This is it, we are ready to go!

This is it, the day to depart is less just a few hours away.  We have packed and repacked our suitcases.  Megan and I have redistributed, purged, and rearranged items we find necessary for a 15 day faith adventure.  Our suitcases are under the 50 pound maximum weight.  Our backpacks are stuffed and hopefully will make it into the airplane cabin with us.

Megan has baked several batches of cookies this week, her dad will not starve.  I washed every item of clothing, he'll start out with clean clothing.  Our older daughter is responsible for her own laundry.  I have made lists, cleared clutter, vacuumed, cleaned, created love notes, and tried to make it possible for my very capable husband and older daughter to survive without me with ease.  I like to think they can't live without me.

Admittedly, I have butterflies in my tummy of anticipation.  The nervousness of the unknown and the surreal reality that I am really leaving tomorrow morning.  I feel very inadequate for the tasks ahead.  I do not have language skills other than my native language of American English with accents of sarcasm and mom-ese.  I have attempted to learn a few words as my language gifted eldest child snickered at my attempts and roared with dismay at the program I was using, declaring it sub-par and unacceptable.  I will smile and mime my way through the days.  I will engage the children in games, peel potatoes, and depend on a translator to communicate with the pastors.

 Previously 'the sender', I now am going.  It will be exciting to see Christ's ministry in Peru and to participate in it.  Many have sown seeds prior to us, I hope we are faithful in continuing to water the seeds of faith.

But first there are many miles to traverse.  Two planes to get to Peru.  Another plan ride into the Andes.  And then the bus up into the village.  Later a train to Maccu Picchu.  All modes of 'motorized' transportation being utilized.   Thankfully they are motorized versus the llama type of transportation.

Fun fact:  Today I learned the details of distant relatives in Peru.  Apparently I have two great-great Uncles who traveled to South America, married Peruvian women, and had children.  It is rather fun to think that I may interact with some distant cousins.   I will never know for certain.

I leave you with my pastor's FB status so perfected stated:
“I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.” Nehemiah 2:18 NIV Tomorrow, 6 people including myself are traveling to Peru for 15 days of ministry. We will be working at a kid’s camp and at a pastor’s conference. We have already seen God’s hand with us as we have been preparing to go and we look forward to how He will work through us as we touch the lives of others. We ask for your prayers as we travel and as we are involved in ministry.

Next post when I find internet access in Peru!  Stay tuned.