The final countdown is here… Except, of course, I don’t actually know which day I am counting down to. That’s right. I don’t know my departure date. It’s sometime this week, though. I think. 
I am en route to Atlanta for my final days of training before we leave for Ecuador (another update, as we were originally supposed to go to Chile).
(Tangent): To all of my supporters: An incomprehensibly giant THANK YOU for your encouragement, prayer, and financial donations! I could not have made it to launch without you!!! The money I have in my account this day has surpassed any sort of hope or expectation I could have had. I have twice the amount I was required to have in order to launch. WOW.
I have never before had to raise financial support, and though it seemed daunting at first, it has become an awesome experience. I can only describe it as a “soul blessing.” Your donations have more than just a monetary value. Your dollars will not only reach the ends of the world, but they have touched me deeply. I am beyond excited to share this journey with a community of supporters… It is a huge comfort to me knowing that I am not going out alone!
So, I am relishing every last minute of the luxuries of the Holiday Inn where I will be staying before launch. Yesterday was my last day at home, the last night in my own bed, and the last time my precious pup Nestle would nestle up beside me while I would watch TV or work on the computer for nearly a year. Sad, very sad face. 
In Quito, Ecuador our team will be working with Inca Link, and specifically for “Camp Hope,” which serves orphans and other young people who suffer from physical and mental disabilities (see more at the organization’s website: http://incalink.org/about-inca-link/locations/ecuador/). I have no doubt that this will be very challenging for me, as my heart breaks very easily. So, I ask you to please pray with me!
PRAYER REQUESTS:
For this year, that the following verse would become an intimate reality in my life:
“I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Galatians 2:20
Without actually knowing what day-to-day ministry will look like, here is what I think I will need prayer for this first month in Ecuador:
- A calm, sound mind – I have no idea what I am doing!
- Good rest & health (no hospital visits, bad bugs, etc.)!
- For me to serve & lead well, putting my self aside for the needs of those whom I serve in Ecuador, as well as my teammates.
- For the Lord to use Team Fierce to effectively show Christ’s love to those whom we serve.
PS by the time you are reading this it will be my birthday. I am so grateful to spend all of year 27 on this amazing adventure with the Lord! Thank you all for this amazing gift!!!
Love,
B
