2018 - What a Year!

Well, 2018 is almost over and - like most people - I'm looking back on the year I've had and thanking God for His continued blessings and unfailing love He's poured into my life over the past year.

Looking back, if someone was to tell me at the end of 2017, that I would be spending a majority of 2018 at the opposite end of the South Island, I would've done anything to make sure that didn't happen. I had a great flat, an awesome church, and was surrounded by friends and family...why would I ever leave Dunedin? However, in April, that's exactly what happened. 

At the time, it was difficult to see why God would send me there. I didn't know many people, it was far from my family, and to be honest (although I was excited to begin this new chapter), the excitement wore off pretty fast. It got pretty easy to focus on the negatives instead of looking at the big picture...

I got a new job nannying four wonderful boys. They welcomed me straight away, and I had so much fun being a part of their family and exploring various places around the area with them after school. I got to celebrate their achievements, meet their family and friends, and support them with their numerous events. We went on adventures around the Nelson/Tasman region...which I hadn't done since I was little. There was so much to explore...and it was all so beautiful! 

I also met heaps of amazing people who made me feel at home (wee shout-out to the Marshall family for being my home away from home and including me in your family!) I found an awesome church and joined a small group who made me feel as if I had been there forever...if I could bring Hope Community Church with me wherever I went, I would!! 

Looking back, although I couldn't always see God's work at the time, I am thankful for the opportunities that came my way, and seeing where it's taking me. In 2019, I am shifting to Woodend Christian Camp, where I will be working there as an intern while studying towards a Diploma in Christian Ministries. I am really looking forward to this new chapter in my life, and seeing what amazing opportunities God has in-store for me.

That pretty much sums me up for now. Oh, one more thing...my little brother, Luke, wanted me to tell y'all that in six days, it's his 7th birthday :)

Enjoy the last few moments we have of 2018!
Esther x