Tangi Holmes - The World Race 2008

Who You Gonna Call...

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

My Oh My! I have experienced a lot of changes lately! I've come to really realize that choosing a life that really follows the Lord involves a life of multiple transitions and seasons! But they're good for me!

Anywho...with that said, I'm coming to the end of one of those seasons in my life and entering into, yet another, transition! My 6 month internship with the World Race and Adventures In Missions is coming to a close at the end of this month. However, I have been asked to stay on board with the World Race department as part of their staff! After lots of prayer, it has been confirmed that this is exactly where the Lord wants me right now! So...I've accepted! I'm really excited about what the Lord is going to do with me in this position. I know that He is preparing me for something bigger than myself through my role here and I can't wait to see what else He's got in store for me!

I've also just completed a three-week training course to help me understand what support raising is, as well as helping me to share my vision more effectively! So...to all of my supporters out their:

First of all, I want to apologize for my lack of communication to you. I've realized now that this IS a partnership and not just a one-way support system. I apologize for not staying in touch with you regularly and asking how I could pray for you. I apologize if it seemed like I didn't really care. And I apologize if I have misguided you in anyway.

You guys have meant a lot to me and to the ministry that God has placed on my heart. And I am thankful that He has put you in my life as my support system, as well as what plans that He has for you guys! I've come to also realize that this is not about me, ever! That everything that I do, even asking for support (prayerfully and financially) is not about me! It's about HIM! How can we advance His Kingdom?

I am seeking a partnership with all of you. I want to invite you guys into this process with me! And to really experience the Lord in a way that is unfamiliar to us! I want to be invested in the Kingdom, and to receive the rewards that awaits us? Who will join me?

I'm looking to raise a total of $1,000 a month for living expenses! If I had 25 people who were willing to partner with me give only $10/week ($40/mo.) for 12 months...I would be fully funded! I am also seeking prayer warriors...people who are willing to cover me and lift me in prayer! Will you partner with me?

Just Breathe

Tue, 2 Mar 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Here's a blog written by Marissa Villa....YOU NEED TO READ THIS!

They met for the first time in the Atlanta, Georgia airport back in May 2009. Matt Patch, Austin Anglea and Dan Snyder: instant brothers with much in common. After training camp the three of them had dreams and visions of the Lord using them together. Even though they'd talked about it with each other, none really knew what it could possibly look like.

In November 2009, Matt, Dan and Austin were baptized together in the Jordan River by their brother, Aaron Bruner. As they prepared for the baptisms, they reminisced about the dreams and visions the Lord had given them and how He was going to use the three of them in His Kingdom to do huge things (read Aaron's blog about it here).

It's now Feb. 26, 2010, and the three have gathered in Jinja, Uganda.

Austin was in town purchasing bus tickets for his team as Dan and Matt took a boda boda, or a motorcycle taxi, into town to do some work on the Internet.

Little did they know that God was about to use these three transformed men--one a former teacher/coach, another a former realtor, and the other a former cop--in a mighty way. Just one to three years ago they were living for themselves, living the American Dream, the party life. Today they were living for the Kingdom.

As Matt and Dan rode towards the town of Jinja on the back of the boda bodas, they saw a man surrounded by a group of people, laying on the ground to the left of the road. As the bodas slowed, the man, who was covered in blood, came to his feet. He'd obviously been hit by a car or thrown off of a boda, but seemed OK. The drivers kept moving.

As the boda bodas came around a slight bend in the road, Matt and Dan noticed a motorcycle laying there. Its pieces were strewn across the road. As the bodas slowed, a young girl of about 7 years old came into view. She was wearing a pink dress and her face and arms were covered in blood, but she at least was standing.

But just past her, a group of about 15 people were surrounding something else on the road. The boda bodas stopped in front of the group and a small boy, also about 7 years old, came into view. His body was laying in the middle of the road.

He was lifeless.

"He's dead," they thought.

A man shaked the boy, trying to bring him back to life, but he lay limp.

Dan and Matt pushed through the crowd to get to the boy who had a four inch bleeding bulge on his forehead. His mouth and ear was spilling blood.

Matt prayed as Dan looked around for a ride to get the boy to the hospital.

It was then that Austin arrived on another boda boda that was coming from the other direction. Austin jumped off of the motorcycle and immediately ran to the boy.

"The kid's dead," Dan told him.

Dan told Austin that someone in the crowd was willing to take the boy to the hospital. The two of them and another man carried the lifeless boy's body to the car.

"Do you feel a pulse or see him breathing?" Dan asked Austin.

Austin stopped his prayer mid-sentence, looked up, and simply responded, "No."

As they lay the boy in the backseat of the car, Austin pulled his sweatshirt off and put it under the boy's head. As he did this, the boy's chest started to rise and fall.

He was breathing.

The prayers for the boy continued as Dan, Matt and Austin climbed back on boda bodas. Matt and Dan rode to the hospital to pray over the boy again. The doctor on duty said the hospital didn't have the necessary medicine to stop the bleeding and swelling in the boy's head.

Matt and Dan decided they'd have to buy the medicine. They ran across the street and bought some, ran back, and gave it to the doctor.

They prayed again.

Meanwhile, Austin hopped back on his boda boda along with the boy's friend and the driver on a mission to find the boy's parents. They drove along back roads, through clothes hanging on lines, and finally arrived in the boy's village. His parents weren't home, but they managed to find neighbors who agreed to tell the boy's parents about the emergency.

A few hours later, Dan and Matt were at the hospital again to pray for the boy once more. They found him, his mother, and his close family friend there. They were told the boy, Trevor, and his sister, Precious, were both hit by a boda boda.

And they both survived.

The family is Christian and the family friend who was there is a pastor. Dan and Matt explained what had happened, that Trevor hadn't been breathing when they'd first arrived, but that his breathing came back after they started praying for him.

As they prayed for him again, Trevor began to move his fingers and his eyes started to flutter. His mother, Sarah, thanked God and thanked them for praying for her son.

They promised to keep Trevor and Precious in their prayers, and walked away knowing they'd experienced the miraculous ability of the Lord and prayer.

