Seeing the country from the passenger's seat

As some of you know, we have been in the U.S. for the last month.  The initial reason for our return was eMi's  World Staff Conference in Colorado.  Every 4-5 years, staff from all 7 offices gather in the U.S. for 5 days of encouragement, renewal and learning.  It was a great time where Josh and I both learned more about eMi's 10-year strategic plan for ministry.  We were also so encouraged to see how eMi has grown over the past 2 years.  I didn't recognize at least 30% of the people, meaning they were new staff that have come on since we joined.  We stayed at YMCA of the Rockies outside of Estes Park.  It was a beautiful setting and a great time of worship and fellowship with other eMi families.  I will say that the huffing and puffing after 5 minutes of walking because of the higher elevation was a little ridiculous!

YMCA of the Rockies

We participated in a photo scavenger hunt.  This is a photo line-up.

Awkward family portrait

Because of our return for the conference, we have been able to recruit volunteers for the Construction Management program for which Josh has a vision.  He is implementing a new format for the program, and wee are in need of volunteers.  So, we had the great opportunity to speak at different churches throughout the U.S. with which we have partnerships to recruit volunteers from the area.  We were able to see supporters that we haven't seen in quite a while, or ever before, to meet lots of new people and see the excitement they have for eMi's ministry.  It was incredibly encouraging, and we were blessed by the hospitality of so many to open their homes and lives to us.  The last 3 weeks have consisted of driving more than 4,000 miles, hosting 9 informational meetings, driving through 5 states I have never visited and seeing LOTS of corn.

Josh speaking at a church in Lake Jackson, Texas

Great illustration of eMi's role as a support ministry

Beautiful rainbow we saw driving through Nebraska...that and 8 hours of corn

...said corn.  It was actually very beautiful to see the countryside

We had a meeting in Illinois, so we spent some time in Chicago to celebrate our 6-year anniversary.  We were able to fulfill a bucket list item for Josh...to attend a Cubs game at Wrigley field.