Our departure for this year’s trip is rapidly approaching. In 2 days, we’ll be on a long journey to Lilongwe, Malawi to lend our help in building the next house for AIDS orphans. The house will be on the same plot of land as last year’s build in the village of Mpingu.  It’s nice to know everything is in the same place as we will be somewhat familiar with the area.  I look forward to seeing if we run into some of the same locals as last time. It will be interesting to speak with them about how their year has gone.

Not everything will be the same, however. I’ve already found out the project manager, Blessing Ghama, is no longer working with the missionaries on that project. He was moved by the organization that controls these projects in Malawi (Assemblies of God Ministries and the Malawian Government) to another project in the country.  It’s a little disappointing as I developed a pretty good relationship with him last year. Although I look forward to working with whomever is on the site and getting to know them as well.

One major change to the trip, for me in particular, is that our Pastor has put me on the “Tribal Council” this year to help lead the trip. I’m very excited, yet extremely nervous about this responsibility and am taking it very seriously.  I just want to make sure I support everyone, and enable them to have the type of experience I had last time. Not to mention get a house built!

Bonnie and I are pretty much ready for the trip. We still have to pack, but have everything we’re taking laid out in the basement. As with last year, we will be packing tools to use for construction and leave them over there when we’re done. To piggy back on my idea last year, we are also taking several soccer balls to distribute to any kids we see.  I think we have around 10 and some of the members of our team are also bringing balls. It will be exciting to see the look on the children’s faces as we hand them out.

All in all, things are shaping up nicely and we’re ready to go. 2 days and counting…