Preparing to leave...

Friends and family-
This feels very strange to be writing on a blog about my own life. A diary of sorts for the rest of the world to see.. hmm... not sure how I feel about this. I'm just going to try and be as honest as possible. Hopefully, it's interesting enough to read. I mean, I promise it will be more exciting as I actually go on real adventures and see the world for what it really is. I am definitely more than excited for the future and what God has planned for me to see when I'm in Lithuania.

I'm sure that because you are my dedicated friends, you have all studied up on where Lithuania is and the history...etc. But if you haven't I will assist you. Lithuania is in Northeastern Europe. And when I say North, I mean as far north as possible. And when I say East, I mean as far East as possible. :D I may or may not be able to handle the freezing cold weather all by myself. AKA with Annie Nelson. Other fun facts about Lithuania.... Been a free nation since 1992. Owned by Russia basically all of the 20th century. Also, they are very nationalistic, hate Americans, hate friendly people, hate people who smile, and hate people who are loud. Or this is how Lani told me.. :D Basically she informed me that they will hate me.... wow.. uh.. great news! My first reaction.. WHY GOD WHY!?! thank you for sending me to this place.. My second reaction... I'm choosing not to freak out about it and instead realize that if I can survive a freshman year at Taylor, then I can survive a freshman year anywhere.. right?! I'm sure it's the same.. well...

Anyhow, as sarcastic as this all sounds, I really am very excited to be leaving our beautiful country for a wonderful 5 months.. (Jealous? I KNOW!! :D) I mean, God has definitely been teaching me about blindly obeying Him and the closer that it gets to my departure the more I understand the meaning of being blind... oh.. wow.. Lithuania here I come!! Hope you are ready!!

Please keep this whole situation in your prayers.. more specifically my roommates. They have no idea what they are getting into. I love you all and if you are legitimately reading this then I have loads more respect for you than you'll know!! :D

MUAH
XOXO

P.S... yes.. I AM the big diehl!!! (get it?? like, the big deal.. except its my last name!!!!!) WOW...