Exhausting Week!!

This has been a very hard week for me physically as well as emotionally. I started the week off with what I thought was a cold- but when I wasn't feeling better by Wednesday I called the doctor. I'm very glad I made that call! I am now on three medications to clear up a sinus infection (not something I want for the flight!) This explains why I have been so very tired all week. But, I should be feeling much better in the next couple of days. And, as Jim pointed out- it might be beneficial to have the antibiotics in my system for the trip. God's timing is amazing!

Today I was feeling a little better and decided to call the school to find out if they had made any decisions about interviewing for the two teaching positions open for this up coming school year. I spoke with the principal who apologized for the fact I will not be getting an interview. There were over 240 applications submitted for those two openings, and I simply do not have the experience others have. While I respect their decision, I cannot help but be disappointed. In my mind this was the perfect job for me. But, I realize God is in control and must have other plans for my future. I must admit it will be nice to be able to relax once we return from Ghana and not have to begin setting up a classroom. I will continue to sub until I find a permanent teaching position- or until God shows me another path.

Perhaps the most difficult part of the week was saying good bye to Brianna. She is spending time with her dad in Fennimore until I return. This means I will not see her for about a month. This is the most time we have spent apart and I will miss her greatly. Thank goodness for cell phones and computers!!

Now, with all that behind me, I am able to focus on my trip to Ghana and draw closer to God. I may be exhausted, but I am not giving up. By the grace of God I will be healthy and not distracted while in Ghana. I may not understand the things that are happening, but I understand that God is in control and has better plans than I could ever dream of.

One More Week!

In one week from today we will be leaving for Ghana! I can't believe it is almost time to go!! I have spent time packing, and repacking, and shopping for the things I need. I can't help but feel there is something I am forgetting. But, I am leaving it with the Lord and praying he will help me bring everything I will need.

Tomorrow Ruth and I will be getting together to make sure we have everything packed that we will need. We will see how successful we can be at sharing a suitcase and keeping it under 50 pounds. We are lucky enough to be able to wash our clothing while in Accra, Ghana, which makes it easier to pack. We only need to pack 1/2 the amount of clothing we will need.

I cannot wait to see what God has in store for us! I am excited and anxious at the same time. My biggest fear as of right now is the flight. I have never flown before and cannot help but to worry about the flight(s). I know we are in God's hands, and I do find comfort in that fact; however, I cannot help but let the human emotions come through. I'm sure everything will be just fine and I will be able to laugh at my worries once I'm home.

I would like to thank everyone who has helped me get this far (financially and prayerfully). I could not have done this without each and every one of you... and could not continue my preparations to go. Thank you all and may God bless you!!!!!

Almost Ready

Whew! Time is sure flying by fast! I am enjoying teaching summer school, and can't believe this is the last week!! Which also means it is getting very close to the time to leave for Ghana. Where did the time go?

I have gotten all the shots I thought I needed, but decided to to get one more "just in case". Ruth and I were recently informed there have been cases of meningitis reported in Ghana. So..... that means one more shot! I do not want to take any chances of getting sick while in Ghana.

Packing is proving to me a lot more difficult that I ever thought it would be. What do I take? What do I leave behind? Do I want to wear more skirts, or capris? I am packing light so Ruth and I can fit all of our clothes into one suitcase which will give us an extra checked bag to fill with supplies for the McIntyres.

In between packing and teaching I have been working on "perfecting" my teaching portfolio in hopes for an interview. The random Lake School District is officially hiring two teachers in which I am licensed!! I am trying to be patient and lean on God, but I cannot help worrying. I have no choice but to wait for the principal to call and schedule an interview- hopefully before I leave!! I welcome all prayers in this matter, as well as for my strength, humility, and not to mention my sanity as I continue to prepare for my interview and my trip.