August 31, 2009
I've received all of my paperwork for my trip-insurance verification, itinerary, and medical information. Tomorrow I start taking the malaria prevention medication. My son-in-law picked up a headlamp for me to wear during power shortages, and I'm packing snacks to add variety to my diet the next four months.
I spent yesterday with my dad and my daughter's family. I need to print the pictures I took so I'll have them to treasure while I'm gone. I've noticed my oldest two grandkids have become quite clingy at times, often reaching out to hold my hand or snuggle. They know I'll be gone a long time, and I guess they're storing up the tactile memories.
I've learned a lot about myself in the past weeks. I've learned a focused deadline is necessary for me to complete any task. I've carpet bathrooms, painted inside and out, cleaned out closets and drawers, and made curtains in the past week. Anything to focus the energy that can make my mind race!
I've also learned to savor each relationship and every moment. Every second with those I love is a treasure. Each encounter is an opportunity for new blessings. I'm striving to let gratitude rule my life. After all, an awesome God goes with me/before me wherever I go.
I'll a bit concerned about Sunday, when Zachary and Zoe will sing "Jesus Loves Me" at church. I pray they're brave and sing out! I also hope I'm brave so they don't end up in tears.
This week, I need to concentrate on final packing and preparing for my open house on Sunday. Deep breath, Bonnie. You can get everything done!
Monday, August 31, 2009
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Switching Blogs
These are the blogs from my previous account:
Friday, August 7, 2009
Getting Closer
When I talked with Donn Hellinger, the U.S. coordinator for Angel House Orphanage today, I found out there's a power failure in Tarime right now. No wonder I haven't had an answer to my email! I truly feel there's a good reason for the delay. Perhaps it's because the end of any month is the worst time for me to be buy anything. Since I get paid on the last day of the month, even a minor delay could help out with my payments. I know a lot of people applaud my decision to go to Tanzania, yet I wonder if they're aware that there is a fund to support my work there. Donations can be sent to New Hope United Methodist Church, 3921 Jeffco Blvd., Arnold, MO 63010. Checks should be made out to New Hope UMC with VIM-Miller in the memo. All contributions are tax deductible, and will only be used for the direct costs of travel and mission needs. While I'm in Africa, I will not be paid. Housing will be provided, but I will be responsible for food and travel expenses. I know God wants me to be a volunteer, and I am confident He will supply all of my needs.
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Frustration
Man, planning a VIM trip to Tanzania is comparable to getting a Masters degree! I've been jumping through hoops and have lots more jumping to do. I'll feel a lot better when I have my tickets in hand. I have to book them before I apply for my Visa and my Residency Permit. I am now the proud holder of 5 passport pictures- the number required for Tanzania. I'm waiting to see if I also need a Visa for Kenya. In that case, I have 3 extra passport pictures, although I think I look a bit drunk in them. The list of things to do grows, and I've been so nervous that I've actually been cleaning closets just to keep from thinking!
Monday, August 3, 2009
Patriotic Reflection
August 4, 2009
My friend and I attended Hairspray at the Muny tonight. Every time I sing The Star
Spangled Banner now, I realize what a privileged life I lead. Going to Africa will really emphasize how spoiled I've become.
My friend and I attended Hairspray at the Muny tonight. Every time I sing The Star
Spangled Banner now, I realize what a privileged life I lead. Going to Africa will really emphasize how spoiled I've become.
Medical Progress
August 3, 2009
I just emailed the VIM people who are at Angel House Orphanage now, asking a TON of questions. I'm anxiously awaiting a reply.
Meanwhile, I've made an appointment with Travel Med for next Monday. I should have all of my shots and medical information finished then. It has been a real battle to get insurance over-rides on all of my prescriptions for four months, but I think that is covered now.
I am hoping to book my flights in the next week. Thanks to my daughter, a travel agent is working on that. I also need to apply for a Visa and a Residency Permit, since I will be in Tanzania for four months. So much to do! Focus, Bonnie!
I just emailed the VIM people who are at Angel House Orphanage now, asking a TON of questions. I'm anxiously awaiting a reply.
Meanwhile, I've made an appointment with Travel Med for next Monday. I should have all of my shots and medical information finished then. It has been a real battle to get insurance over-rides on all of my prescriptions for four months, but I think that is covered now.
I am hoping to book my flights in the next week. Thanks to my daughter, a travel agent is working on that. I also need to apply for a Visa and a Residency Permit, since I will be in Tanzania for four months. So much to do! Focus, Bonnie!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Tanzania, Here I Come!
July 30, 2009
It official! I'm going to Tanzania from September through December! I'm awaiting specific paperwork and some email addresses from other volunteers on site, and I'm really excited! I found out all volunteers stay in a house near the orphanage and that a cook, housekeeper, and guard are provided. There is dial up Internet access in the house, so I should be able to keep in touch with everyone back home through my blog.
August will be extremely busy, but very exciting. Rebecca and I are meeting again next week to finalize plans for her to move in with me. I would really like to be back home before her baby is born around January 19, but I will see what happens.
