Missionary Author... how did that happen?

Many days I am in disbelief with my life. I don’t know what is more surprising… moving to Mozambique (essentially) or publishing a book?

I’ve been phasing out of my role with U.S. Operations and started preparing to head back to Mozambique as a full-time Missionary. I don’t know about you, but when I hear the term Missionary my mind is flooded with thoughts. Some negative and some positive, but I don’t really feel like many of those thoughts describe me.

I’m still getting used to the idea of being an author. When I think of authors I think of people that can spell and have a large vocabulary. Neither are my strong suit =) I was thinking the other day how hard English class was for me in High School, but then I remember that the one thing I was good at was descriptive writing… who knew all these years later I would use my descriptive writing skills to publish a book!?!

As far as my plans for the future, I’m planning to head back to Mozambique for Christmas and stay for another 3 months. I know when most people become Missionaries they go into the field for at least a year… well as usual I do things different. I’m still making the year long commitment, but I really feel like I’m being called to go for a few months and then come back to the States for a few months to share how TDP is changing lives of people in Mozambique. Not just to report back but to really give supporters an idea of who lives and works at our Center.

I’m also really excited to get to visit Ponta de Oruo, Mozambique! The government has given The Dream Project 6 acres in Ponta and we hope to eventually have a ministry there as well. I was unable to visit on my last trip, partially because I didn’t know anyone in Ponta. This winter TDP is going to be doing a small building project in Ponta. I’m not sure what just yet, but a national worker (and possibly another American missionary) will be in Ponta overseeing the project. It looks like TDP will be sending Namorado, it will be nice to have a friend who speaks English (and Portuguese) and knows the area.

We have another building project going on up in Pemba. We are currently trying to purchase a piece of land that will connect our two existing properties. We have a team coming in October to build and if we are able to purchase the land we will be able to enclose all of our land in one fence. This will help a lot with security. The team this fall is building a few new dorms and bathroom. It will allow us to repurpose some of our rooms, so that we have a space for storage, an office and a true common room (meaning no one’s bedroom) for the boys. All are much needed and so this is really exciting! I can’t wait to see the changes!

As always thanks for reading!

Please be praying:

• For my trip plans
• Building in October, that the neighbors will sell to us for a reasonable price. Also that we are able to get the permits in time =)
• Building in Ponta. From filing for permits to finishing paperwork after the build.
• The house mom’s son is in the hospital. Keep his health in your prayers.