Let's try this again...

I haven't updated this blog for almost a year...but I decided to try it again. I want this to be a way of updating everyone in what's going on in my life (specifically related to becoming a missionary to Ukraine). I deleted most of my old blogs, except for the ones about Ukraine. Those blogs and pictures were from my first trip to Ukraine.
While I was on that trip, I felt God calling me to trust Him even more and become a Go-Net missionary for a year. At that point, I had no clue where or when. I got back and pursued it for a little while, but soon became busy with a new job and living in a new place. I never forgot about the calling, but I wasn't being proactive about it. Then in the spring of 2006, I felt God telling me that it was time to think about it seriously again. This time, I could not just push it aside. I contacted Global Partners and started the process of becoming a Go-Net missionary. At that time, I also felt God still laying the country of Ukraine on my heart and I knew that's where I needed to be. Global Partners works with World Hope Canada and World Hope Ukraine in Odessa, Ukraine. Since I had not been to Odessa yet, I was given the opportunity (on short notice) to go to Ukraine with a small group from World Hope Canada. I was able to get off of work and take the week long trip! I found out about the ministries that are taking place in Odessa through WHC. There is a small orphanage/children's home called the Hope House. A Ukrainian, Christian couple are the parents there. There is also a teen girl home called the Shepherd's home. I fell in love with these girls the minute we met them! There is also a place called the First Step Center where street kids can come in, hear about God, do a craft, play a game, sing worship songs, get a shower, change clothes and get a meal. Unfortunately, they can't spend the night there, but at least some of their needs are being met! As you can tell, I loved my week there! I told one of my fellow travelers that I was ready to go home, only because I knew I needed to do some things to prepare to come back. I can't wait to go back to be with those kids.
When I returned home, I got in contact with Global Partners again and have recently been appointed as a Go-Net missionary to Ukraine. I am hoping to have my funds raised by August! There's a lot of things that need to be done before I go, but I know that God will be with me and I am so excited to see what He's got in store for my life!