Sabbatical Sunday

Today is my last Sunday here in Uganda (at least for this time).  The kids are in assembly right now, so I thought it would be a good time to update. 
My time here has gone by so quickly, and as sad as I think I should be about leaving, I'm not yet.  It just hasn't hit me yet.  I don't feel like this is the end.  I still have 3 days, so I am focused on that.
Today in church I said a quick goodbye.  Not worded as well as I would have liked it to be, but those I am close to, I have been able to talk to privately and/or write letters.  I really don't feel like I'm in my final days, or that I will be home in Oregon this week!  The other night was windy, rainy, stormy and when I looked at the temperature, it was still 75 degrees and I was layered in pants, a short sleeve shirt, long sleeve shirt, and two sweatshirts (Thanks to Wendy and Randy!)
How am I going to survive next week?!?!
I have truly loved my time here, and have learned and grown so much!  I have gotten back to my roots, and been reminded of my love for Jesus and of His call in my life.  Not only has this been a great experience, but it has been the most wonderful sabbatical!  I feel refreshed, joy filled, and excited for what the future may hold.  I still have no clue about my future, but I feel at peace, and that's the best it has been in a long time!
Today in church, as I listened to the beautiful blend of voices, I was amazed by many reflections I had.
I loved watching people walk in, and knowing their names, their stories, or at least their faces!  My first Sunday here, I didn't know anyone but the Muzungus and a few boys that would play ludo with me on my ipad.  I didn't know the songs, and I felt nervous about what was ahead.  Today, I sang along, I knew the songs (or at least a few of them), and I felt comfortable in worship.  It was a wonderful thing.
The greatest thing that I realized was that as I listened to the singing, I was not emotional.  Usually when I hear Africans sing, my emotions get all worked up, and I feel a tug on my heart strings.  I realized today that I usually felt that way because I wanted to return to Africa!  I knew that I wanted to spend time in Africa someday.  My emotions have not been worked up, because I am here!  I'm not struggling with a call, or begging God to let me return, I am here!  I am worshipping God in an open church in the Kiryandongo District, in Uganda, Africa!  I am here!  I am not longing to be here, I am here!  Living up every moment that I can.  Hugging children, listening to singing and laughter, playing games...I am here!
And that is an incredible thing!
I will continue to be here and enjoy every moment!  I still have 3 days to make the most of this opportunity.
Thank you for joining me on this journey, for reading my blog, for praying for me, and for loving these kids as much as I do!
I can't wait to share my stories and pictures, and will do so when I return home.
I have 2 full days left to work and spend time with kids.  Please pray that everything works out and I am able to spend these last moments loving on children!
Thank you!
The assembly is over, so I'm going to go play Ludo!