I apologize for the gap in my updates! Here’s a recap of my last several months:
· TRAINING CAMP (Z SQUAD): I went to Training Camp and met my squad! We bonded over a week of living in our tents, eating some delicious and some strange foods (with our hands of course), worshipping together, learning to be flexible and release expectations, responding to possible/probable World Race situations (ex: losing our luggage, packing up all of our gear at a moment’s notice – several times, bartering in markets, crossing the border scenario…), and most importantly growing deeper with God.
· TEAM “NO NAME”: In our squad of around 50 people, we were broken down into teams of 6-7 who will become our family this next year. I will be serving alongside 5 other amazing girls and I cannot be more excited! During our team bonding time, we stumbled across the “No Name” Ice Cream Parlor and were completely blessed by our time time with the couple – true unnamed missionaries – who ran the shop. Our team decided to take on the name “No Name” because this next year is not about us or any name we want to make for ourselves – it’s all about God and using this next year to glorify Him.
· ROUTE CHANGE: My route changed slightly:
Zambia, Malawi, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, China, Mongolia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Nepal
· FULLY FUNDED & FULLY BLESSED! God truly is the ultimate provider… I can’t express how thankful I am to everyone who has helped make this trip possible – through finances, supplies, prayer, and encouragement. I’ve witnessed true miracles already through the generosity and outpouring of love from everyone around me. You are truly an amazing blessing to me.
· WORK WRAP-UP: To all of my co-workers, thank you for a wonderful past two years. I’ve learned so much from being on the jobsite and have cherished my time with you all.
· PACKING, PACKING, PACKING: Can I just say… it’s pretty difficult to weed out what I need to bring with me for this trip… not sure if I did a good job, but I did it!
(First round of packing…this changed several more times!)
SASAYING GOODBYES: To all of my friends and family: I’m going to miss you all!
(Goodbye Mom and California!)
(Goodbye Dad and West Virginia!)
· AND I’M OFF!!! I am currently in Atlanta, GA, for my last day of training before I leave for our first stop in Zambia, AFRICA… tomorrow! Please pray for safe travels!!!
