First steps...

"We must go beyond textbooks, go out into the bypaths and untrodden depths of the wilderness and travel and explore and tell the world the glories of our journey." ~John Hope Franklin 

Most college students get the "college experience" living on campus and meeting people from all over the nation. We become situated and secure in our place of friends and security. But what if that isn't enough? For me it would and can be. I like routine with a bit of flexibility thrown in, and I like the comfort of knowing the people who surround me. However, there comes a time that we want to expand our horizons and explore the unknown.

When I think back to the days leading up to college, I'm pretty sure I was close to the same as I am now: scared,worried with a dash of excitement. Studying abroad is something I have dreamed of doing for years now, probably since my eldest brother did. I wanted to go to Europe because it is enriched with history. I adore history. I love seeing how things progressed and see the wonders of the old days. It astonishes me what they accomplished without knowing what we did. Now I have to say Italy may not of been exactly my first choice to go to study, but once I became an art major it only would make sense. I have an overflowing passion for the arts, especially for art history. This is an opportunity for me to see what I have been learning about for years now in it's natural habitat.

Now this plan of travelling to Florence has not been an easy decision for me. I have struggled with seeing if it was in line with God's plan or not. Honestly, I came to the conclusion that God is going to use me while abroad. I don't know how yet, but I feel that in someway he will be able to turn this trip into something for His glory and bless all that happens on the trip.

Through this blog I am hoping to update on my life while in Italy and hopefully continue this as I am at camp again this summer. This also means (attempting) to post pictures in addition to my future posts.

I do want to ask for those of you following this, that you pray for my time overseas and that God works in great ways in my life and those who surround me there.

Thank you and God bless! ♥

"So do not fear, for I am with you; 
   do not be dismayed, for I am your God. " ~Isaiah 41:10