Before coming on the race, I could not wait to meet the men on our squad who are full of life and living their life out for Christ. I assumed that because we had 13 men, that I would be put on a coed team for the entirety of the race. For the first 4 months I was on an all women’s team, and I thrived with them and learned so much! However, I knew as team changes approached, that my heart needed to be with men. But I also had to be at peace if I was with women. Deep down I trusted wherever the Lord wanted me. I never told the leadership team and I was never questioned with my preferences. The day team changes came leadership had us all sit in a circle with our backs to the center, they played some worship music, and passed a paper to each of us with our team on it. They really wanted us to sit with the Lord for the first few minutes of revealing our team to us. I told myself I was going to pray before turning the paper over but I couldn’t wait, the anticipation was killing me! I flipped over after a few seconds and found out that my prayer had been answered. A coed team!
We found our team name, “Deepa” on a street sign walking the streets of Kathmandu. After discussing what we want to get out of the latter half of the race, we came to the realization that we want to go deeper with each other, God, and life.
Meet the beautiful humans I’ll be with for the rest of the race!
Michael Williams
Our fearless team leader. One of the most intentional men I’ve ever met. He remembers everything you say, he’s so patient, and forgiving. I love that Michael makes eye contact with you and always fights for friendship. I have learned so much from him already!
He does NOT like being called Mikey.
Em Blomberg
I’ve told her many times during our travel days that I would love to be on a team with her to get to know her more, and look at where we are now!! She is loyal and a faithful friend. She always has something funny to say under her breath but when it’s serious it’s time to listen. She has this wisdom unlike anyone I have seen before. I love how gracious and loving she is. She does not like poop stories.
Ben Skaar
Someone I knew I wanted to learn from but didn’t think I would get the chance to. Ben is so faithful to the Lord and is always calling you higher even if you don’t like it. He is so encouraging and looking after you when you have forgotten to do so yourself. He is always looking for ways he can love others better. An old soul and wise beyond his years.
He can’t stand watching Christmas movies in the summer.
Emilie McNatt
A friend I got to know before training camp and someone I’m stoked to be on a team with. She has been such a faithful friend to me. Filled with joy and always down for a crazy adventure. She brings life to this team and we need her. I love how she walks in so much discernment and is always looking for ways to grow. She has stepped outside of her comfort zone so much since being on a team with her and it’s beautiful to watch. She’s always down for a good poop story and for a nice dip in the pool (where we can find one)
Emilie does NOT like feet.
Nate Wasnich
A deep thinker who ways has something interesting to say for you to think about. He challenges you to be a better person. I see the Lord working through him in so many ways and it’s a joy to watch him grow on his journey. He always has a song to sing and joke to say. I would say you for sure need a Taters in your life. He is punny but hates puns.
I love my team, we crush it during ministry and love to just hang out and be around each other. I’m learning so much from them and can’t wait to see where the Lord takes us.
”Deep calls to deep at the roar of your waterfalls; all your breakers and your waves have gone over me.”
Psalm 42:7
