Walking a T-Rex

To relieve stress some people take a hot bath or listen to soothing music but me, I prefer to run. (well that and pick zits which truly is a stress-reliever, I know I know, too much information) So it was a huge relief when I learned that I would be able to run in Mozambique and today I went for my first run by myself. Let me preface the story by pasting a portion of an e-mail I received today from the US embassy:


As many of you know, crime in the Maputo and Matola areas has increased significantly. There has been a surge in violent crimes such as carjackings, bank robberies, armed assaults at ATMs, home invasions, and robberies of commercial stores. Violent crime has occurred in many areas of the city and at various times of the day and night. Some of the areas affected include multiple locations along the Marginal, the baixa, Julius Nyerere, Alto Maé, communities along the outskirts of Maputo, and in Matola. Additionally, violent criminal activity has increased in the Sommerschield area. Many of these incidents involve criminals armed with automatic weapons. Although no area of the city is designated off-limits to U.S. government employees, everyone is strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of security awareness and follow good security practices.

Don't freak out mom, I have a point. Well, my running route is along the Marginal and I cross over Julius Nyerere. I know some of you must have been praying for my safety though and God has answered those prayers in the form of Gizmo. Gizmo is this giant razorback dog who belongs to our Swedish neighbor but guards both of our houses and is currently sleeping in our house while Henrik is gone. I already love this dog. (Don't worry Swish, he could never replace you.) So I went running with Gizmo and quickly realized that Mozambicans are TERRIFIED of dogs and especially a giant razorback. (doesn't that breed just sound mean?) I really felt like I was jogging with a t-rex on the leash based on the reactions of the people I passed. (I know some of you are thinking of stereotypes in America right now. I'd call you racist but I thought of them too) Well one time I forgot to pull the leash close as we passed by a girl and she literally screamed and jumped back when Gizmo tried to sniff her hand. I know I'm twisted because I just found it hilarious to see these people so terrified of me and my little Gizmo- I thought I was supposed to be the one afraid. Towards the end of the run, Gizmo had saliva all around his mouth which of course made it look like he had rabies so I don't blame the people for being so afraid. When we crossed paths with women, I would pull Gizmo close but when we passed men who looked somewhat suspicious, I would let Gizmo get close enough to them until I saw the fear in their eyes before I pulled him back. I really worry about myself sometimes. When I walked Gizmo with Madalena, she said not to tell people that he didn't bite, better to keep them guessing.

I fear that Gizmo wasn't in the best of shape and he needed some time to recover as seen in the picture but suddenly he loves me- which is great except he keeps trying to lay on my bed. A few minutes ago he nearly tore down my mosquito net when he tried to jump on the bed. Being the dog-lover that I am, I confess that I am tempted to let him sleep on the bed with me but something about sharing a bed with a dog in Africa just seems wrong. I mean, the other little white dog, Lupito already peed on my mattress and I don't really want to get a tick or something. (My roommate in college had a tick once and although i secretly found it hilarious because I told her I thought it was just a mole, she was quite traumatized by the whole fiasco.)I'm not a huge fan of this little yapping Lupito but it sure likes me. I do my devotions out in the front yard sitting on a stool and Lupito always jumps up onto my lap. That would be OK but she/he (haven't checked yet) is dirty and Gizmo gets jealous and comes over and bites Lupito's neck and they start fighting right in my lap. Not cool. Here is a picture of our two mighty guard dogs in front of our house.

I know you must think I'm obsessed with dogs now because I took so many pictures of them. Well the thing is, I know many of you have ADD and need pictures to stay interested but it is tricky taking pictures. I tried to take one of the city out of the car window and was quickly told to bring my arm back in. Apparently I was sending out an invitation to car-jackers. Whoops. I will have to channel my detective skills and sneak pictures of the city for you later. In the mean time, you can look at dog pictures:) Gee, I hope I don't become one of those women who has like 14 dogs and 12 cats. If I do, you have permission to set me up on a date.

Ok, back to the running story. Most of the run was on the beach and the scenery was remarkable! I'll have to take pictures one day to document this amazing running route I have. It was like I was running in paradise, minus the occasional fish head I had to jump over. I'm hesitant to send pictures because you might grow resentful if you are supporting me financially and see where I get to live:) It was an incredible answer to yet another prayer. It may be silly to pray for running routes, but I've prayed for stranger things and He seems to care about these little things as well as the big ones. I know I may get stressed this year, but I have a wonderful way to relieve it. (and no, I'm not just referring to picking all my zits)

