Tomorrow morning I leave for launch. TOMORROW MORNING I LEAVE FOR LAUNCH! I can’t believe that it’s finally here! I will leave tomorrow and (with God’s provision and protection) I will not be back for 11 months! For the past few weeks of Christmas and New Years, the pile of gear and clothes in my room remained untouched, because I knew packing was going to be a mess. And it WAS! Through a few tears, I packed and unpacked and repacked my backpack and I was barely able to get everything to fit. I double-checked my packing list last night and realized I was missing a skirt. I almost fell apart! After an unsuccessful Target-run, we got home to see an Amazon package waiting on our porch. Inside was a skirt that my mom ordered a while back, but it gets even better! The seller accidently sent her a duplicate of the same skirt in a size that fit me perfectly. In an instant my problem was solved- and I realized something. Packing for any trip is such a sham! I tricked myself into thinking that I could ensure my comfort by what I pack, which is why I almost became unhinged when something went wrong. In reality, I have zero control over what happens on this trip- regardless of what I bring or leave behind. That skirt from Amazon was such a tender wake up call. ONLY God is in control. He will be near me and He will provide for me- I just need more trust in times of discomfort. I think back to how He has been guiding me to this moment- how He has protected the trip despite COVID, how He has blessed my trip fundraising, and how He has organized all the small pieces of preparation. I can’t take any credit and I can’t help but feel like a small child following the Father! I am surrendering my comfort (SCARY!) and my control (SCARIER!) and will trust my Father to take care of me. 

All that is to say, I am THRILLED to begin my adventure with I-Squad! On Monday we will launch to Guatemala and are uncertain of how long we will be staying. I feel truly covered in prayer and encouragement and am so thankful for all of you who have connected with my journey! I truly couldn’t be here without you! Please continue to stay in touch- I will miss you all and am SO excited to share what happens this year! Make sure you are subscribed for update notifications! Talk soon :)