Often on the race we (the older WR’s) get nostalgic and think about the TV shows and movies of our younger years. It is so fun because it brings up so many pleasant memories. The memories usually come when we gather together as a squad…because we older folks are spread out.
I have been reminded lately of Eight is Enough, about a family with 8 children. And boy, the adventures, troubles, and love that came from that family. Over the course of Costa Rica the whole family, all twenty six of us have stayed together for the month, for the first time. There has been some ministry opportunities (teams were mixed up) ,learning Spanish and times of worship together. All have been powerful and memorable. These moments were challenging, exciting and uplifting!
We certainly have had laughs (we’re a funny bunch), and challenges (16 girls in one bedroom…some are early sleepers and others are night owls ; 0), along with extremely frigid girl showers that can make even a saint a little edgy! We have also had celebrations with birthdays (Colleen, Megan and Molly) and reunions (Sarah was reunited with us after going home for 3 ½ months to be with her mother who is ill). We also have had our share of goodbyes. The same day Sarah arrived we said goodbye to Mark. His sister was in a car accident and lost most of her eye sight, so he went home to help out and serve his family during this time of transition. , amaizng Then we had to say adios to the amazing folk at the YWAM base who fortunately have Face book, so we will be keeping in touch! However, this time as a squad has been rare and cherished.
It has always been 26 of us on the September squad. We gain, lose, gain and lose and the number still remains. We originally left with 26. But then there was losing Sarah the first few days in Africa, but then gaining a whole new member to our squad and my team, Traday during that same month, again 26. Finally the excitement of having Sarah return then finding out Mark was going to leave, 26. So many transitions…celebratory and heartbreaking at the same time.
But that number isn’t quite enough. It won’t be a true complete family until all the members will be present. On July 18th our final debrief occurs. Mark is coming and finally our whole squad will be complete! That will be a date in history and a Kodak moment!
Who can imagine the impact of all twenty seven of us together…the worship, power, and the outpouring of love and affirmation into each other. Can’t wait!
But in the meantime we have had some amazing times in Costa Rica, the twenty six of us…enjoy!
The Switzerland Gang
A fun Squad night..dinner and dancing
Celebrating and saying goodbye to our dear friend Silvia
Spanish School
Getting out of the city…a fun trip to Arenal…just Renee, Molly and I
Birthdays… Colleen, Megan and Molly…What fun!
Our life long friends…Chris and Grace…what a blessing they were!
