Oh so weak

Satan has been relentless the past few weeks. Daily life has been hectic, stressful, overwhelming, hard and tiring. Guilt and second guessing has filled my thoughts and emotions. I continue to have a constant nagging voice telling me that I am selfish and irresponsible for going to Ethiopia for 4 weeks. I just started a new job. What will people think of me that I am leaving for 4 weeks when I have only had this job for a month? Yes, my work has been unbelievably supportive and generous in allowing me to go to Ethiopia. No, they have not done anything that has caused me to feel guilty or second guess their support in any way. My nephews and niece are staying with my parents for a couple of months. I feel selfish. I should be here to help out. I should have this time to spend time with the kids. Yes, my family has been supportive of me returning to Ethiopia (for the most part). No, they have not made me feel guilty about the fact I will not be here to help out with the kids. I have been feeling inadequate (which I am ). I am unprepared. When I had decided months ago that I would be returning to Ethiopia I quickly jumped ahead in my mind to now… a week before my departure. I thought I would be more prepared spiritually, emotionally and physically. However, I feel tired, weak and overwhelmed spiritually, emotionally and physically. I am unprepared.

Satan is the father of lies. A deceiver armed to steal, kill and destroy. Adversary. Accuser. Enemy.

Satan has been relentless BUT Christ is victorious.

Donations

Sorry it has taken me so long to get this list out. I have had many people ask about donations so I am sending it to a broad group. Please do not feel any pressure to contribute. However, if you would like to contribute I would great appreciate it. One concern of mine this year is space. We are only allowed two 50lb bags. That significantly less than last year. I am still looking at paying an additional fee for another bag but that may get too expensive so I just ask that you keep that in mind. While I can take and use almost anything there are suggestions below. If you venture off the list that is fine just keep a couple of things in mind. Water guns, water balloons, water games, etc are NOT good – they do not have access to water to be used for games. Language barrier can be an issue – I will try to stay away from games that are too complex or require a lot of explaining. Items that are heavy and bulky will probably be difficult to take. Many of these items can be found at the Dollar Store. Last year I had people prefer to give me a donation and I bought items. Whatever you feel most comfortable with is great. I am in charge of games so…

Soccer Balls
Kick Balls
Volley Balls
Balls that are already deflated or can be work the best
Hand pumps
Jump ropes
Side walk chalk
Face Paints
Duct Tape
(Black) Baby Dolls – last year I found black baby dolls with a soft body and hard head at the dollar store but haven’t seen them yet this year
Frisbee
Beach balls
Balloons
“punch” balls – these were a hit
Personal Hygiene Items – tooth brushes, deodorant, tooth paste, girl hair clips, Vaseline, etc.
Teenage boy socks and underwear/boxers
Packs of teenage boy undershirts – would be used for everyday shirts so preferably not white
Blindfolds/bandanna

These are just some thoughts. THANK YOU all so much for your help and encouragement. You all play a vital role in this trip. I will collect them from now until July 1.