Culture Shock - sort of

Hi Friends,

These blogs are usually written from my cozy bunk in the Philippines, often after a long day when I feel the desire to unload some stories and catch my Canadian friends and family up. This one is being written from the comfort of my Mom's kitchen. Very different, yet equally special places. I have been back in Canada for 17 days, and have loved every one of them. It is surreal, yet normal to be home. My weeks have been filled with visits, coffee, good food, and lots of travel. I have covered a good bit of Canada in the past 17 days and I am very thankful to have the freedom to do so.

People have asked often how I am dealing with culture shock. To be honest - I'm not. Truly through the grace of God, the adjustment home has been pretty easy. There are some things that shock me a bit, and there may or may not have been a minor meltdown over $6 Greek yogurt at Superstore, but other than that, it is just really great to be here. In preparing to come home I was praying a lot about a smooth transition. While on my long flight home, God spoke to my heart about expectations. I think that has made things so much easier. Canada is not the Philippines and the Philippines is not Canada. Each are beautiful in their own right, and I love them both for that. Things can be appreciated much more when not in constant comparison to something else. More than just with culture shock, that has been a good reminder for me in many areas of my life.

Fundraising:
I am so excited to update that I have now raised $1500 towards my goal of $8000 this semester. Through the generosity of three people, I now only have $6500 left to raise. The remainder of my funds is due August 1st. That date is fast approaching and while my tendency is to stress and worry, somehow I have felt such peace about it. I have so many stories of God's faithfulness to look back on and I know that he will keep adding to those stories.

Will you considering partnering with me over this next year? Your support goes towards the clinic fees that I pay to be there. The clinic fees go directly towards ensuring that our patients can receive excellent midwifery care while also being shown the love of God by practically being his hands and feet in their time of need. Practically loving women through midwifery care has a greater impact than I ever could have imagined, and it is such a privilege to be a part of this.

Your support, whether monthly or one-time, $20 or $2,000, goes so far and is always received with immense gratefulness. You can simply click the "Donate" button to your right, or talk to me if you have any questions at all!

Below is a video that I think does a great job of explaining more about the importance of midwives... It's 3 minutes well spent! Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxbL6bF5vxU

Much love,
A