"Beginnings are usually scary and endings are usually sad, but it's everything in between that makes it all worth living." - Hope Floats

Tell me that isnt the truth...oh wait, it is....

If I wanted to sum up this summer, it would take so many posts, because I know there would be tthings I would forget and then have to come back and put up again. But, we can try, I suppose

1. PUMP as a whole. I have never beben to a church like PUMP before. At first, I thought I would miss West Houston more than anything. But, I know when I go back to Texas--- that PUMP is going to be the church that I long for in my heart. The people at PUMP are genuine. I love some of them more than others, but they all individually hold a part of my heart. Every one who goes there CHOOSES to go there. It isnt an easy thing for some of them. I know a many of people that drive past Churches of Christ to get to PUMP. They are there for the kids and the community. I love it. I love the worship more than anything at PUMP. We have been lucky to have worship in the house last week and tomorrow, from what I hear. The way our voices bounce off that wall is the most amazing sound I have heard. It has evevn surpassed Kadesh Ampitheater worship in my heart. I feel more at PUMP. I know my heart is with God the entire time, and that is something that DEFINITELY makes me want to come back to PUMP.

2. PSP....is the hardest job I have had. Has the longest days, the most emotional stress, and dirtest days I have ever experienced. But when I get home..I find myself not being able to wait to go back the next day. My emotional stress will someday turn into those kids' emotional gain. Deep down, I know that and I accept the stress and disappointments of the days...so that the kids will have a long term effect of PSP.

3. The love of the PSP kids....is something I also have never experienced before. They love you...no matter what they tell you. I had that happen to me this week. When I thought a certain little boy hated me, and then this past week, he came up and told me he wanted a hug from me. Folks, its working. The sweat and tears I have shed are getting to them and that makes me heart feel good.

4. The house...is a place a feel like home. I love the Lowerys. I knew that when I came here. What they are to me, I didnt think was able to be topped. But, it has been... I cant imagine living with two greater examples. I love them so much. They make me feel like I belong here. And that is more than I could have asked of anyone. I cant express the happiness and love I feel here. The only way I could see to explain it, is to say that I dont want to leave here. With all of me, I want to stay.

5. Porland...the most beautiful city in the world. I want to move here. Really, when I graduate, but if that doesnt work...I know I want to be here by the time I die. Every day I spend in Portland adds to my yearning a little more. I can see myself here. I can see myself hanging out downtown on the weekends and being a part of PUMP and eating dinner outside.


Final words....I dont want to leave, and it is going to be a hard and tearful goodbye (well....at least til next summer.....maybe) Thank you to all of you have been a part of my unexpected, but geniune love of my summer experience.

Aw we don't want you to leave! It has been great getting to know you and watch you interact with the kiddos. Thank you for all your hard work. If I don't see you before you go, best of luck and hopefully we will see you next summer!

It's "Portland", not "Porland". =) Glad you love it, she welcomes you back.