This afternoon God answered another prayer when I got to go to CAM, the school I'll be teaching at. (Christian Academy in Mozambique) The school is larger than I imagined and in the middle of the city. There are 5 classrooms upstairs and the grades are divided in the following ways: 3rd and 4Th are together, 5Th and 6Th, 7Th and 8Th, 9Th and 10, and 11Th and 12Th. So the kids stay in their classroom and the teachers roam. The school has a library and teachers lounge where the teachers meet to pray for the students each day- I love that! I went to the school with the Miller family because they were having a parents meeting to discuss school dates. I think I was expected to sit in the meeting with the adults but instead I snuck out with Kimberly to play with the kids. To answer your question, I am 25 years old. Well this turned out to be yet another answer to prayer. I was worried that the kids at the school wouldn't like me. I thought that fear would go away after high school but those dang insecurities seem to keep popping up. Anyways, the kids were all shooting baskets so I smothered my awkwardness and insecurities and introduced them to the game of "lightning." I had instant supporters. Praise Jesus for basketball. I don't think I would have any friends if I couldn't play this sport. We then played a half court pick up game although I was wearing jeans and sandals. (Yes, I was the awkward kid at basketball camp who didn't come dressed prepared and now have bruised heels. I didn't know one could acquire bruises here, but you can and I am reminded of that every step I take. I could have probably avoided the bruises by going easy, but of course I had to be in my defensive stance and trying to block as many young boys as possible.) Pretty soon I had some sweet back sweat but so much fun. All of the kids who played will be my students so it was fun that we have a connection already. Sorry for the lack of pictures. I was again trying to convince people that I am cool and thus did not pull out my camera.

OK, speaking of classes, I have a HUGE prayer request in this area. Let me explain. So a few months ago when I was trying to sell myself to CAM (did I just sound like a prostitute- I didn't mean to) I told the director that I could teach history and English if they needed it. Why? Why would I offer to English? Sure I like to read but my grammar's not that great and I always pitied the English teachers having to do so much work. Well of course the director took me up on my offer and here are the classes I will be teaching:

7Th and 8Th graders- World History. OK, I'm cool with that- that's my area of expertise if you will since I've taught it the last 3 years. Junior highers should be interesting. I can't wait to observe their awkwardness in that stage. I never fully grew out of it but I stopped wearing flannel shirts.

7Th and 8Th graders- English. Um...OK, I'll struggle with an English class but I'll figure it out. Oh wait, I have to teach grammar? This is not good news. You may have noticed in reading this blog, but I have yet to master the "comma." Just where do you put this little booger, or should I say, "thorn?" Yes- that would be in reference to it being the thorn in my side. Hopefully you will notice a gradual improvement in my grammar skills throughout this year.

9Th and 10Th graders- World Geography. Oh crap. Pardon my French. Why do people say that by the way? Crap isn't a french word. The reason I use that word though is because many of you know that geography is my "Achilles heel." Oh look at that, I made a literature reference- maybe this English class won't be so hard. I took one geography class in college but had a crush on the boy behind me and needless to say, was not very focused. Jonathan Miller had to help me with my homework all the time because for instance, I thought the UK and Great Britain were two different places. The Hardemans are known for playing the game, "city or state?" Yeah, so it goes like this, "Ohio. City or state." and yes, we get a lot of them wrong. Don't judge us. I can feel your sense of intellectual superiority right now. So basically, teaching geography should be interesting to say the least.

9Th and 10Th grade- English. Another one. Hmmmmmm...I think you misunderstood what I meant when I offered to teach "A" English class. I know, OK, "an" English class. I thought I could teach 1 class, not two. hmmmmmm. This will be my largest class with a whopping 12 students. I already know 3 of the girls and they are super sweet. I wonder what they'll call me...they called me Katie today because obviously I don't go around introducing myself as "Miss Hardeman" so will they call me Katie in class? Another awkward question I have to ask someone.

11Th and 12Th grade- US History. Sweet. I'm totally comfortable with this. There are 4 kids in this class and none of them are American. I love it.

11th and 12th grade- English. I really thought the director was joking when she started giving me books for this class too. 6 separate classes to prepare for....this will be interesting. Last year I wrote all my own test questions, homework questions and even re-wrote most of the text book chapters. I tell you this not to boast, but to illustrate how anal I can be when it comes to teaching. I had one class to prepare for last year so I had the time and I am going to need to quickly adopt my dad's "laissez-faire" attitude about lesson planning. (be honest, do you know what laissez-faire means?) My point is this, I need prayer! Prayer that I would have an abundance of energy to make each class interesting but also prayer that I could let go of my need to be so controlling.

Another large prayer request is for Mr. Meyers. He is the man that is supposed to come be the director of the school for this coming year but he was recently diagnosed with colon cancer. He is going in for treatment fairly soon. CAM would be desperate without him. If he is unable to make it here, we really need another director for the school. Could you please pray that God would work out this situation?

Also, the school is in desperate need of teachers! Obviously we're short teachers seeing as I will be teaching 6 classes. Could you please pray that the great miracle-worker would work another one out and provide teachers for our school. We start classes on August 20 so I realize the notice is a bit late but God split the Red Sea so surely He can do this. I know what some of you are plotting right now..."I'll pray for a cute, young, male teacher to join Katie at CAM." I'm on to your schemes Kristen Debie:)

Do you remember watching old sit-coms like Full House when at the end of the episode they would cue the cheesy music and teach a lesson? Well I feel like I have a tendency to end my entries with some sort of "God insight." I don't do this purposefully, it just follows the flow of my thinking. So please don't accuse me of being like Danny Tanner. But today's passage in "Experiencing God" was so applicable to the types of different prayer requests and answered prayers that I have.

