This decision wasn't easy. I spent a lot of time thinking and in prayer about either launching in the U.S. in October and hopefully going internationally, or postponing till January and starting internationally. 

I choose to postpone till January for a couple reasons. 

1. My heart and my passion is for culture. I love being immersed in culture, learning and trying new things than what I grew up learning. If I started in October and countries didn't open for people to travel because of COVID, then I would finish the World Race in the states. This experience is once in a life time that I may not get to do again and I want to use this experience by doing what is on my heart...international missions.

2. Selfishly, more time in California. If I did the October route, I would have to move back to Maryland this month (August 2020) so I could have some family time before I leave for a year. I've lived in CA for three and a half years and I'm not ready to leave this place, the friendships and the community I have here. Plus, I still have some more exploring to do. Postponing gives me a little bit more time in this place I've called home for the last few years.   

Postponing till January means:

-the countries are different than before. This also depends on what countries are open in January and if there are any restrictions when traveling to the countries. 

-the people I was originally going with in October are mixed up. Since I am postponing till January, I will be with new people as well as some people from my original squad.

God is good no matter what and I believe that in either decision, whether I go in October or in January, I'll be spreading the gospel and serving people who need to see the love of Jesus.

My plan now is to:

-continue teaching at the school that I work at. 

-continue exploring this beautiful state.

-attend my brother and his fiancé's wedding in September.

-continue to invest in the community I have here in CA. 

-continue to fundraise.

-continue to spread the love of God to people around me.

Got questions, ask me!