sight-searching.

We're definitely well on our way with fundraising plans.
Jerry (one of my three team members) and I have talked to Ben and Jerrys Ice Cream shop about allowing us to have a "proceeds night" on the 20th of April.
I have talked to Pastor Bob about volunteering at the "Song Writer's Night" fundraiser at church.
And Ms. Barbra, the church secretary is checking on two dates on the Church Calendar for a car wash.

There is approximately $3,150 more dollars for me to raise in approximately two months.

Last night Tim Green spoke at our church revival. He talked about the Great Optometrist who has the ability to take our blurry vision and give us the vision HE would choose for us to have. I found it interesting as it applied to my life right now. I am earnestly looking for opportunity and ways to earn money as if I am desperate. But I know that the reason Christ hasn't mysteriously placed $3,150 dollars (as we all know he is entirely capable of) is because he doesn't want to use this trip to solely change my life. This trip to Mozambique, Africa is so much bigger than 4 college students. There are lives to be changed, relationships to grow, and faiths to be strengthened. I whole heartedly believe that.

As I continue to fundraise and earn money, I will not stress. I know God's sight is perfect, and mine is only seeing a piece of the picture. I trust that he will reach many more people through this chapter in my life than I could imagine.

Pray for sight. love always, Allyson

just the beginning.

The preparation has started and we're well into the countdown until we leave for training camp on May 26th. We continuously receive more information on our sites. New deadlines, paperwork, background information, prayer requests, and encouragement. My white 3 ring binder labeled, Youth in Mission, is continuing to grow. It truly is exciting though.

One of the biggest blessings is to see the obedience of those that have contributed to my fund. I cannot explain how much it means when I see a contribution has been made. It's hard for me to "ask for money," I don't like to make people feel obligated or feel guilty if they cannot give. I was talking to God about this matter and he showed it to me in a whole new light. It is not "my cause" or for "myself" that people are giving money to. As individuals give money I hope they realize it is not my experience, or simply "my dream come true," but it is so much more. The only reason our gracious God is allowing me to go on this trip is to share his word. I told him that I would go. I would go and leave all that I had to do this for him. To be used as a tool for his kingdom. He will provide. I know he will.. It is only through his will that any of this trip has been made possible thus far. I have faith.

His name is Bill. He walked up to me last Sunday after the service ended. (Craig had me come onto the platform and tell briefly what trip I was involved in for a quick second.) Bill told me that he was so excited for what God had in store for my future and handed me a wad of cash. He told me that some of his family had been missionaries in Africa and he wanted to help me out. A man I had NEVER seen before in my life. He was willing to sacrifice what could have been a nice outfit or several nice dinners, to some girl he had never met before. He has such a gentle spirit. I want to allow Christ to speak through me that way. "Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action." John 3:1 He was a true example of who Christ is.

The anticipation, excitement, and nerves are all growing as time grows closer. We will all have a lot to leave for two months. It will be quite the journey. To be apart from my fiance, family, and friends will be difficult, but I know that God had huge things in store for all of us. I am not the only one who will be blessed through this trip, but we all will. Sometimes it's crazy the way we limit God. We allow him to do only so much in us or through us, but it's when we surrender ALL that he can do what HE wants in us. The last year has been one of total surrender, therefore, it has been the most amazing year of my life. I know that Africa is going to start a whole new chapter in me. I don't know what that will consist of, but he does.

I will continue to write. The days are going to pass so quickly.. I want to remember these days specifically. You'll hear me soon.
Love Always, Allyson