New Year Thanks!

Happy New Years one and all. And yes, I realize that most of you still have eight hours to go but we just celebrated with a glass of Cold Duck champagne. The aroma of burning tires swirl around my head as I watch flares burn in the sky, local makeshift fireworks. I am so excited for this new year and yet have so much to be thankful for from this past year. Please know that I am sending my love to you all.

This is me - christmas day as I hugged my care package to my chest in childish delight. Thank you Kathryn and mom!

I ask that you pray for me as this upcoming year unfolds. I haven’t ever been one of those people who learn a hard lesson and then never make the same mistake twice. Too often I repeatedly stumble over the same hiccup – picture me touching the stove a second time to see just how hot it really is. This week I find myself falling flat on my face once again.

I sent in my re-admission packet to the United States Naval Academy. I can’t help but worry about getting back in and what my next year holds. I willingly trusted God and followed Him across the world to Africa; and yet I still hesitate to trust Him concerning my future. Though my heart longs to return to the Academy, I pray that God will show me clearly what His will is for me and that I will learn to trust Him in everything. May this next year be as fabulous as the last.

Kudos to the Working Girl

The other day as I lay utterly exhausted with cuts covering my knees and a large burn on my hand, I thought of how all my life I have been taken care of. Growing up with parents who sacrificed daily to give me what they couldn’t afford, going to a school where my food & laundry were all done for me, and biggest of all just living in America.

When arriving in Africa I expected all this would change and a large part of it has; but one surprise was that I would have a local village lady work a few mornings for me – hand washing clothes and such. I protested that I did not need it and could do the work myself but was told that this was the lady’s whole income. Needless to say, I did not take away her job. With the holidays she had plans to be gone for a few weeks, and I looked forward to the extra work or so I thought.

That day I decided would be my full work day and I would get everything done that she would normally do. I scrubbed a heaping pile of laundry with a brush, two buckets, and detergent that strips all skin from your hands. By the sixth trip to re-fill my water buckets my back began to complain loudly with my knees soon following suit. I felt as if every line on my hands were being eaten away. As I rinsed and hung the laundry up to dry, it dawned on me that it was not even noon yet. I was ready to stop for the day but there was still a full working day ahead of me. I moved to hoeing the garden to prepare the soil for planting tomorrow. As the sun began to gift me with more freckles, I dropped to my knees to pick up rocks. After I had carted away the rocks, the walls & floors of the washroom, cook room, and living rooms were calling out my name. The fire had to be made and the baking for the week still needed to be finished. By this time the laundry was ready to be taken down and folded. Once all this was done, my body protested loudly to all movement and I collapsed on the floor.

Oh man, kudos to the working girls of old!

Hazardous Fruit Bearing

Went to the market where I managed to fall flat on my face in front of a huge crowd. Yep, graceful is my middle name. I was carrying my bag, two watermelons, and two pineapples when I tripped over a root but having no free hand to catch myself just fell. Everyone quickly rushed to help me, repeatedly saying sorry though they were faultless. Embarrassment flushed across my face and my body screamed in pain but I didn’t want to cry in front of all these people. So picking myself up, I limped to a bodah bodah to get a ride home. Vulnerability poured from every pour as I painfully stumbled around to pick up my smashed fruit off the ground.

I was sharing this with a dear friend when she told me that I should write and tell of how God is helping me grow in the fruits of the spirit through these experiences. I need lots of growth in these areas: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance.
But as I was whining about my embarrassment and pain - I shamefully forgot to share how God did use this situation. As I rode home on the bodah bodah sniffling to myself, I got a chance to know the driver who had seen me fall. He shared about his family and things he has been through growing up. Bruises fade away but I hope that this friendship will grow and last.

Ultimate Homesickness

Yesterday was my first day of utter homesickness. It didn’t help that I was exhausted from a very late night and a long day of work. Around 1630 I shut all my curtains, locked the doors, and huddled up on the floor with a stash of care package cookies (thank you Kathryn). I sat there in silence as the evening darkness wrapped around me like a heavy quilt. I didn’t rise to light the candles or make dinner; I just remained in a position of complete pitiful-ness. Finally I reached for an unopened card from a loved one and read, “I would totally throw myself on a bee for you.” I smiled and not thirty minutes later I got a phone call from one of my best friends.

But this small sliver of joy soon faded as the phone card cut us off, the batteries ran out on my cd player, the candles began to dwindle, and the dark silent night wore on. I turned on my computer which had 20 minutes of battery remaining to watch a slide show of my pictures from home. Not a smart idea when stubbornly stuck in the ditch of loneliness. I awoke and began to pray for a peace and happiness.

I was so intent on missing my loved ones back home that I was refusing to make room in my heart to love those around me. As if my heart was holding it’s breath till I got home. I was willing to love them but always with the distant thought that I will be saying goodbye to them in 6 months. My prayer now is that I will learn to love passionately, boldly, and without fear. “There is no fear in love, but perfect love casts out fear…”

Oh Christmas Tree!

Well, it is finally Christmas time. My favorite time of the year as all my friends know - I began listening to Christmas music around October. I found a small Charlie Brown fake Christmas tree here and decorated it with popcorn and ribbon. Don't laugh...I make do with what I can find. It doesn't feel like Christmas at all but I really haven't missed it. The people here have been so kind to me. I have a dark chocolate bar under my tree, care package, a plate of cookies, and a few fabulously wrapped gifts. I love you all! Merry Christmas!

