Around the World? More like What in the World?

I don't know why God's choosing to test me with this, but my trip itinerary doesn't seem to be coming along so smoothly. I really need to trust Him that He has it all under control, but every time I think He's given me a new idea to look into, the door closes. I know that being a Christian doesn't guarantee an easier life, but am I alone in thinking that sometime's it would be nice if it did? :) I honestly thought that planning a trip around the world where I offer to volunteer my time wherever needed, wouldn't be a hard thing. Man, it's like pulling teeth to get someone to take me. Ok, maybe that's not entirely true. There are some people who have said they'd love to have me, but maybe it's a sign that the timing's not right and that I'm not supposed to go now. The other day I read an article on Jennie's website by Elizabeth Elliot that says,

"It is to be expected that every decision made with the desire to be obedient to God, will be attacked. Spread your doubts before the Lord. Pray for correction of any wrong in thinking or doing and for His word of assurance as to the action you must take. If there is nothing else required of you at this moment, leave it at that. Trust God. Put the whole weight of your doubts and cares on Him -- that will foil the Accuser."

So very true. I'm going to go home and spread my doubts before the Lord.

My Birthday

So, today is my birthday and I had a GREAT day, despite having to work. Now, for those of you who know me, you know that I'm not a real morning person per se. :) Ok, not at all. But I remember thinking at 8:30 this morning, "I'm having a good day already." My co-workers took me for lunch and gave me a great candle with wonderful sayings on it, "Kneel in Faith, Stand in Courage, Wait in Hope and Walk in Love." Very nice. Then my girlfriends took me for supper to the Olive Garden and even though it was quite loud in the restaurant, we had a great time. They all gave me money to put towards the backpack that I want to buy for my trip. Soooooo helpful, you don't even know. As I was displaying all of their cards tonight and re-reading what they all wrote, it hit me how much I'm going to miss them all when I'm gone next year. They really are such an amazing support to me. I know there will be times when I'll be lonely on my trip and I'll think back to tonight and maybe question why I left, but I know God will get me through it. My Mom sent me a card for my birthday too and it has the most amazing words that I have to share them.

Think of a mitten and a hand
or the way tea
fills the curve of a
teacup.
In the same way, there is
a place in my life
shaped like
you.
Before you came,
I did not even know it was there.
But
afterward,
I knew
I had always had it,
this quiet and waiting space
in the middle
of my heart
that you, and
only you, could fill.
And even more than the day
you came into my world ..
I love you

Isn't that great? How could a daughter not love that? Thanks Mom.Well, after a great day, I must get some beauty sleep. At 34, I need all the help I can get.