Well, I made it all the way to England in one piece! I’m officially a resident of the beautiful city of York!
The picture above is the view from my bedroom window. And as you can obviously tell, I have internet (praises for being a grad student living in university accommodation) so blogging can resume somewhat normally. This post is just short and sweet, letting you guys know that I’m alive and well!
Family and friends, I’m officially off to England! Today marks the start of my graduate studies and (hopefully) the beginnings of an academic career. I am so excited to kick off the next chapter of my life, for as long as it may last.
From Philly to York!
For some reason, this move feels way more “permanent” than France for various reasons. If I end up staying in the UK for my Ph.D, I’ll be spending up to five years. Now, I’m just trusting in God for his provision every day, no matter what that looks like.
York’s location
For those of you who don’t know where I’ll be living, (not London, as a good majority my American friends/family seem to think) It’s a city called York, about 2.5 hours north of London via train. It’s gorgeous and it has my dream graduate program. I’m excited to call it home for as long as the Lord lets me.
And with that, I’m off! Please keep me in your prayers. Wifi is going to be a bit spotty for the first week until I get tapped into the campus’ internet so there’s going to be some radio silence for a few days. But as soon as I’m able to get back to blogging, I will!
In spite of the haze of speculation, it is still something of a shock to find myself here, coming to terms with an enormous trust placed in my hands and with the inevitable sense of inadequacy that goes with that.
– Rowan Williams
There have been many days spent in thought about all the responsibilities that will be placed on my shoulders this upcoming year. It’s easy to be overwhelmed when I consider all the reading, paperwork, writing, research, and extra things associated with graduate school. Not only will I be a grad student, I’ll be an international one. This comes with its own particular set of worries and struggles, not completely unknown to me. Thankfully, my move to France prepared me for the process of moving to a foreign country, which was no easy walk in the park.
But there are moments where I feel incandescently happy about what lies ahead. In these fleeting seconds, my heart swells with anticipation and excitement about continuing my studies at such a great program. But crouching behind these glimpses of nerdy glory, the reality of next year quickly follows. In the quiet of my heart, in the silence of my thoughts, I am afraid to be inadequate. I fear showing up and failing miserably.
And it seems so silly to be afraid but so natural at the same time. Here I am, making moves and confidently stepping into my career and future. But I still feel like a kid in the waiting room of a dentist, anxious and unsure of what’s behind the shiny glass doors. I guess at the heart of it, I’m a full-fledged, mid 20’s adult, which kinda still freaks me out. The last time I checked, I was waking up late for high school and running out the door with my backpack to catch the bus. I look in the mirror and don’t see that kid anymore.
I know that because I am a Christian, God has promised to provide and care for me. I know that I am not forgotten, that my fears are not misunderstood or misinterpreted by my creator. I am known, fully and completely. He knows the days in front of me, the moments lost to the past. In this respect, I feel secure and settled. I am taking steps forward in peace and confidence. So when I am afraid, when I fear failure in any respect, when I don’t feel “enough” or “able”, I can, according to Hebrews 4:16, come “boldly to the throne of grace” and I am told that I will find mercy and grace. The Lord is merciful, He is gracious, He is loving, and He is making a path for me in England. It is my delight to follow.
(Cue the Rihanna song)
But seriously. I won’t let grey skies get me down, not when I can whip out a cute umbrella! And since basic black is well, basic, I thought I’d share some stellar picks to help you stay dry and make a statement!
What’s your rainy day style? Let me know!
(Sourced from Polyvore)
I have come to terms with the fact that my flip flop wearing days are over for the forseeable future. Gone are the sunny summer days and relaxing in the hot sun! I’ll have to keep my toes warm and here are some stylish ways to do it! Ankle boots are perfect for the fall/winter seasons because they’re comfortable, chic, versatile, and endlessly practical.
(Sourced on Polyvore)
So tell me, how will you keep your feet warm this winter? Drop me a comment!
les (més)aventures 