29...Beginning the Last Year of a Decade

It’s hard to believe that I have just begun my last year in the decade of my 20’s. If you know me, I love, love, LOVE birthdays and never shy to admit my age. I hope that even when I’m 65 I will be excited about how old I am and see it as a gift that the Father Himself granted me. He has appointed and set out every day that He has for me, in His sovereignty, as well as numbered my breaths.

The Father has been so gracious to me in my 20’s thus far and I know this year will be no different. From graduating college, to having my first full-time job at Pine Cove and working a variety of jobs within the organization: CEO’s nanny, Health & Safety and investing in the health assistants in the summer, Assistant to the Chaplain, as well as to the Forge Director, and Registration. After a total of almost 6 years full time, I left changed and transformed for His glory, as I have gained confidence in the gifts He has instilled in me and having grown in them. Then within the last year have walked by faith and have headed to overseas service in South Africa. Every step of the way He has proven Himself faithful. I have experienced so many things within the last year in the realm of seeing the advancement of His kingdom on earth as it is in heaven. I am expectant for this next year as I continue to walk, by His grace, in faith and obedience.

My sister, Angie, was able to come visit for my birthday, since she knew that birthdays are a BIG DEAL in my book.  Even though she bought her plane ticket 6 months ago and now seemed like the craziest of times to come over for a week in the midst of change and transition in the life of her family, the Lord knew she desperately needed some time of rest and relaxation!

The picture above is a pre-birthday festivities- having a fantastic Mexican style dinner- homemade chicken enchiladas. My supervisors are the best!!

Angie and I got pedi's and massages as treats for my birthday- it was fantastic!!

Here's the crew that came over for my celebratory birthday dinner!

We went to the Lion Park. I attempted to venture out to a new game park- but it was so far away- 200km one way, so we opted to save time and money and go with the one I went to last month with Jenn.

Angie-girl with the giraffe. Like Jenn, she didn't too much for the slimy tongue., but he sure is cute!

As for me- I didn't so much care! :) I loved seeing my friend, Jerry, again (no clue if the giraffe even has a name- it's just what I call him! :) )

We met up with some of my friends- Bianca and Dominique (who are sisters) at the Jo'Burg Botanical Gardens. It was a bright, sunny, lovely day. Sisters meeting up with sisters mingled with good conversations- can't beat it!!

Here's Angie and I before I took her to the airport to make her trek back home. We slept in pretty much every day, watched our share of chick flicks and had pretty much a low-key week, as she sees parts of my world here in Jo'Burg and enjoying being in each other's presence. I love you Angie-girl and am SO glad you came!!