Laura Staszewski

Christmas Celebrations

2011-12-25T13:55:00.001-05:00

Opening Christmas Presents!

Today was my official first Christmas in Zambia! I was woken up by Nate (one of our volunteers) banging on my door at 6 am yelling "Merry Christmas!" If you know me at all, you know I am NOT a morning person. Perhaps if Nate was 4 years old it would have been cute. Not so cute for a 20 year old. However I was up and we gathered at Jake & Jessi's house to open presents with their two young daughters. Eating swedish nut bread (my gram's recipe and my fav breakfast for Christmas) and drinking Cinnamon spice coffee, we exchanged gifts and watched the girls open their presents with great joy.

Our afternoon was spent with wonderful friends from town as we shared a large, and delicious lunch. My parents then called me using facetime for a video chat. I was able to watch them open the presents I sent. I love technology! To make it even better, I did a video chat with my entire family (aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents). It was so great to see their faces but it made me a bit more homesick then I already was. However, it's been a great Christmas and I'm looking forward to the upcoming New Year!

Merry Christmas!!!

Christmas Songs

2011-12-23T07:15:00.000-05:00

driving through Nsongwe Village

I had a revelation while driving to town the other day. Have you ever noticed how many Christmas songs talk about snow and cold? White Christmas came on my ipod and I was singing along, but then I looked at my surrounding. There has never been a white christmas in zambia. Instead it's a very green Christmas. Growing up in Chicago, Christmas is cold and usually white. However, Christmas is during the summer for half of the world- Zambia included. While my family and friends back in Chicago are hoping for a white christmas, Jake, Jessi, and I are hoping for a wet Christmas. With the rains comes cooler temperatures. Dry days here are above 100 deg F- not exactly like the Christmases "I used to know." But what makes Christmas? Is it the snow and cold? Family traditions? Presents under the tree? Sure, I love all of the joys of Christmas but let's never forget our true joy: the birth of our Savior. So whether or not your Christmas this year is white, know that the true source of our joy is in Him. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-22T06:58:00.003-05:00

Every family has their own Christmas traditions. They're what we've grown up with, what we associate the holiday season with. It can be certain foods, midnight church services, Christmas carols, etc. You don't really realize how unique, and even how important they are to you until you're away from your family on Christmas for the first time.

This is my first year staying through rainy season (obviously also through Christmas) here in Zambia. The base is quiet, with only myself and another family making up the "foreign" staff. Jessi and I have been planning Christmas by combining all of our favorite traditions together. The first one has been the great cookie bake. Now my mom usually bakes the christmas cookies, while my sister, brother, dad, and I "help" as the taste testers. However, Mom isn't here so Jessi and I pulled together all of our favorite recipes (thanks, Mom, for sending the recipes for my favorite cookies!) and spent an entire day baking cookies. We started our baking day by laying out a game plan. After a short discussion of whether we should half the recipes or not (deciding on not) we starting the baking spree. By dinner time we had made about 20 dozen cookies. For 3 adults and 2 young kids. That's a lot of cookies!! Did we get carried away? Sure! The good part about all these cookies is now we have lots to share with our zambian and missionary friends here. There's nothing like the taste of your favorite, childhood Christmas cookie to make you feel a bit more connected to home despite the thousands of miles of separation.

The Mass Exodus

2011-11-22T07:08:00.001-05:00

If you sit still all you can hear are the sounds of the birds, the wind, and some sounds of construction here on the base. The masses have left the base and just a few of us staff remain here at Rapid 14 base. Over the next few weeks, only 3 of us will remain here for the entire rainy season. As I type this, dark clouds are rolling in and thunder is echoing in the near distance. It looks like rainy season is finally picking up! There are pros and cons to this. It's finally a break in the intense heat we've had for months. It's also great for the villages since they're farmers and need the rains to begin planting their maize (corn) crops. The con is that is makes driving on the roads very hard. To reach the villages, we're driving on dirt roads and crossing riverbeds. With the rain it turns the dirt into mud and clay and fills the riverbeds, cutting off our paths to get to these villages. Even though ministry does slow down, there's still plenty to do. I'll still have one of my bible studies running in the villages since the road should be passable most days. Being a missionary also means that you wear many hats. With most of the staff back in the States, the 3 of us remaining have taken on the responsibilities of running the base. I'll be in charge of food and kitchen duties for not only us but our workers. This season will also let me focus on language studies, bible school (been needing to finish the certificate course for awhile now), and preparing teaching materials for the village bible studies for next year. No matter what season here in Zambia, life is never boring. I'm looking forward to blogging more and introducing you all to life here as a missionary! Blessings!!

Seeing Growth

2011-10-10T08:33:00.002-05:00

I just heard the most amazing report this morning and wanted to share it with all of you. Last week, Pastor Dragan and I had to cancel our weekly meeting in Mahalulu; he had caught the stomach bug that was going around. Apparently the people in Mahalulu didn't want to miss the meeting so Wilson, the man we've been training to be the zone manager in that area, led the bible study. Not only did he show his own initiative to lead the study but he's been going out several times a week doing door to door ministry. This is such an amazing report because it shows such growth in these men and women that we've been pouring into since June. I feel like a proud mama!!

Dragan and I will be there on Thursday, as per our usual ministry schedule, and I cannot wait to hear the testimonies and just share in how excited I am for what the Lord is doing in their lives.

New Roommate

2011-08-26T13:33:00.002-05:00

I have a new roommate in my chalet here at Rapid 14 base. His name is Tyrone and he's a baboon spider, a relative to the tarantula. The photo isn't of him but looks the same. I accidently walked in on him in the shower yesterday. He needs to learn to lock the door! When I came back with my posse and a really big stick, he was gone and thankfully hasn't returned yet. Normally I don't have any issues with spiders. Lots of them eat mosquitos so we have a great relationship. However, there was no way I wanted to wake up to this thing crawling on me in the middle of the night. Since he's not dead, we came up with a plan B. My bed is now completely surrounded in a mosquito net. I usually wait as long as I can to put the net up since they're really hot to sleep under. However, desperate times call for desperate measures. The warm weather brings out the strangest insects and creatures here in Zambia. Last year were giant scorpions. This year seems to be the year of the spider. Oh the adventures we have!

Weather Change

2011-08-23T07:19:00.003-05:00

This morning I woke up with this thought: "I'm not cold!" It's the first morning I've actually noticed that the frigid, winter weather here in Zambia was gone. There's a fine line between cold and hot season, and today may be the day we've crossed it. As the afternoon has progressed, long sleeves and pants were quickly changed into shorts and tank tops. There have been other signs of the upcoming hot season over the last week or two. The sky has been hazy from dust storms and bush fires, but the intense colors of the sunsets have only increased. Also, my garden seems to have started growing again after the long, winter sleep. No matter what, there's no escaping the heat. I can't bring myself to embrace this weather but experience tells me to grin and bear it until the blessed rains arrive in November. Until then it's lots of water and whatever shade you can find!

Cabbage Mishaps

2011-08-15T07:10:00.002-05:00

On Friday evening, myself, two volunteers, and our zone manager Crispen had an overnight in Ndele village. Every friday morning, we hold a bible study in Ndele and wanted to take this chance to build a stronger relationship with the people. Just before sunset, the ladies were gathered, chopping cabbage for our evening supper. Becca and I grabbed our knives and went to join them. I must say that these women are excellent cooks. As soon as we sat down and began asking them about how to chop, the giggles began. In this culture, every woman knows how to make nshima and relish (i.e. cabbage). It's what makes you a good wife and mother. About 5 minutes into our chopping experience, I sliced my finger and it started to bleed. The women laughed and told me that my hands were "too soft" and that I needed "elephant skin." They then showed me their rough, callused hands, comparing them to my smooth, soft skin. My knife was quickly taken away; it was clear that I was fired from the job of chopping vegtables. Becca didn't last much longer as they fired her for chopping the cabbage into too large of pieces. We might not make great village cooks but the time spent with the people was absolutely amazing.

Mangos & Cod Liver Oil

2011-07-29T06:51:00.003-05:00

This morning I headed out to Ndele Village for our weekly bible study. We meet under a mango tree in Kennedy's garden (pictures coming soon). This was actually my first time leading the bible study, so we spent the time really getting to know one another. I shared my testimony about what the Lord's done in my life and encouraged them to not view themselves "according to the flesh". Several others then opened up and shared several testimonies from what the Lord has done in their lives. Many had come to the Lord through healing, admitting to once trusting in "traditional medicine" but found that only the Lord is our healer. It was amazing! Kennedy also asked for prayer for the bible study to grow to include everyone in the village. I absolutely love his heart.

After we were done with the teaching, one woman, Katherine, said

they needed more vitamins. Some of you may remember that last year we had 5 containers full of vitamins that we distributed. Suddenly everyone was sharing about how much the vitamins have helped them. Then Katherine continued saying that she loves the cod liver oil. In fact, she not only takes it as medicine but also puts it on her skin and hair. She smiled brightly as she shared this, exclaiming how cod liver oil not only makes you strong but also gives you beautiful skin and hair. I had to hold in my laugh as I heard this. I can't imagine using cod liver oil as a conditioner or lotion but it's good to know that if you enjoy fish smells, it's a great option. :)

Bush Trekking

2011-07-23T04:27:00.003-05:00

Last week, Pastor Dragan and I were driving to Mahalulu Village to meet with the pastor there. A few weeks prior, we had shown the Jesus Film there and wanted to follow up with the churches there. When we reached Pastor Thomas' home, we found that he was working out in his garden. His son jumped into the truck to guide us, assuring us that the "road" was passable. Several minutes later I soon realized this was going to be quit a journey. We crossed rivers, drove through people's yards, and down paths that were barely even footpaths. We finally reached a point where the truck could go no farther. Parking it under a tree, we set off on foot for another 30 minutes, I almost lost my balance in a river, before arriving at the garden. The surprise and joy on Pastor Thomas' face made that long trek worth it. He was so blessed that we could come all that way just to encourage him. These rural pastor easily get discouraged because they often feel inadequate to preach the Gospel due to lack of training. They also have no one else really speaking into their lives and encouraging them. This is why Overland Missions doesn't start our own churches but work alongside those that already exist. I'm excited to say that Mahalulu will be our first location for the new believers class that I'll be leading and training local leaders to teach in other villages.

Home

2011-06-06T10:37:00.000-05:00

Right now I'm sitting in my "gingerbread house" on the rapid 14 base in Livingstone, Zambia. The door is open, letting the cool breeze flow through the house and the setting sun is filling the sky with the most vibrant red, orange, and purple colors. I'm home and it feels amazing!

I arrived on saturday and have been unpacking, reorganizing, and settling back into life here at the base. I arrived later then in the past and right in the midst of our busy season. There's an expedition in, amt is going full speed, and lots of staff and volunteers are working hard in meeting the spiritual and physical needs of the rural villages.

I started teaching gps & navigation to the amt class today. The class runs for this week, which gives me time to get my truck ready for the villages. Next week starts the new ministry I'll be doing in the Mukuni kingdom of zambia. It's located right here in the southern province of zambia and an area I'm very familiar with. I've arranged for language lessons to start as I continue learning Tonga. Over the last 5 years I've been able to pick up on some basics but have a desire to become as fluent as I can over the next 17 months. I'll keep you all updated as this adventure continues. Blessings!

Question 10

2011-04-28T14:07:00.004-05:00

"What has been the most powerful thing you've seen God do while ministering in the villages?"