"Knowing God"

Exodus 6: 2-3 And God spoke to Moses and said to him, "I am the lord. I appeared to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob, as God Almighty, but by My name Lord I was not known to them."

"As God has walked with His people through the generations, He has progressively revealed His nature according to His purposes and the needs of His people. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob knew Him as God Almighty, because they needed His mighty power to protect them from their enemies. Moses and the Israelites learned that God was Lord, Master over every nation and every thing. God not only delivered them from the most powerful ruler in the world, but also brought them into the Promised Land. They came to experience Him as Lord, preeminently powerful over the pagan gods of their day.

God will continue to reveal His character to you according to your needs and according to His purposes. You will come to know more and more about Him as you obey Him. When you grieve, He will come to you as Comforter. When you are in need, He will demonstrate that He is the Provider. When you face a serious challenge, He will reveal that He is God Almighty.

Your understanding of God's character ought to be greater now than when you first became a Christian. You ought to know Him today better than you did five years ago. Sadly, some Christians continue to live year after year with the same basic knowledge of God that they had when they first began walking with Him. Whatever your present situation, view it in the light of what God is teaching you, through circumstances, about Himself and you will come to know God in dimensions you have never known Him before."

God has truly been a magnificent provider for me here in Mozambique and I pray that He will provide more help for CAM. I pray that he would be the Healer of Mr. Meyers. I pray that He would also be my protector. I read yesterday Proverbs 18:10 "The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe." The image that immediately came to mind was a scene from the movie, The Saint. Remember this one, with Val Kilmer and all this disguises? Well at the end they are sprinting to the US embassy while being chased. They barely make into the gates and were safe. Now I picture myself, not with Val however, sprinting to Jesus when I am scared and need safety. He is much more powerful than the US embassy. Now don't worry, I won't be foolish here when it comes to safety, but I have an amazing Protector on my side, stronger than any guard dog I could hire. To show you how safe I am in my home though, watch this video of Lupito and Gizmo saying hi to the neighbors. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ml53HvLHxAI

Bom Dia!!! (said in a really cool Portuguese accent and meaning "good day")

When we left off, Madalena had picked me up from the airport and we stayed over night in South Africa. The next day, after shopping for the month, we headed for the border. When we arrived, I was expecting something like the Mexican border....oh no, much more complicated. I never would have survived by myself but Mada made friends with the border patrol while I stood next to her smiling like a dumb mute. (pun intended) We had to stand in line to get our papers checked and I was wishing I had a basketball jersey on so I could be more aggressive. Mada had to push me to force my way into line- it was a chaos that was somewhat similar to clearance sales at outlet stores, but it smelled worse. One man asked to borrow Mada's pen and then we she gave it to him, he put the cap in his mouth while he wrote. I stood there disgusted saying nothing (surprise, surprise) so when Mada turned around she gave him the look of death and started chewing him out in Portuguese! It was awesome! The boys around us all started laughing because she is so fierce. Did I mention she is only 5 feet tall- yeah, we make for an interesting pair. After this incident, I knew I would be safe in her care.

Immediately after crossing the border, there was a dramatic change in scenery. The immense poverty of Mozambique was immediately obvious. When I pictured Africa, I pictured straw huts in small villages and that is exactly what we passed by along the highway. There are only about 10 huts in one area, all made out of straw and bamboo and no running water or electricity. Madalena has driven this route so often that a few months ago, she stopped at one of the villages and asked if they were interested in a church. They said they were Christians and were waiting for someone to come and help them. Isn't that so neat? So my hero Madalena, started a church there.
At one point in our drive, Mada pointed out the window and said, "Kudu!" The only reason I knew what this was is because Grant Thomas recently killed one in a hunting expedition. (all you animal-rights activists are probably peeved right now. sorry) Anyways, everything within me wants to boast that I saw the great African beast because it would make for such a better story. However, my nose is big enough as it is, so I'll tell the truth, I didn't see it. I considered asking Mada to turn around to see it like Jenny Swanson made me when she didn't get to see the roadkill on the freeway, but I refrained.

At this point some of you may be thinking, "Katie, why no pictures yet? Colorado and London are great but we want to see Africa!" Well at this point, I was still trying to trick Mada into thinking I was cool and felt like a dorky tourist pulling out my camera and taking pictures of the road. Don't worry, it's been a few days so Mada now knows about my inner-dork and I will take pictures the next time we return to the villages.

First impressions of Maputo:
* The woman really do balance everything on their heads! I've secretly always wanted to be able to do this and have practiced with books but I think my head might be the wrong shape.
* The people are beautiful!!! It's total chaos but not as crazy as India (no animals roaming the roads) Kids are EVERYWHERE and they are always pulling these giant wagons with colorful tubs/jars/tanks (kinda looks like a gas tank) filled with water.
* There are huge buildings and from google earth they looked really impressive but are not so impressive up close. Most of the tall buildings are apartments and there is a ton of hanging laundry seen everywhere. (speaking of laundry, today I saw this Mozambican wearing a George Strait t-shirt and it made me laugh, so random)
* Public transportation is actually just those long skinny vans with at least 5 people on each bench. I don't think I would do well on these- again, my space issues.

