Africa Here We Come

We are just a few days out from our Africa trip, and a lot goes through your mind when you are preparing for a trip to a third world country...I hope we get there safely, do I have enough baby wipes in case we don't shower the entire time, what will our accommodations be like, should I bring an entire pharmacy in case we contract some weird illness and on and on it goes.  I was reminded a few weeks ago how far I have come in the last few years.  Some of you might have no clue what I am talking about, but in the efforts of "Let's Keep it Real Mondays" I thought I would share something a little more personal today. 

During the last 3 years I have dealt with A LOT of anxiety, fear and worry.  It spiraled out of control to the point that I could barely drive by myself, because I was afraid I would pass out.  The Lord has brought me through all of that with prayers from so many, scriptures, a very supportive husband/family and some healthy decisions like supplements and detoxing.  (Did you know that stress and anxiety will make you physically sick?)  So now you see that a trip to Africa is completely stepping out in faith.  No control, no security, and no toilets!!!  :)

Over the next 14 days I covet your prayers for us, our team and those we will meet in our travels.  A few specific areas of prayer...

• safe and smooth travels for the entire team (I am pretty nervous about all the long flights)
• team unity
• the Lord will strengthen our marriage
• I will be filled with peace and joy, not anxiety or fear
• the Lord will use us to show His love and grace
• We will come home with a true sense of contentment and that ALL of my anxiety will be broken

Thank you for your prayers!  I cannot wait to meet this sweet little face. If you follow me on Instagram, you probably saw the crazy amount of pink goodies we got her.  Have you ever shopped for someone who has virtually nothing?  Let me tell you, it is hard!  I wanted to buy everything, but at the same time I wanted the gifts to be useful and interactive.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything through prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God.  And the peace of God which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."  Philippians 4:6-7