It's hard to narrow this down to one thing because God has done so much in the lives of the people in the villages that I've been to. However, the first testimony that comes to mind happened a couple of years ago. We were holding a women's conference in Nyawa Village- Zambia. About halfway through the 2nd day of the conference, an old woman shuffled into the church and sat at the back. During the break, she came up to us and through an interpreter share her story. Her name was Sophia and she lived in one of the surrounding villages. She had heard about the women's conference but feared she wouldn't be able to walk the distance. Her feet had been in pain for years, so bad that she could only move around her home. However, her desire for the Lord was far greater then her pain. She walked, using a long stick as a cane, for several hours to reach the conference. Sophia then asked us to pray for her. As we did, she said she felt fire rush through her feet and the pain was completely gone. She had tried everything before this day- clinics as well as the witchdoctor. Nothing had worked until she turned to Christ. Her life was completely changed!

Question 9

2011-04-10T13:45:00.001-05:00

"What do you miss the most from America while in Africa?"

I don't usually start missing things until about 6 months into being back in Africa. It usually starts as cravings for different foods. Sometimes it's the desire to talk to my family and having limited phone and internet access at that moment. Other times it's the ease of running errands in America, good roads, and easy access to different products that I might need for something. No matter how frustrating things can get, there's still nothing else I'd rather be doing and no where else I'd rather live then in Africa. :)

Question 8

2011-04-07T22:15:00.003-05:00

"Where do you do your shopping?"

Doing grocery shopping is always an adventure in Zambia. There are two main markets that we

do our shopping at, which are very different from each other.

The first stop is Maramba Market. It's a local zambian market in a township in Livingstone where we buy a lot of our bulk produce from. Here we get our tomatoes, cabbage, onions, beans, and yummy (not!) dried fish. You never know what your experience will be like in the market. Some days, everything goes smooth and uneventful. Other days, your battling crowds and even turning down multiple marriage proposals before making it back to the truck with the groceries.

Our other grocery store is called Shoprite. It's located on the main road in town and is in a small strip mall, where my favorite cafe, Kilimanjaro, is located. This is where we get a lot of the dry and pantry goods for the base. You never know what's going to be in stock in shoprite. The majority of the food is shipped in from south africa, which raises food prices quite a bit... especially canned goods. On good days you can even find oreos and chips ahoy cookies!

Question 7

2011-04-05T21:45:00.003-05:00

"What has been your most embarrassing moment in Africa so far?"

I hate to admit that I've had a few and have learned to laugh at myself...a lot. :) One such moment was this past year. I had just dropped two of my friends at the airport and went to do some errands in town before heading back to the base. It was during hot season so I was in a skirt, since jeans are unbearable in 120 degree heat. While loading groceries into my car, a strong wind came up from under my truck and blew up my skirt. I quickly did my best Marilyn Monroe impression in the crowded parking lot. However, I was definitely facing the wrong way. Upon hearing laughter breaking out, I quickly jumped into my truck and drove swiftly back to the base in embarrassment, leaving the rest of my errands for another day. It's always an adventure!

Question 6

2011-04-03T22:01:00.005-05:00

"What is one thing you've had to learn being a missionary that you never expected?"

This is a hard question. There are so many things I've had to learn

from culture studies to digging a huge truck out of the mud. I think the most unexpected skill, however, has been learning to cook for large groups. Before joining Overland Missions, I was never much of a cook. My main diet during college was the classic ramen noodles and $1 slice of pizza from the pizza place next door to my apartment. However, I can now whip up a mean chicken curry and even bake your birthday cake using only a campfire. A skill I've never expected to have but that comes in quite handy.

Question 5

2011-03-31T21:09:00.011-05:00

"What type of accommodation do you have in Zambia?"

My "home" on the base has changed quite a bit over the last 5 years. The majority of it has spent living in two very different types of tents. For the first 2 years, I stayed in a little 3-man "A" frame tent, which was quite cozy. There wasn't much room for anything but my sleeping mat and clothes, but it was home. As our base grew, new tents were built for those staying long term on the base (staff and amt students). They're called safari tents and are the 5 star equivalent of tent living. I lived in this for 2 and half years and loved it. My tent was on the edge of the gorge, had a bed, and even wicker wardrobe. Every night I would fall asleep to the sound of the Zambezi river. This past year, I was extremely blessed to be moved into a real house. Solid walls and all! While I loved my tent, it's great to have a place that feels more permanent and like a real home. I'm still working on decorating it, which will be one of my personal projects when I get back. However, I still use tents whenever staying overnight in the villages. Don't want you to think I've gone soft! ;-)

Question 4

2011-03-31T21:09:00.005-05:00

"What is it like to support raise?"

Support raising is a foreign concept to the world. The idea that one

would have to raise their own salary for a job doesn't make sense to many. To me, it makes perfect sense and I wouldn't have it any other way. In a way, it's similar to investing in a company. Only, no matter what amount you invest, every one gets the same return- the Gospel preached in unreached areas. I love my support team and I love what the Lord accomplishes through us. I don't go into the villages alone. Every single person who is on my team is there with me. In God's eyes, we are all equals. We are all accomplishing what He's called us, His children, to do: go into all the nations to preach the Gospel and make disciples.

Of every ministry experience I've had, I think that support raising has grown my faith the most. It actually comes easier to me to believe for someone to be healed then to be fully funded. However, God has never once let me down. ALL of my needs have been met and I've never gone without. I'm working on raising the last portion of my monthly budget so I can return to africa right now. There's been days of discouragement and days of joy. Never once have I doubted that God will provide. I know with all of my heart that this is what He's called me to do. I know with all of my heart that He will always provide for His purposes. God wills it!

Question 3

2011-03-31T18:55:00.005-05:00

"What are church services like in Africa?"

I've never been in a church service in the USA that is anything like church service in a village in Africa. The service begins with a prayer meeting as everyone arrives. Service may be scheduled to start at 9:30 am but Africa runs on an entire different schedule. People will arrive throughout the morning. Once the worship team has arrived, the fun begins. Break out the hand drums and get ready to dance! An hour of praise and worship breaks out with the entire congregation breaking into song and dance. After about an hour long sermon, be expected to share as a guest in the church. There are times you'll be given the entire sermon on a moments notice, as a special guest. Be ready in season and out! :) The service closes with prayer, more singing and dancing, and the congregation wide hand shake. As everyone files out of the church a line forms where everyone greets each other with handshakes, and possibly more singing and dancing. There's nothing quite like it!

Question 2

2011-03-30T22:32:00.002-05:00

"Please tell me about someone who you're close to in Africa"

Winnie is one of my good friends in Zambia. She's about my age an

d is from Nsongwe Village, just down the road for our base. I first met Winnie when she volunteered to be an interpreter on one of our expeditions in 2008. We quickly grew to be close friends as she continued helping with our teams. It was awesome to watch God move through her as she started sharing the Gospel with people in villages, not just translating. She has grown to be a woman on fire for the Lord with a passion for bringing the Gospel into the rural villages.

Question 1

2011-03-29T13:07:00.006-05:00

"What is the weirdest thing you've ever eaten?"

This is the most common question I think every missionary is asked. The answer really depends on what your definition is weird. Two meals that come to mind is the one night we had hippo curry and the local dish called kapenta.

The story about the hippo curry is that we live on the Batoka Gorge, overlooking the Zambezi river. Certain times of the year (when the river is high) animals will wash over Victoria Falls and usually end up at our base. This one instance, a hippo was found (dead) in the gorge and the local villagers butchered up the meat. A portion was

given to our base which was served in the form of a curry that evening. I can't say it's my favorite meat but it wasn't terrible. :)

The local dish, kapenta, is a small, dried fish served. It's cooked in oil with onions and

tomatoes. Many people can't get over the little eyes staring at you from your plate. I just can't stand the salty, fishy taste that they have. However, if you enjoy sardines then you'll probably like these.

I did have goat heart in a village last year, which I really enjoyed!

Keep the questions coming! Send them through the comments, email, facebook, or twitter!

30 Day Challange

2011-03-28T22:35:00.002-05:00

Lately I've been thinking of different topics I can blog about. I'll hopefully be back in Africa in a month and until then I'd like to do a post a day. Every time I meet with people and share with them about the ministry I do in, I get all sorts of questions. These questions can range from "what's the weirdest thing you've ever eaten?" to "how are you received as a missionary by the local people?". For the next 30 days I will post a question commonly asked to missionaries with an answer from my personal experience. I hope that you all get to know me, the Zambian culture, and Overland Missions a lot more. Feel free to post questions that you'd like answered via the comments section, email, facebook, or even twitter. Look for the 1st post tomorrow!

Blessings!

Simple Gospel

2011-03-21T17:58:00.004-05:00

Last week was 3/16/11. While driving, I was listening to K-Love radio and they were sharing about how it was declared "John 3:16 day" and were encouraging people to share the love of God with at least one person. It got me thinking about how often we (Christians) overlook that beautiful, yet simple verse. Many times we just assume everyone has heard it before. We're looking to share some new, revolutionary idea that will completely change the world as we know it. We've gotten away from the fact that this is the truth of the Gospel. "God so loved the world that He gave His only, begotten Son so that we shall not perish but have eternal life." That is it, my friends. Easy, simple, and beautiful beyond words. You matter to God. You are His heart's desire. How cool is it to be the very desire of God? It blows my mind...

Many of you might be wondering what is the update on the ministry in Africa. I'm so excited for the upcoming changes in ministry and cannot wait to be back in Zambia. Currently, I am raising up my ministry budget in order to return to Africa before summer. I'm in Chicago meeting with family, friends, and churches. If you're in the area, please let me know. I'd love to meet with you and share what God has placed on my heart for the rural villages in Zambia.

Twalumba! (Thank You in Chitonga)

Two Worlds

2011-02-07T15:44:00.003-05:00

I feel like I haven't moved in weeks. It's such an adjustment to come back to Africa and have a "9-5" schedule. I've been in Florida the past month, working on support raising from the Overland Missions USA offices. I have an office job. I miss the batoka gorge, the zambian sunsets, the long, bumpy road to town. I miss even the difficulty of accomplishing a simple task such as a town errand. However, I love seeing family and friends that I haven't seen in months. I love not having to watch for elephants while driving at night. I love the vast selection of everything found at wal-mart. What a strange world I live in. :)

My goal is to be back in Africa at the end of April and I cannot wait! Until then I will enjoy every day to it's fullest and cherish every minute spent with family and friends. And at night I will dream of the villages to be reached with the Gospel in Zambia once I return.

Catching Up

2010-12-23T16:23:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile since an update. A lot has happened- AMT ended with a success, I spent a week in England visiting with friends and supporters, flew to Florida to catch up with the Overland staff in our offices, and am now in Chicago with my family for the holidays. One main thing that's happened since leaving africa, I've been constantly cold. ;-) It's weird to leave summer one day and be in the middle of winter the next.

I'm looking forward to returning to Zambia at the end of April. Until then I will be working on support raising, as well as visiting with family and friends.

I would like to personally invite each of you to our upcoming One Tribe conference. It will be held in Tampa, FL on Jan 6-8. For more information and registration, please go to www.overlandmissions.com

Merry Christmas!