We arrived at our house and I was overwhelmed by how nice it is. I'll give y'all a picture tour of it later. The Miller family are also a part of OC International and they met us at the house. Kimberly will be one of my future students and is super sweet. We all went to dinner and then to an ice cream parlor for dessert. While looking at the ice cream I asked Kimberly a question and the guy working pointed to me and said, "Is this your first day in Africa?" my thoughts: how on earth did he know that? I've been trying so hard to look like I fit in and am totally confident. Am I that transparent? I know that dogs and bees smell fear (mainly from Jerry Maguire) but I didn't know Mozambicans did too! Not that I'm afraid of ice cream but it is intimidating to go somewhere and have no idea what every one is saying. Note to self: practice looking like you understand what it is happening. The brown hair is not fooling anyone.

The next morning Mada mentioned that one of her friends was going to an orphanage so I asked to tag along with no idea the blessings God had in store. Mada's friend Connie also had her husband and 3 American friends coming along. Plus, 2 sisters from North Carolina who are travelling the world wanted to come so Mada's car which usually holds max of 5 people, squeezed in 9. We headed to the orphanage outside the city but first stopped at the church to meet the pastor. Pastor Vosca is INCREDIBLE!!! He started the church and school and orphanage after having lived on the streets himself! 800 students come to the school and the teachers are paid about $20 per month. Crazy. The really neat thing about the facilities which you may think are insanely rudimentary (I know, second time I've used that word but I just can't think of a synonym.) is that they were built only with the funds from the tithes! This, coming from an incredibly poor community. Talk about giving your last coin to God! The classrooms reminded me of "Little House on the Prairie" and I realized that although it had been my dream to be like Laura Ingels, I really hope CAM (my school) has more than chalk boards. (I just hate the sound chalk makes on the board)

Next we headed over to the orphanage. When we showed up there was a group of about 8 boys sitting against a wall staring at us with hard faces. Talk about a "tough crowd." One boy in a ripped green shirt was more animated than the others and decided to impress the silly Americans by showing how many push ups he could do. (my thoughts: yeah, that's pretty impressive but I'm sure I can do more.) Mind you, the boy was 10, this competitiveness in me is sick. I waited til everyone had passed by to get the tour of the orphanage and once they were gone I challenged the little man to a push up contest. Please try to picture me doing this when he spoke no English and I, no Portuguese. Good thing I'd been playing lots of charades this summer. When I finally have communicated that I think I can do more than him, we get in the sand and start the contest. Perhaps I should have let him win. I mean, he's 10 and an orphan, most would fake it and let him win. Not me. My arms were shaking but I was determined to win. I even tried to make him laugh to weaken him. I know, some of you are having second thoughts about supporting me financially. I blame this competitive nature on my dad. Madalena heard the commotion after I won the contest and came and challenged the boy herself. Please picture a 5 foot Brazilian woman dressed in nice slacks getting in the dirt and busting out 30 push ups. Oh wait, you don't need to visualize, here's a picture.

The others continued to listen to Pastor Vosca and I continued to brainstorm ways to play with these boys, of whom many had yet to smile. I stood there looking at all their beautiful faces and dirty, torn clothes and literally scratched my head. How could I befriend them without words? hmmmmmmm....Then I remembered that a double chin is universally funny. Most of you probably know that making ugly faces is pretty much one of my spiritual gifts, so I put it to use. I busted out my camera and taught the boys how to be as ugly as possible. They loved it. Suddenly they opened up. One boy, Shoka, hadn't cracked a smile but when I put the camera in his face and signaled to make a silly face, he came up with a face that almost made me pee.
One boy then came over, Peter, who could speak English which made things easier. Still, me and about 10 boys of all ages and I was fresh out of ugly faces and I think they were getting tired of me teaching them how to cross their eyes. There was no ball or court or field around so I busted out a classic game....down by the banks. You know it, "Down by the banks of the hanky panky where the bullfrogs jump from bank to bankee with an eepse, ops, soda pop hey Mr. Willy and he went kurplop!" What does that song mean by the way and who is Mr. Willy? I remembered a time in India when a bunch of girls loved this game and another time in the Philippines when we had played it with the village kids. These boys loved it too. After we tired of that, I taught them the "fast hands" game. At one point I did feel a little strange slapping the hands of these boys but they just laughed. For the record, I dominated at fast hands. So let's recap, I taught them how to make ugly faces and slap each other. I wonder if they'll let me come back...

