then God gave me a verse. 

Jeremiah 29:11. 

"Plans to prosper you, not to harm you."

"Plans to give you a hope and a future."

God's plans for my life are far greater than any I could come up with on my own. They are for good, not for bad. They aren't to cause pain or harm. They are so I can have a prosperous life, using my gifts to serve his Kingdom. While I am disappointed and saddened by what has happened, I know that my desire to go to Zimbabwe can't match up with what God has in store for me. I am SO excited to see what He has for me next, and it can only be bigger and better than Zimbabwe. 

I want to thank everyone who has contributed towards the trip. While I will not be using the funds, they will be distributed to other individuals who are following God's call in the missions field. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. I would love to talk to you more, and answer any questions I can. 

Thank you so, so much. You have all been a huge blessing to me, and in turn we are able to bless many others. 

Much love, 

xoxo Becky

|| B R A V E ||

"You make me brave"

This lyric has played in my head and been engraved on my heart since last year. God does indeed make me brave. He gives me the courage to jump into new things and fearlessly follow his calling. He is calling me out beyond the shore once more. Africa. 

I now have the opportunity to cross another ocean and make my way to Zimbabwe from July 7-19. I have been invited to travel with Global Passion Ministries and work the the Graham family who run an orphanage and aim to reach the forgotten and abandoned children of Zimbabwe.

Zimbabwe is located in southern Africa and borders South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, and Zambia. Because it is located below the equator, seasons are reversed. Summer is from October to April and winter is from May to September.

One of the largest international issues in Zimbabwe is human trafficking, and the government is making no effort to stop the exploitation. They are also currently facing one of the biggest AIDS epidemics in the world, and they have a higher number of orphans in proportion to its population compared to the rest of the world.

Throughout my time in Africa, I will be helping teach children in the local school about Jesus, give any support needed in the orphanage, and love on some awesome kids. God is going to do amazing things in Zimbabwe, and I can’t wait to see them happen. I would love for you to partner with me and help change the lives of children in Africa.

The first way you can partner with me is in prayer. Pray for safety, strength, courage, and for lives to be changer. The next way you can partner with me is financially. I need to raise $2,900, and there are a few ways to do help. You can follow the first link below to make an online contribution, or follow the second link to purchase a t-shirt designed by myself where all the proceeds go towards my journey.

https://www.youcaring.com/becky-scott-537417

https://www.booster.com/beckys-trip-to-zimbabwe

Much love + blessings,

Becky

Unplug and Appreciate

Well, I've officially been home for 3 days. Transitioning back into regular life has been both easy and a little strange. Maybe it's because I seem to have no problem transitioning from one environment to another, or maybe it's because this is home. But after 2 months of living in Honduras, coming home gave me a bit of culture shock.

                                         

Whenever you're getting ready for a trip overseas, people aways talk about culture shock. Seeing a different culture and environment can be overwhelming. It's hard for me to describe, but I think Merriam Webster does a good job. "A feeling of confusion, doubt, or nervousness caused by being in a place (such as a foreign country) that is very different from what you are used to". Different countries and areas have such different customs and ways than we are used to. 

Coming home from a country where I was surrounded by abandonment, poverty, and frustration made me realize the value of things here. When we get comfortable, we can take things for granted and not understand just how blessed we are to live in a country where we can buy anything we could ever want, and in bulk none the less.

In a world of internet, smartphones, the latest and greatest, and an attitude of more-more-more, it can be hard to imagine surviving without these things. But for me, coming home to this environment, it makes me want to go back. I want to go back to a place where people talk to each other, say 'good morning' instead of pushing past you, where kids play outside, and where it's not a big deal when the power or internet go out. We are consumed by such trivial things. We need to be consumed with love and laugher and Jesus instead of phones and games and ourselves. 

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Matthew 6:19-21

So let's power down and take a minute to appreciate the blessings of God, and to be grateful for each and every thing we have in life. Even our breaths are a gift. Let's not take them for granted, but instead use them for the glory of God and to do the works He has created us for. 

I could go on and on, but I'll leave it here. Praying for my life to be all God has wanted it to be, and praying for yours to be the same. 