Austin:
I remember becoming irritated as it was taking a ridiculous amount of time to buy the tickets for the team. But it was no accident for it was the Lord delaying me for what was soon to happen! After my time spent in town I headed back on the motorcycle taxi. I looked ahead and saw a crowd of people and as soon as we pulled up close I saw Dan in the middle taking charge of the situation, and by the look on his face I knew something was wrong. I tapped my driver and told him to stop, I needed off! I remember seeing the boy laying in the middle of the road saturated in blood, Dan looked at me and said, "he's dead." Going up to the boy he was lifeless, as his eyes were open but glazed over, he surely looked dead. There was a man there trying to massage his chest trying to get his heart working. Not knowing what else to do, I put a hand on the boy and began to pray in the Spirit as Dan figured out a car to put the kid in.......we carried Trevor to the car while all three of us continued to pray and then the car pulled off to take the boy to the hospital. As quick as that, it was done.....riding back home on the taxi after we went and told the people in the boy's village, I began to cry thinking about the whole situation, but then I began to think how God aligned the three of us in order to be there for that boy, and I began to rejoice! God has a plan for that boy and he wanted him to live, and how grateful the three of us are to be a part of what God wanted done that day.

Matt:
Once we pulled up I was scared, shocked, and felt useless. I was looking at a lifeless child. A million things started to create a wall in my mind. Then God busted through all of the feelings and said, "hold on, I'm bigger than that... pray." So, I did. I walked away from today realizing that being in God's will is just that... being. I can't do anything. However, in Christ I can do everything. All I have to do is "be". Did I raise the dead today? No. I witnessed the beautiful gift of life that was being stolen given back. Glory be to God. How wonderful and amazing He is to let us be a part of His plan, His miracles... His son Trevor's life.

Dan:

once we pulled up and i saw trevor i thought without a doubt that he was dead...just the way he was laying on the pavement, i could tell. as i got closer and saw his forehead, the blood coming from his ear and mouth and his half opened, glazed over eyes...i just knew he was dead. in retrospect though, i have no idea if he was dead. to be honest, i thought about praying but quickly replaced that thought with, "i've gotta get him to the hospital" and started working to find a driver to get him there. i looked over at matty and saw him praying on the side of the road...and then out of nowhere austy showed up...to think of all the different variables that went into the three of us being there at that exact moment...it's unbelievable. anyways, i didn't think about praying again until i heard austin praying as we carried trevor to the car. i immediately started praying and a few seconds later, after all three of us were praying, trevor started breathing. i didn't realize it as it was happening but god put the three of us in this situation for a purpose...he had aligned it...it blows my mind...three different guys...all doing different things amongst the chaos to help this boy...trusting our god...praying with all that we had...and trevor lived. i know we didn't act any differently then most people would've but the lord put the three of us there for a purpose...to experience his miracles and the indescribable power of prayer...and trevor lived...that's the kind of god i am willing to give my life to.

*As of 2/27, Trevor is still alive but they doctors are concerned about the trauma to his head, please keep him in your prayers*

*thanks to Marissa Villa for typing the details of this story*

Photo Shoot!

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 00:00:00 GMT

My roommate, Steph, did a photo shoot with me last weekend...here are the results and her blog!

Surprise! This weeks Photo Friday is: ME!

Last weekend I did a photo shoot with my room mate Tangi. She was wanting some fun funky pictures, and since last weekend was the first beautiful weekend we've had, it was perfect. So I thought this would be a good time to introduce you to my portrait photography. You've seen my photojournalism from pictures of the race, but now you can enjoy my more refined style!

Pray For Haiti

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Hey guys, you should read my friend, Ashley Musick's blog (if the video's don't work on my blog, you can visit her's):

This is my friend Titi... He lives in an orphange in Haiti.

I have lots of friends in Haiti.

Haiti is a beautiful country.

Yesterday the country of Haiti faced tragedy.

A 7.0 magnitude earthquake hit the capitol city, and thousands are feared dead.

I know many of my friends are safe because they live throughout Haiti, and not in the capitol.

But I know the people. I love the people of Haiti.

In 2008 they faced 4 different tropical storms/hurricanes. Floods. Mudslides.

They've had political unrest for years.

The spiritual climate is very dark because of the many followers of Voodoo.

It's not an easy place to live.

And now this...

I know the HOPE of Haiti.

Please join me in prayer for Haiti.

For my friends.

For those in need.

For those who are going to help.

For hope.

Here are some videos from the organization

we ministered with last Febuary in Haiti.

Please visit their website and pray about helping.

The Global Orphan Project

The first video is about Titi... the little guy in the first picture.

The second video is about the Earthquake.

The Global Orphan Project from The Global Orphan Project on Vimeo.

Haiti Earthquake 1/12 10PM from The Global Orphan Project on Vimeo.

Multiply This Bread

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Wow! I never thought I would have made it to my first support raising goal! I'm serious! These last three months of working at AIM has been a struggle in the support raising area! There were so many times that I doubted the blessings of God on my life! And I had this struggle in me...I knew I was supposed to be here (and I am supposed to be here), but I just wasn't seeing my support account changing. It makes you question things that you know God has already confirmed in you, you know?! But the thing is, is that God delivered in His own timing..and I am thankful that He does have His own timing...and that He is in charge! Thanks to all of you who have supported me thus far! I've reached my goal for 2009!

Now on to 2010! I am looking at raising $15,000! Will you support me?! If 4 people gave $100/mo. for 9 mos., 10 people @ $50/mo., 20 people @ $20/mo., and 25 people @ $10/mo. that would practically keep me supported at my goal! If you would like to be one of my supporters, please click on the "Support Me" tab to the left-hand screen of the computer! Thanks and God Bless!

27.1 Million Slaves

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 00:00:00 GMT

Here's a blog that my friend Matt Snyder posted...please read it:

Today's National Human Trafficking Awareness Day. That means that for the 27.1 million people that are enslaved beyond their will are getting some much needed attention. Who's giving it? We are. We are their voice. We are their deliverance. We are their freedom waiting to be delivered. The question is: what are you doing to help them? God's given me a platform through blog and other media outlets; He's also given me a voice that I've dedicated to Him. So Twitter this, Facebook it, Digg.com it, and do what you have to, to get the word out. You're welcome to copy & paste this blog I wrote a while ago.

* * * * *

"Srey Neang followed him through the entrance. At first her eyes had trouble adjusting to the darkness of the room. Slowly, she could make out the scene. At nearly every table a middle-aged man enjoyed the company of two or more young women who casually draped their bodies around him.

Chuan led her through the club, occasionally pausing to give a brief greeting to a male patron. Once they reached a staircase at the back of the club, he pointed upward with his index finger. Srey Neang went first. At the top of the stairs they reached a small hallway with three doors, all shut. She turned around to get further instructions. Chuan jerked his head deliberately to the right, indicating which door she was to open.

