Our First Day…

Started hot. Even in Madison at 7am as we gathered everyone together, it was already very warm. But we were ready, and the energy of those gathering was good. Plus, as Sarah reminded me, acclimating was necessary because it would only get warmer.

We met our new bus driver, Jermaine, and were put at ease. I’ve been at Good Shepherd for four years and in that time, I’ve come to see how great it can be to have a bus driver who knows our ways and style of travel. Paul, the man who transported youth and adults out to South Dakota for the last 12 years or so as well as every little retreat, was amazing. He was known to use his “off time” to do what we were doing at Pine Ridge, to be incredibly servant-hearted, and to even sing along with us from time to time on the bus. But he couldn’t drive for us for this trip, so instead we got Jermaine -a light-hearted and friendly man who even joined us down at the pool tonight to visit about home, family, and how they don’t fold the ends of burritos inward down here.  

The trip down was smooth and fast, filled with little naps during a rainstorm, laughter over who knows what, and plenty of new connections. As we journeyed, we watched the landscape for signs of change, but admittedly so far, the only major difference in our surroundings has been how much hotter “hot” can feel down here in the mid-south. 

Pool time, showers, and air conditioning was much appreciated. Our kids even befriended other hotel youth to play a ball game I know as “Tip.” 

And after collecting phones for the night and doing devotions, we’re settling in. My room is quiet, though I can hear giggling in the room next door. Tomorrow will be a full day of being launched into Louisville culture, so I pray we all rest well and wake tomorrow with a lightness and openness to what comes. 

Thank you for your prayers as we travel – they are truly felt.