Another Round...A Bit Different

Kaitlin, my travel buddy

I'm going back.  

I'm sitting in the Newark International Airport right now, full of mixed emotions.  The reality hasn't really set in yet.  This is typical, as I know it will on my final flight from Brussels to Nairobi.   I'm really excited to see how this trip plays out.  It will definitely be different than past trips for several reasons, all of which are good. 

First of all, I have a travel buddy this time.  Say hi to Kaitlin (see the goofy girl in the above picture).   Kaitlin and I became friends this last year while working at Scooters.   She has a heart of gold, and many wicked good talents.   When she asked to join me on my trip, I was ecstatic that she wanted to come experience the pure joy of my previous year.  I can't wait to introduce her to my kids, to Elaine, and to the beautiful country of Kenya.  It'll be refreshing to have her with me, as I have always traveled alone.   If I have any weird travel quirks that I am not aware of, I will soon find out. 

Second, I'm only there for a month. I feel like it will be a bit harder for me to leave this time.  This is going to be one fast month.  I will want to cherish every moment with the kids and not waste time.  I feel a slight pressure in this way, but I know that I am putting it on myself.   When I pray, God tells me to relax, and let Him be in charge of my days.   Day to day....He tells me.  So I am resting in that and trying not to be anxious and do too much planning.  

Thirdly, I won't necessarily be "working" this time.  While I will be helping in the classrooms and doing some training, it won't require the more structured duties that were expected last time.  I can be more free to help where I am needed, but also spend time investing in relationships.  I know I need the rest, yet my gifts and skills can be used, but not to the point where I feel overworked.  I hope to help Elaine out a lot this month, in whatever way that may be. I look forward to our long conversations on her front porch over tea.  

Fourth, the kids don't know I am coming.  I have kept this secret quiet for the last 6 months.  I LOVE surprises, but I can hardly stand it.  I don't know how the kids will react, but I know they will be happy.  They spent so much time preparing for me last time, so it will be cool to see how they respond.  Hopefully it will bring some joy to their hearts.  

My overall goal this month is not to hold back, but to live in daily obedience, investing in the relationships that God wants me to.   The theme of my blog is all around love.  I've learned just how important love is in absolutely everything.  I'm becoming a teacher, because I want to love kids.  My goal love my friends and family always, even when it's hard.  I want to love on the people in my city by serving and being an active part in the community.  I want to love those that don't feel love or hope.  It's what God has called us all to do.   So, my hope is that I can share experiences of that love taking place, and love transforming hearts to Jesus.    

I really hope you enjoy my blog, and I always appreciate thoughts, comments, and other feedback.  I'll keep you posted as much as I can.  

Until next time......

"What do we gain from all our work? I know the heavy burdens that God has laid on us. He has set the right time for everything. He has given us a desire to know the future, but never gives us the satisfaction of fully understanding what he does. So I realized that all we can do is be happy and do the best we can while we are still alive. All of us should eat and drink and enjoy what we have worked for. It is God's gift." - Ecclesiastes 1:9-11