Goulash.

Our westward venture has officially begun. We just crossed the Missouri stateline and have spent most of the day driving.This time, of course, has left lots of time for thinking and worrying. My mind is Goulash. Goulash was a dinner dish Josh's mom made often that contained whatever was available in the fridge. This image came to mind as I thought about how I am feeling right now. I am a mixed pot of excited, nervous, happy, sad, scared, curious, and eager. And I have a feeling that the mix of these emotions will change around lots in the next couple weeks.

This past weekend of packing and final goodbyes was exhausting yet so sweet. At least 25 people stopped by to help load, clean and whatever else we needed on Saturday. What an incredible picture of servanthood and friendship that we will carry with us to our next place of ministry, and hopefully model for others.

This past month, there have been many times we have thought, "Is this a good idea?" And now, here we are, on January 21, 2013, moving forward literally and figuratively in faith; we are eager to see what God has next. In the midst of our shaken confidences and uncertainty, we know our God is with us, each mile in this journey.

Even though the sign we own that displays Joshua 1:9 is on the moving truck that is traveling seperate from us, the truth of this verse is closer to us than our seatbelts!

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”