Loving the Un-lovable

I have always thought that loving children was like second nature to me. I am a huge push over when it comes to kids. And nine times out of ten, you can find me at the kids table rather than with the adults. Granted there are some pills every now and then but kids are normally pretty loveable…or so I thought. I know most parents who have had to put up with obnoxious children are laughing at my warped view of angelic children. I have since seen the error of that kind of thinking.

Out of the 40 babies/kids at the home, there are just 3-4 whom have managed to frustrate me to no end. They are around five years old and my jaw clenches at just the thought of how they behave. They will do anything for attention, including: hitting me, messing up my hair, tearing at my clothes or jewelry, pushing other children out of my lap to get in it, choking the little ones to see if I will re-act, crying or screaming, and anything they think of. They don’t understand English and I have no authority to discipline them.

Today, I sat feeding a three week old baby girl; and in my head, I began to list which kids I would adopt and which I wouldn’t. Never have I felt such shame as when I realized that I was saying that some were not worthy of love or adoption. How I was so quick to offer love to those who I felt were worthy and yet was ready to give up on the others.

I don’t know how Jesus does it, how He loves all of us who are so very unworthy. God doesn’t just adopt those who are cute and obedient – He loves the unlovable. Please pray that God will open my heart to love these four children with the same unconditional love that is lavished upon me. "Jesus loves the little children, all the little children of the world. Red & yellow, black & white – they are precious in His sight."

Baby Home Pics

These are some of the kids at the Torro babies home that I work with every day. A lot of the younger babies are in their cribs so I didn't take many pics of them. These are the older kids who love to smother me with their sticky hands and snot filled faces....and I am loving every second of it.

Katy Care Packages

Dark Chocolate
Sleepy Time Tea
Hot tamales
Mixed Music Cds
Dvds or TV series (friday nite movie night)
Pictures of yourselves (I can't print pics from emails)
Blank cards / stationary

*Will add more to the side of my blog as I think of it. = )

PHONE NUMBER (updated)

I have a phone! I am so estatic that I have a cell phone but as I carry it around, I constantly reach for it to make a phone call and realize that I really can't just make international calls whenever I feel like it. But if someone calls me from the states then I don't have to pay for anything - so feel free to call any time. It is best to get a phone card and just call me on that...that way it will be cheaper for you. My number is 0751949741.

You have to have access to an international line then dial 011 256 75 1949741 I am 8 hours ahead of you (EST), and am home from the orphanage after 4 PM my time (8 AM your time).

Prayer & Laughter

Here is the little girl who has won her way completely into my heart. Her name is Jeryn - she is the daughter of a fellow teacher at Hope School. She spent the night with Rachel and I this past weekend and it was the most fun. And yes, that is me without anything done to my hair and no make up - welcome to life in Africa.

I need to ask for some serious prayer. Last night a doctor who works with our team died from ebola. They have evacuated all the neighboring team mates and just this week there was a case of ebola here in Fort Portal. People are starting to wear gloves when handling any money or the such. Everyone is scared and unsure about this. Please pray - it has become quite a serious plague.

There is so much more but my time is up! love to all!

Prayers for disease

Last night it was reported that the neighboring villages where some fellow missionaries live have a break out of ebola. So far in the one village it is around 79 deaths. They are not sure if they are going to quaranteen it or not but it has already begun to spread to other villages. It has no cure and they haven't seen it this far west in Uganda before. Please pray that it will not continue to spread to Fort Portal and for the safety of the missionary doctors helping out.

I am now a teacher!

Hello everyone!

Well, I have now been here two weeks...man, it feels like centuries. I taught my first class today! Yes, I am now officially a teacher...scary thought. = ) I stood up and wrote math problems on the board and helped the children answer them in their notebooks. Walked around with as stern as a face as I could muster so they would do their work and quit talking. Then I graded all the problems and handed them back. It was so much fun but quite a shock to find out that in just one of my classes P3 (3rd grade) there are 78 students!!!! Can you believe that! I was shocked to realized I would be teaching around 150 different students and need to remember their names and everything. Thank goodness that my memorization skills are up to par. Here in school it is very common for the teachers to beat the students with reeds. I witnessed my first beating today. It is not as if they beat them to a pulp but they do make them lie down and they beat them on their bottoms. It is hard to get used too. But evidently the parents expect their children to get all their discipline at school. I won't be doing any beating, thankfully they don't expect me too. They start their exams Monday and I will be grading over 5,000 problems...yikes! Cassie and all you teachers have my utmost respect right now!

Torro Babies Home

My main focus until school starts is the Torro Babies home. I visited for the first time a few days ago and it nearly broke my heart. I told the Head Mistress that I would be back every day except Sundays from then until school started. There are about 40 babies there a mixture of healthy, mal-nutritioned, and HIV positive.

It is a real struggle. You walk in and all the toddlers come running to attack you with their sticky hands and mushed up grass hoppers (a specialty here). If you forget to take all your jewlery and special clothing off, prepared for it to be pulled at. They fight to sit in your lap pulling each other off. They wrap their arms around you neck so tight you can hardly breathe and yet don't know what they are saying as they jabber at you in Torro a mile a minute. I bought a ball for them today and it was fun to have them running around playing. After about two hours with the older kids I sit down on the cement porches with the babies who are set out there for the day.

