"See you later"

As many of you know, I have transitioned out of my staff role at Eastside. Having been at Eastside for more than 14 years and on staff for over 5, this was a tough decision and process. Eastside is where I really began to follow Jesus, where so many friendships turned into family and where I have grown a ton. From 6 years in youth ministry, many years of college ministry, 5 years on the Build Community team and many new opportunities - it's been quite the journey and I am thankful!

However, maybe you've heard that saying about "Giving up good for great"? I kept feeling God's nudging to do exactly that. So much of my heart wanted to be on the team but the other part of my knew I wasn't engaged in my best fit (passions, gifts, desires). It took me a loooooong time to hear and then take action on the nudging. But after much processing with Charles, we knew this was best for our family. We've felt so non-stop since we got married, divided in ministry and a little disconnected. So, it's time to change that too. I am looking forward to being more invested (actually mentally and emotionally present) at Ethos alongside my husband and seeing what God has in store there. I am looking forward to margin that allow me to see what could be next for me (although scared too). And right now I am really looking forward to rest. I am taking this week to really rest and do the things I desire with no major schedule to follow.

Anyway, this is more about the closing of this chapter.

There have been so many heavy conversations in this process. I wasn't sure what the end would feel like. BUT it was pretty special. I really feel so loved, honored, valuable and known.

Some pretty special ladies (huge thanks to Joyce, Marge and Laura) made sure a very special celebration took place. There was a Halloween gathering/Fall food feast. They really went all out and the team came to eat, chat and honor this moment. I am glad most of the focus was on the festivities and not me leaving; I'm pretty much all cried out. There were so many special details and I really feel so blessed to transition this way and be launched into whatever is next with such special moments.

I was surrounded by some of the best people, pumpkin treats galore and happy moments.

So, thank you dear friends. Thanks for being so valuable to me over the years. Thanks for navigating life with me beyond just office "stuff". Thanks for being examples of what it means to humbly follow Jesus.

And now we say, "See you later." I am grateful this by no means equals "Goodbye".