Yesterday I got back from training camp. For those of you following my blog, you knew that I had no idea what to expect, but that I was attending a camp that was going to equip me for the next year. I thought they would give us cultural training for different countries, maybe some backpack advice, and Gospel training. I couldn’t have been more wrong.
I could tell you every little thing we did each day or I could simply tell you that God moved. HE prepared our hearts for the next year of our lives. HE empowered us the break the chains that were holding us back and learned to run with reckless abandon. Words simply cannot describe the freedom we have entered into.
The one expectation that I had that wasn't proved wrong was the humidity. We also experienced several thunderstorms. So between the humidity, rain storms, crying and sweating, there was a lot of water shed this past week.
Everything that we did at camp was supposed to be comparable to something that would happen on the field; something that would push and stretch us. From eating weird foods to interesting sleeping arrangements to “magic carpet” team building, they threw it all at us. This further helped shape us and bond our team together.
The climax of the week came on Thursday when our teams were assigned. Orange L squad is made of 63 people who are broken down into several smaller teams that we will be traveling with for the year. So with GREAT excitement I introduce to you Team Aletheia –meaning “not concealed or truth” in the Greek.
Team Aletheia!!
This group is handpicked by God and I could not be more excited! Here is a little info so you can get to know my teammates better! It might be a good idea to follow their blogs as well for more info and what we are up to!
Team Leader- Nathan Swedberg – http://nathanswedberg.theworldrace.org/
Nathan is an incredible man of God; the strong silent type that is caring yet mighty. Words cannot express my excitement when I heard he was going to be our team leader. We were able to have a few conversations over the week and he was already speaking truth into my life. Nathan- I cannot wait to get to know you more, I have complete trust in your leadership and look forward to serving along side you!
Johnny Eastman– http://johnnyeastman.theworldrace.org/
Johnny is an awesome guy who loves the Lord! If I could choose one word to describe him, it would be spunky-servant. He has the energy and excitement for life of a four year old boy on christmas. Johnny- I cannot wait to travel the world and learn to be the servant you are.
Josh & Jen Mendenhall – http://joshandjenmendenhall.theworldrace.org/
There is only one married couple on the entire L squad and my team gets the priveledge to be with them! They have been married three years and are the cutest thing! They complete each others sentences and correct each other ever so politely and have the funniest sence of humor. Jen- you have already been such an encouragement to me and I cannot wait to learn from you and Josh!
Tiffany Carty– http://tiffanycarty.theworldrace.org/
Tiffany is this incredible woman who has a half sleeve and a heart 5 times bigger than normal. She is so compassionate and caring she always puts others' needs above her own. She is going to be a huge asset to our team. Tiffany- I cannot wait to get to know you better and share cardigans with you 🙂
Angela McKenzie– http://angelamckenzie.theworldrace.org/
Angela is this little firecracker! She started out the week quiet, but once we were on a team together, she broke out! I never know what she has up her sleeve! Angela- I cannot wait to get to know you more because you just keep surprising me!
I know that God will use the seven of us to go and bring His love to all the nations. My excitement for the race continues to grow and I cannot wait to continue to share this journey with you all!
My talented teammate Jen made the following video to give you a glimpse of what it was like to be at camp. Blessings!
