This being my first ever mission trip, I can tell you that I had no idea what I would be feeling. Some things are unexpected and some are just who I am.
I am really surprised that I am not nervous about traveling. I feel like I am in God's hands. I am traveling with trusted people. I know my kids and family will be well taken care of here at home. In the past I think I would have been very nervous about the travels. I feel blessed about this!
I am struggling a little with how and what to prepare for the lessons I will be teaching at the Community Education Event. I am a little nervous about my public speaking skills too. Because it feels hard, I have been avoiding getting things down on paper and practicing and sharing. I am creating the problem by not getting to work. It is all silly, but real. Feels like I am in high school and I am avoiding writing a paper. I did seem to always pull it off, but I want to do better than that now. My kids sometimes procrastinate on their homework and well I wonder where they could have ever got that trait from?!? Sometimes our fear and avoidance stops us from even starting. No excuses! Time to get to work! Please pray that I will use my time well here before we go so I am prepared as I can be and that my work will be blessed.
When committing to going on this trip, I didn't think about vaccinations. I am now vaccinated for Hepatitis A and typhoid (I am a nurse and I am not sure I even know what typhoid is so I should look that up!). I got something to prevent malaria and an antibiotic for just in case I get a little diarrhea. We will be drinking only bottle water. These are the standard and recommended precautions. Did you know Hoagland's pharmacy in Bellingham can help figure out what vaccinations and meds you need for traveling abroad where ever you plan to go. Thanks so much to nurse Ruth at Hoaglands!
The women of our team are expected to wear knee length skirts or dresses when in Haiti. We want to dress modestly and appropriately for the culture and area. I am planning on getting a few dresses at some thrift shops soon. It will be fun to shop for something for warm weather in January. The weather in Haiti should be warm and dry. Not hot and not wet as it is during some other times of year.
Thank you to every one who has given financially toward the cost of this mission trip so far. I have been brought to tears several times by the unexpected generous gifts that I have received. It makes me feel like people believe in me and the work God wants to do in me and in Haiti. I am changed forever already by this trip and I have not even gone. I am already starting to think about what is next for me after this trip. How can I use my time and resources to help more in this world? or maybe locally? Serving is a blessing. To those who much is given, much will be asked. We Americans are overwhelmed with stuff and busyness. I think we miss the point far too much!
Please continue to pray for me and the team, that we would glorify God on this trip and have safe travels.
P.S. I had a funny dream that I forgot to pack a bag for the trip. I didn't notice until we were on our way to the airport. I guess it means I should starting packing now.
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