Well, it's my last night at home... just put the kids to bed. I head out for Milwaukee after work tomorrow, where I'll be staying at my brother & sister-in-laws. They'll be taking me to the airport Saturday morning. I'm behind in my packing, but I couldn't pull myself from snuggling with Camden for just a little while longer. As we said our good-night prayers, we talked about where "mom" is going and why I'll be away from home for a while. When I said I was going to a place far, far away to help some people who don't have much for food or even a warm bed to sleep in... he asked so innocently, "Can I come with you? I'll bring them my mouse." I just about cried. That stuffed mouse has been one of his favorites since he was a wee little baby. It's amazing how much a 3-and-a-half year old understands about the world that some grown adults aren't even capable of.
It's funny... I've practically been counting down the days to this trip since, oh, I'd say 12 weeks out or so. Now that it's right here, I kinda wish I had a few more days to prepare. This isn't like getting ready for a beach resort vacation. My bags are filled more with basic necessities than clothes. Somehow, what I wear seems so insignificant to those other things I'm bringing down with me. I'm a little scared, too. My goal was to come back a changed person... but who knows exactly how much an experience like this can change a person. Will I be happy with what I am accomplishing in my own personal life? Will I be able to pass this sort of eye-opening experience on to my own children, teaching them there is a much bigger world out there beyond our suburban life in Neenah, Wisconsin and that what we believe we must have in order survive... in all actuality we could do without. I sure hope so.
This will be my last post from the U.S... the next time you hear from me I'll be in Peru. Please continue to follow my blog throughout my journey. My plan is to update this daily and include some amazing photos. Again... thanks to all my wonderful family and friends for your support. (And, if you're wondering... YES! You can still donate financially to the mission by clicking on the donate button to the left of this page. All proceeds will go to Health Bridges International in support of their mission efforts in Peru).
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