Over the past couple of months, work has taken much of my time. If I’m not working, I’m sleeping trying to recharge my batteries to go back to work. But throughout this time, my family has been so encouraging by reminding me why I’m working so much. This past Sunday my father, mother and I traveled to Jacksonville to REI to get all the main gear I will need for my trip. While setting up my tent in the store, it really hit me that soon I will be leaving for nine months, and I’m going to be living out of a backpack! Then it was off to the travel clinic where we discussed rabid dogs, coke cans covered with rat urine, various parasites that can ruin your life while taking a refreshing dip in a contaminated body of water, mosquitos that lay their eggs under your skin where they grow into Botflies (YouTube that one…awesome), Japanese Encephalitis which can swell your brain, malaria, typhoid, yellow fever…you know, all the usual stuff. With all the big items checked off, I’m watching God close one chapter of my life and open another one before my very eyes. Everyday, I’m getting closer to being united with my teammates to bring the hope of Christ to people in need. Thank you to everyone who has supported me to go on this journey, and allowing God to work through your donations. I can’t wait for you all to see the fruit of your labor. I will be posting blogs, pictures, and if the Wi-Fi allows, videos as well! As of now, I only need $1,136 more dollars until I am completely funded for my trip! Please share my story with friends and family. If you’ve already given, I am eternally grateful for your help. I’m on the home stretch and I need your help, not only financially, but also spiritually. It means the world to me when someone takes time out of his or her day to pray for me. The days have grown evil and the spiritual battles have been growing more intense. Your prayers will strengthen me to take on the burdens of those who I encounter on this race, and will also put a hedge of protection around my mind. I would like you to pray specifically for more wisdom, a bigger faith, and the courage to use that faith. Thank you to everyone again! God bless!
