Preparing

 We're about halfway through 2022 and I looked at my blog to discover I haven't written since January 2021! Wow! That's probably the longest I've gone without writing! I guess I really blew it with my 2021 goal of writing on my blog more! So many things have changed and so many things are the same. I still work in the same places, I'm finally able to get back to volunteering in the same ways after a mandatory covid break, and I'm still trying to run or bike often, although I'm not doing too great at it right now. The biggest change is that I went back to school! It was an offer I couldn't refuse and I'm really enjoying it for the most part, all stress and hectic days aside. I'm learning a lot and glad to be taking classes that are helping me to help others better. 

A week from today, I set off on another adventure! I'm going to Guatemala for my 4th time. I've been planning the trip for over a year and can't believe it's finally almost here! It will be interesting. I don't know the team I'm going with, although they are all from the same church, I think, and know each other. So, hopefully, that will work out! I would be lying if I didn't admit I'm a little nervous about that. But, God is in control and made a way for me to go, so I'm going! 

I started packing today. Most of the clothes are tucked in my suitcase, wrapped in grocery bags to keep them dry if it rains. The suitcases will ride on the top of the van and the bags will hopefully protect them. Things like this now seem normal to me as I prepare for the trip. Things I never would have thought if on my first trip, or would have thought odd. I'm planning to take two partial rolls of toilet paper this time instead of one big roll so it doesn't take up so much room in my backpack. I store my toothbrush in a water bottle or I never remember to use the bottled water to brush my teeth. (and that never goes well when I forget!) But, all these things aside, I am wondering what changes I will see since I last went in 2019. Pre- covid Guatemala is surely different from the current Guatemala. When we leave to come home, we have to have a negative covid test. That test costs $50! Here, we have free tests we can get anytime. If we have to wait to get the results, we panic. There, most people can't afford $50 so probably can't get them! I hope there are ways they can get free tests, but I won't know that until I'm there. A lot of people made a living selling things in the market. What did the fear of covid do to the markets there? I can't imagine crowded streets when covid was at its worst. So, what did people do to survive? 

Like my life in the last year, I'm sure there are many things the same and many things that have changed. I feel very blessed that I will be able to go. And, I hope that I can share my experiences with you. While I will have school work to do on my trip, I hope to have time to write each day and give you a glimpse into my journey. Meet me back here in a week!

Where is God today? He's preparing me for the journey ahead!

Blessings,

Jennifer