Srey Neang turned the knob and tentatively pushed forward. It startled her to see a man standing in the middle of the room as if he were anticipating her arrival. She heard the sound of the door click shut behind her... the room did not hold much furniture, save a bed and a small nightstand. The man, in his mid-thirties... uttered a simple, shocking command in the local dialect: Take off your clothes.'"

-- true story, called "The Conspiracy"

My life was ruined last night. I don't think that I've ever said that before, let alone sincerely meant it to the very core of my being. In the matter of minutes I've never had my heart shatter into so many pieces that the only ounce of expression left in me manifested itself through more than three hours of tears.

Heart graced my cheeks.

And it wasn't something that I really wanted to happen - it just did. It hurt. It still hurts. And within me I can't ignore the urgency to act, to actually take a stand and respond out of obedience. I have to do something. I will not remain silent. It's one of those moments where the Lord's righteous anger boils within me, yet with such grace and love that my life pulsates with His goodness, His heart, and His mercy for all people.

Yet in the same moment I'm waging limitless war on hell.

I'll fight this until the day I die.

A few of us watched a movie last night called "Human Trafficking". I had heard of the issue in passing, not in depth, and I knew that it was a passion of many... yet I still never cared enough past myself to really dive in and learn. Maybe it was a subconscious attempt to keep myself distant from responsibility. Like I've said before, the further we can keep ourselves from an awareness of an issue, from keeping ourselves from knowing the facts, from the possibility of having some kind of "invested-interest"... we can void ourselves from having to react.

It's almost like an excuse for survival... but I don't accept it - even for you.

In case you don't necessarily understand the term "human trafficking", let me break it down for you into understandable terms: slavery.

I'm not kidding.

Human trafficking is, in fact, modern day slavery and it happens all over the world. At any given moment the International Labor Organization (ILO) reports that 12.3 million people are in slavery worldwide, the majority of them being for the purposes of sexual exploitation. Between 600,000 and 800,000 people are trafficked every year internationally (that doesn't include domestic trafficking) for sexual exploitation.

That means they're used for sex against their will.

We call that rape.

There's a lot of reasons that human trafficking exists, many I attribute to sewage that seeps out of hell and infects lives through all kinds of lies, deceptions, accusations, and the like. But it's also because people make a choice; they choose to feed the system, to turn over money to the monster that enslaves and imprisons. "Out of the total number of foreign visitors, roughly two-thirds entering Thailand were unaccompanied men. In other words, about 7.3 million unaccompanied men visited the country in 2003. Certainly, not all of these men came as sexual tourists, but it is a good bet that a significant percentage did. In fact, according to a survey of travel agents conducted by international aid agency World Vision, 65 percent of all tourists to Cambodia are men and one-fifth of them travel with the express purpose to have sex."

You might be thinking to yourself, "well, Matt, I've never even been to Thailand or Cambodia and I never intend on going. I don't contribute to the madness." There might be truth to that statement - I agree. But think about this: every time you sneak onto your computer and check out a little bit of porn here, a little bit of porn there... you contribute. In the Netherlands and Germany, they've found a significant association between prostitution, pornography, and human trafficking. The pornography industry is a multi-billion dollar industry... every year... and prostitution's merely a front that will typically mask human trafficking.

So maybe you weren't aware, but now you are, that many people that are trafficked are also used for pornographic purposes, yet another ploy within sexual exploitation.

I can get onto more facts in another blog... but you might be wondering what the Lord's calling out of me.

I've never heard the Lord speak to me with such clarity. Last night I was sitting on the balcony/rooftop of the house we're staying at here in Phnom Penh, letting the Spirit express itself through my body. I was wrecked beyond words. Kim was inches from me crying her heart out as well. I've never prayed more in my life.

And I've never heard the Lord speak to me with such certainty.

He said, "Matt - I've made you an exhorter, a teacher, a fire-starter... and I want you to create awareness. You're my mouthpiece. I need you to speak. I need you to open eyes and hearts to issues long ignored. Don't remain silent." He also told me to go to Bangkok, ASAP, and see as much as I can first-hand. I have a responsibility now and I cannot be disobedient to it.

So, truly, let's consider this the beginning. I'm merely getting fired-up and I fully intend on catching y'all within the blaze.

* * * * * *

Here are some good resources to check out for more information:

The Not For Sale Campaign
The Polaris Project
NightLight
The Hagar Project
The Well
Innocence Atlanta
She Dances
Click here for more...

Time to Practice What I Preach

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

For the past month and a half, I have been the Support Coach for the January 2010 N-Squad! That means that I am in charge of making sure that all 56 Racers are on their way to reaching the support raising goals that are set before them so that they are able to launch. It has been quite an interesting challenge on my part, and has already stretched me in ways that I never thought would be possible.

Now, when I first became Support Coach for the N-Squad, I was a tad bit worried and thought it quite humorous. Why?! Because I don't consider myself a great support raising person myself...I felt like I have always struggled to raise support (all throughout the Race, and even now). How was I supposed to coach 56 people on how to reach their goals when I haven't even reached mine?!

I started speaking with those who needed my assistance and needed to hear that it was possible to raise what is needed to go on the Race. And through speaking with them and challenging them (I actually give them homework), I realized that I wasn't even really practicing what I was preaching to them. I needed, and still need, to be told that it is possible. I also began to change my own mindset about what support raising is. I realize that it's about God's Kingdom, and Glory for Him. That He has invited me into His world and on His journey to reveal Himself to the world...and that my job is to invite more people to follow along! Yes! I still ask for financial support (that's the season of my life that He has called me to...to abandon what would seem easier for me, and to fully trust Him in this area), but I'm learning a lot from it. I don't feel like it's going to be a short season of my life...I fully believe that He is calling me into a place of COMPLETE DEPENDENCE on Him and He is going to plant visions and desires in me that will make me cling even more to Him.

So...as I'm beginning to actually understand that I will always be learning more about God and my role in His Kingdom plans, I want to invite you to come along for the ride. I want to remind you that this ISN'T just my journey with the Lord...that EVERYONE OF YOU IS INVITED! So, please join me! Be changed! Grow with me! Experience the Lord in ways that you never imagined!

