Hi everyone! The countdown is on. Today marks 50 days until I leave for the World Race! I will be going first to Gainesville, Georgia where I will meet my team and we will have our training camp before heading to our first country, the Dominican Republic. So, in the time leading up to leaving: How am I doing? What am I doing? What is God doing? These are the questions I've been hearing a lot of recently so here are your answers.
First, throughout this whole process the most prevalent emotions I've felt are nervousness and excitement. At times mostly nervous, and a little excited and other times overwhelmingly excited with a touch of nerves. But, in the last few weeks underneath all the nervous and excited jitters, I've felt peace. A deep knowing that this is something that God has called me to. This is a promise and a dream that is coming to fruition. And strangely as January 15th comes closer and closer the more sure I feel about it all.
Turns out there are lots of things to be done in preparation for this trip. There are so many little things to accomplish, from getting the various vaccines I need to figuring out my international phone plan situation. This past week I have started acquiring different things I will need for the trip. Some notable items include my pack, a sleeping bag, and a tent! I must admit I am slightly stressed about the thought of fitting everything I need into just my "big" pack and a backpack. As someone who showed up to college my freshman year with 11 bags, simplicity does not come natural to me. I have also been doing a lot of fundraising recently. It has been amazing to feel so supported by the various communities I am or have been a part. Big shoutouts to both my church in LA and at home as well as my LP volleyball family.
Finally, besides providing financially, God has really been at work in me in preparation for this trip. I think what He has been showing me recently is the importance of being present. As time is running short with my people at home I just want to enjoy and soak up every moment. But also I want my focus on the Race to be staying present. I used to think that 11 months seemed like an ETERNITY to be away, but I am realizing that it is going to fly by so quickly. Especially since our time in each country will be even more limited I don't want to take a single day for granted. I know this is a once in a lifetime opportunity and I want to fully experience it all.
Thank you all for your support and encouragement every step of the way. It's really happening! 50 days to go until launch. YAY!
B
