Civic Duty and the changing seasons

It was a beautiful fall day. I began (too) early with a 30 minute walk around the neighborhood to the tunes of last year's Christmas mix....don't judge, the stores already are adorning their aisles with mini evergreens. Once i returned to the wonderful warmth of the house, I hurried to get ready and get to the poles at opening time. I must admit that I was disappointed when I arrived and opened the "Vote Here" door to find at least 25 people who beat me in the "I'm going to be the first to do my civic duty and avoid the crowds" game, but thankfully the line moved quickly. After completing the ballot and stopping to grab the "I Voted" sticker that would sparkle with pride on my sweater the duration of the day, I wogged (that's a combo of walking and jogging) back to my car and blasted the heat. I made it back home in time to enjoy breakfast and a partial episode of Saved By The Bell...kids these days don't know the awesomely cheesy after-school-specials that syndication has stolen from them...before bundling into the car and heading to my latest and greatest temp assignment.
I am blessed to have work, and actually really enjoy meeting new people all the time...it's refreshing and liberating, and often affords the time needed to finish all the books I have delved partially into over the past few months. I can't say I am a fan of Business Casual, but unless I want to work as a youth minister or construction worker I figure I'll have to eventually learn to love the attire (although I have always had a knack for directing traffic and setting up orange cones in near perfect lines). At least I have one more year of freedom in that regard. I will travel the world looking more like an Eddie Bauer bum than anything business related.
Though I have a lot of funds yet to be raised, and expensive gear I may need to sell a few organs to buy, I'm taking it one day at a time and trusting in the God who's taken me this far. OK, fine, I also indulge in the occasional 7-11 Pumpkin Spice knock-off in moments of stress...it's strictly seasonal and Oh So perfect in the crisp weather.
I have already made some great strides; completing the necessary vaccinations, purchasing international insurance, securing a 6 month supply of malaria medication, and raising almost half of the funds thanks to many loving and generous family members and friends. My life can feel crazy, but is TRULY blessed:)

World Race Training Camp...WOW

To start off with a gross understatement, Training camp was AMAZING! We worshiped, shared stories, played games, worshiped, ate meals reflective of many of the cultures we'll visit, worshiped, went hiking/ camping and prepared meals for all 48 members of our squad (the U Squad...."U Know!"), participated in team building exercises and lessons, worshiped, danced, and prepared our hearts and minds for this incredible journey we are all embarking on as one huge 48 member family:) Within the squad we were divided into teams of 5-7. I will be the group leader for a five person team. My team consists of me and four amazing, vibrant, strong women who will constitute my sisters/family for the 2011 year. Alison, Rachel, Kim, Katy, and I had time at the end of the week to spend in ministry together and to hang out and get to know one another. I cannot adequately express how thoroughly excited I am to have these girls by my side for the World Race and look forward to the life changing experiences and challenges we will conquer together. We will go boldly into this world and awaken the eternity that is stirring within the hearts of all men.