If you are interested in supporting me prayerfully, please pray for these things:

Health

Vision

Strength/Endurance

Wisdom

Patience

Full Support Account

If you are interested in supporting me financially, please click on the "Support Me" tab on the left hand side of the screen. This is where I stand: He has called me here in Gainesville, GA to live and work in community for the next year. That means that I need to raise a total of $18,000...I'm at nearly $3,000...that means I only need $15,000 more.

If you are interested in the details of my position with The World Race staff here at Adventures in Missions, please feel free to email me...just click on the "Contact Me" tab on the left hand side of the screen.

Thanks!

Last Christmas

Fri, 4 Dec 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So...I was driving to work this morning and I heard a song on the radio that reminded me of last Christmas in Kenya! So I wanted to re-post my Christmas video that I made last Christmas to give you a glimpse of my last Christmas! Hope you enjoy!

Just Around the Corner!

Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hey guys! So this is an emergency blog! I just found out that I need a total of $3,000 in my support account by December 1, 2009 in order to continue to do the work that I am doing here! I am so close to that goal...I actually only need $800 more to reach it! I need your help, CHURCH! All you have to do is click on the "Support Me" tab on the left hand side of my blog-page and give what you can! Thanks again!

Tangi

The Fruits: Freedom Sprouts From Freedom!

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

One of my blogs that I posted months and months ago, "Dancing Fool", spoke about the freedom that I had experienced during my deliverance! Well, I'm still experiencing that freedom today! And I had a chance to see glory go to God through the freedom that He has allowed me to experience!

This past training camp with the January 2010 Squads, M and N, God gave me the blessing to speak about my experience with Him that night in Ukraine on the Race when I was delivered and was walked through forgiveness! I shared about how hard it was to really let God heal me of that, to really trust and let go of all of the things that was clinging to me, but how when i finally let God really take over and have that part of me, I experienced FREEDOM! I spoke about my interactions with the Daddy who created me...how I danced with Him that night during worship! How I was fully in His presence and celebrating my growth with Him! How I had felt completely loved by Him...and how all of that was possible because I was finally willing (and I was tired of hiding) to give that to Him! And boy, was that a great decision!

I shared with M and N how I didn't want them to have to wait until month 7 on the Race to experience the FREEDOM that I did, but that I wanted them to have a chance with their Father and the deliverance and freedom that He can bring them now!

AND GLORY WAS BROUGHT TO HIM THAT NIGHT! HOW AMAZING IS HE!

DEMONIC SPIRITS WERE CRUSHED! CHAINS WERE BROKEN! SOULS WERE HEALED! AND FREEDOM FLOWED!

....and through all of this, God revealed to me how my obedience to speak up and share the wonders of His works in my life, can make an impact for His Kingdom by helping to bring FREEDOM FROM FREEDOM!

Get Up Offa That Thing!

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

When I think about support raising, I have to admit that it stresses me out a bit! But then I'm reminded that this is the lifestyle that the Lord has lead me to right now! That there is no shame in asking people for money for God's Kingdom...to see God's Kingdom move in this place! So...I learn daily to suck it up and to trust and have faith in the Lord and what He is calling me to do...which is to invite more of His children into the ministry that God has placed me in, in hopes to bring God's Kingdom wherever we go! So...I want to invite you to join in the cause...for His cause to bring hope, joy, truth, love and Jesus! In order for me to continue to stay on staff here and mobilize the next set of Racers, I need to raise $9,000 for 6 mos.! However, I already feel that the Lord is calling me to stay a full year...so, that would mean that I am looking at raising $18,000 total! I know that sounds like a lot, and it's more than I raised for the Race, but I truly know that the Lord is moving and He's moving here in this place, and I have been invited to move with Him...and frankly, I don't want to miss out! And I don't want you to miss out, as well! Please support me! If only 60 people gave $25/month for 12 months....that would cover me fully! That's only $25 a month!

SO....As Whoopi says in Sister Act 2, "GET UP OFFA THAT THING!".

Back In My Day

Tue, 3 Nov 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Back In My Day

I'm sure everyone has heard the stories that begin with these four words....and I'm sure they bring some sort of joy and laughter to everyone with the many possibilities that follow these words. I always think of the one about walking a mile in the snow barefoot (really, do you really want me to believe that?!), or how you can buy a loaf of bread for like two cents, or a RC-cola and a Moonpie for 5 cents at the local corner store! I love hearing those stories...the ones that seem unbelievable! And then you hear the even more unbelievable stories of how you could leave your front doors unlocked, or better yet, sleep on the front porch in the summers. Or what about how neighbors baked pies and goodies for each other, and provided a cup of sugar or milk or both for those who come asking! Or maybe even a bed for those who need it! And how everyone knew everyone's business! I always get tickled about that one, because I always envision a bunch of old ladies sitting around and playing Yuker or knitting and drinking tea, and discussing the issues of their neighborhood! Ha! I mean, all that stuff back in the day....was that really real?! And I get to thinking, "Shouldn't that be how it is today?"

Okay, hear me out on this one! I don't mean that we should be sitting around and drinking tea or lemonade and gossiping about why Sally and John are having marital problems again, or why little Bobby is a trouble maker...or do I?! I just feel like maybe the people back in the day may have had a better grip on Community!

I believe that God has such amazing plans for all of our lives, and that He wants to share those plans for us. And I believe that He wants relationship with us that will constantly stretch and develop us, and cause us to fall even more in love with Him. But I also believe that He calls us into a community with each other. I think that He never intended for us to go alone in this world. And yes, I believe that He is with us always, but I mean, I believe that He meant for us to grow together in fully knowing Him.

You see, with community (the true definition of community), we choose to trust each other, which means that we need to be vulnerable with each other. When you bring things into the light and learn to trust each other while seeking out the Lord, then there can be no shame, embarrassment, and regrets! Yeah...sounds easier than actually doing it, huh?!

All I know is that it seems like they had more of a handle of this thing called community that looks a little more like the Acts Church than maybe we do now!

How many of us even take the time to talk to people in the supermarket, or even our neighbors? How many of us are willing to share what we call "our money" with those in need....like the single mom next door who works 3 jobs and still has a hard time making rent?! And how many of us have really been "real" with those around us?! Or how many of us would really open our doors to strangers, or even to people we know?!

This is not a "you should be ashamed of yourself if you do this" blog...but it's just a reminder that God calls us to so much more than we know! Are we willing to go there?! And maybe this blog makes no sense to anyone...but, maybe it's something to think about! Your choice!

The Next Step

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So...many people may be curious as to what I am doing next in my life, and maybe no one really cares, but I thought I should go ahead and announce God's plan for me!

