I got to meet the people who I’m going to be doing life with next year. I went into it extremely nervous and not knowing what to expect. I came out of it extremely excited and really pumped to begin the journey. I learned many things during training camp:

–          You should probably let your mom know when you’re leaving town and won’t have cell phone service for a week

–          It is possible to share 7 bathroom stalls and 6 showers among 200+ girls

–          Complete strangers can turn into family in less than a week

–          When you are open to God, He can (and will) rock your world!

–          Living in a tent for a week (in rain and shine!) isn’t so bad after all

–          It’s okay to stop being focused on others long enough to let God take care of you

–          Maybe I will actually be able to play my guitar during the race

–          Hiking around with a 75 liter pack for 30 minutes can be extremely uncomfortable if not placed the correct way

–          I might need to reconsider what all I pack for these 11 months

–          Reminded that ministry of the Holy Spirit is NOT dead!

–          The importance of being “present” and not being focused on what is to come

–          Missions starts now, not when you get on the field

–          Background/personalities do not matter, Jesus brings ALL people together

–          There’s just something about doing the Wobble with your new family

–          It’s probably not the best idea to go to a market place in Africa with all 50 squad members

–          Having cash on you when you’re travelling from country to country is probably wise

–          Even if you’re tired, staying up til 1am to share testimonies around a camp fire is soo worth it, even if you have to be up and ready by 7am!

–          Be careful what you ask God for, because He may surprise you!

–          Flexibility is key!