T minus 7 days

Wasn't I just telling people I'm leaving in two weeks? Now it's one!! If the 6 months of DTS moves as fast as these past few weeks, I'll be home in no time! I'm glad I gave myself two weeks of not working before I left; there is a lot to do, ends to tie up, people to see and things to pack before one leaves the country.

Praise Reports:
The fundraiser dinner, on Sept. 9th, was perfect! It met and exceeded my expectations. I had RSVP's for 45, 35 showed up, and I had cooked for 55!! That ended up being ok because my guests were happy to buy a little take home box or two to help the cause! My expected support goal to raise after the cost of food was $700. At the end of the night after ticket costs, silent auction prizes, doggie bags, mailed-in and additional donations was $1500!!! Double the amount! Thank you all so much! My friends who helped me plan, cook, set-up, run errands and clean-up...you made such a difference and I really could not have done this with out you, nor would I have wanted to. I enjoyed the excuse to spend extra time with you. Thank you for your time, energy and commitment to see the event through.

Support status:
Goal: $9000 ($5000 before I leave and the rest by Christmas)
Current amount: $7800
You'll find a big smile on my face as I share this with you!! Thank you all so much!! This is really happening!

Prayer Requests:
Please pray for my Discipleship Training School and the members who are coming to be a part of the program. That we would all be safe in travel, visas would be granted, money would be provided, friendships among us would grow quickly, that God's will would be done and that we would be effective to make a difference in the lives of many. I know currently there are 16 people in my program, from 9 different countries. A few other students arrive on the same day as me, Sept. 28.

Please pray that I get everything done and that it goes smoothly. This weeks goals are to get my car oil changed, put the rest of my stuff into storage, write thank you letters, haircut, pack, spend time with family and friends, say goodbyes and try not to cry to much!

I love you all and you are so special to me. I have the best people surrounding me...I'm so lucky!!! Thank you for your support and excitement for this new step!

Laura