Thanks to my wonderful family and my amazing church, I have currently raised a little over $6,000 for my trip.  That is 2/3 of my support goal of $9,000. I am well on my way and excited for that fact, but I still need a bit more and would really love to be fully supported before I leave.

 

When I knew that God called me to go on this trip and dedicate this year to Him, my first thought was God, I don't have any money.  I realize that in comparison to so many other details this is a pathetic concern, but it was what popped into my head right away.  My next thought was its ok God can make me a money tree. If you know me fairly well, then you probably know that my logic is slightly skewed.  Anyways, as soon as it came into my brain, I knew that it was a ridiculous idea.  Why would God need to create a money tree for me when I already belong to the richest family in the world? His.  And so after this epiphany, I no longer worried about my finances because I know that all of the money will come in somehow through willing people and places that God chooses to use.

 

the end

 

This week dad and I sat through some classes, saw a movie, got lost in the Smokey's, ran into a big black bear, and ate really well.  It was a good time for me to relax, but we have also done a whole lot of walking.  All of the people at the Police Chaplain Conference are friendly and inviting, good Christian men and woman who love to talk..... all the time (much like dad).  I'm not sure if I would consider it an endearing quality, but with practice it can be tolerated and even enjoyed at times.  Our last day in Knoxville is tomorrow and then we will be heading back home.