Of course, we'll need to celebrate Christmas and some birthdays before I leave. Tickets will be at lease $2000, so money is a concern. I have a really good feeling about Angel House Orphanage. I'm excited to be in service in Africa. I pray this time will allow me to simplify my life and learn to treasure each moment of my life. Please continue to pray for this mission, especially for the forty or so children who live at Angel House Orphanage.
It official! I'm going to Tanzania from September through December! I'm awaiting specific paperwork and some email addresses from other volunteers on site, and I'm really excited! I found out all volunteers stay in a house near the orphanage and that a cook, housekeeper, and guard are provided. There is dial up Internet access in the house, so I should be able to keep in touch with everyone back home through my blog.
August will be extremely busy, but very exciting. Rebecca and I are meeting again next week to finalize plans for her to move in with me. I would really like to be back home before her baby is born around January 19, but I will see what happens.
Of course, we'll need to celebrate Christmas and some birthdays before I leave. Tickets will be at lease $2000, so money is a concern. I have a really good feeling about Angel House Orphanage. I'm excited to be in service in Africa. I pray this time will allow me to simplify my life and learn to treasure each moment of my life. Please continue to pray for this mission, especially for the forty or so children who live at Angel House Orphanage.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Possible Destination
July 25, 2009
Yesterday, I received initial information about Angel House Orphanage in Tanzania. My paperwork has already been sent to the US director by my VIM trainer, Nancy Eubanks. The orphanage currently has 40 children and has maintained a favorable relationship with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries for several years. One team is leaving the site in about a week, and a married couple is scheduled to arrive in January. Who will be there in the lapse I'm not sure. When Nancy told me there was a need at an orphanage, my heart pounded. Working in an orphanage was one of my childhood dreams. I pray I'm not too old to be patient and open to the needs of forty children, although in my younger years I've worked with many more at a time on a daily basis. There's always room for a grandma. right? At any rate, I'm anxiously awaiting more information.
Meanwhile, I'm making arrangements for having a roommate move into my home. She will be taking care of my dog, LaRussa, as well as the house while I am away. I'm really excited about the fact that my home will be welcoming a sweet baby sometime in January, because Rebecca is expecting. I've often wrestled with the stewardship aspects of living by myself. The decision to open my home to someone who needs a place to stay is just another lesson in radical hospitality.
I'm learning so much about being patient and waiting for God's timing. I keep trying to pace myself, holding back and trying not to run ahead of God's direction. My prayers are being answered in God's time, and I believe His timing is perfect. (Lord, help thou my unbelief!)
Yesterday, I received initial information about Angel House Orphanage in Tanzania. My paperwork has already been sent to the US director by my VIM trainer, Nancy Eubanks. The orphanage currently has 40 children and has maintained a favorable relationship with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries for several years. One team is leaving the site in about a week, and a married couple is scheduled to arrive in January. Who will be there in the lapse I'm not sure. When Nancy told me there was a need at an orphanage, my heart pounded. Working in an orphanage was one of my childhood dreams. I pray I'm not too old to be patient and open to the needs of forty children, although in my younger years I've worked with many more at a time on a daily basis. There's always room for a grandma. right? At any rate, I'm anxiously awaiting more information.
Meanwhile, I'm making arrangements for having a roommate move into my home. She will be taking care of my dog, LaRussa, as well as the house while I am away. I'm really excited about the fact that my home will be welcoming a sweet baby sometime in January, because Rebecca is expecting. I've often wrestled with the stewardship aspects of living by myself. The decision to open my home to someone who needs a place to stay is just another lesson in radical hospitality.
I'm learning so much about being patient and waiting for God's timing. I keep trying to pace myself, holding back and trying not to run ahead of God's direction. My prayers are being answered in God's time, and I believe His timing is perfect. (Lord, help thou my unbelief!)
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Ready to Go..Where?
July 23, 2009
A year ago when I retired from teaching, I focused all my attention on getting healthy. Now, entering my second year of retirement, I am seeking variety. I'm so grateful for all the blessings that fill my life. I wouldn't give up anything - not even the hard times. They've made me who I am today. Everything has worked for good, and I'm ready to give back.
I've completed Volunteer in Mission training, and up until a week ago, I planned to start teaching in South Korea. Then the site I had selected was removed from the recommended VIM list. Now I'm not certain where I'll serve. I'm making arrangements for a house/dog sitter and waiting for an assignment. I'm learning to be more comfortable during the in-between times, a lesson that's been a hard-won battle.
A year ago when I retired from teaching, I focused all my attention on getting healthy. Now, entering my second year of retirement, I am seeking variety. I'm so grateful for all the blessings that fill my life. I wouldn't give up anything - not even the hard times. They've made me who I am today. Everything has worked for good, and I'm ready to give back.
I've completed Volunteer in Mission training, and up until a week ago, I planned to start teaching in South Korea. Then the site I had selected was removed from the recommended VIM list. Now I'm not certain where I'll serve. I'm making arrangements for a house/dog sitter and waiting for an assignment. I'm learning to be more comfortable during the in-between times, a lesson that's been a hard-won battle.
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
