You all know by now that I am committed to going on the World Race – spending the next year traveling to different countries, stepping out of my comfort zone, living out of a backpack, and sharing the love of Jesus.
BUT, before I leave for the race in October, there is one more piece (besides fundraising) to my preparation. For ten days in August, I will be attending a training camp in Georgia to train for my year abroad. I have heard from several other racers that this week in Georgia will be one of the HARDEST yet most rewarding weeks of my entire life. Many say that it is a week they loved but never want to repeat (oh dear). To be honest, I’m more nervous about this training than I am for the actual trip itself!!!
Here’s the details: I have been placed in a squad with about 50 other people called the “O-SQUAD.” Our squad, as well as several other squads, will all travel to training camp from August 10 – 20. This will be a week where we will test out our camping equipment, meet each other in person, and be thrown through obstacles that we could potentially encounter throughout the next year. Below is a description of the training camp to give you a better glimpse of what we will be expecting:
“Training Camp is an intense 10-day experience where you and your teammates meet in Georgia to connect deeply with the Lord and each other. Through teaching, prayer, scenarios, and relationship building, you will step out of fear and shame and into intimacy with the Father. You’ll also receive training on how to partner with God to establish His Kingdom on Earth. It’s designed to be challenging because we want to prepare you for the road ahead. We will put you in scenarios sure to stretch you, refine you, and bring you closer to Christ.
You’ll end the week exhausted and smelly, but you’ll also leave with a newfound intimacy and confidence in the Lord. He will change your life at Training Camp — and it’s just the beginning of the work He’ll do over the coming year.”
We will be challenged mentally, spiritually, AND physically. We are expected to hike with our pack on our backs (which could weigh about 40 pounds) when we first arrive, and will be placed in “uncomfortable” situations. I’m not sure exactly what to expect, but I’m excited to meet the others on my squad and grow closer together through this experience.
Thank you to all who have dedicated to support me through prayers & finances. In order to do this training in August, I had to reach my first deadline of $5,000 by July. AND GUESS WHAT, I made the deadline! WHICH MEANS, I can officially go to training camp! Woot, woot!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you for getting me there!
My next deadline is $10,000 by September. Here’s an update on fundraisers coming up: (1) I have been doing a “Adopt A Box” fundraiser which will still continue until all boxes are filled. Also, (2) some AWESOME T-shirts are coming soon to support my trip and wear as a reminder of all God is doing through our team. AND, (3) a big yard sale will be happening in Pennsylvania in September when I get back from the training. BIG THINGS ARE HAPPENING!!! I can feel myself already being stretched, and I hope you will grow with me:)
Love you all! Prayers appreciated!
