dominican republic update!

Before anything, I need to find the words to express how blown away I have been by your guys’ support since I posted about where I’ve been spiritually, and especially in regards to our upcoming missions trip.

Some of you have even sent donations, which was completely unexpected, and meant more to me and Taylor then you will ever ever know.

I was told I’d be surprised at who gives and who doesn’t, and you have absolutely proven that.
So, thank you.
It’s just “thank you” doesn’t even begin to feel BIG enough to express my gratitude.

Maybe I’ll make a video of Taylor and me doing our HAPPY DANCE each time we get a donation, just so you can see how blessed we truly feel.

Now on to less mushy stuff.

Since I got so many emails from you guys wanting to be kept in the loop, I decided to just post it all here on the blog so it’s all in one place for everyone who wants to know. 

For those of you that asked, YES!!!  Most people (apparently, not me!) plan missions trips well in advance….this one so happens to be a little last minute, but was one that needed to happen.  

I chose to go for it, despite the short time frame, because I really did feel that Taylor and I were meant to be on this particular trip.  

That decision has been completely confirmed simply by seeing Taylors excitement and willingness to do anything he can to help make the trip happen.  

He’s been praying harder and more then ever, and he’s even working extra hard on Rosetta Stone with me so we can talk to the kids about Jesus in their language.  I have truly fallen more in love with him in just this last week planning the trip.

As for me, truthfully…I’ve been wavering on my decision all week long.

  

I struggle with wanting to play it safe and just stay home where I know what to expect with my days.  

Taking this HUGE step of faith does not come easily to me in any way.  

But, just like I shared before, my struggle is not only in a believing God to do big things in my life, but also in being obedient to do the things He’s asked.  

So, it seems this situation most definitely forces me to work both of those issues out!!!  

So, with this weeks update we just wanted to let you know what we’ve been up to, so you can please continue to pray!  

Monday: Jimmy took the day off so we could order Taylors passport (both parents have to be present. no kidnapping allowed! ha ha).  We were told that we should be receiving it within a week.  PRAYERS NEEDED: That we would actually GET it within that time frame.

Tues-Wed: Investigated and read up on Maleria meds, as well as made and passed out flyers for our upcoming Fundraising Events.  Taylor took the lead on this, but folding all the flyers as well on passing them out around the neighborhood and at church.  

Thurs:  We had our first official Missions Trip team meeting where we prayed, discussed details, and brainstormed ideas.  Taylor had his hand raised half the meeting and had so many awesome ideas, that I couldn’t help but want to smother him with kisses.  We also found out which orphanage we’re working with, which made my heart leap, and I may or may not have asked if I could adopt a child or two while I was there.  Weird thing was, I totally wasn’t kidding.  

Sunday: Our first Fundraising Event! We’re going to be offering Child Care from 2-5pm at the park by our house, where we’re setting up games, races, play stations, snack and a story.  For this event there is a $20 minimum donation per child, and all proceeds go directly to the cost of our trip. 

(If you’re local, you’re invited! And please share with your friends!!!)

Taylor will be setting up a bake sale, selling a ton of treats at his school.  He’s super excited about this.

We’ve also been asking for donations for a Garage Sale, where again, all proceeds will go directly to the Children’s Heritage Foundation to pay for our trip. 

And I think that’s about it for now!  

We are SUPER excited and ready to get moving forward!!!  

Between track practice 4 days a week, meets every Saturday, 2-3 articles due each week, and planning for this God given trip….It’ll be ONE BUSY month!!!

And I absolutely LOVE it.

I also better start working on Jimmy about this adoption thing….