The babies either have no diaper or have soaked through the one they have on. As they make a wet puddle, they are moved and set in another spot. The first day I constantly cringed as I would feel the wetness soaking into my clothes from holding the babies. Some are rolly polly babies and others have arms and legs that are twigs and yet will be one or two years old. They wrap their tiny arms around any part of you. After sitting and just holding for a while, we move in for lunch.

Their are about 8-10 kids per small room each with his/her own crib. I help feed and clean the older toddlers and babies. Then we move to the infants who you wouldn't even know where there. 2 weeks old, 5 months old.....tiny babies in cribs all day. I feed them bottles and just sing to them while the other crawl in bed for nap time. It breaks my heart each time I walk into a room and realize there are more babies in each corner every day that I didn't know about the day before.

It has been a real struggle for me. I want to cry for each child and yet it does no good. They greet me with huge smiles and I force myself to continue smiling until I leave for the day. I want to shower....wash away the urine, spit up, poop, left over food, filth, and any trace of HIV each time I walk home. And yet, I hold onto each baby tighter each day...hoping if I get enough of it on me, they will have to endure less of it. And yet it is the children and babies who show me God's pure happiness each day. They laugh and play through out it all and are happy to be alive. I pray that I will learn to be so thankful for everything I have and love my life to it's fullest.

My Job Here

What am I doing here? Good question...glad you asked. Well the first two days I spent with the kids at school. I got to know the teachers and how things ran. Classes end tomorrow and the kids are on break until February 1st. So I will spend that time writing my lessons and getting ready to teach. I will be teaching math for 3rd and 4th grade and another unknown class as of right now.

Then I began language lessons with a local girl named stella. Man, I thought it would be easy cause English is spoken here. WRONG. First off I am learning to speak with an accent or a broken staccato like English. But the real challenge is that most of the children and older adults speak Torro a village dialect. So to teach and work with the children and pretty much interact in the community - I must learn the language. I am really excited to get it down. I am meeting with my tutor for an hour or two every day for December-January before school starts.

We live in a village about 5 kilometers from town. So I walk into town in the mornings to work at the Torro babies home for most of the day until 1500. It is a hillly long walk but I enjoyed it. I love the people I wish I could describe how different it is here. The kids come out to say hi as you pass by and everyone is so friendly. Personal space is not really in exsistance here....you hold hands with everyone and I am learning to enjoy it.

Some Free Time

Well, I have a little bit of free time because the babies ate lunch and took their nap early and the internet cafe is open. Man, I don't know where to start. First let me describe my home.

I arrived to find that the little stone place that I would be sharing with Rachel is so delightful. So much more then I expected so I am in love with it. She has worked hard to make it homey. We share a bunk bed and I have all my stuff on these local wicker shelves. And we have a little sitting room to greet guests in. I plan on taking a little video of it and posting but today is not that day. We have attached outside a kitchen with a stone outside stove and a shower room where we hang a bag of water with a hose to shower. And Rachel and I are working on a garden. I am hoping to buy some tomatoe, carrot, cucumber, squash, and corn seeds today in town. We already have lettuce, peppers, dodo, and green beans. Everyone has a garden because that is how you eat around here.

Rachel is a delight of a room mate. Really fun and down to earth. Definitely my stlye. She cleaned out her closet and has some hammy downs for me....Kathryn made me think of you. The house is right next to the church and school. So every morning I wake up to tons of children running by on their way to school in purple and blue uniforms. The picture of the bathroom I posted earlier is a dream bathroom...I wish I had. We really just have a stall with cement floors and a hole. But I thank God for everything nice that I didn't expect and can't complain.

Things to Send

I have only 6 mins to type this in the local internet cafe. If you would like to send care packages this is what I need. I am working with children 2 weeks to 4 years old. All this can be hammy down and thrift store...they don't have much so it doesn't need to be new.

I NEED:
Baby and Toddler clothes - shirts and shorts
Cloth Diapers LOTS! (ones that can zap or button on preferably)
*no socks, shoes, or hats* (won't be used)
Coloring books (dollar store ones will work)
Coloring crayons (or pencils)
Gum (they love gum)
Toy Balls (a bouncy medium size one or soccer or anything)

That is all for now! So much to tell you but no time yet. Will be on once a week and will write more. Love you all!!!

I am HERE!

Well, so my idea of arriving at 1400 on saturday was wishful thinking. Fog rolled into Dubai and I ended up being there from midnight (friday) until 1900 (saturday). I arrived in Uganda at 0145 very tired. Thank the Lord though, because my luggage came in and I was given a visa. We drove to a hostel close by for the night. It was late so I didn't really see anything. Though driving on the wrong side of the road and sitting in the passenger seat which to us is the drivers seat was a little weird. I showered and crept into my mosquitoe net covered bed.

I woke up early and Jennifer, Rachel, and I headed to a local church. As we drove there, I couldn't take it all in. There was so much to see and absorb. Jeeps with armed soldiers, children running around everywhere, red dirt roads, huts/houses all crammed together in alleyways, and so much more. We stopped at an India restaraunt and ate AMAZING food. (thought of you Justin & Tracy) We leave tomorrow morning for Fort Portal. Jennifer says I am seeing the nice and developed area but it is a lot different where I will be living. Hard to imagine.

Well, I will try and get on in a week or so.

