Today is the Day!

Wow, it is finally here.  The months of preperation will soon be put to the test.  One more big hurtle and that is the jump across the Equator.
My things are all packed and my carry on runneth over.  I've pack some aspirin to help thin the blood during the long flight and therby reduce the chance of clotting in the legs.  There is a lot of warnings going around about that happening.  I haven't experienced any difficulties in the past, but this body is getting older and more banged up.
I am definitly taking too much technology.  I realized it when I packed all the cords, power supplies and chargers into my bags.  Yikes!  Was it really possible at one time to survive without them?
This morning I attended the Thursday Men's Bible Study at the Bellgrade Starbuck.  I normally attend the Friday meeting, but, hopefully this week we will be in Brazil by then!  Gary Perry attends the Thursday meeting and I wanted to touch base with him to hear about his recent mission trip to Mexico.  I ran into him in Chicago last week as we were both boarding the plane to Richmond.  He was on his way back from Mexico.  He was so jazzed from the experience and seeing the Hand of God at work first hand.  His excitement was contagious this morning.  I am looking forward to comparing notes with him when we return.
Gary's group did without all the techno gadgets we carry around everyday.  He said it was enlightening for him to get away and be able to "hear" God.  Awesome!
That may be something to try on a future mission trip.  For now I plan to use technology to reach out with this blog.

I figure this blog will serve 3 purposes:

1. Provide our friends, loved ones and supporter a source for infomration about how we are doing in Brazil.
2. Provide anyone planning a future foriegn mision trip some insight on the details and rewards of planning and carrying out such an endevour.
3. Provide a journaling record for me to review once I have returned.

So, I thank you for your support.  It is already rewarding to know that this little blog is being spread around.  It is surprising how connected we are when we think of ourselves as branches attached to the vine of Jesus Christ.  Gary Perry was telling a co-worker about his mission trip and mentioned to her about my trip and this blog.  Sandy Townsend told him that she was going on that trip too!  Go Sandy.