Impromptu Road Trip

2010-10-15T04:28:00.002-05:00

Two weeks ago, my friend and co-worker, JD, received notice that his vehicle was ready to clear after 3 months of waiting. Later that night (at about 9:30 pm), we were talking about whether he wanted a ride in the morning to the bus station to travel the 600 km where the vehicle was waiting. As we talked, we decided that we could just take my vehicle instead of having him battle Zambia's public transport. It was instantly decided that JD, Matt (our intern), and I would leave at 4 am for the Kariba border at the north end of Lake Kariba. Gotta love last minute road trips! It took us 8 hours to make it to the border post (through beautiful mountains) where JD's vehicle was waiting. Along the way I did have the unfortunate experience of accidently mooning a zambian man when doing a toilet stop along the side of the road. Whoops! He had the biggest grin on his face... I think I made his day. ;-)

It was our hope that everything would be ready for us to just pick up the vehicle and maybe even get to spend the night in Lusaka and see a movie in a real movie theatre. However, Africa is as it is and we found ourselves sitting for hours waiting on one form to be completed. Eventually it was time for the office to close and the form wouldn't be ready until the next day. Thus began an adventure of finding a decent, and affordable, place to stay for the night and dinner. We found ourselves in a little lodge run by a couple from Myanmar and sleeping in a room that had to be at least 90 degrees all night. I made the unfortunate mistake of only having a pair of jeans to sleep in... rookie error.

The next morning, we planted ourselves back at the border post until the vehicle finally cleared. By lunch time we were back on the road to Livingstone, battling crazy truck drivers, cow crossings, and the fact that you cannot find a bag of ice anywhere to save your life. In one small town, I found the only Cherry Coke I've ever seen in Zambia. The 150 ml can was $2 but it was well worth it. What was even more bizarre was that it was canned in Switzerland. Random!

We made it back to the base and crashed into bed. What a great African adventure!

An Outing with the AMT

2010-09-20T07:54:00.005-05:00

So the first week of classes with Advanced Mission Training are over and the next is starting. JD and I definitely threw the students into the deep end and we've already seen such amazing growth and hunger for God. Their first classes were theology, gps navigation, and bush cooking. In theology we taught on everything from creation, redemption, holy spirit, and even healing. Lots of information packed into 1 week! In GPS the students learned how to navigate the bush of africa with handheld gps systems. Bush cooking was a great time where they all cooked dinner for the group over the campfire, doing everything from collecting firewood to even baking bread.

By the time the weekend came, everyone was anxious for some time off of the base. On saturday we visited victoria falls and on sunday we went to church in one of the nearby villages and then swimming at the 3 star lodge in town. It's so hot here now that swimming is the top activity on everyone's weekend plans.

It's been a great start to amt and I look forward to continuing to see God at work in and through every student's life.

Photo Caption: Part of the AMT class @ vic falls

AMT Begins

2010-09-03T11:29:00.002-05:00

On Wednesday, the majority of our september advanced mission training (aka AMT) arrived. Usually I'm not too involved with the 3 month training program, but for this class I'll actually be co-leading. I did this back in 2008 and really enjoyed it. I love how I get to be ministering to the same team for 3 months compared to the 2 or 3 weeks I usually have with the expedition teams.

The team looks like they're going to be a great group. There's a great mix of ages, backgrounds, and experiences that every single person has something to offer and something to gain from their time here. I'm excited to see what the Lord is going to do not only in their lives but mine also during these next 3 months.

Tomorrow we're heading out to the villages for a week of ministry. It'll be challenging in every way possible, especially since hot season has begun and we're back in the 90's and getting hotter each day. Please keep us in your prayers and I look forward to sharing the testimonies when we get back on the 10th.

Blessings!

To read more about AMT, please go to www.overlandmissions.com

In Honor of A Friend...

2010-08-18T11:16:00.003-05:00

I have this beautiful friend named Joy. She had just recently moved to Malaysia to work with an orphanage there. However this morning God called her home. The other day Joy was in the hospital with a 4cm blood clot in her brain.

Joy had a smile that would light up a room. You couldn't help but be in a good mood when she was around. The joy of the Lord just naturally flowed out of her and was contagious. She loved people and cherished her friends and family. She also knew how to show love to other. Sometimes it was a word of encouragement, a card or gift, or even a hug. Her heart was for the nations and by 26 years old, she had preached the Gospel in 20 countries. During times of worship, I would see Joy dancing and singing her heart out for the Lord. You could see her love for Him in everything she did. Now we can take joy in knowing that she is dancing with the King of Kings, Lord of Lords.

Please lift up her family in prayer during this time. Thanks

"It's a great day to be alive! Don't blink cause the days go to quickly! So much love God has given you... so get off here and go share! :)" Joy Bausum from her Facebook on August 12th, 2010.

My New House

2010-08-11T04:00:00.004-05:00

After 4 years of living in tents of various sizes, I can finally say I live in a house that has solid walls. :) Late last month, one of our staff homes (we call chalets) opened up and while I was on expedition, it was decided that I would move in. I came back to the base to find my bed and belongings had been relocated. What a great surprise! I've never had a problem with living in a tent but it is very nice to finally have a place that feels a bit more permenant and "homey". Here's what it looks like. This is part of the inside. It's set up basically like s studio where the living room, bedroom, and kitchen are all in the same place. My roommate and I have our beds at the far end and the living room and kitchen closer to the front door.

I'll be updating the blog more often now that I'll be around the base more as I prepare to co-lead the fall advanced mission training course.

Blessings from Zambia!

The Joy of the Lord

2010-06-21T07:43:00.002-05:00

I have recently been in a funk. Not just a bad mood but one of those slimy, impatient, pessimistic moods that just suck you in. I was questioning the call of God upon my life, my role in the Overland team, and just everything about myself. During our morning worship the other day, I couldn't even get my thoughts together long enough to even worship God. It was then that I realized I was under attack. None of the thoughts and feelings I had been feeling were accurate but just an attack from the devil. My guard hadn't been raised up and since I was tired from the expedition, there was an opening for him to move in. I could almost feel like claws in my back as this thing latched on. So I started praying and I glanced up to see one of our staff members walking towards me. She put her arms around me and just started praying for a tidal wave of the Lord's presence and strength to fill me. Suddenly this burning joy erupted within me and all I could do was laugh. The heaviness and "dark cloud" was gone and God's love and joy just poured over me. It wasn't like water but like a thick oil that saturated every pore and surface from the inside out. In Nehemiah 8:10 it says that the joy of the Lord is our strength. With Him we can do all things and He is the source of our strength. Praise God!

My Visitor

2010-06-01T12:36:00.003-05:00

In africa, every day seems to be an adventure. Sometimes this can be good and sometimes bad. On saturday I was in my tent preparing to go to town and meet some friends for dinner. I was there, trying to get myself to look a bit less "bush-like" and heard this rustling outside my tent. We have lizards on the base so I had assumed that it was one of those crawling around. After walking outside my tent, I caught sight of a spitting cobra, reared and ready to attack, just a couple feet away. In the years I've lived here in Africa, I've never come face to face with a cobra that was alive. I wish I could have kept it that way. I always wondered what my reaction would be if I came face to face with one. I had hoped I'd remain cool and collected and then with amazing, Indiana Jones type skill and kill the snake. However, I seem to have this inner girl that screams and runs. :) I ran for the guys to kill the snake but when we went back, it was gone. The adventure doesn't end there though, my friends. I had this feeling it was still in the area and when I went back into my tent, I stepped on it. The cobra had crawled under the tent. I had the perfect opportunity to regain some self respect as a hardcore african missionary. However, I screamed and ran again. This time, the snake didn't move and the guys were able to kill it. However, now snake jokes seem to be coming up more often. TIA! (This is Africa!)

Note: Photo is not of the actual snake but same type of cobra

The Vision at a Glance

2010-05-26T04:09:00.004-05:00

My first expedition of the year ended a few days ago and I've been reflecting a lot on the amazing difference a short term team can make for long term ministry. My team spent a week in a rural village where we lived amongst the people, spent every day ministering and just developing relationships. Sometimes it was through village meetings, sitting at someones home, playing a game of soccer, or even just teaching new games and songs to the children. It can be easy to think that after you leave, there might not be any change. Sure some people who gave their lives to Christ can just easily go back to the way they were living before. However the work that was started was just a first step. Our teams are used as the front line of an advance for the Kingdom. We go and set up the initial relationships in the villages and preach the Gospel. After the team leaves, the sector manager then establishes discipleship and bible studies. Once strong believers are raised up in the area, our humanitarian projects then move in to address the physical needs of the people. If we had just gone to preach and then left, what good would it do? Yes, the people would hear the name of Jesus but there would be no further teaching for the new believers. Matt 28:19 says" go and make disciples of all nations..." We do not make converts but we raise up disciples that are empowered to go and preach the word in their own areas and continue the work. Praise God for such an awesome vision and responsibility He's entrusted to us!

Women On Fire

2010-04-22T04:45:00.004-05:00

This past Sunday I went with several of our women staff to a "Women on Fire" meeting in Nsongwe Village. Nsongwe is just about 4 km away from our base and we have a great relationship there with the people and churches. During the rainy season, several groups sprung up including Women On Fire, where women from every denomination gather together to worship the Lord and share about Christ. I found myself in a hot classroom as the african sun was setting immersed in the local worship. All I could do was praise God for that very moment and how amazing it was to be in His presence with such an amazing group of women. You could see the desire for the Lord in them and they grew in their revelation of who He is. So many times the women in churches are looked over as the local churches are led by the men. These women have been encouraged to stand up and serve God with everything they have and are. It's amazing to see such passion and I am encouraged by all that God is doing in this place.

Adventures in Town

2010-04-15T05:13:00.002-05:00

I've been back at the base now for about 4 days now and there's really never a dull moment here. Mainly I've been working on servicing my truck and getting it ready for the "roads" to the villages. The new tires I got in South Africa are fantastic and a complete oil change was done. I did manage to get to town (Livingstone) on Tuesday to do some errands with a few of the staff. Let's just say there's never a dull moment in town. However, Tuesday was extra challenging. While loading some mattresses into my truck, a drunk man decided to try and climb in the back seat to see what he could steal. After we got him out of the truck and locked all the doors, he proceeded to try and pick pocket myself and my friends. He did manage to get away with a handful of my business cards but while trying to steal a friends pocket knife, we chased him off. As if the day was exciting enough, a tourist almost backed into my truck while we stopped to pick up some auto parts for one of the base vehicles. Let's just say I was very happy to make it back to the base without any other incidents. :) There truly is never a dull moment on the missions field!

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2010-04-05T07:12:00.002-05:00

All my bags are packed but a few errands left to run this morning. I'm headed this afternoon to washington dc and then on to johannesburg, south africa. I'm very excited to be heading back to africa and be back in the villages sharing the love of God. Please be praying for safe travels, no lost luggage, and a smooth pick up for my new vehicle that I will be picking up in south africa and then a fellow staff member and I will drive it up to the base in zambia. I will update as soon as I can with photos and testimonies of the journey. Thank you all for your love, prayers, and support.

God's Timing Is Perfect

2010-03-08T14:41:00.003-05:00

Today I got a glimpse at why God has set my depature date for Africa in April. As some one you might know, Zambia's rainy season is usually from the end of November through the beginning of April. Now every year seems to be different and this year is not exempt. It is now mid march and the heaviest part of the rainy season seems to just have started. It's late for the season and making it impossible for our staff that are on the ground to make it from the base to town (only 20 km away) much less to the villages. I was planning on being back in Zambia next week but if I was, I'd be on the base unable to plan out the ministry for the upcoming expeditions. God's will is always good and perfect! So instead I'm in sunny Florida, continuing to support raise and work on manual and procedure updates for the department. The photo here is of the road to our base so you can get an idea of how difficult travel is during rainy season.