1st Leg of the Journey

Well, I am sitting in Dubai airport. I have made it half way. So much has happened and I wish you could see what I have seen so far. Let me share my last 26 hrs (with time change).

So, I left home at 1045 yesterday (thursday) to catch a shuttle to JFK. I departed JFK (thursday) at 2315 for Hamburg, Germany. I boarded the plane and glanced around in amazement. We each had our own TV with over 150 movies and also music. We were all given blankets, pillows, head sets, heated towels, sleeping masks, tooth brush & paste, and socks. They served a spicy chicken cury, rice, and okra dinner with also a roll, seafood salad, fresh salad, cheese & crackers, rice pudding, and brownie. And then later on a breakfast that was equally as big. I felt like royalty. It was a 7 hr flight to Germany but with the time change I landed at 1330 (friday). The lay over was 1 hr and I was soon on another flight for the next 5 hrs to Dubai. I landed and it was 2345 (friday).

As I walked around Dubai airport, my mouth hung open with wonder. It is huge and as busy as Times Square NYC. Everything is decorated in gold and deep colors. There are shops everywhere selling absolutely everything. It is late so there are people EVERYWHERE laying down asleep on the ground. I went to the restroom, thinking nothing of it. And discovered, I have now entered the realm of hole in the ground toilets. I must brag that I did pretty well for my first time. = )

I don't leave Dubai until 0800 (saturday). So, I will sleep here all night and resist the urge to go exchange all my money and buy tons of goodies. I will, hopefully, arrive in Uganda at 1430 (saturday).

Farewell USA

Well, it is finally that time. I head out tomorrow morning for JFK. I scrambled to finish packing my two bags tonight. They are awful heavy and I pray that they aren't over 70 lbs. I kept thinking of last minute things to stuff in them. I packed really tightly so I had all this extra room but tons of stuff in zip lock, air free bags. I can't wait to check them and not have to worry about them until the other end of the journey.

I just want to take time to thank all of my family and friends. I would not be here today with out your love and support. I tease my mom all the time telling her that she is fabulous but I really do mean it. She has done SO much for me. I couldn't be more blessed or wish for anything else. And not just my mom but also my siblings, extended family, new friends, old friends, friends of friends...I am so fortunate. I look forward to meeting new people in Uganda with eagerness but will never forget the wonderful people in my life already. Thank you all.

A rough sketch of my first week was shared with me. Here is what it looks like: Saturday I arrive in Kampala (the capital of Uganda). Jennifer and Rachel are picking me up but may be late because there is a traffic ban that day due to a high security conference going on. We will spend 2 nights in the city to tour around, get over jet lag, go to church. Monday we will begin the 4 hr jeep ride to Fort Portal. Tuesday & Wednesday I will settle in, start learning about the culture, observe classes at Hope School. Thursday I will meet the other missionaries at Thanksgiving dinner. And Friday I will spend back at the school.

I have my camera charged and ready. I will report back with pictures and an update in a week or two. Love you all!

Bathroom Mix Up

The drive to Philly today wasn't bad until the last leg where I got lost and went 30 miles too far. It was about a five hour drive and by the time I got to the mall, I had to go to the bathroom REALLY bad. I rushed down this narrow hallway and saw "women" written in large cursive letters on the wall. The opening was like those at an airport - going straight in you would hit a wall..you go to the right to enter and exit on the left. Well that is what I assumed. Little did I know that the men were on the right and the woman on the left. The hallway was dark and I only saw the women's sign. After going to the bathroom, I walked out of the stall to be faced with a gentleman using an urinal. He was as shocked and mortified as I was. I rushed out in complete embarrassment. I don't know how I find myself in these type of situations but I am scarred for life. yikes!

Hands Up!

My mom and I were shopping for last minute items and remembered we needed to get Advil cold medicine for the family in Uganda. We hunted the shelves and could not find it. Finally, we realized you had to take a card to the prescription counter to get Advil cold medicine. We chuckled and went to the counter; not knowing the shake down we were about to go through. To get this medicine- you must now show your ID, sign an agreement, pay right there, two more signatures, and then you receive the medicines in a stapled white bag. All of this for Advil cold medicine. We walked away feeling like we had just bought illegal drugs!

Packing IQ

How does one know exactly how many things of deodarent to bring? Will two sticks carry me through or will I begin to stink at the end? Will the one dark chocolate bar curb my craving for the next seven months or should I bring a large stash? Can you ever pack too many colorful (barbie, superman, glitter, sponge bob) bandaides? These are the thoughts that race through my mind lately as I scramble to pack my bags. One more week, ladies and gentlemen.

It is so thrilling. As I sat excitedly waiting to get my shot today (yes, I like shots...weird I know), I realized how far God has brought me since around this time last year. It was in January when I first dared to mention that I felt like God wanted me to be in Africa and not at the Academy. I was sitting talking with Chaps when it slipped out - I was as shocked as he was. Now here I am, trying to think of how much suntan lotion I should bring with me!

My Ticket Outta Here. (edited)

Ok, so here is my flight information! UPDATED

Leave: 15 Nov from JFK at 2315.
Arrive: 16 Nov in Dubai at 2355. *lay over 8hrs
Leave: 17 Nov from Dubai at 0825.
Arrive: 17 Nov in Entebbe, Uganda at 1450.

How to write letters or send packages.

