Is it possible that I've now lived in New York for a month? My time here has flown by so quickly! It's been a crazy month of new information and experiences, but I wanted to post a few photos to give you a glimpse into what I've been up to. Most of these photos were taken with a super awesome RUF team from North Carolina who volunteered at Operation Exodus last week.

The Statue of Liberty, as seen from the Staten Island Ferry.

A little side street in Chinatown that I visited with some awesome Exodus staff!

The RUF team leading praise and worship at Exodus.

Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge at night.

Some of the aforementioned RUF team on the Staten Island Ferry!

Manhattan skyline from the ferry.

30 Rockefeller Plaza.

Washington Heights subway station.

I'll post some more pictures of Washington Heights and Exodus next week!

the journey

I made it!

Thanks to everyone for praying for me as I traveled yesterday - God was gracious and I made it safely to New York. I had a little trouble at the border, but thankfully, I was given a six month visa to stay here and volunteer in the States. At the end of six months, I have to petition for an extension to stay the full ten months. Luckily, I don't have to leave the country to do that - I'll be able to file that here in the States! Definitely an answer to prayer.

So far, I've been able to walk around our neighbourhood and get a feel of the culture here. It's really cool - I like it more than I even thought I would. We live next to a bustling avenue that has everything we need, which is awesome and convenient.

This week, I'm taking some time to observe Operation Exodus to see all the different opportunities that I have to serve. Next week, we'll nail down exactly what my duties will be, depending on where I think I'll fit best.

Tragically, I couldn't find my camera charger before I left, so I have to buy one here. As soon as I can find one for a reasonable price, I'll put some pictures on here of my apartment and neighbourhood!

Thanks everyone for your support & prayers. I miss you all, but I kind of think I'm going to love it here. Praise God!

the beginning

For most of you who have stumbled across this blog, this information will not come as any shock to you. But just in case, let's review!

For ten months next year, I will be living and working in New York City through an internship with Mission to the World (MTW). The organization I'll be working with is called Operation Exodus, and is an after school mentoring and tutoring program for children in the Washington Heights neighbourhood. I'll likely be doing a mix of both administrative work and helping directly with the kids.

I'm hoping to use this blog to share updates, news, and photos from my internship in the most regular and least boring way possible. Woo!