Pearson Airport

Does One Ever Actually Feel Ready?

I survived! Usually Andrew chastises me for how I make my plans--in a constant sort of schedule, requiring a lot of energy from me--but this weekend went far better than I could have imagined. After interviewing with three churches, I have accepted the position of music director at Church of the Epiphany and Saint Mark in Parkdale--an area of Toronto with many different nationalities and classes. There is also connection with The Jeremiah Community, which resonates with the ethos at St. Benedict's Table, which we've called home since Andrew and I met. I am excited for that connection, and to bring the music of St. Ben's to another community. I also had an interview to teach piano, and I believe very strongly that working at that school, under that leadership, would make me a better teacher. The director seemed interested, so we will be in contact later this summer to find out if we have the right times available.

It feels as if we've begun to plant roots with a community here in Toronto already... and now we fly away! But we are so glad to know that there will be many familiar faces when we arrive back, and a warm and welcoming community. I don't feel ready to leave, but yet I do, but yet I don't. Well... we're taking off regardless of how I feel, and the adventure continues!

The Last Piece of Business

This morning was a bit somber--early, with a rush to the airport, some quick goodbyes with our eyes half open, and a long day of interviews yet ahead of me. We are mostly silent, resting as we fly. With so much change and uncertainty ahead, I have to remind myself constantly to turn my anxieties into prayers. As I do that, I can feel the stresses of the past months peel away like an onion. As much as this vacation is to explore and adventure, I hope it is also a sabbath time of rest, and inside of that, also a time of healing. So as I sip my orange juice, and watch the little plane on the screen in front of me move over Lake Superior, I am thankful.

Many people have asked for an itinerary for our trip, so here it is:

June 27-30 Toronto

July 1-3 Dublin

July 3-8 London

July 8-11 TBD

July 11-16 Paris

July 16-20 Altkirch

July 20-August 3 Biella 

Aug 3-5 Venice

Aug 5-9 Adria

Aug. 9-14 Rome