I'm moving to Gainesville, GA to work in the AIM office as an admissions person for the World Race on September 28th! It's part of an apprenticeship program that I will be a part of! I can't wait! I'm really excited about this opportunity that the Lord has presented to me! It gives me a chance to live and work in a community of other WR Alumni's and seek the Kingdom in a different way than I have before!

Here is a copy of my new support letter that I will be sending out shortly:

This past year has been amazing! I have had the privilege to see God work His miracles and wonders, and to be a part of them! I have seen God heal a blind man, and heal a young boy of cancer! I have had the blessing to see people through God's eyes, and to love them as He does! I have seen people come to Christ, believing and knowing that He is the way!

My life is forever changed because of this past year! I never knew what to expect, but I guess that is part of following the Lord. I now know what it means to be a part of God's family, and how to listen for His voice. I had to learn how to really rely on Him for everything! I never believed in a million years that I would be able to go on this Race and finish all eleven months of it, and I did! I'm back! Ready to pick up my cross and follow Him into the next season of my life!

"So, what are you going to do now?", seems to be the question. Well, even before the Race was over, I knew that the Lord was calling me into something that would continue to take me out of my comfort zone. And as much as I wanted to run away from that and say "no", there was a bigger desire in me to say "yes". So, that's what I'm doing, saying "yes".

In the last couple of months, the Lord has been revealing to me the importance of community. I realize now, that I need to continue to live in a community that will push me to run after the Lord without hesitation and without fear. So, here I am, picking up my cross and following Him to Gainesville, Georgia where I will be a part of an apprenticeship program in a community of World Race Alumni's. I will be working in the admissions department of the World Race program encouraging future World Racers to be as radical as Jesus Christ and to experience the Lord in ways that they have never dreamed of. I am extremely excited to be a part of His Kingdom in this way!

I cannot express in words my gratitude for all of the support that I have received on my last journey. So, with that said, I would like to invite you to experience the next season of my life by partnering with me on this new journey financially and prayerfully. And, although I will be residing in America, this is still uncomfortable and new to me! I have complete faith that the Lord will provide all that is needed for me. If you would like to support me financially, you can either, go online at http://tangiholmes.theworldrace.org and click on the "Support Me!" tab on the left side of the page, or fill out the card that is provided. If you would also like to support me prayerfully, please pray for me as I travel to Gainesville, Georgia with a new job, new friends, and new experiences.

I can't wait to keep you all updated on all of my adventures and how God is moving in my life! Thank you!

In Him,

Tangi Holmes

12th Month

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hello Everyone! I'm home for right now! I've been back in the States for about 2 weeks now...and already, so much has happened! I miss everyone from the Race! I've made a big decision on my future (which I will share in another blog)! I feel like I've walked into wedding season! And one of my great-uncles passed away the other day!

This is kind of like a 12th month to me! I'm still kind of going though a bit of a culture shock because I have been living out of America for the past 11 months! I've been traveling every month to a new place and have gotten kind of used to that! I haven't really driven the past year! And I still get overwhelmed at the stores here! So...I feel like I'm in my 12th month! Just getting used to the culture and understanding it! I'm trying my best to seek the Lord's voice and to not get distracted by everything around me!

So...it's a bit of a struggle, but I know the Lord will sustain me and take care of me!

Please pray for as I adjust to this new culture!

Thank You!

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:00:00 GMT

To all of my supporters,

I want to thank each and every single one of you! Those that I've known forever, those that I've known for a short while, and those that I've never met....THANK YOU! Thank you for all of your support! Words could never express my gratitude for you being in my life and being a part of my ministry! Thank you again!

Here are some things that happened this past year....and you were a big part of it:

Relationships were built

Children were held and hugged

Women were listened to

Men were discipled

The sick were healed

People were saved

And God was given glory!!!!!!!!!!!!

Operation: Save The Chicken!

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Last Stop....Costa Rica!

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So...my team, Lunchbox, and Crux/Ninjas are heading to Costa Rica for our final week on the Race! The whole squad will meet up there to have our final debrief! I definitely am excited about going home, but I'm also a little sad! But I'm ready!

We just had a goodbye session with our contacts and the youth that we have been working with this past month in Nicaragua...and it was a wonderful goodbye! There was one moment where most of us lost it...we couldn't hold our tears back! The youth had been performing dances, and skits for us all night, and they came to the finale! It was a skit thanking us for following God as missionaries and coming there! All of our past 11 months were building up inside us, and the thank you's that they were saying to us were like they were from the last 11 months! I cried like a baby! Oh man, I wonder what final debrief is going to be like?! Well...please continue to keep us in your prayers! I'll try to post another blog in the next week...if not, it'll be from home (Stateside)! Thanks again for everything!

Almost Home!

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hello everyone! Just wanted to give you an update on my life! I've been serving here in a village outside of Jinotepe, Nicaragua for the past few weeks! We've been doing a lot of ATL (Ask The Lord) ministry here! The people that live here with us are great...but I feel like I'm just starting to get to know them and we are leaving in 4 days....I guess that's the Race for you! Anyways....things are great! I think of home more and more as the end gets nearer! Of course, I think a lot about the different restaurants I want to hit up when I get back....I'm always thinking of food...ha! And I think about clean clothes! And hot showers...endless....everyday! And I think about sleeping in a real bed...ha! I think about a lot of things! I think about seeing my family! I think about laughing with my friends again! I think about all the stuff that I have to do when I get back! But I also think about the end of the Race! I think about saying goodbye to my new family and wondering about us staying in touch...and if that will happen...and for how long! I think about all the things God has brought me through and taught me...and if I'm really going to be able to not forget about it! I wonder if I really am changed! And I know the answer to the last one....it's a "yes"! But I still think about it! All of it! That's my life right now! Crazy! And I have no idea what's going to happen next...and really....that's just fine!

Please keep me in prayer, along with my team and squad....as we begin the transition to leave the Race and come home! We need all the prayers we can get!

I also wanted to give an update on my finances! I only have $824 left to go so that everything is supported! Please, if God has tugged on your heart...has spoken to you in some way to support me....please do so! I really will appreciate every bit of it! Thanks so much!

I'M COMING HOME SOON!

