The journey of getting to this moment is priceless. With my pack weighing over 70 pounds I was really grateful for my sister and a squad member going through my pack and taking out at least 20 pounds of extras. The only thing at this point I regret getting rid of is toilet paper!!
My family bringing me to launch meant everything to me. God has truly blessed me with a pretty amazing family. The fact that every family goes through seasons, and the fact that mine can still be this close, is nothing less than a true blessing from Jesus.
Thankfully my sister last minute through in a bag to help with the extra weight still in the pack…. 18 pounds to be exact. Yea, this year is about letting go, and it is heavy still right now. But that extra bag has been amazing!
So, After an 8 and 1/2 hour flight to Amsterdam, a 3 hour flight to Turkey, and a 28 hour bus ride through 4 countries WE MADE IT!…. Macedonia and Greece were beautiful. It’s pretty amazing when you read about places in the bible then actually getting to experience them in real life. For example Paul spent a lot of his time in Macedonia, and driving through was so awesome to visualize. Honestly the bus ride did not seem that long because we had cold air and comfortable seats. My squad was great with moral, and we all just worked through the long hours…. However, I did not drink any water, (because I didn’t want to have to go to the restroom) 🙂 The bus drivers spoke Turkish, so communication was a bit of a barrier. I mean, A few times we went by the same exact places multiple times. I spent hours staring out the window, praying to God and thanking him for just loving me so much, and allowing me this opportunity in my life.
We arrived to the camp about midnight. We were instructed to carry our packs a few hundred yards to camp. I had my day pack, extra bag with 4 huge waters, a 12 pack of water, and my pack. The wheels id say are pretty broke in at this point. Our view at this camp is amazing!!!
We are blessed to have bunk beds and clean sheets. There are 16 girls in each room. Its cramped with “things” but not hearts. We have really had a great experience so far as a squad. I am really happy that our whole squad is together this first month.
Yesterday we had a chance to walk into the city get money from the ATM, get some things from the market, and use wifi. Walking an hour each way definitely has made me appreciate talking to loved ones, having internet whenever I wanted, and just knowing what’s happening at home.
But Yall, This is just the beginning, but God is already stirring so much in my heart, and I am just so excited to see where God takes my squad and I in the next year. Please continue to pray for God's provision. I’m so in love with Albania and the children already!!! I can’t wait to share with you!!!! Blog about the community and our mission this month coming so soon!!!!
I love you all. And I miss you all more than you know. God is so good.
Love,
Sarah
