It's Go Time!

The day finally is here! We leave for our Amazon Mission Trip today. By the way, I don't know why the pic is cropped on the right; it's not on my pic. Oh well...

I worked through so much spiritually with this trip. Being afraid I could not go because of cancer and chemo. Recognizing that I had made it an idol in my life and repenting and giving that all to God, who gave it all back to me. Our team has faced difficulties as individuals, some with health issues of their own, and now with having our entire itinerary changed due to an outbreak of malaria. We will not be going back to the Satere people. I won't be able to see Joia. But it is obvious to me that God has taken over this trip, and I can't wait to see what He has in store!

I do need to mention one side effect and believe me it does tie into this mission trip. On Tuesday, I noticed my right thumb was pulling inward across my palm. I thought it was from doing so much computer work that day. On Wednesday, both thumbs started doing it. Also, the neuropathy got much worse with the tingling, my fingers got really stiff and looked waxy. My hands were not working right! I called Dr. Baltz, and he told me to pour down the Gatorade because my electrolytes were low. After one 20-oz bottle, I saw much improvement. I drank 60 ounces on Wednesday, and at least 30 yesterday. No more issues. I took 5 small 8-ounce bottles to be packed in my checked bag in addition to the packets that I have always carried. I got a text from Toni Blackwell. She was anticipating more bottles. I told her I was concerned about room and weight. She said to bring them because this was my health we are talking about. I was so touched by that. Everyone is really watching out for me. So, I have 6 20-ouce bottles going with me today that I will stick in a checked bag. They also will help me warm up the water on the boat because everything will be too cold for me to drink. I can put some water in an empty bottle and leave it beside my suitcase overnight to get warm enough for me to drink.

While I am grateful people are watching out for me, I do not want to be a burden or a distraction to the team. I want to do my part. I want to do what God has called me to do. I want all of us to be doing what God has called us to do. I want God to be glorified in all things. I pray for hearts to be open and receptive. I just want to bring people hope and the reason for our hope--Jesus.