Much love + blessings, 

Love + Laughter

Yesterday marked the halfway point in this incredible journey. It's hard to believe that my time here is already half over. People talk about how when they go on mission trips, how their life is forever changed and how amazing it was. I'm not denying that any of this is true, because my life IS forever changed and it has been SO amazing working with Legacy of Hope Foundation and House of Hope. But I think the reason it's so hard to believe is that it seems normal. This has become normal life for me. Waking up, eating breakfast with 10 kids, feeding babies, lots of love and laughter, the peace of nap time, more laughing, more feeding, changing diapers, swings and slides, playhouses, hectic dinners, and quiet evenings. And on the days of teaching preschool; coffee, 6 crazy kids coloring and writing, practicing their numbers and shapes, alphabet songs, playtime, laughter and joy. I know it's going to seem too quiet when I get home. Kids are my joy, they are my heart. 

It's been so amazing seeing them grow from last year. Kaleb was just an itty bitty little guy, and now he is so playful and fun. Not to mention how he likes to chew on EVERYTHING. Literally everything. Isabella was a cute little baby, and now she is a beautiful toddler with such a joyful spirit. Anthony is even more fun than he was a year ago, and Brenda has grown into such an amazing little helper. I have loved getting to know them again, and have loved meeting the new babies. Lili is too cute for words, and Alejandro loves to sit up and see the world! Daniela is such a little princess, and I am so proud of how far she has come in the short time she has been here. 

House of Hope is so full of love and joy. Kids may cry, throw tantrums, and give you a run for your money. But underneath all of the crazy and frustration are genuine hearts and joyful spirits. I have learned so much from these kids. It's okay to make a mess when you're having fun, they're are no rules for how to play, your imagination can take you anywhere, and sometimes falling in the dirt can be the funniest thing in the world. Don't be afraid to try new things, search for bugs, and be yourself. We can forget the simplest lessons in life, and it can take a child to remind you. 

I can't wait to see what the next 3 1/2 weeks will bring, and I can't wait to bring all I've learned back home. I am honored and blessed to have this opportunity to do what I love, where I love, with people I love. Wishing you all happiness and joy, and the courage to try new things and be who God made you to be. 

Much love + blessings, 

Photos Speak

I am SO excited and blessed to be in Honduras, and for 7 weeks! I am surrounded by cuteness, cuddles, smiles, and fun. And I wanted to share it with you! A picture is worth a thousand words, right? Well, here's a load of adorable faces and forever laughing spirits!

Isabella is a TOTAL baby model. All I did was call her name and she struck this pose! 

Christian - He may throw some serious fits, but how can you not love this little guy! He is such a joy!

Oh Brenda, Brendita, Dita! You are so full of sweetness! Always wanting to help and constantly bringing me my water bottle, baby bottles, and trash. 

More Isabella! Look at that laugh! And she just adores Tia Samantha - forever loving both of these girls! 

Kaleb - you have come so far! I remember meeting you last year, you were so tiny! Love your carefree spirit and peacefulness. 

Alejandro is SO fun. He loves to sit up and see the world - and also get hugged by Isabella. And look at her little tongue! LOVE <3 

NEVER getting tired of this view out of the balcony. Even a forest fire can't take away the beauty of God's creation! 

I caught a gecko! He may be small (okay, REALLY small), but he is so cute!

"Look, I cleanin I cleanin!" -Anthony

A little ball of fun and energy who loves to collect beetles. 

What's a pulperia you ask? Well, the best way to describe it is a small convenience store. Sodas and snacks galore! (And it's also next door - yay!)

Bienvenidos a Casita Spangler!


Much love + blessings,

Preescolar

Hoy fue el primer día de clases que tenía que enseñar.

Today was the first day of school that I had to teach.

Yesterday I unpacked a bunch of school supplies that were donated by a class from last semester. I was, and still am, overjoyed at their generosity without any prompting. They came to me and asked what they could do and they exceeded my expectations by leaps and bounds. I am so excited to get to use them as I teach through the end of the school year.

Preschool is what I do. I teach, I lead, I prep, and I love every minute of it. I have to say that it was everything and nothing that I expected. It was exhausting and rewarding at the same time.

Prepping may be one of the best parts. I love going through books and finding lessons and ideas. I love brainstorming and envisioning how it will all come together in the classroom. I love everything about it, even writing lesson plans. I especially loved prepping last night; finding all sorts of resources and ideas.

