Ready... Set...

It's almost time to go.  I can't believe I am leaving for Sacramento in two days.  It feels unreal.  If you had asked me three weeks ago if I was ready, I would have laughed in your face.  Yet somehow, in this crazy mess of classes and commitments, my team has united.  It started at our training retreat where we were pushed beyond what was "comfortable" into what we really needed.  We laughed, cried, and somewhere in the middle of a mountain of emotions a bond was formed.  I can honestly say that each member of this team is an asset and has so much to contribute.  Let me give you a quick introduction:

Becca is the secret weapon of this team.  She is my co-leader and supports me in ways that I didn't know I needed supported.  She has a gifting for words of affirmation and is able to keep me straight when I lose my place.  Basically, working with her is a dream.

Amy may be the youngest on the team, but she is wise beyond her years.  This is our second mission trip together, and she has taught me so much about hearing from the Lord and what it means to be a leader regardless of title.

Andrea has more creativity in one of her beautiful dreads than most people could dream of having.  She never fails to give insight into situations.  She is brilliant in an unconventional way that makes life better.

Angel is so very supportive.  She has a grace and charm that exudes from her being.  She is the kind of person who takes the time to check up on me and is ready to serve in any capacity.

Ava is our official mom.  She can cook like a boss and her catchphrase is "it's totally fine" whenever we are being ridiculous.  She brightens the room with her glowing smile and is both generous and hospitable.

Desiree is a firecracker.  Her ability to hear from the Holy Spirit is mind boggling.  When she laughs, it is literally impossible to not crack a smile.  She is blunt, she is fierce, and she is strong.

Derby is in the most remarkable stage of life where everything about the Lord absolutely amazes her.  She reminds each of us what it means to truly serve God and spend time in His presence.  She is also very sassy and it is adorable.

Emily's spirit is breathtakingly sweet and cannot be fully understood until you take the time to get to know her.  She is our designated runner thanks to the three marathons that she has completed.  She is also our designated smart person.

Erica brings life and maturity to the team through her presence.  Her kind demeanor makes everyone around her feel like they are laying in a bed of flowers and puppies.

Mone't is a force to be reckoned with.  She has experience in the type of women's ministry that we will be doing that is going to be vital in the field.  No matter what is going on, she can be depended on to do what needs to be done.

Tori is able to capture people's attention like nobody's business.  She has a way with words that is pretty baffling.  She also is an absolute doll and a breath of fresh air because of her positive attitude.

On Friday night, my team made a commitment to each other at something we call "Covenant Night."  We do not take this commitment lightly.  Our hearts and minds are being prepared in these last moments for the journey that is ahead.  We crave your prayers as we embark on this endeavor because we know that nothing can be accomplished on this trip except through the Father.  Three main prayer points are:

1.  Unity within the team that will result in a positive environment where growth and healing can thrive.

2.  That we will be a blessing to the women of Mercy Ministries and will serve with all that we have for the short week we get to be there

3.  For safety throughout the trip, especially when traveling.

Thank you for your support.  I cannot wait to update all of you after the trip!