"The Boot"

The time seems to have flown by since this summer, since I first knew I was embarking on this wonderful adventure. The days remaining before our departure have dwindled down to a mere six, and our anticipation and excitement has grown steadily greater as the 12th of January approaches. The process of organizing all the necessary items has begun, soon to be followed by the packing of the bags. One suitcase, max 44 lbs, and one carry on item is all we can take for our six month journey. We'll take the essentials, the things we don't think we'll find there, and the rest will be left behind. This thursday, Nate Dreesmann, my fiance, is driving up from San Jose to Seattle, a long two day trip. We'll fly out together on Tuesday, Jan. 12th.

Yet in the midst of all these exciting preparations, I was hit with a storm cloud this week that has changed my expectations and altered our plans in a unexpected way. I have recently sustained an injury to my foot, and yesterday got the results back from my MRI scan. My left foot, my toes in particular, have numerous stress fractures in multiple places, in addition to wide-spread bursitis, or swelling and inflammation of the joints. Needless to say, I was completely heart broken at the diagnosis. My doctor wanted to cast my lower leg immediately, but since I am about to travel outside of the country (and casting carries with it high risks of blood clots, especially when not monitored), we have settled on a boot designed to keep my foot immobile. It's a particularly bizarre looking contraption, and while it serves its purpose well, I must admit to the hilarity of its appearance. I'm seriously considering adding buttons and ridiculous patches to give it some pizzaz. :) God is good, for if it weren't for the substitution of the boot instead of a cast, my journey might have been delayed. And while I am a bit discouraged that I will not be able to walk long distances or run, like I normally love to do, for many weeks, I am so blessed that I am able to go despite my injury. I know God has a purpose and a plan, and I believe he is asking me to go to South Africa to serve for a purpose, and I am greatly looking forward to it. I am trusting that there is a reason while this injury has occurred at this particular time, and that I will be able to serve in a way I would otherwise have missed. And above all, I am learning to trust, have faith, and smile at the goodness of God and the goofiness of myself. This promises to be the greatest adventure of any orthopedic boot ever, and I am sure that it will lead to lots of laughs and memories along the way. 


Both Nate and I feel so blessed by this opportunity to serve and learn, and we are immeasurably grateful for the love and support of our friends and family. We would be so thankful for your prayers as we prepare to leave next week, and we look forward to keeping in touch with all of you, through pictures, emails, and blog posts of course. Blessings!