What Are You Willing to Give?

2010-02-20T22:06:00.002-05:00

I had a strange dream a few nights ago. I was back in Zambia but things there had changed. The country was now persecuting Christians and there was a warrant out for my arrest. I knew it but I was also supposed to be preaching in a village that day. I felt the turmoil and I tried to make my decision. The dream grew stranger as my mom showed up and had a way to smuggle me out of the country without getting caught so I wouldn't be killed. There it was. I was faced with a life or death situation. I could feel myself agonize over the decision. Did I want to die? No. Would I sacrifice God's calling? Thankfully not. I made the decision to go preach despite knowing that it would be the last time I would see friends and family. I woke up and all I could do was lay there and reflect on what had happened. If it wasn't a dream, would I have made the same decision? I pray that I would and if ever the time ever comes, then I pray that I will. It is my heart's desire to see the lost reach. I'm thankful for the dream because it gave me a look into my heart that I am indeed willing to sacrifice my own life for the love of God. Are you?

Living on Support

2010-02-03T20:36:00.002-05:00

I'm in Chicago at the moment working on finishing up support raising. That's right. I said finishing up. I'm 35% away and God is doing awesome things. In this lifelong journey called support raising, I've decided one time. I think that every believer needs to live off of support for at least 6 months of their lives. I'm not saying this to prove how "hard" living on support it because it's not hard. What it is is faith building. At first, it's scary. Not Freddy Kruger in your dreams scary but it's definately "stomach in knots", "life is out of control" scary. Once you get past the fear though, you then have people speaking unbelief in your life and you HAVE TO stand against it. Once you get past these, you then get to see God do amazing things in your life. The big thing is how much your faith grows. You suddenly start finding yourself believing for the "impossible" and seeing God do the "impossible". I've been told more then once that "it's a shame that your organization or church can't just cover all of your finances." I've disagreed then and completely disagree now. Raising up my support team has been once of the most amazing and life changing experiences of my life. I couldn't ask for a better team to come around me and above all I now know that God truly does provide for every need in our lives despite whatever outside circumstances we come up against. Just believe and trust in Him!

Don't Be Wise, Be Fools!

2010-01-11T21:55:00.003-05:00

I don't want to be wise. You may think that's a ridiculous statement but it's true. I don't want to be logical, smart, sensible, or rational. If I were these things, I'd be home in the States, not beleiving God to be fully funded during an "economic crisis," not living in a tent in Zambia driving 12 hours into the middle of nowhere to people I don't even know or are even the same culture. There's too much risk. If I was wise, I'd know that I could get hurt, sick, go bankrupt, or even worse. However, I'm not wise. I'm a fool. A big fool at that. I'm a fool for Christ and each day I want to become more and more of a fool. I am raising my full support in an "economic crisis" and I love my tent in the villages. I dream of the villages and search Google Earth to find the footpaths that will take my truck to them. Stick that in your logical pipe and smoke it! In 1 Corinthians 4:10-13 Paul talks about the foolish things the apostles do in view of the world. They don't make sense. Why, when you seemingly have nothing, would you give it away? Why, when someone is threatening to kill you for preaching, would you proclaim the Gospel from every corner of every nation? IT DOESN'T MAKE SENSE!!! Thus, it's foolishness. I want to be foolish with every breath, word, action, decision of my life. Foolish for Christ is a million times greater then wise in the world.

Life's Detours

2009-12-01T09:55:00.005-05:00

As I was falling alseep last night, I was contemplating the changes in my life. What brought this on? Well, I'm selling my bass clarinet and last night I was cleaning it to get it ready for ebay. As I was holding the instrument, I kinda got sentimental. It felt like yesterday that I was putting together the instrument to go practice my scales and music for college. In fact, it's been almost 4 years of which my bass clarinet has been in a closet. The whole thing got me to think about this journey called life that I've been on. God's plan for my life has always been for me to preach the Gospel in the remote areas of Africa. Did His plan include a bachelors degree in music education? Maybe not. perhaps it was one of those detours we take without sometimes realizing it. You know those. The ones where we make decisions without consulting God. The cool thing to know is that in the end we still get to our destination. Perhaps we took the longer route. Sometimes a detour can actually be a harder drive then the original. Maybe there ends up being more traffic, or the road itself is full of pot holes. Lots of things can happen. But you can trust that in the end, you are where God has planned, as long as you keep your eyes on Him, trusting with all your heart and walk in faith.

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T23:51:00.002-05:00

I know it's been awhile since I've updated but I wanted to take some time this evening to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving. I pray that each of you were able to celebrate with family and friends and take time to reflect on all that we have to be thankful for. I am thankful for so much, the list is endless. For God, family, friends, co-workers, and especially my amazing support team. I'm also thankful for this specific thanksgiving as my younger brother has flown down to florida to join my sister and me for the holiday. It's been a great holiday and I look forward to continue the holiday weekend with wonderful sibling time. Blessings to each of you. I'll be updating more often from now on.

Trekking Around the USA

2009-10-06T08:04:00.003-05:00

I've been back in the USA for 2 weeks now and I would love to say that I'm done with airplanes for awhile (especially after that crazy delayed flight in Atlanta) but it wouldn't be true. Currently I'm in Florida at the Overland Missions offices preparing for 15 weeks of support raising. In order to return overseas, I have to be fully funded by January 15th. It's a lot of work but God's favor is upon my life, as is yours. On Oct 8th (tomorrow), I'm heading to Chicago. I have a cousin who is getting married on Saturday and then I'll be meeting with friends and contacts to share about the ministry. Although I do have to jump back to Florida for a 2 day training seminar for support raising. From Chicago, I have no clue where I'm going or even when. No limits, no boundaries! :)

Looking forward to seeing all my Chicago family and friends!

Goodbye Africa, Hello Ireland

2009-09-14T13:13:00.003-05:00

So tonight is my last night in Zambia for the year. I cannot believe how fast this last month has gone! I'm still sad about leaving so early. Most of you know that I usually leave at the end of November/December but this year is much earlier. Why? Mainly, support raising. I am focusing and believing God to be fully funded in January. After that I'll be in the UK for 6 weeks to train volunteer to run our new remote office and then back in Zambia in March. 2010 is going to be a busy but fruitful year!

On my way home I'm going to be visiting a friend in Ireland for a few days. I've never been there before and it was free to extend my layover in the UK. I'm excited for the chance to relax, unwind, and enjoy the beauty that the Lord has created.

I'll be back in the USA as of Sept 22nd. Please feel free to give my cell phone a call, the number is still the same. Blessings!

Made it home!

2009-08-26T02:31:00.003-05:00

Sorry I didn't update this sooner but I made it back to Zambia safe and sound. I had 10 days on the island of Zanzibar and spent those days visiting friends that I hadn't seen in 3 years, helped build a chicken coop, and reassessed how our expeditions are running on the island. God is doing a mighty work there and I'm so excited to see what God is going to do through the believers.

The base is quiet at the moment. There are about 20 of us now on the base, but soon the september amt class will be arriving. Expeditions are pretty much done for the year, except for one team in Malawi in November. It's a pretty cool team as it's in partnership with Joyce Meyer Ministries, who is holding a conference in Blantyre. Unfortunately I won't be there to help run it as I am leaving africa on september 15th. That's right, 3 weeks. Am I excited? No. Why am I leaving? It's time I finally focus on my support raising and get fully funded in order to do the work I'm called to do. I know that many think that this is the worst year to support raise because of the economy. However, my God is greater then the economy! I have no choice to be back here in March and in order to be back I must be fully funded. Let's believe together that God is going to provide miraculously. :)

Look for my august update this week!

The Spice Islands of Africa

2009-08-01T04:45:00.002-05:00

Off the coast of Tanzania are the Spice Islands of Africa, associated with the Spice Islands in Indonesia. They are made up of 3 islands, Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia. They were once ruled by Arab sultans who ran the spice trade in this area. Spice trade is still a main source of income for the local people, as well as tourism. The islands are predominately Muslim, and only about 1% being Christian.

I share this with you all as I prepare to travel to Zanzibar on Monday. I was there for 3 weeks in 2006 and have been invited back to stay with the pastor and his family that Overland Missions works with. I will be traveling with Kelly, one of the AMT graduates, and our plan is currently in God's hands. We have an invitation to preach at one of the churches on the island, but other then that we'll see what God has in store.

I'll try and update while in Zanzibar and keep you all posted on what God is doing. Please pray for us as we embark on 54+ hours of travel (one way).

African Lullaby

2009-07-15T04:23:00.009-05:00

Over the weekend I had the opportunity to go to the Chobe Game Reserve in Botswana for an overnight safari with the AMT students. Who wouldn't want to go sleep with lions?! Yes, I am that crazy. :)

We spent the day driving through the park and seeing tons of elephants, giraffe, cape buffalo, zebra, kudu, and impala. No signs of lions though but we pressed on in hopes of even a glimpse of them. The evening came so we headed to our campsite, which was in the heart of the game park. When we arrived at our spot, we noticed that we'd be having some company duringthe night. In front of us were hundreds of elephants. As you looked farther down the road, you could see hundreds of cape buffalo heading towards us also. The sunset was beautiful and as we settled down for dinner around the campfire, we were surrounded by the noises of Africa. The crunch of the elephants and buffalo as they passed us by were our evening lullaby as we went to sleep.

The next morning we headed out early still in hopes of seeing lions. We were told about the area that they claimed as their territory and went there in hopes that they were around. About 30 meters away from our campsite we saw their tracks from their travels during the night. Most likely hunting the animals or getting water from the river. Unfortunately, that's all we saw of them on this trip. Maybe next time we'll have better luck. It was an awesome experience though and once I won't soon forget.

Christmas in June!

2009-06-19T14:30:00.003-05:00

Last month our USA offices shipped a 40 ft container jammed packed with all sorts of goodies. Today, it finally arrived. I arrived back to the base after picking up my western zambia team from the airport to find our main center packed full of couches, tables, chairs, bins, etc. We even got a whole new industrial kitchen shipped over! It was like Christmas had come early!

I'm heading out with my team on Sunday and will be gone until July 3rd, without internet contact. I'll be updating the blog and writing a newsletter when I return. Please keep the team in your prayers as we minister in areas that are in desperate need for the Gospel.

The Whirlwind

2009-06-16T14:53:00.002-05:00

They came in like a whirlwind and were gone before I knew it. My June VF Team has officially ended and all 21 of the team members have returned back to their homes. It was an amazing time of ministry, both within the team and in the villages. I saw such an awesome change in the lives of these young adults, as well as within every person we ministered to in Sikachapa Village. My newsletter will be going out tomorrow with photos and testimonies. I also hope to update my website with photos as I go through the thousands (literally!) of photos I received from the team members.

June Vic Falls Expedition Begins!

2009-06-03T14:13:00.002-05:00

My team has finally arrived (minus 1 who arrives tomorrow)! Right now I can hear them laughing together on the couches as they get to know one another. 20 people from the USA and UK all united for one purpose: preach the Gospel! How cool is that?! Tomorrow is orientation, seeing victoria falls, and preparing the trucks. On Friday we'll leave for 8 days in the villages. Please pray for us and for the ministry that we'll be doing. I'll update when we return. Blessings!

