My Pre-Immersion Experience

  On Friday, my family and I returned from a ten-day trip to Brazil to visit some friends.  We had a great time, even though it was different than any other vacation we've taken before.  Because we were with our friends, we were living just like Brazilians.  I couldn't help but think of how that trip will be similar to my upcoming six-month immersion.

  In just those ten days, I was starting to understand some Portuguese (not much, some), and could read some of it too!  I began to think of how much Haitian Creole I'll be able to learn in the four to seven weeks I'll spend in Haiti!  Although, my goal is to start learning Creole before I leave, anyway. :)

  We had different sleeping situations than here, ate different foods, and experienced different driving (read: insane driving!).  It really helped me catch a glimpse of what my life will look like starting in just a couple months!

  I also had to go without a few things.  Such as constant connection -- we got some internet, but went without it for a couple days.  I do believe I'll be going without it for several weeks at a time next year, but it gave me a little bit of practice. :)  I didn't put makeup on, didn't use my hair dryer (because it stopped working the day we got there), and survived hundred-degree heat without air conditioning.

  This vacation made me more excited for my Caribbean Immersion!  Some exciting things happened while I was in Brazil, too.  A couple others joined the team, so now there are nine of us going, plus our two leaders!  Today is our first conference call together!  I am beyond excited for this big step for our team.  We'll meet each other, get to learn important info about the trip, and ask questions. And being the planner I am, I have plenty of questions.  Also, tonight, my dad is taking me shopping for some gear!  I have been researching and researching backpacks, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, pillows, etc.  I feel like the trip will become that much more real when I have some items that will be bringing me through those six months.

  I am currently 62% funded, praise the Lord!  Thank you to all who have generously donated!  My new goal is to be 100% by November 31st.  With how busy December will be with the holidays and being a month away from my leaving, I feel it best to focus on being with my family, rather than fundraising.  Therefore, my goal has moved up.  This leaves about a month and a half to raise the remaining 38%.  Would you consider joining my support team?  Any amount helps and it is all tax-deductible!  Please pray about supporting me on this trip.  You can click on the button below to donate online or through  mail.

In Christ,