Address:
KATY VOIGT C/O WHM
BOX 383, FORT PORTAL, UGANDA, EAST AFRICA

**You can send all letters and packages to this address. When sending a package, please put "gift" or "no commercial value" on the packing slip, even if it has value. That way there won't be a tax placed on it.

Our Comfort Zone

Dan M. from World Harvest is one of a kind. I first met him early this summer at orientation. I shared with him where God has brought me from and where He is leading me. Dan helped guide me through orientation and looked out for me. I grew to respect him in such a short time. One of the first things you notice is his jokeful personality, he makes you laugh. But as the week went on, I realized that he has a hard time being personal (hugging, showing his emotion with others). And yet, his HUGE heart for the Lord just radiates from him. Today he pulled me aside, "Katy, this is really hard for me to say but your life's story about your journey with God made you one of my hero's this summer." I looked at him in shock and didn't know what to say.

I want to cry now as I realize that I couldn't bring myself to step outside my comfort zone and tell him what a Christ like example he has been to me and how much I respect him. I have such a hard time sharing my feelings with others. And here was someone who struggled with the same thing and yet was willing to step outside and share. My friends and family have told me that I have a hard time telling them of my love for them. I am so ashamed to think that I couldn't bring myself to sacrifice a little of my comfort to share how much they mean to me. (Tara this is for you too.)

Today this is my prayer. Lord, please open my heart to those I love so very much. Please allow me to radiant your love to those around me as I have seen Dan do.

All the Credit is His

I am so close to being done with support raising and yet this past week I began to worry and complain about not being able to raise the last amount. I realized that God had provided so much in such an unexpected time and I had never stopped to really spend time thanking Him. I almost was proud to say "I raised such and such amount already"; as if I was taking God's credit for raising the money. Once again He needed to gently nudge me and remind me that it is He who provides for all things. I hang my head in shame as I realize my doubt and lack of trust. 'To God be all the glory for the great things He has done.'

I got a call from a doctor and dental office today. They both agreed to give me a physical and dental check-up for free. How amazing is God. I still need to get my shots but am looking to see where is the best place.

Hopefully, I can send out my first support email today with updates. I still need to figure out how to put all the email addresses into one link so it is easier when I email in Uganda.

What would happen if we stopped?

I have been at training for two days. And as I chattered on (as I am known to do) I was asked by a lady - "what would happen if you just stopped?". Stopped trying to accomplish a miracle, stopped trying to be a hero, stopped trying to be all that I can be. I looked at her in shock...most people say nice words of encouragement and admiration for all that I manage to fit in. My first thought was - well things would just not get done or fall apart. Wow, was I overcome with pride. The world would keep on turning and most would not even experience a speed bump if I stopped. How small we are in the big picture of life and yet how often we feel like the world revolves around us. I want to stop rushing against time; and begin living according to God's schedule book and not my own.

Approved

I am excited - I can barely type a complete sentence! I just got an email from my team leader in Fort Portal that I have been approved to come by Nov 15th. That means in about three weeks, I will be in Africa!!!! This is a picture of where I will be living with my team mate, Rachel. I leave early tomorrow for Asheville and my last week of training. But I will try and keep you updated as we get so close to the send off date. Please pray that I will have the last of my support in within the next two weeks.

Support Update

On Sunday, Jess and I went to the Mariner's Church. I had asked them for support and wanted to visit while I could. Jess put up with me arriving late and getting lost many times on the way. = ) The service was such a blessing. I hope to attend more when I get back to the academy. The mission committee met last night to discuss whether they will support me or not. I am supposed to receive a call today and will fill you in with the news. Please keep praying.

I left on my road trip expecting nothing and was blown away time and again by the support given to me. God is amazing - He chooses to use the most unexpected people. Thank you all those who gave their love and support. Support Raising:
Raised - $8500
Still Need - $1000
I am about 90% there.

Road Trip, Days 3-6 - Family

I spent the next three days with Shelly, the girls, and Chaps. It was so much fun to relax for a few days and not stress about anything. The girls and I got time to play and goof off together. Chaps and I had a brief time to talk which I love to do. And Shelly and I got to talk, do hair, cook, and play multiple games of cards. I will admit that this visit she did beat me pretty bad. But the challenge is still on. They offered me support, prayers, and their love. It was hard to say goodbye but I know I will see them again as soon as I get back.

I spent the last day of my journey with my brother and his family. We spent time in God's word, praying, and discussing issues. It was a blessing because though some of it was hard to hear...to have someone be so honest with me - shows their love and respect for me. And I couldn't want more. Thank you to those who prayed for me while I was there. I definitely feel like God is using my brother to help me through some struggles I have. Please continue to pray.

The next morning, I drove 11 hrs home. I had to stop at least 3 x's to take short naps because I was drifting as I drove. It was a really hard drive home but I made it in one piece.

Road Trip, Day 2 - Dinner Party

I arrived Saturday afternoon with strict instructions to drive to a friend's house for a get together. My darlin Kathryn was in charge. She had planned a dinner get together of friend's who wanted to say hi. When I arrived and saw so many people, I felt so loved. I always had a tiny worry that I would be forgotten. And here were tons of people showing up to show me their love and support. We spent the evening talking, laughing, and eating good food. Some are missing from the picture but I tried to get tons of pictures to remember the night. They gave me cards full of fabulous advice and lots of support.