On The Zambezi

2009-06-03T13:55:00.006-05:00

Last week Joe, Jack, Pastor Jeff, and I went out on the zambezi to test out of zodiac raft and to teach me how to drive it. We had some problems with the engine but managed to still take the raft out for a spin. Here are some photos!

Revelations of a 3 Year Old

2009-05-24T02:39:00.004-05:00

After breakfast this morning, I was setting up the chairs for our church service when my little friend, Sunda, (a zambian girl that was adopted by a missionary couple that works with us) ran up to me and hugged my legs. "Laura, you're a princess!" I was a bit confused at first why she decided today I was a princess. Then she went on to tell me that I was wearing a princess dress (I was wearing a skirt and shirt for the sunday service) and had me spin around for her. "See, Laura. You're a beautiful princess." She ran off to where her parents were practicing for worship and I was left thinking over her words. Sunda is completely right. I am a princess. We are all princes and princesses of the Most High King. We are so beautiful in the eyes of our Father and should take joy in the love that He pours out on us. So go twirl in your dresses, sing and dance before the Lord. We are princes and princesses!!!

Wants vs. Needs

2009-05-23T07:40:00.002-05:00

There's a lot of places in the world I'd like to be right now, at this very moment. In Burbank, IL (just outside of Chicago) my little baby brother (not so little anymore and hasn't been a baby in a long time) is graduating high school. Steve and I are very close, although being gone for so long has put a bit of strain on the relationship, as one would expect. I only seen him maybe twice a year and every time I come home I feel I've missed out on a lot of stuff in his life. One year I cam home to find that he now towers over me and even had facial hair. When did the little kid that I used to put make-up on (telling him it was indian war paint) grow up? He's really one of the coolest kids I know. This year I missed out on a lot in his life, although I was home when he got his drivers license. I didn't get to see him off for prom and now I miss seeing him finish high school. Sad day!

I'd also love to be in Nyawa village right now. The pastors conference is going in full swing and I know that lives are being completely changed. I can't wait to hear the testimonies when Pastor Jeff gets back tomorrow. I was originally planning on being there but after being out in the villages for a whole week last week, I couldn't justify being away from the base for another 4 days. You see my short term teams arrive a week from monday. At the same time my team arrives, we have another team arriving to travel to Angola for ministry. There are 4 trucks that need to be prepared, supplies to be sorted and purchased, ministry to plan, and everything else in between. :::insert deep breath:::: Everything is going to get done but I need everyday to do it.

So am I where I want to be? Not exactly. Am I where I need to be? Exactly! God has us where we need to be, which isn't always where we want to be.

P.S. The testimonies from the week in the villages, as well as from the pastors conference will be in this month's newsletter. Subscribe on my website to receive it!

So It Begins...

2009-05-09T11:21:00.003-05:00

Over this past week, we've had multitudes (or so it seems) arrive on our base. We've more then doubled our numbers of people living here on the base overnight. Our May Advanced Missions class has arrived and made themselves at home here on the Rapid 14 Base in Livingstone. I'm not teaching AMT this year but am helping out with their expedition in the villages this week (leaving tomorrow actually). I spent today with my friend Rachel, her and her husband are the directors of the AMT, running around town getting food and supplies for 6 days in the bush. I cannot express how excited I am to be doing ministry in the village again. I'd rather be in the villages then anywhere else in the world. I love getting to know the people, sharing in their lives, and sharing with them on the love of God (by example and teaching). We're going to be doing some cool things in the village this week, even helping them harvest peanuts from their crops! Please be praying for us as we go out- this is the first time for majority of the students to be in third world villages. It'll be an experience that will change their lives as much as it will change the people we minister to. I'll post an update when we get back from the bush!

A Day in the Market

2009-05-04T13:43:00.003-05:00

Every monday our staff does the weekly grocery shopping. This includes a trip to Maramba market, a local "you can find everything here" market here in Livingstone. Picture crowds milling around, the smell of dried fish wfting through the air, stands filled with vegetables, food, clothes, etc. Flies hover over the dried fish and seem to follow you when you walk by. The local drunks propose marriage every 15 minutes and every taxi cab driver asks if you want a life to town (despite seeing you climb out of your vehicle). Ah, the joys of maramba market, where every day is a battle to get the local prices (they like to charge us muzungus a bit more sometimes). I know this market well, since I've been shopping here for the last 3 or 4 years. I've probably had more marriage proposals then any woman should. ;-)

Today was successful though. I fought maramba and I won! We went earlier then usual and found the market not as crowded and too early for the drunks to be out. One woman tried to charge me more for tomatoes then usual but I skillfully, and politely, talked her down. We found everything we needed and even had time to run to a few different stores before heading back to the base. I'm finally getting good at this africa thing!

Zimbabwe is Post-Poned :(

2009-04-28T06:23:00.003-05:00

Well I had posted in this month's newsletter that we were planning on holding a pastors conference in Zimbabwe. I just received an email from our contact in the area we were traveling to. He said that they need a few months to plan for the conference so May is no longer an option. :( I'm pretty bummed. Looking at my schedule, May is the only free time I have so it might be delayed until next year. I love Zimbabwe; the people there are fantastic. Every time I look across the gorge and see that beautiful country, I pray for the pastors and churches there. They are the representation of God's love in a country that has been kicked down and spit on by the government. I look forward to the opportunity to go back and minister to these leaders, but only when God opens that door.

4/28/09

My Morning Workout

2009-04-20T04:46:00.003-05:00

I love Africa. I love when reality sets in and I rediscover this beautiful contintent. One thing I hate in Africa are babboons. When my teams come in, we have a rule concerning these creatures... don't go near them. This morning I was walking from the shower to my tent, when I stopped to chat with Bev, one of our new volunteers. Suddenly a troop of babboons come up from the gorge behind my tent and start walking to the main center. Without even a second thought, I dropped my shower supplies, grabbed a rock, and took off running after these things. They took off running and went back down the gorge. It wasn't until that point that I realized what exactly I had done. Do as I say, not as I do, right? Not! I just have to shake my head and thank God they didn't feel like attacking back. Where was our mighty babboon killer dog, Scooby? In the village visiting his dog girlfriends. The lemon! ;-)

In regards to the rural pastors conference we had over the weekend- it was a huge success! My newsletter will be going out in a few days with the testimonies and photos from the conference. Subscribe on the website if you don't receive them, or send me an email! Blessings!

Anticipating the work of God

2009-04-04T11:27:00.004-05:00

So these past two weeks seemed to fly by. I'm completely readjusted to Zambian life, which isn't hard once you've been working here for the past 3 years. 3 years... wow. I still can't believe how fast it's all flown by. God is doing such amazing things each day of my life and it just keeps getting better and better. I had a great talk with Jack, my expedition intern. Jack is from the western province of Zambia and has been working with us for almost 2 years. We were driving back from town and just sharing with each other what the Lord has been speaking to us about for this year. Jack has started a youth movement within the area called Youth On Fire. He holds meetings in the villages in the area and just completely opens up the the youth about the love of the Father. Such awesome things are happening in these meetings. Jack and I are both in agreement that this year is just going to blow us all away. I don't know what exactly God is going to do but I'm sitting on the front of my seat in complete anticipation of the heavens opening up and God's love, mercy, grace, and power falling and hitting each area we minister in this year. Please keep the ministry in prayer for this year as we watch God use us in awesome ways.

Back in Zambia!

2009-03-21T12:52:00.003-05:00

Thanks for your prayers, everyone! I made it to the base safe and sound, with all of my luggage. What a great feeling! As the plane landed I was greeted by the sight of villages tucked into the green landscape of Zambia. It's so beautiful at this time of year, with the trees full of leaves, grass is tall and green, riverbeds flowing with water. I've already begun unpacking and sorting all of my belongings. I had to kill the spiders that moved in and chase away the lizard that was clinging to the inside wall of my tent. I think I'm critter free now and look forward to falling asleep to the sound of the Zambezi rapids echoing in the gorge. I'll take some photos of the property and post them for you all soon!

Greetings from the UK!

2009-03-19T10:34:00.004-05:00

Hello! I'm writing to you from Portsmouth, England where I have been for a week now. I can't believe how quickly it's gone by, but I've loved every minute of it. I was representing Overland Missions at Family Church's Empower Conference. There were over 300 people attending the conference and it was a great opportunity to share with people about missions.

Tomorrow I am flying to Africa and will arrive in Zambia on Saturday. I am very excited about going back and seeing what the Lord is going to do this year. Please keep my travels in your prayers, and that none of my luggage gets lost or stolen (a common occurrence traveling through Johannesburg).

My monthly newsletter will be going out once I get settled in Zambia. If you do not currently receive it, please sign up on the main page of my website.

Last Post from the USA

2009-03-09T08:53:00.002-05:00

So this is my last post from the USA for at least 6 months, if not more. The last two days are so hectic with running around, multiple Wal-Mart trips, meeting with as many friends as possible, calling everyone and their Mom. The best feeling in the world is the moment you step on the plane, find your seat, get your carry-ons stowed, and just sit. I just like to take a deep breath and relax into my seat. The weight of stress just seems to melt off. You can no longer worry about anything you forgot to pack, if there was anything you missed at the office. All you can do is sit back and enjoy the ride!

Well, I'm not at the moment yet. I'm still in the midst of hectic packing and finishing projects. This is probably my last day I'm spending in our offices here in Florida. Tommorrow I'll devote myself to getting packed as early as possible so I can enjoy the evening with friends. My next post will be coming from Portsmouth, England!

Google Earth: Key Tool For Missionaries

2009-02-19T10:26:00.017-05:00

As I was sitting here wondering what I should blog about, I decided I wanted to share more about the planning that goes into leading an expedition. I've been asked countless times about how Overland Missions finds rural villages. Aside from local guides, we use Google Earth. Yes, there is more to this program then just finding your house! :)

When planning for a expedition in the southern province of Zambia, I often start by locating our base. Here is a screen shot of where we're located.

From there I can look at the villages we've already been to in the different sectors we have running. If you're not sure what I mean by sectors, I can explain. "We divided sections of the world into 10,000 sq. mile sectors and made a focused strategy that uses each one of Overland Missions departments to recon, plan and execute the task at hand. Each sector is managed by a missionary couple that make a five-year commitment to the area." (taken from www.overlandmissions.com). These sector managers are in charge of running every project within our organizations, from evangelism, to discipleship, to humanitarian aid. They are aided by our expedition teams, staff, and volunteers.

Back on subject! :) Once I've determined where teams have already gone in, and projects are already actively running, I can find villages in the areas that we have yet to go to. Believe me when I say there are millions! I can actually find the dirt trails that we would take with trucks using Google Earth to map out our route to these places.

On the left is an image of an unknown village. This image is incredibly clear. This village is in the western province of Zambia. The western province is the most remote and unexplored area in Zambia. It's also set in the middle of the floodplains. During rainy season this entire area is underwater because of the Zambezi River. This village is semi-nomadic because of this. They move their homes when the river rises, and move back when the river is low. To get to this village, we would use our zodiac rafts and travel by river to them. There are not many who travel to these villages because of the fact that it is very challenging. I'll be leading a team in this area in late June, where we will be utilizing the river, as well as roads to get to these neglected areas. We partner with local pastors who desire to church plant among these people.