This was such a blessing to spend time with local Mozambicans and have so much fun. God humbled me greatly when talking with Peter. I asked him how he knew English and he told me the pastor had taught him. Then he said the sweetest thing out of the blue, "I love God." Just that. No explanation. Just a simple declaration that draws me to tears thinking about. Here this boy who has had such a hard life thus far, does not seem angry,resentful, or unsure, but rather joyful, grateful, and confident. I was inspired by his attitude and faith while also humbled by my own lack of faith. I often think of the unfairness in this world and how so many are born into poverty like Peter and wonder why God allows it. Then Peter goes and blows me away by his simple 3 word declaration. Yes I live in poverty and am orphaned and have a tough life, but, "I love God." Simple as that.

Travelling Not So Light- (anyone catch the Max Lucado reference?)

Well I write this entry lying on my new bed under a mosquito net that I mistook for a really cool canopy. Before I write about my adventures thus far in the beautiful land of Mozambique, let me take you on a quick tour of my travels getting here:

I departed from LAX on Thursday with two bags stuffed so full it took Trent, Trav and I an actual hour to zip them up. We laughed about how awful it would be if the airport made me open them...oh you know what's coming. So to save hundreds of dollars, the airport recommended I lighten the bags by adding a third bag. Why did I not think of that? So while everyone in line watched, I unloaded my bags and packed a third and sweated so much I got pit stains. A compassionate Brit took mercy on me and helped me zip them back up and I was off. I had myself a little tear fest while I waited in lines, thinking of everything and one I would miss. However, since I was flying to London first, I got hear some great accents and funky outfits whiched cheered me up. Yes, I am easy to cheer up. Once, I boarded the first plane, the tears were gone and I was ready for the adventure to begin!

Flight to London: 10 hours and 10 minutes. Ok, those of you know me well are probably waiting for an "awkward Katie" story because airplanes, like weddings, seem to be a breeding ground for awkward moments for me. I have twice snuggled with the stranger sitting next to me but sorry guys, no snuggle stories this time. I did however spill orange juice all over my pants and chalked that up as a victory since that was my only mishap on the flight.

I arrived in London with plans to meet my friend Jenny who recently moved there. I exchanged my money and I thought I would show how intellectual I am by saying, "Yes, I'll trade these in for Euros." I figured, I'm in Europe, surely England uses Euros. Luckily the lady saw through my brown hair and smart-looking aura and saw the true blonde pretending to be smart and informed me England uses pounds. Darnet.

Jenny took me on an amazing whirlwind tour of London. My first time in Europe was amazing thanks to her tour-guide skills. We rode the "tube" everywhere which was very similar to the subway in New York, minus the grossness. Lunch was spent on a blanket in Hydes Park where Jenny assured me the ducks would not come near us on the grass. (you see, in Daisy Scouts I had a tramatic experience where a large goose bit my hand and I've had a massive fear of giant ducks and geese since.) The picture does not show the full effect.
Our next stop was Picadilly Cirle or Circus. I can't remember the name and those of you who are smarter than me will know because apparently it is quite famous and I am just clueless.Next we went to Buckingham Palace and yes, I knew what that was. (mostly because I recently watched the movie, The Queen, which I highly recommend.) We walked through this amazing park to get to the palace which almost impressed me more than the building. The paths were lined with giant trees (if only I was a tree expert right now, I'd tell you what kind) and I had an overwhelming urge to go for a run. In the picture I am purposefully standing by myself awkwardly. I just love solo poses. Is there a cool way to stand when your alone in a picture? I propose that there is not but please inform me if you've found one. I am reinacting my pose from the 8th grade trip to the White House. (minus the cool flannel shirt) Oh, If it is tough to find me in the picture, I am the only one facing the camera. The other picture is trying to show the statue in the background. I honestly don't know if it's famous or not. Aren't you glad I'm not teaching your children World History? Our last stop on the tour was the House of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. We said a quick hello to our friend Ben and then whisked off to Jenny's flat and back to the airport. Jenny will now be selling the "5 hour tour of London" if you are interested. It was amazing. The only sad part was I did not get to run into my childhood crush. Oh you know who. I used to be so certain that William and I would run into each other and fall in love and I would become queen of England one day. (well it was either him or Leo) I guess I'll have to run into him another time.
Flight from London to Johannesberg: 10 hours and 45 minutes. Another somewhat uneventful flight in which I was able to sleep very well after running around. I tried to trick my seatmates into thinking I was British by speaking in an accent and I think it worked for awhile when I only had to use one word phrases. Things were going smoothly until I went against my instincts and ate the omlette. For the record, I now have a strict non-egg eating rule on all flights. I felt the rumble down under and prepared to make the awkward climb over my seatmates. (surely there is a better name than seatmates but I am drawing a blank right now) Right as I stood, the pilot came on the air and announced that ALL the toilets were broken. NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!! I imagined the worst case scenarios and they were not pretty. Luckily I was able to fall back asleep and yet another "Why me?" incident did not take place.

