365 Random Days of Team Zybko

Day # 42

05//11/11

BLOWN AWAY BY BELIZE

Cross your T's and dot your I's. Yep, that's what they say you should do. Working on it my friend, working on it. Sponsor letters have been sent. I've blogged about Delaney's Mission trip spirit to raise funds to get to Belize. Posted on Face Book where and when the next snack sale will be. As a family we have casually spoken about the upcoming trip to whomever inquires.

Every afternoon the trip across the street is an adventure. The twelve or so steps to the mailbox is exciting. The kids race me there. What will be waiting when they tug on the generic white metal box. I encourage the kids to chill out but the truth is I'm just as pumped up as they are. The generosity and loving spirit surrounding this trip has completely knocked my socks off!

Several friends stopped by the park one Friday afternoon to support Delaney's first snack sale. Re-arranging daily activities to show support. One chica who doesn't even have kids of her own used her lunch break to drive across town. I don't think she was really craving a strawberry-kiwi Capri Sun, do you?

A crazy busy Momma of three brought her little ones in tow. She makes a donation and politely lingers to talk about the trip. Not skipping a beat, not worrying that this was happening I'm sure smack dab in the the middle of babies nap time. After reading the story and blog post earlier, she is moved to give more. Her second donation arrives a few days later via snail mail.

One of my favorite homeschooling Mommas drops by with a smile and a hug. She recently picked up a temporary job to fund to her next Mission trip. Not an easy schedule yet she lovingly donates big. What I thought was way to much, I force Delaney to give some back.

What do I say to her Mom?

Tell her it's a donation for her trip she is saving for.

She refuses to accept any money back. We exchange words, for a while. She gets kinda seriously as we lock eyes and leans toward me.

No, really Victoria It's part of my tithing.

WOW! I am blown away. It shuts me up.

Where are these people coming from? I'm truly amazed how GOD is working out all the financial wrinkles, smoothing them right out like an extra hot iron.Random amounts, random people. Out of the blue, from people I would never expect or thought could give. Even better in my heart are the wonderful handwritten notes of encouragement. This kinda extra special-ness takes time. Something we all never seem to have enough of.

Delaney, I read on your Mom's blog about the missions trip to Belize. I think that is an amazing thing for you to do! What a cool experience! Our entire Bunch will be praying for all of you while you are gone. I can't wait to hear how God is going to use you! Enclosed is a little something to help with your trip however you and your Mom see fit. let your light shine!

Love in Him

Dear Delaney,

I was so happy to receive your sweet letter. What a wonderful thing you want to do! To want to go and teach others about our Lord and Savior. What a beautiful message to share and what Christ and God want, for us to serve. It sounds awesome! I will be praying for you. Much love sweet girl.

Delaney,

Maybe you can raise money by singing and dancing......or maybe not :)

Good luck, and remember part of the fun is IN the journey of raising the money and touching peoples lives. