Off to Chicago

One day… here we go.

Packing is just now starting to get organized. I have taken over my parent’s living room laying out what I think I need, weeding out what I realize I don’t and trying to stay conservative and practical. I have been advised to lay out what I think I need and then get rid of half of it. We’ll see how that goes.

My parents have been very helpful in making sure I have what I need and I’m feeling prepared as far as packing goes.

My departure to Chicago is tomorrow and I’m starting to get extremely a bit nervous, but I am so lucky to have such a great support system, wonderful friends and family members encouraging this journey. I received a comforting letter this week from my Aunt Robin and Uncle Dave who are experienced sailboat dwellers and travelers. They offered these words of wisdom:

“Getting ready to set sail- stowing and provisioning is tough!

Saying goodbye and pulling away from the dock is tougher!

Battling seasickness at the beginning of the journey is the toughest!

Then you wake up one morning in the middle of the ocean and realize what a wonderful adventure it is and how you never want it to end!

Fair winds, following seas, and much love!”

Experiencing Generosity

Part of my preparation over the last four months has been my commitment to fundraising a percentage of the Global Mission cost to send me to South Africa as a YAGM. The amount at first seemed a bit daunting. As it turns out, I underestimated the immense generosity that I found through my church, family and friends.

I began my fundraising by talking at all four services at my church, Mt. Pleasant Lutheran Church in Racine. At the time I didn’t know what type of service in Africa I would be involved in, let alone which country in southern Africa I would be living in. The lack of detail certainly did not cause any lack of interest or support. Here is a photo showing the unique architecture of our sanctuary.

In addition, two women from my church and very close friends, Holly and Krista, went above and beyond by hosting a beautiful, African inspired garden party and fundraising event at Holly’s home. In attendance were people from all stages of my life, such as teachers and friends from grade school to college, family and friends from out of state, and many friends from church. Not only did we raise a great amount of money for YAGM, we had great wine it was a great summer night to be with friends.

Here are the ridiculously amazing cookies my sister, Chelsea, made and decorated:

Hostess Holly!

Friends!

Fundraising as a YAGM, which at first I said was daunting, turned into a really great experience for me. I feel truly blessed to be a part of a community and congregation that shows such willing support and generosity. As I see the amount of people who gave their support I feel so comforted in this journey ahead of me. I really can’t thank everyone enough. Thanks to Mt. Pleasant, it’s congregation and many other friends and family, we surpassed the minimum amount needed…by a lot. All the money has been given to the ELCA Global Mission. Thank you so much.