Preparations to go

I started my practice packing last week so I make sure I didn't need a last minute item. We are allowed to take a carry-on which meets TSA guidelines (22" or less and fits in an overhead bin) and a purse or backpack. I don't think I have traveled for so long with so little?? But what could I need???

As travelers to Malawi, one of our purposes is to take the clothes, shoes and gifts given by the kids' sponsors so they can go to school. Because of this the group going each gives up their "checked bag" spots for the bins we will be taking full of the kids items. Last year they also took tents and blankets, a New Testament in their native language (Chichawa) and other gifts. We will be traveling through the Detroit/Amsterdam Northwest Airline corridor. Because of this and upgraded security checkpoints we won't know what they may change for carry-on bags. I decided not to take anything I can't part with. We leave a week from Sunday 1/11 from KC-Detroit-Amsterdam-Nairobi-Lilongwe. It will be quite a trip.

I will be traveling with some great ladies that I am looking forward to get to know better. They are Sherry from the Centralia area (and her son Caleb), Debbie, Bethany (the Invest Director) and her two children Jana Kay and Nathan. Bethany's husband Nick will depart ahead of us on 1/5 to pave the way for our team.

I was so excited to get my assigned group of kids - I have 22 to memorize their faces and names and be responsible for taking photos and get updates for their sponsors. We will spend time playing (they are aged 8-12) do our devotions, pray for them and just love them. You can keep us all in mind. My kids are named, Bettie, Lyson, Jacob, Levinson, Mavuto, Junior, Rose, Gift, Ezekial, Leonard, Emily, Chimwemwe, Brown, Ezekial, Tiyamike, Anifa, Aubrey, Sophie, Harry, Mayeso, Ishmael and Madalitso. I am thankful for their sponsors - they provide a monthly stipend that allows for enough food to feed them, minimal medical, clothe them and bring teachers into the village for school. My group has one child that isn't adopted - I hope that by the time I am back home, someone will adopt LEONARD by going to Invest Inc, 400 East High Street, Suite 500, Jefferson City, MO 65101, and sign up for just $40 a month. I am sure he will win you over with just one look. More later........