life update

For those that I don't speak to too often, here is an update as to my situation with ministry in Miami.

Background:
I spent most of the Fall and early part of the Spring "negotiating" terms of me possibly coming back for an additional year in Miami.  It was a huge stress, to say the least, that included me flying to Jacksonville for an hour-long meeting with our state director, countless emails, phone calls, and budgeting of every aspect of the matter.
Finally, a couple months ago, I received word that the proposal, for me to stay with a pay increase, had been approved.  I was told that we'd work out details later.

Fast forward to last week.
I spoke with our human resource guy at the state office about the details.  He went over details about my situation with our state's executive director to get everything ironed out to best suit everyone involved.  The result of this meeting was me being brought on as a "administrative-approved employee", which means I'm just one step below a "board-elected employee".  This means I now get insurance, dental, and some life insurance paid for by the convention rather than out of my own pocket.  I also get vacation and sick days as well as get to stay living in the BCM building without having to pay rent.
The biggest news to come from all of this is the fact that I will not have to re-up each year through stressful "negotiations" and proposals.  Instead, I am a full employee on an "indefinite" timeline.  If I decide to leave, for whatever reason, I can or if they want to bring someone else in my place, they can but will give me plenty of advanced warning.

So, essentially, I'll be in Miami for several more years.  This is a huge relief of pressure to not have to wonder if I have a job each year.  It also gives me the opportunity to plan for some future vision within BCM, since I know I'll be here for a while.  I also continue to press forward with my seminary schooling.  I should be done in about a year and a half.  It has made me realize how much I enjoy learning about ministry and theology and hate our learning systems in America.  I press on though.

As I joked with a friend the other day, this lessens my chances of finding me a good southern girl, unless they come to me.  I guess that's something I'll just have to deal with.  I'm sure I'll manage.

-peace