2012

I cannot believe that it is already the 6th of January, 2013. Where on earth does the time go?

As I look back and remember what has happened in 2012, there are so many big things that come to mind. 2012 was the year I graduated from college and it was the year that I began my YAGM journey. Of course, there are many more little things that are flooding back to my memory as I type this, but those two huge mile stones are fond ones for sure.

I've been in the UK for about 4 months now. Wowza. So much has happened here. So much has happened at home. So much has happened in the other country programs. The amount of initial and continuous challenges that we, as YAGM volunteers, have encountered and will encounter and have overcome as inspiring to me. That, and the memories we've made in our countries will forever make an impact. I know this is true from my own personal experience.

Christmas and Hogmanay (New Year) were busy. Christmas Eve, I got to Skype with some of my favorite people, including my parents. Then I and the rest of my flatmates went to the 11.15pm service at P's and G's. It was quiet and reminded me much of the late night service at Cross of Glory.

Advent Candle

Irina, Janet, and I

Pamela and I. The two YAGMs in Edinburgh.

Working at The House for Christmas was like something I've never experienced before. Of course, I missed my family back home, but I was so excited to be with my 'family' here. Making Christmas special for the lads and lasses here brought great joy. Really, The House was much more relaxed than it typically is because of no phone calls or anything. We all watched movies, played games, and ate...A LOT. There were many times when I would be in the kitchen with the rest of the staff and some residents and it would feel like home: everyone helping set up and prepare the Christmas meal. So special.

Dining room at Bethany House

The Christmas day crew!

And for Hogmanay, some of my YAGM pals came up to visit Edinburgh for a couple of days. We toured the city, drank lots of coffee, and caught up and laughed much. For New Years Eve we went to ring in 2013 with 120,000 of our closest friend at the Princes Street party in Edinburgh. It was also Claire's birthday on New Years Eve so we had to make sure to make it special. It was madness. So many people and loads of walking around and talking to random people. The fireworks were neat as well. All in all, it was a great time.

All who came to visit!

Sarah and I on Hogmanay!

Looking ahead to 2013, I can only imagine what great adventures are in store! Here is to a new year full of love and exploration!

Cheers, mate!