I turned 18 earlier this month and for my birthday I asked all my family and friends to do something different this year. I asked for everyone to support my trip as a birthday gift. It worked out great. I got everything from cash donations to ministry supplies.

Some supplies that I got include: markers, crayons, construction paper, popsicle sticks, paper bags, lots of glitter pens and cool pencils, glue, random craft supplies, and tons of little toys and gadgets to hand out. 

The reason I mention this is because it worked so well for me. So, if you have a birthday coming up before the trip you might consider doing this too. Or maybe you're graduating or just want to throw a going away party before we leave. It's a great way to gather supplies for our trip and people will love to get involved.

On another note...

I'm in need of some prayers. For the past year, I've been praying about where the heck God is gonna send me for college, and last year I thought I clearly heard God say, "the University of Texas." So with that, I spent monthsss applying there and working my butt off to get in. While I waited to hear from them, I prayed my heart out that God would get me in and that I'm trusting Him like never before with my future. Well, you may have guessed that I did not get in. (The reason I didn't get in is because in Texas we have this stupid law that says anyone in the top 10% of their class gets automatic acceptance into any Texas university. Well I'm not in the top 10% so I didn't get automatic acceptance and they basically ran out of room for me. They essentially said, "You're qualified for admission, but we don't have room.")

SO. I'm completely overwhelmed. At first I was real upset with God. How could you put that call in my heart then lead me to a dead end? I ultimately realize God has it all under control and even though it sucks, He's taken care of it. But, I just ask that you could maybe send some prayers my way. Pray that I would hear His call on where to go from here. Pray that I'll trust Him completely. And pray that my parents are supportive in all of this mess. I feel like I've let down a lot of people by not getting in. So yeah, thanks for your prayers.

Anyways, I'm getting increasingly excited for the trip and of course I can't wait to meet you guys. I'll leave you with this song from Starfield called "I WIll Go". It's my heart song right now, and I hope y'all enjoy it. 

peace,

emily