These girls right here worked so hard in the kitchen the whole night. Kathryn was the head chef and the other three willingly offered to slave away beside her. Every dish was homemade: chicken pasta, salad, biscati, apple cider, carmel dipped apples, apple pie, cheese cake, reg cake, and so many other treats. And Kathryn even had hot dogs for me cause she knows it is my favorite. She is just too good to me.

This is a picture of Kathryn and I. We were roommates last year. I wish I had treasured it twice as much when we were together cause I miss her so much. She has continually sacrificed and supported me along this journey. She was the first friend I told that I might be leaving for Africa. She said she believed in me and I could do anything and know I had her full support. Man, it broke my heart to say goodbye. I know that she will have Carmen (her new roomie) to love her while I am gone but I will still think of her often. God definitely gave me Kathryn to help with everything I might go through. She has already given me a months worth of cards to take with me to africa and open there. Cards for days such as: rainy days, lonely days, doubting days, happy days, and such. I will miss her every day I am gone. Kat, I love you.

Road Trip, Day 1 - Coast Guard

I don't even know where to begin. I started my road trip last Friday. I drove to the Coast Guard academy in CT to visit my dearest friend, VD. I hadn't seen her in two years but we definitely didn't have to catch up because we talk almost everyday. When I parked and saw her...man, it felt so good to hug her and be with her again. I missed her so much. She was my first roommate in college. She took me out to Olive Garden, downtown, and then a hotel. I would like it to be known that this time she moaned and groaned in her sleep and it wasn't me this time. She forever accused me of that when we were roomies. It was so sad to have to say goodbye in the morning. She gave me a hug and offered me support for my trip. I was so overwhelmed by how much I love and miss her. Thank you, Vd.

One Foot Out the Door

Well, I am in the midst of packing up the car and rushing out the door. But after such a rough day yesterday, I wanted to leave on a good note. Thank you to those who quickly wrote or called to offer words of encouragement and advise. My friend Tara said it the best so I am going to quote her: "We do get homesick. For familiar things and faces. For easier times that we can comprehend. Sometimes, we get “home” and find it isn’t the comfort we thought. It was the idea of comfort we longed for. The truest comfort, the best feeling of home can be found in the presence of God. If we can be steadied by the Lord, we may see Him and find our home. And one day, all who are in Christ will be home, in the best, truest way."

Everything is coming together, though I still would love your prayers. I am headed out the door to visit all my amazing friends and family, and of course, support raise. I will be back next Wednesday and fill everyone in on how it went.

I'm Melting!

So you know how you have a huge stack of things to do and though it is a lot...you are not stressed and things are going well. Then *WHAMY* and just one little thing added to the stack -makes it all crumble. And then the stress just pours in. This is where I am at. Please pray that I will have patience and trust in God.

I leave tomorrow for Conneticut, Maryland, DC, and then Virginia. My little brother is letting me borrow the car for the trip which saved me a bundle of money. I am trying so hard to be frugil and save every penny. It has gotten to the point where I feel guilty for buying anything that is not an essential. I have not even packed for the trip. I don't feel emotionally or spiritually ready for this trip. I am visiting family and friends and hoping to mend some bridges and be open with some important people in my life.

I wrote to Grace Community church today asking for financial and prayer support. I met their pastor. He was amazing and shared a passion for the children of Uganda. Their mission coordinator said they don't normally support outsiders but he would bring it to the board and see what happens. It is so frustrating because most churches don't support outsiders but for me with no home church...that is all I am - an outsider. Please please please pray they will open their hearts to what God is having me do.

My mom told me last night that I am no longer her favorite because I am not a warm and fuzzy person. haha. I have never been told that I am not warm and fuzzy. I need to work on this. So I am trying to stop and enjoy the changes around and the beauty of nature. Here are some pics I took through out my day. Fall is definitely my favorite season.

Support Update

God is so good. I flew all day yesterday and got home at midnight. Waiting on my desk were letters full of love and support. Thank you my dear friends and family! Here is a schedule of what my next weeks will look like and also an update on how support raising is going.

Support Raising:
Raised - $6320
Still Need - $3180

I am about 67% there. I am really praying that God will provide a home church who would be willing to support me both financially and with prayers. I attended the Naval Academy chapel the last two years which was a blessing but as a result I don't have a home church body. I have approached two different churches and am praying that God will open the hearts of one.

Schedule for the rest of October:
Oct. 6-11 ~ I will be home finishing paper work, getting immunization shots, medical reviews, packing up, support raising.
Oct. 11-13 ~ I will be in NYC and Conneticut visiting dear friends who I haven't seen in two 1/2 years, support raising.
Oct. 13-16 ~ I will be in Annapolis visiting my sponsor family and Academy friends, support raising, and also speaking at a church.
Oct. 16-18 ~ I will be in DC and VA beach visiting my family and cutest nephew in the world, and support raising.
Oct. 19-20 ~ *still unsure* I will be in Kentucky visiting my support coach from the mission organization and raising support in the military community there.
Oct. 20-26 ~ I will be in Asheville, NC at my last training session (Sonship).

CIT family

This is the cross cultural, CIT, training class for fall of 2007. What an amazing group of people who had such a positive affect on my life.

Our version of "My Big Fat

Greek Wedding" bunt cake.



We baby sat the kids for

the parents, I was in charge

of all the activities.

--This is Jyll and Jenn,

two of my dorm mates.