Welcome to the Jungle

Sat, 11 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Okay...well not quite! However, it will be the closest to the jungle that I will ever live! My team (Lunchbox) are being sent to a nearby village of Antigua's! We have been told that there is a jungle practically next to where we will be camping, as well as a volcano that makes a bit of a racket! I can't tell you how excited I am...no, I'm very serious...I am! I'm not really looking forward to any creepy crawlers I might come across...or the fact that I might be too terrified to leave my tent in the middle of the night if I should need to use the bathroom...but I am excited to serve God and His people in this village!

While in this village, we will be building roofs and anything else the Lord lays on our hearts...however we can serve this community and especially the family who will be taking care of us while there!

Please pray for my team and the village that we are going to! Pray that God lines up things for us to do after we have completed our set assignments! Pray that people will see God...the living God!

Oh...I forgot to mention...the first language of this village is the Mayan language and then Spanish (but it's not guaranteed that everyone will speak Spanish)...so, like in all the previous countries, please pray that God will bless us with the ability to communicate clearly with all that we come in contact with!

Thanks for all of your prayers!

We will not have internet while in the village, so I apologize in advance for not having any blogs to post during our couple of weeks there!

75 Warriors

Fri, 3 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

God is at it again! His perfect plans coming into play for us to have a glimpse! How awesome and wonderful is He and His call for us to follow.

We are in Antigua, Guatemala! All 75 or so of us! That's right...I said 75! The June '09 squad (also known as the "I" squad) is here with us, as well! There are so many World Racers wandering the streets of Antigua! It's awesome! And it was all a part of God's beautiful plan!

The I-squad just finished their first month of the Race....and not going to lie...but it's quite refreshing to see their excitement and positive spirit! Not that we, G-squad, is not excited anymore....I just think it's more prevalent in the newbies! I can't wait to have an opportunity to worship with them and to receive the excitement that they have! I pray that they too can receive the wisdom and knowledge that we have!

I just get excited to see all 75ish of us here! That God has chosen us to be a part of His Kingdom-building through the Race! We are His warriors! I'm ready to continue the fight for Him....and I'm sure the other 74 are too!

My Latest Financial Support Update!

Fri, 3 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hello Readers!

So...I just want to let you know that my AIM goal of $13,800 has been reached....PRAISE THE LORD! However, my personal goal of $1,000 is still needed in order to pay for the travel health insurance and shots that I needed in order to go on this Race! So...I'm asking with complete love for that goal to be reached! Please be in prayer with me that God will provide this amount! Thank you for everything! God Bless you all!

I've Got Worms!

Wed, 1 Jul 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Jim Carrey says it best in the movie "Dumb and Dumber"..."I've got worms!"....and then you see the woman with this terrified and shocked face....and then Jim continues to explain to her that that's what he and his friend are going to call their store.

Unfortunately, that is not the case in this blog! Let me explain! In my last blog, I gave you a glimpse into the things I have seen on the Race! The good and the bad! I've had the opportunity to witness quite a bit in the battle between God's Kingdom and the world! I want to reiterate how awesome God is...b/c He is! I mean....we are learning quite a bit! We know that God doesn't need us..that He is perfect and self attainable....but because He loves us, He wants us and He chooses us! So...it blows my mind that God would use little ole me in His plans to bring Kingdom...in His perfect plans! That I am so blessed to be here in this place and to have seen and witness so much of His glory! That's the glamorous side of things!

So...here are the not so glamourous moments of the trip:

1. Getting worms
2. The whole squad taking de-worming pills for 3 days
3. Having a runny stomach for 3 or more days straight
4. Throwing up and having noodles come out your nose during that process
5. Being puked on, pooped on, and peed on all in the same day
6. The stinch of trash and other exotic smells that don't quite leave your nose
7. The joy of tasting "interesting" and "unrecognizable" cuisines
8. Exercising your calves while practicing your squats over stinky holes in the ground
9. Being showered with spit from the pulpit
10. Watching your male teammates not enjoying the ever-loving "thigh grab" of a male contact.

.....and trust me there are plenty more!

So...I'm glad I can share with you!

Distractions Lead To No Blogs!

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hi everyone! I know I haven't posted a blog in quite some time...nearly 2 mos...and I apologize! I think I started off not posting one b/c of a couple of reasons......

1) I got a little busy feeling

2) I got a little lazy feeling

3) I really didn't know what to write about

I basically have not been able to come up with anything to write about. And I'm pretty sure it has a lot to do with it nearing the end of the Race for me! I have so many thoughts going through my head...so many ideas of what I should do when I get home...and none of them being confirmed! And how I'm battling with trying to stay focused on the "now" vs. the "future"! I don't want to miss out on what is happening now! So...I guess, unfortunately, I've been distracted enough by all of my thinking that I have left my blogging for later..and then later has turned into a long time! So, again, I want to apologize for keeping you out of the loop for a while!

Anyways...I had a chance to just start writing some thoughts that were running around in my head...basically, it started out as part of an email message to someone...but then I decided I wanted to post on my blog....time to let you know more of what's happening in my head...here it is:

I'm doing pretty great! But, I'm not going to lie....I'm exhausted! Being in the field for 9 mos. straight and moving every month to a different country, culture, and home can definitely be tiring! And it kinda makes me wonder if this is what it was like for Jesus and His disciples...constantly moving around...just going and bringing the Gospel to wherever they go! And I wonder if they were ever this exhausted? I don't think I could ever explain my whole trip to anyone outside of the people who are on the trip with me...and them fully understanding....there's so much that has happened...so much I have seen and witnessed...so much I have been blessed to be a part of!

I have witnessed God heal a blind man! I have been a part of God healing a young boy of cancer in his leg! I have heard of how God had blessed a child with the money to go back to school the very next day after we had prayed for him! I have seen people fall on their faces in worship and prayer for Him...I have seen the tears of desperation for His presence fall from the eyes of believers! I have felt the hate that the devil has for God's children! I have seen demons take over people's bodies and lives...I have spoken to them and prayed against them! I have held babies who were given away and unloved...I have held them and cried over them prayers that would break the lies of the enemies...I have spoken truth into them...I have spoken God's love into them! I have hugged children who hardly ever get hugged...who hardly ever feel love! I have let them lay in my laps and rest their heads on me....it didnt' matter if they had lice or hadn't bathed in weeks! I have prayed for women who have been beaten and/or forgotten! Women who have been told that they are unworthy! I have shed tears for women caught in a web of sexual lies....being told that they are only made for the pleasure of men...that they are nothing else! I have prayed for men who have felt loss! Men who feel shame b/c they can't provide for their families! Men who find pleasure in the things of the world and who have not experienced the love of the Father! I have battled against the lies and the power that Satan tries to have over this Race, over my squad, over my teammates, and over myself! I have seen so much! I have seen God bring joy to the broken hearted....I have felt the release of the Holy Spirit in many places and ways! I have seen God bring healing! I have seen God alive in many! I know my God exists! And I want more!

