Préparation pour un semestre étrange...

And the Lord said to Abram, "Go forth from your country, and from your relatives, and from your father's house, to the land which I will show you." Gen 12:1

I am going to France.

Yes, I can say it, I've said it a thousand times to every inquisitive person. But do I feel it? That's a different story. You would think after 2 years of studying, research and preparation for this particular program that I would be holding my breath for my so called "exodus". But here I am, 2 days before departure, and I don't think it has even sunk in yet.

All of the bags are packed, all of the visas, passports and airline tickets purchased, and goodbyes have been said. Now it's just a waiting game - waiting for the fateful (and most likely tearful) catwalk down the terminal, to board the plane that will take me to a brand new land for 5 whole months.

Andrew has thoughtfuly bought me a leather bound journal, in which I will keep my personal thoughts and feelings. This blog, however, will be record of the happenings, and my outlet to those who have chosen to support me with encouragement and prayer. I would love for this to be a two-way street - just because I'm an ocean away, does not mean that I don't want to hear from you...to relish in your quirky lives (because let's be honest, if you're friends/family with me, oddity is a must.). You can respond with a comment, send me an email, or even a letter. All of my contact information is in my signature.

As for the specific, I will be arriving in Lyon Wednesday afternoon, from which I will travel by shuttle to my family's house in Grenoble. I don't know one iota of information about my family, except that their last name is Ramos. I have that night to become familiar with them, because starting Thursday morning I will be in orientation until Saturday. We will have a full schedule of tours, scavenger hunts, and class registration. I'm expecting this to be a wide-eyed "oh-my-goodness-everything-is-French" time for me. After that, classes begin on Monday and my semester begins.

Here are some things I could use prayer for:
*My last goodbyes, to Andrew and my family
*That God will begin to prepare a way for me in France, opening up resources for solid relationships and a church home
*Traveling mercies, and minute jet-lag
and finally:
*That He will bless the hearts and home of my host-family, preparing them (and myself) for an anticipated incredible 5 months

Thank you everyone, for your sweet hearts and encouragement. The next time you hear from me, I will be sitting in a café, eating a baguette and wearing a beret!

À bientôt,
Chelsea