Want to hear something crazy? I leave for Ireland in less than 24 hours. This is no longer a “neat-o” idea or a distant future event. It’s actually happening. I don’t think I’ve ever experienced such a whirlwind of emotions before. They go from spectrum to spectrum. I’m excited, and I’m nervous. I know this will be the most incredible journey, but I also know that it’s going to be the most difficult one. I’m looking forward to spending time with my teammates, but I’m going to miss my friends and family…and my dog. The past week has been busy with packing, shopping, testing for my black belt, and saying many goodbyes.
I can’t go any farther in this blog without saying a huge THANK YOU. I am now fully funded for the year. I can’t express my gratitude enough.
Thank you for the small donations – even if you thought it didn’t make a difference. It did.
Thank you for the large donations – for sharing your blessings.
Thank you for faithful monthly contributions.
Thank you for buying t-shirts – Profit provided health insurance, vaccinations, medicine, and gear for the year.
Thank you for organizing offerings from your churches, even if I’m not a member (or may have never even attended).
Thank you for your encouraging e-mails, comments, cards, and messages. They’ve helped (and will continue to help) more than you’ll ever know.
Thank you for random things like strawberry cakes, notes to open during the trip, babysitting jobs, “mama/daddy” advice about travelling, camp communion offerings, and the list could go on and on.
Above all, thank you for your prayers. I can use all the Jesus connections I can get. I don’t know too many details yet about our stay in Ireland. We’ll fly into Dublin and travel to Clondalkin (about 30 minutes away). We will be living in our tents because our budget doesn’t allow for much more. I do know that we’ll have internet access at the campground, so I’ll update as soon as I get a chance. After we finish Launch (more training), our squad will head to Galway to start hands-on ministry. If you have Skype, feel free to add me as a contact (halleypower).
Once again, thank you. I couldn’t do this without all of your support. If you would like a little preview of what the next year will entail, check out this super cool spanking new video. See you in Ireland!