I still have two months left out here...and then I come home! And I'm scared! I have no idea what's going to happen when I get home! And I have to remind myself that God does...and I have to continue to trust Him and have faith in Him that He will share His perfect plans with me when I need to know and lead me in the right path! I have so much going on in my head right now! ha! Anyways...thanks for letting me share!

9 Month Support Update

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Hey...just wanted to give all of you an update on where my financial support is as of now. I've only got about $600 left to raise before reaching my AIM goal of $13,800...PRAISE THE LORD! I never would have thought that I could be where I am now! Please keep praying that the rest will come in before I leave the field...it will help a lot! Also...please pray that not only will the $600 come in...but that the gifts that I receive will exceed that amount, so that other Race expenses that were paid out of my pocket will be reimbursed!

And if you don't mind praying for my last 2 mos. on the Race...that I won't lose focus and be distracted by the thoughts of tomorrow! Thank you so much for everything...I couldn't have been blessed with better supporters! Talk to you soon!

Tangi

Do I Have To Celebrate Mother's Day?

Sat, 9 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So....It's pretty much Mother's Day...and that has been the talk around here...and I honestly have to admit, it's kind of hard, difficult, weird, and unnatural for me to be excited about or to even celebrate Mother's Day!

You see...it's all because of the way my relationship is with my mother. It's not anything like most of the racers on the Race, who get letters, and emails, and messages that flood their blogs....no, my relationship with my mother has always been very distant in ways! Sure...my mother loves me...and believe me, God is redeeming so much of our relationship...but she has never really shown me love in the ways that I would have loved to know!

She was, I guess you can say, absent for most of my life. My parents were kinda separated..in other words, I didn't grow up with my family together. My mother just kinda stayed a little distant from me and my brother. Now, I don't want to make my mom sound like she is completely a horrible mother...it's just that she didn't really know how to love us without getting too attached...that probably sounded weird...sorry, but it's the truth. Well...there's so much history involved that I'm not going to really go into...but basically, she was afraid of losing us, so she guarded herself, in a way. How was she to really know the effect that it would later have on me and my brother? How was she to know that ,in a way, she kinda did lose us? So...to defend my mother...she's not this evil, awful person....she's just not really too emotionally involved. But like I said....God is changing that as we speak!

In my "Dancing Fool" blog, I wrote about how God did some amazing things with me...and how I learned to forgive...well, my mother was in that forgiveness category! I learned to forgive her for the way that she didn't love me...for the way that she left me feeling abandoned, unloved, and forgotten...I forgave her for all of that (even though it was hard...and it hurt)! But I did it...I forgave her and left the rest to God! And our God is such a loving and faithful God that wants to see us celebrating with joy...that wants to give us the desires of our hearts....that wants to heal our brokeness...and He does not forget about us! He is a God of reconciliation! He knew my desire for my mother...and he blessed me tremendously! Up until about 3 weeks ago, I had not even spoken once to my mother, or heard from her (in any form of communication) since I left for the Race! And then out of nowhere, I get an email from her! Praise the Lord! And then God gives even more! When I usually talk with her, I am the one to say I love you first, and then she kinda mumbles it out....but not this time....She said it before I even had a chance to open my mouth, "I LOVE YOU!", loud and clear! God is Good! I must be his favorite! :) So yes, God is awesome...and He's continuing to work on this relationship for me!

So, back to the Mother's Day thing....so, how do I celebrate Mother's Day? I would be lying if I didn't admit that I'm a bit jealous of the relationships that others have with their mothers...especially now, with everyone scrambling around to post messages, or videos, or write emails, and send e-cards to their mothers....and then their's me!

But I want to change all of that! I want to learn to be excited about it! I want to not think about all the times that my mother has not really cared about it! I want to be excited about it, regardless! I want to learn how to serve my mother and love her without worrying whether or not she will receive it well!

Do you now understand a bit of how I feel? It's not that I'm not happy there's a Mother's Day....it's just that I never have been happy about it! But I'm changing.....

So...to my mother....if you are reading this.....

I LOVE YOU! HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

Forgotten Daughters

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, my team and Team Banah visited a home for women with disabilities....a ministry very close to the heart of our contact.

I don't know what it was, but I almost had this "normal" feel about this ministry before arriving. I guess, in a way, I've gotten used to being on the Race....everything is almost "just normal". I don't really know how to explain it...I guess I was just going with it, without any real thoughts about where we were going. I talk about how I have this heart for women, but I guess I've always concentrated on women in prostitution rather than these women.

We arrived, and I didn't really know what to expect. I was slightly nervous. I was almost not too sure how to love them. But God quickly took hold of my heart and owned it. He began to reveal His love for these women. Like in Hillsong's song, "Hosanna", there is a line that says, "Show me how to love like you've loved me....Break my heart for what breaks yours." He was beginning to do that in me.

As I watched them watch us worship, then watched them worship, then watched them watch us do skits, it became apparent how much God loves these women. It became apparent how much these women had been forgotten by everyone else, but God. And it broke my heart to learn that most of these precious daughters of God had been abused in their past. I would watch them tense up, or flinch, or both, as we would reach out to give them hugs. They were responded in the most natural way to them, a way that isn't natural in the Kingdom of God. My heart broke for them!

There was one daughter that God showed me...one daughter whom He loved tremendously...and needed so much of His love. He wanted her to know that she had not been forgotten. I had spent most of our time at the place just observing her; noticing how she was very shy, very recluse, very nervous...but I could also tell that she was excited about our presence. I inched my way over to her....I just wanted to give her a hug. I caught her attention, and she began to tense up. I reached out slowly to rub her back, and I had to fight back the tears when she flinched. I was hurting for her. My heart was hurting for her pain. I just rubbed her back for a while, letting her know that I'm safe. I reached in for a hug, and she let me hug her (although she had her defenses up-she kept her arms in front of her, almost like she was still keeping space between us). I continued to rub her back, and finally asked for her name....Patricia.....

"Oh, Precious Patricia, you are a daughter of God...and He loves you more than anything you can imagine!"

