College :)

So, here i am. Sitting in my dorm room.

I somehow think i am going home tomorrow and that I am just at camp.

Well i've set up shop... gone to some orientation deals (only slightly boring) and hitting up some hot spots in Chattanooga with my friends Andrea, Erin, Zach, and Chris.

i think i'm gonna like this place :)

Goodbyes.

        Over the past 2 months, it seems like saying "goodbye" has been all i have been doing. I had to say goodbye to my kids in Malawi, I had to say goodbye to my extended family until the next "Baldwin family reunion", and now I am beginning the process of saying goodbye to some of my favorite people whom I have truly walked life with. I am beginning to pack up my life into little boxes (which i probably should have done about 2 weeks ago) and move on. I realize that i am going to be moving on to bigger and better things, however there is a part of me that just wants to hold on to everything that i have been doing here. I understand God does not call me to just forget about everything and everyone here, in fact, that's the opposite, however, i do need to let go of some things and people in order to move on.  I have also noticed that God has completely changed my heart since I've gotten back from Africa. I genuinely feel like a new person.
        On the subject of Africa, i truly believe that God is not done with me there. Honestly, all i can think of are those kids. I dream about them every night, and I truly believe God would not place these people on my heart if he didn't have a plan for me and this passion. I cry almost every night, for I miss the culture and the heart of the people there (if you really knew me, you would know that i never cry...)  I dont' believe that passion is in me for no reason. I know God has a plan, and He has his own timing, but i just wish his time would move faster. I miss Africa terribly.
       As for you people who are reading this, we are most likely close, since you got this far down to the bottom of this letter. I would like you to know that you will always be in my heart. You have made a great impact on me and on my growth and i want to thank you for everything you have done for me!! Please Please, skype me, message me, and don't be hesitant to call.
i love you all.
Until I get to Chatt Town...
Alyssa