Let the countdown begin

Well this last week has been very busy. I should probably give an review of the events. Last Tuesday was an day of emotions. First I had to say goodbye to Lindsay for 7 months, then I had to be at World Gospel Mission headquarters that evening. The orientation went well, had a lot of fun with my fellow VIA's. There is a great group of VIA's this year. At orientation, we talked about the experiences and the emotions that are felt with longer term volunteer work. We dealt with culture shock, re-entry to the US, adapting to local culture, and we of course had to watch a cultural movie.... Cool Runnings!!! Ok, so it wasn't exactly a documentary but it was still a lot of fun. Other things we did while at orientation includes, ice cream at Ivanhoe's (oh yeah...be jealous), fishing in the pond, and eating a worm (it was a pact to remember to pray for each other). I guess I remember.
Right, so now the countdown begins. Next Thursday is the big loooong day. I received the last of my books for school today. I also went to get vaccinations today. I feel like a human pin cushion. 4 shots!!! ouch. All my support has been raised!!! What a blessing. Everyone has been so great. I still have about 40 thank you cards to get done...so if you haven't received one yet, it is on the list.

Continue to pray for:
- all the plans to finalize smoothly
- safe travel
- good health (no allergic reactions to vaccines)
- youth in Bolivia
- my curriculum preparation (or lack of)


God Bless,

Jon Birkey