When time stands still ...

They circled around and they listened to my watch and for a minute, time stood still. As the second hand ticked loud in their ears and they giggled and tugged at my arm, I counted the seconds too.

And I wished it would never end ... all of that right-now joy.

Kindest friends, I am home and well-- a heart filled and already longing to return.

I have had a most challenging time sitting still with thoughts, just can't seem to put words to anything at all.

But I have stories to share. And I will.

For now, what an honor and joy it was to serve with an extraordinary and talented group of folks. I am in awe of what the body of Christ can be, and do ... each person working with God-given gifts in order to serve and love well.  If I have ever been convinced to become fully me for His glory, it is now.  

Thanking Jesus for a beautiful picture of His church working together, for new and dear friends, for my sweet home and family here ... and for a country that has found a forever-home in this heart. 

Thank you, sweet Grier, for capturing my camera and moments I'll hold tight. 

When reality sinks in ..

I had my first real anxiety dream ... filled with episodes of me running to and fro, looking for my lost children, my lost backpack. I have been to Target way too many times, considering I can pack close to nothing. Really, I don't need anything else at all. I am just a little restless. 

I registered my name with the State Department. And according to my updated shot record, I shouldn't come home with hepatitis, yellow fever, polio, meningitis, or typhoid.

Or malaria. Or the flu.

Todd and I said some important words to each other. You know, just because Africa is pretty far away. And despite the anxious dream or two, I'm really not afraid to get on that plane.

After all this time ... I'm more afraid to stay right here.

Below is a short documentary about the clinic I will work with (please note: video contains medical images). This clinic runs year round while incoming volunteer teams arrive every three months to serve the more remote populations/areas.

Our team will caravan each day to new locations, setting up makeshift clinics on site- complete with triage, dental care, occupational therapy, and medical providers. Past teams have served 2000 people in just six days.

Pray me there and back, would you? Pray for wisdom and sure hands, a steady mind. Pray for my sweet husband and my little guy and gals. Pray for our mamas who will stand in the gap. Pray for the whole team who will GO. Pray for the beautiful and gracious people of Uganda who are already there.

Hoping to post just one more time before that long plane ride ... a quick video filled with beautiful faces and our family's new favorite song. But if not? I'll meet you here in a week or two. And check in over here once or twice as well. Power permitting, we'll get a post or two up while we are in country.

Peace to you, sweet friends!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lr7Qf8mPuY4