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Welcome to my blog, “Living Water: Saturated by the Spirit in South Africa!” A mentor told me that the most important thing one can do when immersed in a culture other than one’s own is to soak it in like a sponge. Cultures are expressions of God who dwells in the human heart. Cultures are fountains of living water that reflect the very nature of God. Jesus said, "I will give you living water" (John 4:10). This blog seeks to share my stories of being immersed in South Africa's living water and being saturated by the Spirit therein.

Sunday, August 22, 2010

Final Preparations

This is my last weekend in the states before my departure to South Africa this coming Wednesday! Since my last post I have been working diligently to obtain my visa (which I have now in hand), complete my immunizations (my arm is still bruised), and raise funds (you all have been extremely supportive and generous). I have yet to obtain my international driver’s license but will do so tomorrow. Packing is the next big challenge that awaits me. How do I discern what to take with me for an entire year? I asked some of my international friends this very question. Their advice was unanimous, in addition to packing necessary clothes; they recommended that I bring items of comfort. One friend suggested bringing a bag of Hersey Kisses another recommended my favorite stuffed animal. I think I will follow their advice on both accounts!

In addition to readying myself for my trip and contemplating packing, I have been able to spend quality time with family and friends. At the beginning of August I made a trip to Oklahoma to attend one of my best friend’s ordinations to the priesthood. Below is a picture of my seminary's contingent for the event.



It was wonderful to be present for such a landmark event. Directly after that I made my way to Florida to visit my aunt and Nana. One of the highlights of this trip was an adventurous day spent at the new Wizarding World of Harry Potter theme park at Universal Studios in Orlando. Below is a picture of me infront of the Hogwarts Express.



The park is every Harry Potter fan’s dream, aside from the 105 degree weather and hundreds of people that is! Braving the heat and the crowds is worth it though! Upon my return from Florida I have been able to spend quality time with my close friends and parents.

I leave for Cape Town on Wednesday! I am feeling excited, nervous, adventurous, stressed, sad, and joyful all at the same time. I arrive in Cape Town late on Thursday night and will be greeted by my hosts and fellow co-workers and already have plans to attend a braii (South African BBQ) on Saturday night! Continue to hold me in your prayers as I continue to hold you in mine. Looking forward to posting soon from Cape Town!
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4 comments:

  1. Sean SlackAugust 23, 2010 at 3:22 AM

    Amanda, even your "down" time sounds adventuresome!!

    It has been a privilege and honor getting to know you in seminary these past three years. I am praying that God will keep you safe on your journeys. No doubt, you will touch many lives along the way.

    "Excited, nervous, adventurous, stressed, sad, and joyful all at the same time." Before we know it, your time in South Africa will be over, and you'll be returning to the States. It will be interesting to compare your list of feelings in a year!

    God's speed, amiga!

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  2. ChristenAugust 23, 2010 at 2:06 PM

    Have a safe flight Amanda! Can't wait see your pictures and hear your stories. My prayers are with you!

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  3. Sarah SSMAugust 30, 2010 at 4:14 AM

    Blessings on your new adventure! May you always be aware of God's presence around and within you as you go.

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  4. UnknownAugust 31, 2010 at 1:01 PM

    1) I love that you wrote about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter in your blog (I really want to go there someday).

    2) I had the exact same mix in my emotional blender in our final days stateside.

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