Hey, all! I just realized that I have not updated you on my trip up to Salinas, California. And since I can't seem to fall asleep, I guess I'll use this time to blog about it. So, here goes...

In two words, I'd sum it up as inspiring and humbling.

It was such a JOY to work with the preschoolers for 5 days... we sang and danced to fun songs about God, we did a creative craft project every day which usually incorporated a Bible lesson, I lead them in fun games that made them laugh and smile, and we talked about how much Jesus loves them. I didn't think my heart could fall in love with kids that quickly. It was so affirming to be reminded of how much I LOVE kids and that I was meant to make a difference in their lives...no doubt about it. It was so sad to say good-bye on the last day!

What made the week so humbling was to be served so graciously and supported with so much love by the local church. In preparation of our arrival, they prayed and fasted for us and the families we would be interacting with. During the week, they served us incredible home-cooked dinners and helped us throughout the day in many ways. And we had so much fun together! The instant bond we can have with other Christians is such a unique gift.

Oh, yeah... one of the reasons I was asked to go on this trip with the Migrant Ministry was to see in action what part the SMCC Small Group Ministry plays!!! So, earlier this year we asked the Small Groups at Shadow Mountain if they would put together what we call "Love in a Bag." These bags are filled with toiletry items like soap, toothpaste, a toothbrush, a comb, etc. etc. With the help of about 80 groups, we collected around 300 bags to give to the single men who live on the camps. As we gave out these bags, it was awesome to see this project come full circle--through the generosity of our small group members, hundreds of men were blessed with some much needed stuff. Yeah!

I think everyone comes home from experiences like these with ideas, refreshed perspective, and thoughts about what's next. Here are some of mine...

• I came home with a new desire to do a mission trip once a year or every 2 years. Maybe I'll return to Salinas next summer and hopefully see some of the same kids??? Maybe I'll get hooked up with an organization that works with rescued victims of human trafficking... Peru? Cambodia? India? God, where would You like me to go?
  
• My heart broke for kids and families who don't know Jesus and His redemptive love. I felt such an excitement in sharing who Jesus is, but along with this excitement came a deep sense of responsibility. That excitement and burden still lingers, which brings me to my next thought...
  
• I really want to get more involved in community service in San Diego or Mexico (since it's so close). Just don't know how yet. Praying for clarity and divine appointments.
  
• I also came back thinking once again, that I REALLY want to learn spanish! I took one semester of it recently, but didn't keep up with it. Maybe it's time to start studying and practicing!!!