Beautiful girls with hearts

for Latin America and Africa.

This is Tara's family,--

whom I fell in love with.

Headed to Ireland.

The Ugandan meal I made for my dorm mates & guests.

Group project puzzle

that I became obsessed

with completing.

This is Shirley who lived

her whole life in Mexico.

She is a beautiful and

amazing woman.

Personal Toilet Paper

Got an email today sharing the news that nephew #2 is on the way! What an exciting surprise to my day. They have already decided on the name Sydney.

Spent the whole night working on my paper. We were assigned a 15 page paper due this Thursday about the country we are headed too. Writing about everything: religion, politics, history, security, health, military, sports, arts, music, geography, education, industry, taboos, family structure, communication, and on. Well, there is no way to fit that into 15 pages. I am about 85% done and on page 27. It has been quite an experience. Tonight's interesting fact is that the people of Uganda do not use there left hand for anything in public. Because it is used as personal toilet paper. I need to start practicing...not the personal toilet paper usage but avoiding using my left hand in public.

Answered Prayers

Well thanks for all your prayers for my gramma. She had surgery and a shunt was put in. Last I heard she was headed home - weak but doing much better.

Another praise is for a family friend who found out this past spring that he had a rare form of cancer. I struggled to understand how God could give such an amazing man - cancer. He has a young and beautiful family. It was said that only 2% respond to the treatment and have a chance of survival. I have constantly had this family in my prayers. And even through out these struggles, he reached out and asked how he could support my mission trip. I was blown away by his Christ-like spirit. Well, last night I learned of the miracle that God performed...he had a cat scan and the cancer was gone. PRAISE THE LORD! Please keep him in your prayers, his name is Bill.


I have been praying for Victor who is on a mission trip. I got a call from him today on his way to Romania! I was so excited to hear his voice. For all those that know him, he said he is safe and happy. He sends his love.

Elizabeth, the name we share

I REMEMBER...
I remember her sleeping on the buck below me in Alaska.
I remember her telling me once she layed down she put on head phones and wouldn't be able to talk to me, so if I needed to say something - say it.
I remember her huge ALL purple room.
I remember watching Sleepless in Seattle and You've got mail all in the same night.
I remember the train tracks behind her house and putting pennies on it.
I remember driving in the special school bus with her on her job.
I remember driving with my dad 12-14 hrs just to go see her.
I remember always getting a holiday card with a check in it from her, I still find those checks among my stuff...ones I never cashed from years ago.
I remember writing her many letters just to try and be close to her.
I remember visiting her all by myself and feeling so mature.
I remember once signing my name Katherine and she crossed it out and said I was her special Katy and that's how I should remain.
I remember a friendship we once had.
And now, God, please remember and draw this beautiful, wonderful woman close to your heart. Open her heart to you. Heal her from her heart attack and let her find comfort. For she is my Gramma.

Double Size

So, I begin my task of sewing this past weekend. I was so excited. My sister and mom sent me these wild materials. I decided to start with the cheetah print. I cut out all the pieces and was about 70% finished with the skirt when I realized......dun dun dun (doom sounding music) I didn't take sizing into account. I just cut at the outter most line, which is for the biggest size. So as I wrapped the skirt around me to get an idea of how it was turning out...I kept wrapping and wrapping around my middle. OOPS. Thankfully, I think I can fix it, but it took some of the wind out of my sewing sails.


Tonight a pastor at a local church came to speak with the Slate family and I. He, Josiah, use to work with World Harvest Mission and in Uganda. Imagine my delight at having someone here who knew people from my home base. He just got back last week from spending a couple weeks with my team mates in Fort Portal. I longed to suck him dry of information. He had so much to share about his experiences. It felt so amazing to talk with someone who shared a passion with me for the children of Uganda. He told with tears in his eyes, of constantly leaving food on his plate there so the hungry kids cleaning it up would be able to eat. It renewed my longing to be over there among the children.
*Picture taken from Tara's website!*

Down any Road at any Cost

Leaving the safe and familiar
With their hearts set on a heavenly prize
There were some who laid down their nets
And some who laid down their lives
Not sure where they were going
But they did not have to know
'Cause they knew who had called them
And they said, "We will go"

Down any road at any cost
Wherever You lead I will follow
Because I know that You've called me
To take up my cross
Down any road at any cost

It may be fear that I'm feeling
I see what I must sacrifice
But You promised You'll go with me
So I'll trust with my life

It's Your love that compels me
To do what You've called me to do
And be completely abandoned to You

Because I know that You've called me
To take up my cross
Down any road at any cost
-Point of Grace

My Story Book

I am not what I use to consider a touchy-feeling, lovey-dovey type of person. Now, don’t get me wrong, there is a place for those in the world too; as Dianne says, nothing is weird just different. But heaven forbid that I should be one. In most cultures, you are only supposed to share what is asked of you or what you absolutely must. But you don’t share your life story in the line at Walmart; and you don’t cry on the cashier’s counter top. When this occurs most people will tell you to start seeing a shrink, it’s true, I speak from live experience. God always has a sense of humor though. Once again, He decided it was time for a change in my outlook.

