13 February 2010

We made it!

Its a long drive from Chicago to Salem! Our trip totaled 2355 miles. And all of that driving in an overloaded Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo. Pretty near every square inch was filled, and overflow went to the roof rack. Carmen and I could just squeeze in. We filled those remaining square inches when we visited Carmen's family in Pella IA. And then we literally jammed some toys into the remaining space when we got to my hometown of Helena MT. Most of what I added went onto the roof.

It was great to see family and the US as we traveled. Stars came out at night, the air was crisp and clean, and we enjoyed silence. Roads and weather were mostly good the entire journey. We spread the trip out over 7 days, visiting family and friends. My home Evangelical Covenant Church in Helena blessed us with a commissioning service on Sunday the 7th, followed by a luncheon where we were able to visit with many amazing people.
This day was very special for me. My home church was a place where I shared and learned and grew for many years (since 1990). I was blessed with an amazing pastor and church who gave me the nudge needed to pursue seminary. These folks were the ones I have served with in Helena, in Tanzania, and in Mexico. We've traveled together, prayed together, and played together. Great memories, great people.
And now we're in Salem! We have the opportunity to house sit for the next 4 months, which will allow us time to consider where to live and make those arrangements. That is a huge blessing.
We went to Silverton on Wednesday the 10th, and spent about 4 hours driving around and praying. Please help us by continuing to lift up the community and God's will for a church plant here in prayer. Thank You!