In Johannesberg I had to get my bags and check into the domestic terminal. Sounds easy right? It took me 3 hours! Luckily my layover was a 7 hour layover. I was warned not to accept any offers of help at the airport because they would expect a tip but as I was walking with my bags doing my best to look completely confident, a man asked me if I was looking for the domestic terminal. Innocently, I responded that yes, I was and he motioned for me to follow him into the elevator so I followed. About halfway up the ride I realized this man was not being friendly, he was looking for a tip. I had a very awkward time trying to get him to leave and searched frantically for a bathroom to hide in hoping he would leave but could find none. Finally, I mustered all my meanness and said, "Look, I know you're looking for money but you're not helping me. I'm carrying my own bags and I can follow the arrows so leave me alone." I know, I'm tough. He then proceeded to follow me for a bit mumbling some pleasant blessings to me in another language but luckily I'm a pretty decent speed walker and lost him.

While waiting at the next terminal I played, "spot the American" and read my book. I was sitting at a gate with literally 2 or 3 other people and this little African man came and put his jacket right next to me and then sat down on my leg! How is one supposed to respond in such a situation? My mind raced with options for what was going on: 1- he was trying to rob me in a very unique way. (I clutched my purse tighter) 2- Africans have less of a "space issue" as I do. 3- He was doing a dare. (I doubt if many 40 year olds still play this game although i kind of hope I do.) Well whatever his intentions were, I was freaked out and after staying strong for a full 30 seconds I left.

Flight to Nelspruit South Africa: 1 hour. Tiny plane, but enjoyable flight with no incidents.

I arrived in South Africa and Madalena, the woman I am living with, picked me up from the airport and we drove to a hotel. I pulled a Katie and tried to get into the drivers' seat and was very confused as to why the passenger seat had a steering wheel. (I've done this 2 more times since) I must confess, I was a little disappointed. We walked to dinner at a mall that had a huge casino and movie theater and it did not feel like Africa, it felt like a non-brand name version of America. There were more white people at the mall than black which surprised me. No offense Whities, but I was hoping to be living amonst the Africans. Madalena assured me South Africa was another world compared to Mozambique and boy was she right.

I will leave you hanging in suspense as to what Mozambique is like until I write my next entry. A few teasers of what's to come in the next entry:
* a kudu by the road
* feisty Madalena scolds a stranger
*humbling trip to the icrecream store
* ugly faces ministry
* french kiss with Gizmo

I still have this complex that missionaries are supposed to sound holier than I do and since I haven't even mentioned God in this entry I thought I'd throw his name in. I love him and He was with me every step of my travels and I thank you all for praying for me as I travelled. Seriously though, thank you, He really did answer prayers. I read a really cool entry in the "Experiencing God day by day" devotional that I'd love to share with you. (not to try to make myself look like a better Christian, but just because it encouraged me and I hope it encourages you as well) (if this violates some copywrite law, please don't snitch)

He is At Your Right Hand

Psalm 16:8 I ahve set he Lord always before me; because He is at my right hand I shall not be moved.

"What does it mean to set the Lord always before you? It means that you choose to relate everything you encounter to your trust in God. What you choose to focus on becomes the dominant influence in your life. You may be a Christian, but if your focus is always on your problems, your problems will determine the direction of your life. If your focus is on people, then people will determine what you think and do. In biblical times, the right hand was the most distinguished position, reserved for one's chief adviser and supporter. When you choose to focus on Christ, you invite Him to take the most important position in your life as Counselor and Defender.

Every time you face a new experience, you should turn to Christ for His interpretation and strength. When people insult you and mistreat you, you should seek direction from your Counselor regarding the right response. When you face a crisis, you should receive strength from the One at your right hand. When you experience need, you should consult your Counselor before you react. When you face a fearful situation, you should take courage from the Advocate at your right hand. Everything you do is in the context of your relationship to Crhist.

What an incredible act of God's grace that Christ should stand beside you to guide you and cousel you and defend you! How could you ever become dismayed over your situation with Christ at your right hand? What confidence this should give you!"

You know who I am so grateful to right now? How many of you are thinking Jesus? If you did, you're wrong, I was actually thinking that I am so grateful for my typing teacher in high school. She wore the same bun every day which really bothered me at the time but she gave me such a sweet gift in teaching me how to type quickly. (not to boast, but I am pretty quick) I hope that passage blessed you as it blessed me. I for one struggle with focusing too much on people and letting others' opinions determine what I think and do so it was convicting.

Until next time! Which I'm guessing will be tomorrow. If you read this entire entry, bravo my friend, I am impressed.

Training Days- No, Denzel was not there.

From July 1st to the 10th I was in Colorado Springs training with OC International. God was truly preparing me spiritually, emotionally and even physically. Here are some highlights:

* I finally have a more accurate view of a "missionary." I've never called myself a missionary because in my mind, missionaries were this elite group that rarely sinned and were way holier than I could ever be. After listening to sermons each day about grace, I finally realized that missionaries are not elite, they are the same as all God-loving and God-fearing Christians and need Jesus in a desperate way. The two main ideas of the sermons were as follows: "Cheer up, we're worse than we think." and "But cheer up, the gospel is greater than we ever imagined."

