Oh, boy! It's been a while since I've visited my blog. I figure turning 30 is just as good a time as any to don my site with a new post. For those non-Nebraskan readers, my family threw me a fabulous surprise birthday party. I had an idea that Amy and Katie were scheming something, but didn't envision the magnitude of fun they put together! They had me all confused when I was asked to bring a change of clothes and my ID?!?! It was so great to celebrate with family this year. I enjoyed hearing and trying to guess songs that spanned the last 30 years--Tina and I will perform our rendition of the Titanic theme song for a small fee (see photo below). Thanks again to everyone that helped me celebrate and for your thoughtful gifts. I should have Uncle Harv and Aunt Brenda email the photo of their birthday card creation, so I can post that on another blog. I've never heard my life summarized by candy and chocolate before, but I loved the "sweet" expressions!
On to other news, I received my visa for Nigeria! Yeah, cause at 30 I don't think I could have withstood the drama that proceeded last year's trip while waiting for my visa:) I am so excited to have another opportunity to go, and would love it if you all would join me in praying for the trip! This year I will primarily be working at EVAMI school for children with disabilities. There are several children that I met last year that I can't wait to wrap my arms around with ginormous hugs when I get there. There is one little girl in particular that had the most contagious smile--she would walk around with a pink washcloth on her head, and greet everyone with the type of hug that would melt your heart! They are such an incredible crew with stories I can't even imagine at such young ages! I will be doing some Occupational therapy consulting with the students and teachers. Last year we also had a few opportunities to meet with government officials and provide input on disability awareness and other health related concerns. It was amazing to see how God orchestrated each visit throughout our time there. I know some of you have said you would be praying and asked for specific areas, so here are a few of the main ones. . . overall health/protection with travels and while in country--for myself and the 3 others I will be traveling with, wisdom on providing appropriate therapy interventions/recommendations to support the needs of the school as well as any other places we might be consulting, and divine opportunities to not only provide knowledge and support as a therapist, but to really be a blessing and share Christ's love within the communities that we come in contact with. I will try and post again as departure date becomes nearer, but I can't promise it will actually happen:)
Love you all and thanks for the immeasurable encouragement and support that has helped me grow over the last 30 years!!!
Here are a few birthday pics that I stole from Amy's blog and a few Nigeria pics mostly taken at the EVAMI school last year!!