One of my greatest joys is seeing kids sitting around a table learning. Whether it's coloring or doing a worksheet, it makes my heart happy. It's so rewarding, but today was also exhausting. This is a bilingual preschool, and I am teaching the English portion with only 2 kids knowing any English. I may be difficult or stressful at times, but the result is so rewarding. 

One of the little girls, Britney, has trouble with new people and people she doesn't know. I was anticipating her to give me the most trouble. But she listened and did her best to understand. I was, and am, so proud of her. She is such a great helper and has already shown a lot of progress with her English. These little moments throughout the day are what I do this for. I love seeing progress and the looks on the kids' faces when they understand something knew. 

I am so blessed that God has given me this desire and gift. Nothing makes me happier, and I can't wait to see what happens through the next 4 weeks. I'm excited that I get to teach and experience new things, and to experience a (sort of) new place. 

Thank you all for your prayers and support as I embark on this incredible journey. 

Much love + blessings,

The Journey Begins

As I'm sitting here on my bed, surrounded by suitcases, bags, and supplies, it doesn't feel like I should be leaving in 2 days. Only a little over a month ago were my plans being discussed and worked out. Looking back over the whole process, I realize that it was all a blur. I don't vividly remember special moments or 'break throughs'. Maybe it's because I was also finishing school and working at church. School is now over, and today is the first day I have had to sit and reflect on what is happening. I am going to Honduras for 7 weeks to teach preschool and help in a foster home full of tiny little babies and wonderful children. This is what I have dreamed of, this is what God has been preparing me for over the last 19 years. 

It's funny. In high school, we needed to pick a 'pathway' in order to choose our classes. Basically, we needed to know what we wanted to do when we grew up so that we could pick classes that would help accomplish that goal. Now, I am one of the most indecisive people you will ever know so of course mine changed like a million times. Okay, maybe not that many. First, it was a veterinarian. Then it was science, specifically forensic chemistry. I even had that narrowed down to toxicology or fingerprinting. After that, I considered being a cop or going into the Coast Guard to join their investigative service (NCIS may have had a bigger influence on me than I let on). Then I realized I wanted to teach, so I chose secondary chem ed. Finally, I realized I was being dumb and knew that God wanted me with little kids. So I now major in Early Grades Education (Pre-K through 4th). I guess after working in the children's ministry at church for 10 years, I understood that's what I wanted to do. 

The other defining factor in this whole thing was how I grew up. Or, more accurately, what I grew up around. I basically lived at my church, and my family was passionate about missions. It wasn't a foreign concept to me. When I was old enough to join the youth group, I wanted to go on a missions trip to London but my parents said I was too young. Needless to say I was heart broken. But I got my chance. In 2009 I had the opportunity to go to Philadelphia for a week with an awesome organization called Holy Hands (their name has since changed to One18). I have been going on trips ever since then. 2009 and 2010, I was in Philly. In 2011, I was able to go to Haiti for a week. And in 2012 was my first encounter with Honduras. In 2013, I was able to be an intern for Holy Hands and traveled around the state and into New York for 5 weeks, and in 2014 I went back to Honduras. I have loved every trip, city, and country. But Honduras has stolen my heart. 

Now, in 2015, I am going to Honduras for 7 weeks. Even after typing all of this, it still doesn't seem real. It seems so far yet so close. And it seems like such a long time yet not enough. It's just so surreal. Today, being my only and last day off in a long time, was my packing day. And being the coolest cat around, my dear friend Kelsey came over to help. 

She really is the coolest. Helping decide what clothes to take, helping fold and roll them, and helping me shove them in a suitcase. We even had to unpack and repack multiple times to get everything to fit. But through it all, she had a smile. She even brought over my favorite soda, candy, and ice cream. I am so grateful and blessed that God has given me friends like her, that are more like sisters than friends. I think this will be the hardest thing of all. But I know that God has so many things planned for me while I am gone that I can't get too upset. 

I know this post may not make a lot of sense, but this is what has been going through my mind the last few days. I am so excited to be doing what I love, where I love. And I am excited to share lots of stories and photos with you as my adventure begins.

With love and many blessings, 

Becky <3