Heading Back

It's been several months since I've been to Costa Rica.  I'm finally feeling like myself in my own life except for one thing. A piece of my heart was left behind.  I find myself wondering how things are going for each of the kids I met.  I'm thinking about the women in the kitchen and wondering what's for lunch.

I've seen the pictures from the last group that went to visit and I watched with teary eyes feeling as if I was seeing pictures of my own family.  I hardly imagine they are thinking of me, but that doesn't matter.  What matters is that God introduced me to some people whom I will always think of for the rest of my life. Even if I were to never see them again, they still live in my heart.

The good news to report is that I will get to see some of them again!  As of now I'm preparing with a team of women to go back to the Hope Center to minister to the moms and children living in Pavas.

I am so excited to see the faces I've fallen in love with.  I can't wait to hear more about their lives from my fellow teammates who speak Spanish.  I'm looking forward to reconnecting with the director of the Hope Center and hearing all about its future plans. I'm also looking forward to seeing Costa Rica at a different time year and visiting a coffee plantation on our final day.

This trip will be different in many ways. First, I won't be traveling with the comfort and security of my family.  I have a feeling I'll be spending many moments wishing my husband and kids were with me to share the experience.  I'm excited about our team of godly women, but there's nothing like sharing it with family.  Second, I've been trying to learn a little Spanish and hope that I can communicate a little more than last time.  Our church has provided us with several weeks of language geared specifically for missions trips.  And finally, I know what to expect.  I not only know what things will look like and where we'll stay and what we'll eat, but I also hope to see a few familiar faces.  I long to see and recognize some of the kids from the last trip.  I know there will be plenty of new faces, but there's nothing like seeing a child grow and change in just a few short months.

We are just a day away from leaving for Pavas, but in many ways my heart is already there.  If you are a praying person, please lift up our team as we travel, serve, and continue building relationships. I know there are many suffering and in need, but there's nothing like serving where God leads your heart.