I made sure she heard me tell her that Jesus loved her. She needed to know...she needed to know that she was loved by the most perfect and beautiful there ever was. She needed to know that she had not been forgotten....that God sees her!

God loves those women....not any less, and not any more than He loves us all! He created them...they are the image of Him....beautifully made!

Here is a video of some of the women singing a song that they wrote themselves.....

Pray for Pavel

Wed, 6 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

Most teenage boys are running around playing sports or hanging out with their friends, but not Pavel! Pavel is a teenage boy with cancer in his leg. He walks around with crutch to help him move. His best friend is probably his mom who loves him so much. But something else that is different about this young teenager is that he loves God so much....he has so much passion and so much faith for his savior! He prays with everything that he has in him believing in the amazing power of God! He loves God! And though he is in so much pain...and though he may lose his life soon....he still loves his creator and believes in Him with all his heart and soul! There is so much to learn from Pavel and the faith that this young boy has....more than a mustard seed! Please pray for him...please pray that God continues to show favor upon him. Please pray for his mother and her amazing trust she has in God...and her ability to recognize that Pavel belongs to God first. Please pray for strength for the both of them. Please pray for God's miracle of healing over Pavel!

Help! My Canadian Needs Your Help!

Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So....I've been tremendously blessed with the support of many..and I'm so excited to say that I am now only short $603 to reach my goal for the Race! Please continue to pray with me that God will provide the money needed to complete the rest and that I may have a chance to be blessed with more so that other financial obligations, such as travel health insurance and shots, will be paid off, as well! Thanks for all your support!

Now...time to get to the real point...one of my teammates and sister, Brenda Wilchowy, is in need of financial support! She is an asset to our team, and I cherish her friendship, wisdom, and warmth that she brings. She is amazing out here in the field...so, I'm asking for prayer and financial support for my sister! Please consider supporting her! Thank you so much!

Dancing Fool!

Mon, 4 May 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So....a few weeks back...meaning about a month ago, when we had our debrief from India, something amazing happened to me!

It all started with my team's debrief with Michael and Kathy Hindes! I know that there was a lot on my side going on...a lot that I was trying to work on...and I have to admit, usually always working on a lot of that without God (Not a good idea)! Anyways, I had still been trying to cope with Lindsay Heston leaving. I became really close to Lindsay...I really trusted her, and I definitely love her dearly...and she loved me like a sister! She understood me...and I was missing that! It took me 5 mos. to build that kind of relationship with her...and then she had to go! So...I felt like someone who I really trusted and loved dearly was taken away from me! Also, she had been my leader for 5 mos. and I really respected her...she was a pretty awesome leader...and then to have someone else step in and take that place....it was almost too much! And then there is the baggage of my past life and all of the hurt from it....i never knew how much things from the past can effect me now...but it sure can! I was letting a lot of things rule my life...especially my past.

Well, after a lot of crying in debrief with my team...I ended up staying behind with Michael, Kathy, Jake, and my squad leaders (Kelly and Kyla). So...there we were...me and the leaders! A lot went on in that room during that hour or so! I'm not going to go into too many details...but I will tell you that I was delivered from so much that was still clinging on to me. I learned to forgive a lot of my past and things that happened to me...and the people involved! I have never cried so much in my life until that day. I never knew that I could cry like that! I don't even know how to explain how it was...but it came from a place of deep hurt and bruising....it was more real than anything! And it felt good to get it out! It felt good to let it go! It felt good to learn to forgive!

I was exhausted from everything that just happened...I couldn't even think anymore...and I didn't want to! I just didn't know what to do! To be honest, I didn't really feel any freedom right away! It wasn't until our last night with the Michael and Kathy and as a squad, that I started to feel!

We were there....just worshiping together as a squad like we always did when we get together...and I just became overwhelmed! I was sitting for the longest time...but then when I stood up to go pray over one of our teammates who was laid out in the spirit....I just couldn't stay still! I just felt so light! And so beautiful! And so FREE! I couldn't stop moving my feet! I just began floating all over the floor continuing to pray! And then I began to sing a long with Kim Walker! And I continued to move along that floor! It took me a while to realize that I had a huge smile on my face and that I was enjoying every moment I was spending with the Lord right there! I felt like the Lord had me in His arms and was twirling me around, and moving me along the dance floor with Him....HE WAS MY DANCE PARTNER! I loved it! And then I realized people were watching me...and smiling...and I couldn't help but laugh and smile back and act giddy as can be! I WAS FREE! I HAD THE HOLY SPIRIT HIGHS! I WAS LOVED! I WAS A DANCING FOOL FOR JESUS...FOR LOVE!

In Kim Walker's song, "He Loves Us"....the chorus part repeats over and over again these words;

"He loves us, oh, how He loves us!"

How beautiful is that?! He loves us! Oh...how He loves us! And He frees us....and He makes us DANCING FOOLS!

Good Ole Romania!

Thu, 30 Apr 2009 00:00:00 GMT

So...I'm in Romania now...just started my 8th month on the Race....I can't believe I'm already there! It's crazy! I try not to think about how much we have left on the Race...it's too much to think about right now!

Anyways...we made it to Romania about two days ago...and guess what! I spent this morning sick in bed! Everyone on my team has pretty much been getting sick....ah...the joys of living in community...you share everything...even nasty "sick germs". Ha!

So...we are spending our month basically washing the feet of the ministry (meaning, we will do any services needed to help the ministry). Yesterday, I got to put my construction skills to work...yep, that's right folks....I said construction...ha! I actually love using tools! The circular saw is my favorite power tool...and I got to use one yesterday and help teach a teammate how to use it...it was a blast! I also got to use a hammer and nails and build a couple of things! It was so much fun! I just love being able to do that kind of stuff! Just doing hard work! I love it! Ha! I felt like I just sounded like a guy there! I asked one of the guys yesterday if it was okay that a girl says that she likes construction...and he said is it okay for me to say I don't?! I hope to get more opportunities this month to use some tools .

I'm looking forward to this month...especially, because it is actually warmer than what we have been experiencing the last couple of months! It's beautiful spring weather! Actually, the weather yesterday reminded me of my hometown in Mississippi...and it made me miss it a bit. I always loved walking on the Mississippi State University campus during the spring, or sitting outside of the bakery on campus and people watching! But, I wouldn't trade where I am now for there.

I'm blessed...I really am....to be out here...to be running around the world for the Kingdom's cause! And I'm growing...I'm learning a lot, and my faith is definitely being tested and stretched. My God is wonderful!

Until next time....