Not every village is this clear in Google Earth. In all actuality, most of them aren't. On the right is another image of unknown villages. These villages are in the southern province, and are unknown to us, as of this moment. We have done work in the surrounding areas and will probably visit these areas this year. All of the tan areas you see are homes of the locals. Huts can be located here, as well as plowed fields. This area is largely populated, especially compared to the nomadic village shown above. Each area presents it's own challenges and advantages. These aren't know until a recon is done before the team arrives. I usually go out on my motorcycle where I meet with the village leaders to assess if Overland Missions is needed in their area. The farther you get into the rural areas, the more neglected and isolated these villages are. God gave us this technology so that none can remain unreached. The Apostle Paul could never have dreamt of doing what we are now able to accomplish for the Kingdom.

Please pray for our teams as they begin to fill. If you're interested in joining a team this year, please sign up on www.overlandmissions.com. See you in Africa!

What Does Laura Do When In America?

2009-02-03T17:39:00.003-05:00

As you can tell, it's been awhile since I've updated. Some of you might have been wondering "What exactly is Laura up to these days?" That's a great question, and the answer is: Tons! Before I left Zambia in November, I couldn't believe how long 3 1/2 months in America sounded. Little did I know how fast it would go by. I have 5 weeks until I depart for Portsmouth, England, with arriving in Zambia 9 days later. The time is flying by and there is still so much to do. For instance, I have been in the Chicago are for the last 2 weeks working on support raising for my 2009 budget. On Feb 10th, I'll head to Philadelphia to speak at Valley Forge Christian College about missions in two of their classes. From there it's back to florida until March 11th.

I have to say, even though seeing friends and family has been great, I am looking forward to being back in Zambia. I've received reports from our staff members in Zambia that the rains have been favorable and that the corn harvests will be great this year. This is well needed after hardly any harvests last year. I know 2009 is going to be packed full of hard and fruitful work. I am looking forward to the new expedition leaders being trained, the ministry teams coming to serve God, and the new projects being launched within Overland Missions. Please keep the ministry in your prayers as the staff and I prepare for the ministry projects not only in Africa, but around the world.

What Does It Take?

2009-01-09T21:53:00.001-05:00

What does it take to bring the Gospel to the ends of the earth? It's take all that you have, all that you are, and all that you're not.

Ponder on that for awhile... I am! :)

Updated website!

2008-12-17T16:24:00.002-05:00

I've updated my website with new photos, Overland promo videos, news, projects, and more. Please check it out!

Budgeting Conclusion: I Rely on God

2008-12-17T16:11:00.003-05:00

Today I decided it would be budgeting day. My expenses have changed since coming to the states, with car insurance, and cell phone added so it seemed appropriate. I also am getting ready to start focusing on raising funds for 2009. So I sat in front of our staff budgeting worksheet going through all the categories and typing in how much I thought I would need for ministry. Then went back and deleted about half, seperating the needs from wants. For instance, I'd love to have year round health insurance or even a retirement plan... but I don't need it. Well, maybe some of you think I need it. I've been fine so far. Praise God! :) What was my final conclusion for my afternoon of budgeting? I rely on God. I know that I'll always have enough. Sure, some days may be a bit tighter then others but I'll never be without. I will ve faithful to God, keep serving HIm with my life, and be a good steward of my finances and I know He will provide for me day after day forever.

I know that with the economic crisis in america, many people have taken looks at their own budgets and the numbers don't add up. Take heart, friends. My numbers never add up but yet here I am. God provides! Need more encouragement? Go to the Word. Whenever you're frustrated, stressed, or feeling anything other then joy, always go to the Word. You wouldn't believe what great therapy God provides through His word. Psalm 37:4-5 is a great one to meditate on: "Delight yourself also in the LORD, and He shall give you the desires of your heart. commit your way to the LORD, trust also in Him, and He shall bring it to pass."

Florida: Hello Sunshine!

2008-12-10T14:43:00.002-05:00

I know it's been awhile since I've updated but the time has flow by since being home. It's been great visiting with my family & friends in Chicago and in Pittsburgh. My only complaint is the cold weather, but who can blame me when I've come from the hot African sun. I did make it to florida now and am back in Merritt Island/Cocoa Beach area working in the Overland Missions offices. Right now we're preparing for our 2008 Conference which runs from Dec 28th-31st. It's such an amazing time when past alumni, friends, family, and newcomers gather together to worship and receive from the Word through wonderful, anointed speakers. If you'd like more information, please check out our website. http://www.overlandmissions.com.

I am going to hopefully be updating this blog at least once a week over the next few months, and carrying into my return to Africa. March is coming up fast and pretty soon I'll be back in the bush of Southern Africa!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-26T22:17:00.002-05:00

Well, I've made it home safe and sound. I'm writing you form the living room of my parents house in the suburbs of Chicago. It's great being home and with family, although I miss Zambia already. I think I began missing it even before boarding the plane. :) It's comforting to know that I'll be back to my African home in the middle of March. Until then I will be working at the Overland Missions office in Florida, traveling around the USA recruiting for expeditions and AMT, and raising up my 2009 budget. I look forward to seeing all of you during this time home.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving. I hope that you all have wonderful time with friends and family. Happy Thanksgiving!

Baptisms in the Mighty Zambezi!

2008-11-11T09:27:00.007-05:00

Last Friday was an amazing day. At 6:30 am the AMT students, Dan, and I found ourselves climbing down the Batoka Gorge. This is not a climb I normally enjoy. It's steep, rocky, and hard. Your legs feel like jello by the time you reach the bottom and you still have to climb back up! However, my motivation wasn't for the exercise but for the fact that Dan and I were going to baptize two of the AMT students in the Zambezi. This was my first time doing baptisms and I felt very honored and blessed that Wezi and Liz wanted Dan and I to do it. Here are some of the photos of the event:

Here is Wezi being baptized. He is a local Zambian who was given a scholarship for the AMT course.

This is Liz. She is 23 years old, from Texas. Not only was it the day she got baptized, but it was also her birthday! I found the biggest challenges was trying to stay on the rocks as you submerged them. You can see me falling off the rock in this shot.

We laid hands on Liz to be filled with the Holy Spirit, as per her request. What an awesome step of faith!

The morning was finished with communion and then some praise and worship. It's amazing to hear the worship echo throughout the gorge.

Elections for all!

2008-11-04T13:49:00.004-05:00

Elections seem to be consuming my life lately. Zambia just had their presidential elections after the death of their president, Levy Mwanawasa. Things went relatively smoothly, with only one riot in Livingstone. The results were announced yesterday with Rupiah Banda, the vice-president, elected as the new president. Today everyone's attention seems focused on america, even zambians are interested to see the results of the election. Most of them are in favor of Obama but just based on his race. I can only imagine what america must be like at the moment but from the look of everyone's facebook status' many are voting. All I can say is that the Lord is in control and whatever happens, happens. We will deal with what comes and need to continue in prayer for the leaders of every country. God bless the world!

Hello, Cobra!

2008-10-21T03:08:00.003-05:00

Well I know it's been awhile. Yes, I am alive! Many things have been happening of which I will recap in various blogs throughout the week. However, today's blog is more of a message.

So yesterday we returned from 5 days in the bush doing ministry. Being overly exhausted, I settled in my tent to watch Matrix 3. As the hours passed, my weary body could not fall asleep. Deciding to take a midnight shower, I walked to our bathroom block (without my glasses on or contacts in) and found myself in the presence of a Mozambique Spiting Cobra. However, I didn't know until it was too late. No worries, he only decided to spit on my arm and then I ran away before anything else could happen. I woke up one of the guys and we searched but to no avail. The bugger is still lurking in the bush.

I lay in bed, wide awake and began thinking about this snake. The first question that came to mind was "why me?" I hate snakes. Not so much the snake but the snake bite. Didn't think about snake bites much until I was trained in medical courses... thank you, education! However I began to think, in my overtired state, about how this experience relates to life in general. Let's take a look.

How many times do we find ourselves walking along in life, thinking everything is going great when a snake suddenly rears it's ugly head? If you're not careful, you can be completely caught off guard. If you're not prepared, you won't even see the snake before it's too late. This "snake" can come in many forms in our lives, and like all snakes, it will try to through us off our paths. We need to be conscious of the snakes in our lives and come in authority over them. How? By meditating and focusing on the Word of God. The light of the Lord reveals all snakes in our lives and once they are revealed, they can be eliminated. What snakes are in your life? It's time to take authority over them and slice off their head with a machete.... well, that's how we do it in Africa! :)

(Note: The photo of the cobra is not the one that spit on me)

New Photos Posted!

2008-09-29T09:35:00.001-05:00

I've just posted new photos from the last month or so. You can find them in the media section of my website. Enjoy! :)

Lions, Cheetahs, and Crocs... Oh My!

2008-09-29T03:18:00.007-05:00

Over the weekend, Dan (my co-leader) and I took the AMT students on a field trip for the day. Africa definitely has some cool ideas for field trips. We wanted the students to understand more about the wildlife and safety measures to look out for here in the bush. The way to accomplish this... throw them into the lions den. Well in this case, Cheetah and Croc den. However, we did see lions, which was amazing.

Our first stop of the Lion park in Mukuni that has just opened. Our guide took us to the lions, where we got a close up view, but seperated by a chain link fence. We also got to view their newest additions to the park, the Caracal cats. The coolest part was when the team was allowed into the Cheetah cage. There's something intimidating when you step into the home of a potientally vicious animal. However, when they start lick you and purring, it's amazing that they are justa large cat... only with paws, nails, and teeth that can tear you to shreds! Cool and scary at the same time.

We traveled from the lion park and entered the world of crocodiles. We were able to see a feeding, as well as learn about how crocs attack, warning signs, etc. The croc farm also has a cool indigenous snake exhibit where we were able to view many snakes (mostly venomous) that are from the area. Many we have living on our base, some I've even had close encounters with.

It was a great day and the students were able to put their knowledge to use that evening with an encounter with a spitting cobra found outside of our toliets here in the base. Gotta love Africa!

Swimming on the Edge

2008-09-10T13:44:00.013-05:00

I have these reality check moments where I have to remind myself that "Yes, you live in africa. Yes, you do ministry in rural villages. Yes, you are literally swimming on the edge of the 7th natural wonder of the world." You read this right, friends. Last week Dan (director of AMT) and I took our new amt students to the Victoria Falls. I go almost every month so it's lost some of it's excitement (but not beauty). However, this time of year it the coolest time to go because you can literally walk across the top of the falls. The water drops so low that there are just trickles going over the edge of the gorge. The coolest part is that you can find these pools with waterfalls, which are directly on the edge of the gorge. They make some of the best swimming pools in the world! Here are some photos of our adventure. If you don't know what AMT is, please feel free to read about it here: http://www.overlandmissions.com/AMT/.

Sitting on the edge of the falls

Our team on the edge of the falls

Looking down from the top of the falls.

Swimming at the top of the falls, right on the edge.

AMT has begun!

2008-09-01T13:31:00.004-05:00

The students have arrived and orientation is underway. It's always awesome when new people arrive on the base. You can see the potential in them because of their hearts. There's the usual insecurity and nervousness about being so far from home, but you know that as soon as they get past it they will leave here a completely different person. I love seeing the change in people from when they first arrive to when they leave. Not only seeing the change, but being a part of them. My prayer for these next 3 months is that the Lord will impart to me His words and knowledge that I may share them with these young people who are stepping out in faith to serve God. Please pray for these students and I will continue to update you all.

Note: AMT is our Advanced Missions Training course held for 3 months here on the base in Zambia. I will be one of the instructors for this course in September until the end of November.