Indeed God showed me parts of my dark heart that I would rather not see but by seeing these dark parts and acknowledging my sins, I can see how badly I truly do need grace and Jesus. I love these "mountaintop experiences" when God is so near. One really neat exercise we did after learning about justification through faith rather than our works, was to put our names in the blanks and I encourage you to do the same. (this was especially powerful for me, having tried to earn God's love by my works for so long)

So I quit being a "law man" so that I ________________ could be God's man. Christ's life showed me how, and enabled me to do it. I ____________ identified myself completely with him. Indeed, I __________ have been crucified with Christ. My ego is no longer central. It is no longer important that I ___________ appear righteous before you or have your good opinion, and I ___________ am no longer driven to impress God. Christ lives in me. The life you see me living is not "mine", but it is lived by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I ______________ am not going to go back on that. Is it not clear to you that to go back to that old rule-keeping, peer-pleasing religion would be an abandonment of everything personal and free in my relationship with God? I ____________ refuse to do that, to repudiate God's grace. If a living relationship with God could come by rule keeping, then Christ died unnecessarily.

(Galatians 2:19-21, The Message)

* Another highlight: meeting incredible new and old (not a reference to age!) missionaries. Judy Dixon was one of my amazing roommates who promised to, "pray behind my back." She lived through the Civil Rights Movement in the South and has a truly remarkable life story. I also had many interesting conversations with Jim and Sue who lived in Kenya for a long time and gave me many helpful tips for "surviving Africa such as: "If you make too much eye contact with men you are saying that you are a prostitute." "Greet every person in a room when you enter." "Bring anti-perspirant and chocolate chips." (However, writing this in Africa on only my second day and in the middle of winter, I can say that even anti-perspirant is not strong enough for me and I developed some sweet pit stains. I realized that this was because I decided to have a push-up contest with orphan boy but still, I didn't think I'd sweat so much.- yes, of course I won) "You will probably get Malaria but it's no big deal." And finally, my favorite, "You're not a real missionary until you've been robbed." (I'm pretty sure that will happen considering I forgot my purse at the restaurant today- don't worry, someone grabbed it for me. Gosh, I thought dying my hair brown would cut down on these "blonde moments." )

* Another highlight was doing team-building activities such as white-water rafting and hiking Pikes Peak. Rafting was sweet although I got so hot, I contemplated "falling in" on purpose to cool off. Hiking was an amazing time spent with sweet Jesus. Being a Hardeman (which means my competitive nature is almost sickening) I hiked with the boys in the front. (Self-named, "team renegade.") I hung with them for the first 10 miles and was feeling pretty proud of myself and then I hit a wall and could not keep up. The boys trudged ahead like mountain goats and I struggled up the last 3 miles praying the whole way.

While struggling to breathe during the last miles, Pilgrims Progress came to mind and the hike became an allegory for my Christian walk. Here are some of the analogies:

1- I often get "puffed up" with pride, thinking I can rely on my own strength. I literally puffed up about half way up the mountain when my fingers became giant sausages and I could hardly open my back pack. The picture does not do it justice,
2- I must constantly turn to Jesus and ask Him to fill me with His strength. Since no one else was near, I was literally calling out to Jesus to make my legs move at the end.

3- There will be unexpected obstacles along the way. For instance, I was not informed I would be trekking through snow! I once decided to try my own path instead of stepping in others' footprints and sunk to my knee and got a shoe full of snow. (yet another analogy)
4. The walk would be impossible without the "Living Water." Peter, one of my fellow hikers, thought he might run out of water so he filled one bottle with stream water which was guaranteed to give him the big D. Luckily, he never had to use it but I secretly wanted him to- not due to animosity, merely curiosity.
5. We need the living water but we also need nourishment to finish. I had to force feed myself a cliff bar in order to have enough energy to finish.

6. Fellowship is necessary! The first 10 miles were a breeze mainly because I had the great company of "team renegade." 7. God gives us the tools we need when we need them. I was beginning to slow at mile 8 so I started praying for a walking stick. I needed the extra boost but I also wanted to pretend to be Moses. Does anyone else play this game?

8. If you try to look too far into the future, you will grow overwhelmed, so focus on today. God knows what struggles we will face and gives us the strength we need for today and tells us not to worry about the future. There were many parts of the path where I literally had to focus just on the step ahead of me. If I looked a few yards up, the path seemed to disappear. Also, if I looked to the top and how far I still had to climb, I would grow discouraged. Whereas, if I looked around me, I was in awe by the amazing views and how far I had already come.








9. We won't survive without resting every once in awhile. Towards the end, I was resting every 2 minutes.

10. Lastly, the path was narrow and challenging, but the reward was amazing. The summit view was amazing. As you finish the hike, the "cloud of witnesses" at the top cheer you on and it is an amazing feeling. Being a bit emotional, I cried as I finished. This should come at no surprise however since I cried in the home alarm system commercial.

