Back on crutches again... this is exactly the reason why I bought a pair years ago. If you're out there and feel like sending up a quick prayer for me, I'd appreciate it. And please also pray that my mouth heals quickly from my surgery... it's been 6 days and I'm still a bit swollen and very sore. It's hard to keep positive about all this; even harder to grasp that God is somehow with me in my pain.

Wisdom Teeth

Recovering from the operation is sooo not enjoyable. Hopefully my mouth heals quickly...

Pray for Flood Victims in Pakistan

The flooding, which began late-July, is still a huge problem for millions of Pakistanis. Relief isn't being brought quickly enough to meet victims' needs, despite the United Nations and several countries pledging aid to this nation. Many fear that diseases are spreading quickly, especially considered the state of hunger/malnutrition many face. Please pray for the people affected by this heavy flooding! It's been 3 weeks and there is so much devastation. Can you imagine losing loved ones, your home, your livelihood, and waiting for food packets? Below are some pictures from MSN-BC (Getty images). Read a recent article here.

Nan :)

This past weekend I met a 65-year old woman who is biking across Canada. Her name is Nan, and she's from British Columbia. I was quite inspired by her, especially since it's my dream to do the same route when I graduate (and with the same tour). She was spending a few nights at my Grandma's bed and breakfast, so I had the opportunity to spend 2 hrs chatting with Nan about her summer. Best of luck with the final stretch, Nan!!

Last Weekend

This past weekend was amazing... I drove up to Cleveland and got to hang out with some friends (Kristin, Emily, Bri, Nikki, Lauren, Blake, etc etc) before the end of summer. I also went out with my friend Abid Khan and his wife Aiman (and their newborn baby Hasaan!). They treated me to Indian food and then had me over for tea. It was wonderful. And then I had a run-in with the police a few hours later (don't even ask). I don't know if I should be offended that I was asked "Do you have any guns or knives in your car?". I'm an innocent, blonde, college-aged female - what do you think?! Of course not! Definitely don't want to relive that experience. After it was established that I was not armed, the officer was actually pretty nice, so I'm thankful it ended well.

Anyway, good luck to Bri and Ryan as they head off to South Korea in the next few weeks - you will be missed. And to the plethora of other people going their own ways, much like a modern day Diaspora - good luck with everything. :)  I can't believe how quickly the years go by.