New Photos Posted

2008-08-24T12:51:00.002-05:00

Hi all,

I've just updated the photo section on my website. My next newsletter will be going out soon. If you currently don't receive them, please sign up on the home page of my website.

http://www.laurainmissions.com

Blessings,
Laura

My friend, Todd Mitchell

2008-08-22T03:11:00.003-05:00

I think one of the hardest sacrifices as a missionary is being so far apart from friends and family, especially during hard times. It's times like these that remind you just how far from home you truly are.

On Tuesday, a friend of mine passed away. Todd has always been on my list of the cool people I've met. It's not just because he's one of the best drummers I've ever met, but also because of his character. I haven't seen Todd and his family since I left for the missions field, but would sometimes randomly get an email from him checking to make sure I'm still doing okay. You see I first met Todd, his wife Paula, and their boys when I was in college. I had just started playing clarinet on the worship team, and Todd was one of the drummers. It was awesome getting to know him and the team, especially since it was my first time ever being a part of a church , much less on the worship team. Todd and Jason used to tease me a lot about hiding behind my music stand. When our new worship pastor, Mike, came to our church, my role as instrumental turned to vocal. I battled with confidence to sing and there was Todd, encouraging me every step of the way. I still hear his encouraging words everytime I lead worship with our teams here in Africa. They continue to encourage me daily.

Then came the day I told him and Paula that I was going to move to africa and be a full time ministry. I was nervous telling my friends because I was getting mixed reactions from different people in my life. Todd and Paula were so excited about the change God was making in my life. Their friendship means so much to me. Even though Todd is no longer on earth with us, he is where we all long to be... in the physical presence of our Lord. I have to agree with my friends that I bet Jesus is getting some sweet drum set lessons. ;-)

Some Food for Thought...

2008-08-12T14:16:00.002-05:00

So my co-leader, Stephen, and I were having a discussion awhile back. Here in Africa, you'll find many beliefs. Many of the people in the rural villages turn to witch doctors for any ind of ailment. When you ask them about what they believe, they will say that they are Christians, but instead of turning first to God for healing, they turn to the witch doctor. It's easy for us to tell them not to turn to their traditional beliefs, but let's look at it from a different perspective. How is it any different then when we first turn to medicines instead of God? How many times do we get headaches and automatically take some pain reliever for it? I can't count the number of times I have. More of us do it then we'd like to admit. It's not very different then those who turn to witch doctors. Yes, the traditional medical practices can actually be more harmful then the ailment, but let's continue to focus on our faith. God is more then capable of healing us, my friends! He's a better healer then any type of medicine or doctor. So this challenge is for you and for me, next time you're feeling any pain or illness, turn first to God. Jesus promises in John 14 that anything we ask in His name, He will do it. When have you ever known God to break a promise? I haven't.

6 days of wow!

2008-07-12T11:40:00.002-05:00

What do you get when you have 6 days of ministry in rural villages? Amazing ministry! God is awesome!! :) All I can really do is sit here, grin, and try to take it all in. We met men and women who are hungry for the word of God, 10 people gave their lives to Christ, demons were cast out, one boy's blind eye was healed, many were healed from back, leg, and head pains... so much as happened that I cannot even type about it all.
I want to encourage you as you read about the miracles that God is doing here in Africa. You have the same opportunities to witness those in your life also, without having to travel thousands of miles to do so. What is preventing you from laying hands on the sick? God promises that if we lay our hands on the sick, they will be healed! Do not doubt, trust in God and take that step of faith. God will honor it, I promise! :)

My New Neighbors

2008-07-01T11:17:00.003-05:00

So the kingdom that I live in is called the Mukuni Kingdom. The chief is a great friend of Overland, and even gave us the land that we've built our base on. So Chief Mukuni has a lodge near his village, not too far from us. When I was driving down the road with my team, we saw the latest additions to his lodge. He has brought in two lions, which take daily walks down the road. No, this isn't a joke. They are training the lions to be used to people and cars so that tourists can come and walk with the lions. I don't know about you, but I think I'll stay in the car! ;-)

Meet you at the cross...

2008-06-28T10:43:00.002-05:00

I was so prepared to write to you all about the awesome minstry we've been doing here in Africa, but as I started listening to my ipod, a song came on and suddenly tears came rolling down my face. I just want to share this moment with all of you.

"Oh Lord You’ve searched me
You know my way
Even when I fail You
I know You love me

Your holy presence
Surrounding me
In every season
I know You love me
I know You love me

At the cross I bow my knee
Where Your blood was shed for me
There’s no greater love than this
You have overcome the grave
Your glory fills the highest place
What can separate me now

You go before me
You shield my way
Your hand upholds me
I know You love me

You tore the veil
You made a way
When You said that it is done

And when the earth fades
Falls from my eyes
And You stand before me
I know You love me
I know You love me"
~Hillsong

When was the last time you bowed your knee at the cross? When was the last time you searched God? His word? Realized how much He loves you? Been aware of His presence? Jesus gave it all for you! He left His place with the Father so that you can be restored as a new creation! Jesus is equal with God, humbled Himself, became man, and a servant of all. Try to grasp that one! How amazing is that?! I urge you with all that I have to bow your knee at the cross, spend time in His presence. Feel His love... know His love. I guarantee that you will never be the same.

New Photos Posted!

2008-06-03T11:30:00.002-05:00

I've updated the photo section of my website with some photos from this year. I'll be updating every so often with more photos so you all can see what we're up to here in Zambia. Please check it out: www.laurainmissions.com.

Google Earth is from God! :)

2008-05-25T12:00:00.004-05:00

This post is a bit overdue, but God has kept me busy doing amazing things. I feel this renewal in my spirit as I focus my sights on the rural villages in southern zambia. I have two teams that I am planning ministry for. One is my all womens team in June, and then my three week team in July. They're practically back to back, which means all my prep is to be done now. I am so excited that it consumes my every thought. My co-leader in training and I spent last evening searching for village on Google Earth. If the Apostle Paul saw the technology we have today to reach the unreached people of the world, he would weep with joy! I can find the very homes in the villages on Google Earth, get GPS coordinates for them, and find my way to their very door. How amazing in our God to provide these tools for us to use? It's awesome! It takes the limits off.

Quick Update

2008-05-14T14:00:00.002-05:00

Hi all,
I'm sure you're wondering what has been keeping me away from blogging for almost a month. Tons! I traveled to Malawi for a friend's wedding and then flew to Joberg to buy a motorcycle to help with transportation for doing ministry. I'm finally back in Zambia, and have spent the whole day working on my bike (changing tires, adjusting suspension, etc). I will post photos of the wedding and of the bike as soon as I can. :)
Blessings,
Laura

Take the Plunge

2008-04-22T14:21:00.004-05:00

I took the plunge. Literally. I bungee jumped off the Victoria Falls bridge and fell for 111 meters. Well I was pushed more then jumped but the experience calls for some reflection. How many times in our lives does God require us to take the plunge? How many times in one day? Sometimes we do it voluntarily, but sometimes we need that extra push. We don’t always know what will happen, and often it feels like there’s no rope tied around our legs to hold us. However, we know that as long as we follow God, He will guide and protect us in all situations. Hebrews 13:5 promises that Jesus will neither leave us nor forsake us. That is your bungee cord- take the plunge!

The Cold Cometh

2008-04-21T14:48:00.003-05:00

I'm sitting here in our office on the base wrapped in my cool "Silly Boys, Trucks Are For Girls" sweatshirt (Thanks, Bethany!). It's getting cold at night here in Zambia, but nothing a nice hot cup of tea can't solve. That and fuzzy socks. :)
You may have been wondering where I've been lately, since I haven't updated. My team from the UK has come and gone, and I miss them like crazy. What an awesome group! They were totally focused on God and ready for whatever came at them. We went to the villages in the southern province of Zambia. We saw two boys healed from scoliosis (their spines straightened before our eyes!! Praise God!!!!), people accept Christ, believers encouraged by the Word, and even more people healed. God was moving in these places and in each place seeds were planted. The foundation has been laid for further work in new villages, and relationships established with village leaders who are already asking when we are returning. God is faithful and I know that as we continue to work in these areas, we will see many wonderful things unfold. :)
The team is back home now and my co-leader and I are just wrapping up final details. On Wednesday I will be traveling to Malawi for a friend's wedding, and then on to Johannesburg. In South Africa, I will be looking to purchase a motorcycle. The money was given to me by my aunt who passed away in January. Before she died, she told my mom that she wanted to help me buy a vehicle for Africa. Please pray that we find success in this shopping adventure for motorcycles, and favor with the officials when importing them into Zambia. I apologize in advance for the slow blogging, but I do not know when I will be able to be online once I start traveling. I will be checking email, so please feel free to email me. I love you all!

5 days and counting...

2008-04-02T06:23:00.002-05:00

My first team arrives in 5 days. I am very excited! Yesterday my co-leader, Patrick, and I went with two of our local pastor friends to set up ministry. We normally call this recon, as it usually includes traveling to new areas. This trip included exactly that. We went back to visit areas we had sent teams last year, and made a plan to bring the team there to follow up on ministry with the new church that has been planted, and the new believers. We then traveled for about an hour to a new area, called Libala. We met with the headmaster of the primary school and discussed our ministry plan, finding out about the surrounding areas. He is meeting with all of the headmen, who are the village leaders, on Friday and will be notifying them of our program and the arrival of the team. It's always exciting to come out of a new area knowing that you'll soon be back with two trucks and a team ready to preach the Gospel. I cannot wait to go back. I'll remember to take some photos during the expedition and post them here for all of you to enjoy. Please pray for the safe arrival of the team, open doors for ministry, and safe travel.

The Calm Before the Storm

2008-03-24T08:41:00.003-05:00

It's the end of March, and I've only been in Zambia for 8 days, yet it seems like I never left. The only reminder is the new clothes I brought with me that are yet to be stained with diesel and truck grease. :) Our first team is due to arrive on April 6th, so my co-leader, Patrick, and I are busy preparing for their arrival. This means repairing the trucks, shopping for supplies, sorting all of our gear that was stored away while we were gone, etc. It's a bit hectic but I love this life.
Everything is going great on the base. The grass and trees are still green, but rains have finally stopped, or at least taken a break for a time. The second floor loft in our main center is nearly complete, just need to finish the stairs. It looks amazing and will be a great place to read, watch movies, and relax. The team that was in working on it did a great job!

My monthly newsletter should be going out this week. If you have yet to subscribe to it, please do so on my website: www.laurainmissions.com. God bless!

Chillin in Lusaka

2008-03-18T08:25:00.002-05:00

After many days and hours of driving, sleeping in elephant territory, driving potholed roads, and suffering from a sinus cold, Patrick and I have arrived in Zambia, our home away from home. Actually, lately to me Zambia has felt more like home then anywhere else in the world (Sorry, Mom!). We stopped at the base long enolugh to drop our bags in our tents, shower, and grab a bite to eat. We hit the road going to Lusaka and drove another 7 hours before making camp in a campground just south of the city. As you can tell, sleep is limited! I love being back and am ready to start prepping for the expeditions. We should be returning to Livingstone on Thursday, with a working internet modem. From there I will post photos and update more often. Thanks for all of your prayers and support!

Vanilla lattes in South Africa

2008-03-13T05:19:00.002-05:00

Hello!
I've made it!!! :) The flight was long but I am now sitting in East London, sipping on my final vanilla latte as I head out to meet with some friends before returning to the bush of Zambia. I don't have much time here on the internet, but wanted to thank all of you for your prayers and support! I'll update again soon. Blessings!