Departure date: July 12

In less than 1 month I will be boarding a plane and begin my year in Maputo, Mozambique! Luckily I love long flights, minus the elephantitis of the feet that I seem to get after a few hours, so I have no apprehension about hours in the air. I know what to expect on the flight- cramped quarters, food that I always seem to enjoy more than others, movies, naps, fun people-watching. However, when I step off the plane, I have very little idea what to expect. In India, we stepped off the plane and were immediately greeted with an odor only one who has been to India can understand. That odor became a lovely scent however, as I fell in love with India and I know regardless of the inconveniences I may experience in Mozambique, I will fall in love with the people there too. This is what I look forward to the most- meeting the people. The "unknown" is what makes me so excited right now and what forces my faith to grow.

Many people have asked if I'm ready to go. Well, I'm ready mentally but there are still some logistical things that must be taken care of. (ie- getting shots, getting my visa approved, packing, etc.) Since I last updated the blog I have been preparing in a number of ways:

1- I got to meet with Barbosa, Sinara, and Rafael! This is a missionary family living in Maputo who I am guessing will become like a second family. Barbosa is the "head missionary" in Mozambique- I don't quite have all the missionary jargon down quite yet so I don't know his official title. It was amazing that this Brazilian family would happen to be coming to the states this summer and just happen to have their home church located a few minutes away from my home. For you Christy Miller fans, I would label this a "God-thing." My parents and I were able to hear them speak at their home church and then they came to our home and answered my numerous questions. I realize that I don't ask as many questions as I probably should- there is still much left in the area of the "unknown" because I simply don't think to ask:) I was however incredibly relieved to learn that where I will be staying is in a safe area that is near the beach- so close I can run to it! Running is a stress-reliever for me, and although I will desperately miss my running partner, I can still have a place to run and vent and pray. Sinara is incredibly sweet and will help me with my Portuguese. She also informed me that Madalena, the missionary I will be staying with, is an amazing cook! No Hot Pockets necessary:)

2. Another major way I have prepared for the journey is by killing spiders. Usually I jump and scream and get someone else to kill the creepy critters for me. Now however, knowing I will deal with beasts more frightening than our little spiders, when I do see one, I hold my scream in and get a shoe...It's been a big step for me.

3. Last weekend was an amazing time of preparation as my amazing family came together for a "sending off" bbq and time of blessing. I have never felt so encouraged by my family and so blessed by God. As I ate my burger, surrounded by aunts, uncles, cousins, siblings, and loved ones, I felt overwhelmed by how blessed I truly am. I was reminded of David's prayer after he became king, Saul was defeated, and the ark of the covenant was home. In 2 Samuel 7:8 David said, "Who am I, O Sovereign LORD, and what is my family, that you have brought me this far?...How great you are, O Sovereign LORD! There is no one like you and there is no God but you.." I am not trying to liken myself to the famous, beloved king and man after God's own heart, but I do feel the same immense gratitude David felt. God showered me with blessings through my family and I give Him all the praise for it.

4. Una menina embaixo de uma mesa. Translation: A girl is under a table.
As meninas estao correndo atras do menino. Translation: The girls run after the boy.
O peixe esta nadando. A ave esta voando. Translation: The fish swims. The bird flies.
I think I should be able to get by with these four phrases, don't you? Now that the school year is over, I am finally able to concentrate more on my Portuguese lessons. It's fun to learn but I still kind of wish God would do a "Matrix-like intervention" and program the language into my brain. If Keanu Reeves can do it, why can't I?

5. The airplane ticket for Maputo has been purchased! The amazing Tammy Upton worked with a travel agent who specializes in helping missionaries find the best deal and I was able to find a "somewhat reasonable" ticket price. For the curious, it cost a little more than $1,300 which may sound outrageous but was actually an amazing deal. I will be leaving on July 12, have a long layover in London and then travel onto South Africa and then Mozambique.

6. Sixth way I have prepared: I bought a purse that makes me look "tough" so pick-pocketers will think twice about messing with the confused looking American. I realise that purses are not usually described as "tough" but when I wear it, it kind of looks like I'm carrying a machine gun:) I don't know why I typed a smiley face after that. Apparently, I won't use it much anyways since I'm not supposed to bring a purse to town, but I'll need it to travel.

7. I've collected all the bright orange sheets of paper all my supporters sent into OC and have put you on my e-mailing list. Expect a letter from OC soon- they made the mistake of sending me the letters and I happen to be crowned "Queen of procrastination." My goal is to send them out by Tuesday- there I said a date to give myself some pressure. Along with the info from OC, you'll receive a picture of me (no not a glamour shot) along with Barbosa, Sinara and Rafael. So make room on your fridge- every time you reach for the milk, I hope you think of me and pray.

8. My final act of preparation has been working with my church, Friends Community. Last week I was able to meet with the Missions committee and then today I was able to share in both services and be commissioned. It feels so amazing to be so supported by my church family- to know that people who I may have never even met will be praying for me is so incredible. I am truly blessed. It was so neat to meet people after the service who are so supportive and kind.

If you read this blog consistently, you will soon discover that I am an avid list-maker. It's how I organize my thoughts. Did anyone notice, I finally discovered how to change the font? I figured my aunts probably have eyesight like my mom and may need a larger font:) I really appreciate that you are interested in what is happening in Mozambique and am incredibly thankful for your support.

Blessings!

Katie