Emmy asked if we wanted to guest blog this week and share how our lives have been while Emmy has been on the Race these past seven months. Actually, our lives began to change when Emmy decided to go on the Race. Initially, we were not excited. As parents, we had so many fears, and saddened that we wouldn’t see her for eleven months. When Emmy started fundraising, we thought the August launch date seemed so far away. But before we knew it, August was upon us. During those months as Emmy was preparing, we experienced a sense of peace that she would be safe (and that she would raise her money).
The generosity of so many – family, friends, and even strangers – who feel missions and spreading God’s love and message is so important amazed us. Their prayers, encouragement, and financial support has meant a lot to us.
At the Parent Launch, we were comforted when past racers and parents spoke and related their experiences. Reassurances from Betty Means and Michelle Gunnin and others from Adventures in Missions was also helpful. Meeting Emmy’s team and the parents of teammates was wonderful and made us feel a part of the team!
And then suddenly (but not really), she was off to India.
We have been in Awe of the experiences she has had, and her ability to persevere and find happiness in situations and accommodations that would be difficult and uncomfortable for us. We feel the joy and excitement as she has shared about each country – explaining to us the interesting people she has met and places she has visited. And the precious children that she has loved. We are so Proud of everything she is doing and the exciting places she has been and will be going and all of her accomplishments. We are Happy that she is happy!
The hardest month for us has been January when Emmy was in Ethiopia. We did not hear from her until the end of the month. But we are thankful to her Team Leader Andrea, who messaged us and let us know that Emmy was doing well. And asked for a video of us to give to Emmy.
Unfortunately we are not able to Travel to Rwanda for the Parent Vision Trip this month. We would liked to have seen Emmy and experience some of the Adventure of the World Race mission. We will miss seeing her smiling face in person and being able to give her big hugs. We are inspired by Emmy’s dedication to the Lord’s work. We love sharing with others about the Race, and people love to hear about the World Race, and are amazed by it. We are filled with gratitude for the kindness of others who have helped Emmy, her team and squad in this 11 month adventure. They are doing what God called them to do. We miss you, Emmy and can’t wait to see you in June!