My nomadic life continues...

2008-02-29T13:58:00.005-05:00

I've just returned from two weeks in the Windy City. It was a great time being home with family, friends, and working on support raising. Unfortunately there's never enough time to do everything and see everyone, but I did have a blast with those I did visit with.
Now that I am back home in florida, I have about a week and a half left until I leave for Africa... let the countdown begin! :) Once the weekend is over, my life will be a crazy time of shopping, packing, finishing office projects, planning for africa missions, spending time with friends, and much more. I'm tired just thinking about it!
While I was home, I spent some time with friends that I used to see every single day. Two of them I lived with for four years during college, they are two of my best friends and we've been through a lot together. We met for lunch while I was home and gave each other a recap on what our lives have been like. As I was driving home, it kinda hit me what I truly miss when I am away from home. I miss being an active part in the lives of my family and friends. Instead of hearing recaps of lives, I was a part of their life. It's weird now to not be involved as much. However, it's a sacrifice that comes along with my job. I would not give up my life for anything though. I absolutely love what I do and could not imagine doing anything else. It's okay to miss family and friends, but email and Skype calls help to keep in touch. :) God bless the inventor of Skype!!

New skill added to the list!

2008-02-10T20:09:00.000-05:00

Well my weekend has been packed full of fun! I am officially now a licensed motorcyclist. :) I just completed my motorcycle basic rider course and passed with flying colors. Praise God! I absolutely love riding motorcycles. It's a lot of fun and there's so much you can do. I would love, at some point in my life, to ride across both American and Africa on a bike. Heck, maybe even Asia while I'm at it. ;-) I'm excited to say that I will hopefully be purchasing a bike when I arrive in Africa next month. Next month?! I cannot believe how fast time is going. I am leaving for africa on March 11th and will be gone for almost 9 months. This year is going to be amazing! Please keep praying for me as I continue preparing and raising the needed support for ministry. God is awesome!

Life!

2008-02-04T18:35:00.000-05:00

Life! Something I have been thinking about a lot lately. It's something so precious that people fight for it, yearn for it, and even die so that others may have it. Many work hard to gain the life they dream of. It's also true that the life that many dream of is not the life that they yearn for. The yearning deep within that they try to fill, but only God can fill. Jesus says in John 10:10 that "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly." In Christ there is life. True, pure life. Nothing can every compare to it. It is a precious, priceless jewel that pales to nothing. It is something that is beyond words.

The reason why I have been thinking about life of late is that my aunt passed away last Monday. I was close to her while I was growing up and will always wished I called more and made more time to spend with her. She didn't come to the Lord until the end. However, even if it was just a short time here on earth, she is experiencing true life. Our life in Christ is eternal. Eternal life doesn't start at death, friends, but the moment that we are reborn in Christ! How many do you know that don't yet know what a life in Christ is? What is holding you back from telling them? The worst thing that will happen is they say they're not interested. Share life with everyone you know and meet.

God Bless!

A Long Overdue Update

2008-01-13T00:07:00.000-05:00

Hey all!

Sorry for the delay in updating. I should be back on schedule now. Life has been crazy and I have so much to share. The conference was amazing as usual, as well as our staff retreat. We just returned from our cruise to the Bahamas which served as our staff retreat. Sometimes I feel like I need a vacation from the vacation! However I came back completely focused on the year ahead and ready to get working.

This is the plans thus far for 2008: My coleader Patrick and I are leaving for Africa around March 11th (about a month earlier then I had planned but very cool). We will be picking up one of our new trucks in Johannesburg and driving it to the base in Zambia. Once we reach "home" we will jump into one of the smaller vehicles and recon for the upcoming expeditions. Our first team arrives the first week of April and is looking to be around 40 people. What an awesome way to start out the year! Patrick and I are also in charge of all of the Africa expeditions, which includes training new leaders, assigning leaders, making sure all tasks are completed, etc. In September, I will be helping to colead our Advanced Mission Training school which is held on our base in Zambia. My eta for returning to the states is in December. It's a ton of work but my excitement cannot be contained, much like how our God cannot be contained. I know that we are going to see God move is awesome ways... no words will ever be able to describe it.

Until I leave I will be focusing on prepping for the teams, and mainly my personal support raising. I need to have a $500/month increase in my support in order to do the ministry needed this year. If the Lord is placing it on your heart to join my team, and/or to share this ministry with others, please go to www.laurainmissions.com and also, tell a friend! :)

Having a support team to me is much more then having the finances available to continue working in the nations. It's working with a team of people to accomplish the work that the Lord has called each and everyone of us to do: "go therefore into all the nations..." That call of the Great Commission is for all of us no matter what role you may play in it. Each of us have a different role but it's all for the same purpose!

Okay enough preaching for tonight, I'll save it for tomorrow when I share at Westside Baptist Church in Titusville, FL. Have a great weekend everyone, and I promise to update more often. BTW- if you're wondering about the lack of updating for my website, I'm still working on getting the right software to work on my new mac but it should be updated sometime this week. Please keep checking for updates here and on the webpage! God Bless

Happy New Year!

2008-01-02T10:18:00.000-05:00

Hello all! Sorry about the lack of updates but as soon as I landed here in Florida, I've hit the ground running. We have finished our december missions conference which went great. I'm hoping to eventually get some photos up on my website from it as soon as my new macbook arrives in the mail. Not having a laptop has made me realize how dependent I am on it. All of my work is done on it, but it arrives in one day which is great! :)
I hope that you all had a great New Years. We celebrated at my boss's condo on the beach. It was a great evening of food, relaxation, and fellowship.
For the next couple months, I will be setting up speaking engagements and working on support raising. If anyone has an open door for me to share about the work God is doing in the nations, please contact me and we can set that up!
Have a blessed day!

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T21:39:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas, everyone! I hope that you are all having a wonderful time and are given the opportunity to share the true meaning of Christmas with at least one person this year. The birth of Christ is truly a life changing miracle that was predestined from the beginning of time. God came down to earth and became flesh. Amazing! He knows what it is like to be one of us. He knows our temptations, trials, hardships, joy, love, hope, etc. He knows it because He's experienced it firsthand. How amazing is His love for us that He would do something so great as come to earth not only to live as us but also to die for us so that we might live?
My days here in Chicago are coming to an end until Feburary, when I'll return to work on support raising. That will be one of my main focuses while in the states for the next few months. I've enjoyed the time with my family, despite the continuing battle with jet lag. Also, please pray for my dog, Zeke. He ran off this morning and we still have yet to find him. He has a collar on with our phone number, but we're worried that someone may have decided to keep him or that no one stopped him to check the collar. Hopefully he will make his way home by tomorrow.
Have a great Christmas and New Years. I will update again soon. Oh and if you're wondering, my december newsletter will be combined with my janurary one since my laptop is out of comission. Good news is that my insurance in pulling through and will cover a replacement, which I just ordered. I've finally joined the cool club and bought a mac! ;-)

Welcome to the USA!

2007-12-20T06:38:00.000-05:00

I made it home, praise the Lord! Yes, I cried a bit as we landed into Washington DC, but that's a usual occurance for me. Leaving Africa is always hard, but I always know I'll be back soon. This year, I'll be back in March or April to lead expedition teams and to train new expedition leaders. We have plenty of trucks now so we can take many teams each month into the rural villages of Africa. If you want to come on an expedition, sign up on www.overlandmissions.com (we also send team to the amazon, mexico, dominican republic, and southeast asia).
So I've traded heat and mud for cold and snow. What a change! It was strange to sleep without the sounds of the zambezi running through the gorge, crickets and frogs, and our dogs barking as some animal in the middle of the night. I slept well though due to jet lag. It'll take me a couple more days to recover but it'll be fine. It's a good time to relax and take it easy.
My cell phone is working so please feel free to give me a call if you know the number. If not, email me. I'll have email access while home. Have a great Christmas everyone!

Crazy times!

2007-12-17T02:41:00.000-05:00

I know I haven'
t blogged or updated the webpage in awhile. There are two reasons. 1) Lightening destroyed our internet modem. 2) my laptop is completely dead. I mean,"it's time to upgrade to Mac" dead. The stupid thing won't even turn on anymore. The keyboard just blinks lights at me as if taunting me. ;-) It's cool though. I'm believing the Lord for a mac as soon as I get home. I'm leaving for the states tomorrow and will be in chicago on wednesday! Please feel free to email me at laura@overlandmissions.com. I will have email access while home. If you have my cell number, also feel free to call. I'd love to hear from you all! :) Please pray for safe travels and sanity for these long flights.
God Bless!

So get this...

2007-12-08T15:20:00.000-05:00

Okay so on Monday or so, my laptop decided to break down. The ethernet port no longer works which means no internet until I get home and it gets fixed. My internet time is now limited to borrowing other people's laptops here on base to check emails and quickly do whatever work is needed. At least I only have 10 days until I leave for america and then I can get it fixed.
I cannot believe in 10 days I will on an airplane to washington dc and then connecting to my flight to chicago. I am already getting sad about leaving but I know that the 4 months will fly by fast. It's not 100% positive that I'll be back in april, nothing is ever positive until you are on the plane and landing. I have to raise up the remainder of my monthly support needs before I can return. Once that is done, I will be much more flexible to open myself up for many more ministry opportunities. Praise God! I know He will provide as always. :)

A Day in the Life...

2007-11-29T15:26:00.000-05:00

Of a Rapid 14 Base Staff Member!

I thought I'd share with you all about what an average day as a base staff member here on Rapid 14 is like. My role with Overland interchanges with being base staff, expedition leader, and personal assistant. I'll post examples of my days for the other roles sometime in the future.

7:30 am- Wake up and hit snooze on my alarm at least twice... a bad habit from college.

7:45 am- shower

8:00 am- breakfast which typically consists of bread, tea/coffee, and the occasional oatmeal/porridge or cereal (sometimes we treat ourselves to eggs, pancakes, or french toast but on rare occasions)

8:00 am- Personal morning devotions, staff planning for the day

9:30 am- typical start of work day
The work days can find me in town doing supply runs, working on trucks in the warehouse, or doing administration in the office

12:30 pm- Lunch. The meal is usually nshima (local corn meal which resembles mashed potatoes but doesn't taste anything like... well anything) and a relish (beans, cabbage, eggplant, or kapenta (tiny dried and fried fish- not my favorite!).

1:30 pm- resume work projects
Usually by now your plan for the day has been tossed out of the window by either something breaking down, new and urgent projects coming up, rain, and/or town battles

4:30 pm- Work day ends for the local workers on the base

5:30 pm- Start preparing dinner

7:00 pm- Generator goes on and everyone logs onto the Internet and Skype

7:30 pm- Dinner

10:30 pm- Generator goes off. Everyone goes to their tents to read and/or sleep

So that's a typical work day on the base. Not as thrilling sounding but it's actually fun in a strange sort of way. I have one to thing to say and that there's never a lack of work to do around here. For example, here are few of the projects I am currently working on:
~ Pulling and fixing the clutch line on my overland truck
~ replacing the oil pan on my overland truck
~ oil changes on all the vehicles
~ end of the year accounting
~ Cleaning and organizing the warehouse
~ cooking dinner every Friday
~ coming up with decorating ideas for Christmas for the main center- very fun! :)

Hope that gives an idea of what my days have been like since expeditions ended in September! God bless!