Here at CIT training, life story-telling is quite the event. You prepare by making a chart, playing paper-rock-scissors for who must go first, and then you began. They bring their lunches and sit in circles eagerly waiting to hear your history. This is where God got my attention, because I was vastly against sharing anything vulnerable. And as He humbled me to the ground, I realized how selfish I was. I was refusing to tell not my story but God’s story of my life. For I have done nothing and neither has anything ever occurred that God has not written in my life’s story book. He writes using a pencil with no eraser, for He makes no mistakes. He is the author and all the glory goes to Him.

I am not sure whether or not the culture of Uganda is prone to sharing or being vunerable personality wise. But I know that God has taught me to open my life to those around me; so that He might be glorified through it.

Wearing an Apron

So, tonight I was in charge of preparing a meal for eight people. When I learned that I was responsible for this task, imagine how panicked I was. I am not a cook, I don't pretend to be at all. And to top it all, it was supposed to be a meal from Uganda. Well, by a miracle, I found a recipe online. This is what we ate: white rice topped by a chicken curry dish made with spices and coconut. Then there were choices to put fresh pineapple, tomatoes, raisins, cranberrys, or coconut - on top of the rice and chicken curry. It turned out amazing with side dishes of fresh bread, salad, and chocolate chip cookies. I was so relieved.

The guests we had over was a couple from my training institution. They are both counselours. I have not met with her but I have met with Jim. What an amazing blessing it is to have strong Christians who can guide and counsel me as I struggle to stand by God's grace. At dinner, they shared the path that has led them here and their time over in France as missionaries. I pray that as I grow, I will have some of the confidence, strength, courage, happiness, and love that they show in every expression.

I have homework that I must get to tonight but I have a quick prayer request. I have been allowing myself to get distracted quite frequently in the past week by silly things, ie. boys. I know I just heard at least three of you *gasp*. I have been getting wrapped up in the "he-likes me, he doesn't like me" game and I really am embarrassed to admit it. I have not been finishing simple things that I need to get done. Please pray that I will re-align my priorities.

Spiritual War

For the past two days our class focus has been on spiritual warfare. A week ago, I hardly knew anything in detail about this topic. I know that we are in God's army and a spiritual war is going around us at all times. But honestly, I don't think it was ever really a part of my life. I have never stopped and realized that I was not only in the United States military but more importantly - I am a soldier for God. I have always fought with my human flesh but Satan and his attacks have never been a part of my awareness. I learned a lot from today's study, didn't agree with it all but am determined to begin fighting more fervently by the power of Christ and with the protection of the Holy Spirit. I pray that God can use me in Africa to do some major damage in this spiritual war by sharing His love and protection to those in need.

Who needs martial arts skills when I have the armor of the Lord?? Ephesians 6:10-11, "Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His power. Put on the whole armor of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil."

Friendships begin to Blur

I have come to realize that from moving around so often as I grew up - I have developed a survival method. This is called "When the Friendships begin to Blur". As I get ready to move, I often draw away from my loved ones, some times getting grouchy with them to ease it; and I search for new people to replace them so I feel nothing when I leave them completely. I have observed that if I can walk away before they have a chance to walk away from me...I feel as if I have prevented greater pain. The worry about being replaced or not missed, consumes my mind. So, I search for new people to fill the void. I noticed today as I laughed with the people here at training, I was begining the process. I found someone new that I look up to for advice, I found a new dorm mate to share my spontaneous ideas with, I found new kids that I think are so adorable, I found someone to work out with, and I found a new home to call my home. The minute I realized what I had done...I panicked. I don't want to walk away or forget my friends and loved ones. But it has happened so many times in the past and I have allowed it. I pray the Lord will keep my heart open to those I love so dearly. Help me to trust.

"And friends are friends forever, if the Lord's the Lord of them. And a friend will not say never cause the welcome will not end. Though its hard to let you go, in the Father's hands we know, that a lifetimes not too long to live as friends." Michael W. Smith

Butter Put to the Bike

Today we learned that there are 5 things that you should say to a loved one before leaving:

1) Goodbye

2) I love you
3) Thank you

4) Forgive me

5) I forgive you

Hearing this was a true test for me. I never thought that by surrending to serve the children over in Africa that I would also be called to resolve the personal grudges in my life. I know we shouldn't hold onto grudges and yet it seems so easy to do when you have been hurt. Ephesians 6:21, "do not let the sun go down on your anger". Please pray that the Lord will give me a humble heart to forgive those who have hurt me and to ask for forgiveness from those I have wronged.

On another note, I was told that in this garage-like room were a whole bunch of extra bikes. Well, I made up my mind that today was the day for a bike ride. I hesistantly stepped into the pitch black garage to discover there were no over head lights. As I stumbled around, getting captured by spider webs, I finally found a worthy looking bike. I brought it outside and pumped up the tires. I proceeded to get on the bike only to find out that the chain was so rusty it wouldn't turn. I dragged it over to my dorm determined that I was going to make this work. A dorm mate suggested that I use vegetable oil. I raced inside but could only find Pam butter spray. With the bike turned over, we continually sprayed the chain with tons of Pam. By the end, the bike worked but smelled so terrible. And then the bugs came. I couldn't help but laugh and go on my bike ride anyway. Here are some of the pictures that I took while on my bike ride. It was beautiful.

Emergency Email

Received email:

"katy,
This is an emergency email. Get yourself back to Annapolis immediately. Russell Crowe is there making a movie!!!!!! I know he will want to know how I am doing.
Gramma"

I received this from my gramma this afternoon and realized it was crucial that I hurry back to Annapolis.