Married life and team leader on the world race in my eyes has been interesting to say the least. When I found out I was going to be the leader of my team back at training camp I was stoked. I have always seen myself as a leader figure but kind of scared to take that role at some times. I don’t really like telling people what to do and really dislike stress. I try to live my life by Matthew 6:33. “Seek first His kingdom and rightousness and all these things will be given to you.” I figure as leader of Joholo if I am following God and I see my team is seeking his will for their lives, well then all should be hunky-dory, right? God has definatly blessed me with an amazing team. Bringing seven different people together and telling them they have to live together and travel the world could be a little hard at times. So far maybe we just haven’t gone deep enough or hit the tough spots, but Joholo is rocking it. It has been great seeing all seven individuals grow first in their faith and walk with the Lord, and also as a family or team member. We still have our awkward moments but they are usually broken by laughter. Give us some chocolate, fresh popcorn, and our own room and we are set for at least five hours. Maybe even a camera to capture the fun!
When it comes to my husband roll so far on the race, it has been very different from what I already knew. When Erin and I got married on the sandy beach of San Diego on August 9, 2008 with the sun just setting over the Pacific Ocean, the air at the perfect temperature of 70*, Erin in her pure white dress… sorry, what can I say, it was the perfect day. Erin and I had our “own” place for only the first four months. Then we started living with friends and family to save money so we could then go on the world race. We had jobs but they were not every day “9-5” jobs. We had lots of time to do the things we wanted to do when we wanted to do them. We were living the honeymooners dream life. Just a couple of love birds having fun in the sun. Now that that has all changed we have had to learn how to make time for just us. Joholo has been also been great in this aspect. They recognize the need married couples have and freely give us our space whenever we need. We have had a few dates and got to experience some really cool things so far. Last month Erin and I stayed the night in Dracula’s Castle and then had a couples night out with a few other married racers and some of our contacts. It was nice to talk marriage and trade stories. This month when the team went south to the next city we were scheduled to visit, Erin and I stayed back. It was great! Just enjoying time alone watching a movie on the couch under a blanket was all we needed. One day we had a pick-nic in the park on the castle wall over looking Belgrade. Another day we went bowling. It is weird how much time we spend together but still miss out on each others presence when everyone else is around. The last night away from the team we splurged and went to a concert. Don’t know if you have heard of the band but they go by the name of ZZ Top. That’s right ZZ Top!! It was so awesome and so weird at the same time. This american rock and roll band putting on a great show and the whole crowd getting into it but the don’t even speak English. It was a great way to end our time away.
On the other hand it has been eye opening how much Erin and I have grown spiritually. We were active christians before, serving in the church and involved in many ministries, but now I feel we know God on a whole new level. Seeing the legs grow was just the start. Now we pray with more confidence and are truly listening for His voice and guidence. I think one of my favorite things to do is just listen to Erin pray. What more could a man want from his wife. Seeking God and thanking Him even for her life. WOW! Absolutely a blessing. When I sit back and look at where God has brought me and the things He has done for me, I could almost cry because of how undeserving I am. All I can say is Matthew 6:33. Live life to its fullest and allow God to be the real leader.
