North Carolina

I arrived Tuesday in Union Mills, NC. Wow, it's been a good but long 2 weeks, driving around Connecticut, Maryland and Virginia. I'm looking forward to remaining in one place for a month! Until mid-October I'll live in a dorm with 5 other women who are also here at the Center for Intercultural Studies. "Weary" is a decent description of my physical and emotional state right now, but I'm really quite excited to be here, learning about Germany's culture and how I can integrate myself well there. I'm off now to finish my 2 book assignments before our first full week begins on Monday, but before I go, I want to report that I'm at 84% of my monthly support goal! My target departure date of January inches closer and closer!

Tribute

Hi! Last week I entered the 21st century by purchasing my own computer. My very own!!! I, accompanied by my trusty friend Kristen, walked into the Apple Store on Boylston St. in Boston, and the friendly Sean assisted me in the second most significant purchase of my life. Thanks, Sean! I'm now able to connect to the web from almost anywhere, without having to borrow a computer! Hopefully this means that I'll be better able to stay in touch with all of you.

The last couple of months have been a whirlwind. I was in Boston for all of July and 2 weeks of August. I then traveled to Missouri, where I witnessed the wedding of two beloved friends, and was able to visit family and friends I hadn't seen in a long, LONG time! After spending 36 hours back in Boston packing and getting my life in order, I've spent the last week in Connecticut, Maryland and Virginia. Thanks to those of you who offered your countless (OK, 8 or so) guest rooms, and many meals! I'll drive to North Carolina on Tuesday to begin a month-long cross-cultural training, and hopefully sleep a little as well!

I'm able to attend this training because of the generosity and vision of so many people. I am currently at 80% of my monthly financial goal, and am praying to be at 100% by the end of October. I have been overwhelmed by your kindness and generosity, and am astounded that things are progressing so quickly.

So, this post is a tribute to those of you who are praying for me and my future team in Köln, Germany, and financially supporting this work that my hands (and vocal cords) have been given to do. And to God, of course, for whom, and by whom, and to whom all of this is done.

Thanks, and I'll post again soon, hopefully next time with photos!

Peace and Grace and, and, and...