(written on Sunday, September 15)
I AM IN GUATEMALA!
Sorry for not updating all of you sooner, but I’m here!
Update on my knee: I had to see three different doctors. The first two told me that I would need surgery ASAP and so I made all the plans to have a delayed launch, and I was asking people for prayer. PRAYERS WERE ANSWERED! When I saw that third doctor, she told me that due to the fact that the tumor is benign (non-cancerous), I can just get the surgery when I come home! I am very excited about being able to begin my missions trip and I want to thank all of you for your prayers and support through this whole entire process.
I went to Launch last week (September 6-9) and when my whole squad left on Monday the 9th, I flew back home. I was very sad to see my new family leaving me, but I was also happy to be able to see my (actual) family and pets for a little longer. Through the past week I have been packing, buying some last minute things, and absolutely dreading having to wear my SUPER heavy pack.
Being able to drop my pack off at the airport was a blessing because it was soooo heavy! My flight to Guatemala had a layover in Atlanta, GA and I had to RUN to get to my next flight in time. Very stressful at the time, but comical to think about now.
I was very nervous to be leaving the country for the first time and ALL. BY. MYSELF. Something that didn’t help at all was seeing all the police officers in the gate! There were so many and I started getting nervous about who would be sitting next to me. I was extremely blessed to have some absolutely wonderful seat neighbors. I have never spoken more than a few words to the person sitting next to me, and God really just blessed me.
My seat neighbors were from a group of people that are also going on a missions trip to Guatemala! We were able to talk during take off and I learned a little about the impact that this will have on me through some of their pictures and stories. They helped to fill out the statement form (because I had no idea what to say) and even let me borrow their pen.
AND the family sitting in front of us overheard our conversation and spoke to us about how they are a missionary family and moved to Guatemala in 1999, and even adopted 2 daughters. They helped me to get around the airport and gave me a few tips about living here.
I was picked up by two of my teammates; Charlie and Midge, and they are so wonderful and even had a sign for me. They gave me a rundown on the way home, and were very helpful. When I walked into our room, I saw that my whole team (and a few others) had written me small notes and taped them to my bed. I felt so welcome and during dinner it was announced to the whole squad that I was there…twice. I feel so happy that I am here and I can’t wait to get into ministry!
I am also selling shirts!!! I will be selling them from now until October 5th!
https://www.bonfire.com/evelynsimmons/
I still need to fundraise about $4,000 to be fully funded, and I know that the shirt won’t be bringing in much money, but being able to see people support me and encourage others will be so amazing.
Seeing people’s pictures on facebook or just walking around will be a reminder to those who wear them and those who see them that we are all stronger with the Lord. The back is a design of an anchor mixed with a cross, because Jesus is my anchor and is the strength that will never let go of me.
