Thursday, August 18, 2011

Day 1 1/2

Bright and early: Day Two. That's what happens when one goes to bed at 930. Oh, but I so needed the rest. Ten glorious hours. I'm staying with a precious couple from Refuge. I felt bad last night as I don't think I was very friendly with anyone. I was on the verge of tears from pure exhaustion. I think everyone understood though.

Today is our only day to sleep in and I woke up at the crack of dawn. Ironic if you ask me. But I'm enjoying just lazying around (as my nephew would say) for a bit. In all our crazy travel time yesterday, Sybil was able to procure a spot to do the children's backyard Bible club! PTL! Answer to prayer! Melita and Janelle were a HUGE help to Sybil as well! They helped to a lot of the leg work as well, so we expecting a big crowd of kids. Hoping 4 adults will be enough to spread around. Praying the parents of the kids come as well, so they hear the good news as well.

Despite exhaustion, yesterday really was an amazing day! My JP rode in a plane for the first time and loved it! I often looked over at him and his mouth was wide open while he starred out the window.

We had many methods of transportation to get us to Suquamish: car. Feet. Airport tram. Plane. Feet. Link. Feet. Ferry.Shuttle. Car again. Whew.

Upon immediate arrival, we were wished away to the Love's house for a cookout. The whole gang was there. My host family as well as Holly and her husband Don. Precious, precious people. We had a sweet time of dinner and prayer. I must admit, I think I nodded off at some point. Soo sleepy!! I'm thankful for these dear families who have literally been prayed for and over the last 14 years! They are a direct answer to our prayers!!! I can't wait to see what God has up His sleeve!!

Thanks to everyone for your prayers! We have felt them already. I look forward to sharing more good stories in the days to come!

Happy trails!

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Seattle or Bust!

I'm literally so excited, I can hardly stand it.  In fact, when I'm excited about something, I usually don't get much sleep the nights leading up to the big event.  So, now I'm not only about to burst but also about to pass out.  I know, it's an oxymoron... or maybe a juxtaposition.  Whatever.  Today's the day!

For a series of nine years (one week each summer), God allowed me the amazing opportunity of going on a mission trip to Seattle, WA to minister to the precious Suquamish Native Americans.  I fell in love with these kind, gentle and laid-back people.  It seemed as though my friends would always have a place in my summer.  But abruptly, God closed the door.  I was deeply saddened and only hoped He would one again allow me to return... in His timing, of course.  (Though, we all know His timing and our timing aren't on the same schedule.) 

Pretty much from the day I met Jason, I've been talking about my experiences in Seattle.  I've shared stories of meeting kids when they were two years old and had the pleasure of watching them grow into teenagers.  I told him how amazingly gorgeous it is there; Heaven on earth.  How we can be sitting on the pier and see a bald eagle fly over.  I've shared many, many stories with my JP.  It was always my hope and dream that we could one day go together.  However, never in my dreams, did I know that God already had this trip planned!!  I think He enjoys surprising His children! 

Here it is, mere minutes before we leave for Atlanta, to spend the night with a friend.  Our plane leaves at 10:30 Wednesday morning.  Please be praying for my JP.  He's never flown before.  I love flying though, so I've told him all fun things.

My plan is to blog a little each night before I go to sleep.  We'll see how exhausted I am.  But I would like to keep you all updated with the amazing things I'm expecting God to do!

Normally, we do a full week of VBS, but things are going to be different this time around.  I don't exactly know what to expect, but that's just fine with me.  I just can't wait to be back again.  I always feel the closest to God out West.  I'm eager to see what He's going to teach and reveal to me.  I'm eager to see how He's going to work within my relationship with Jason.  I'm eager to see all my friends again!!

If you'd like to pray for us while we are are gone, here are our requests:
1)  NO RAIN - we need good weather, as we'll be outside all day, every day.
2)  Divine appointments with people.  We ask that Jesus remove the blinders from their eyes and open up their hearts to receive His good news.
3)  The opportunity to have lunch with the Elders of the Tribe.  Sybil has a unique presentation of the Gospel which would have a huge impact on them.
4)  The ability to reconnect with old friends.  Let nothing be awkward.  I can't wait to hug some sweet girls.  I tear up now just thinking about it.
5)  Finally, the safety and health of our team.

Thank you so much!!  Happy trails!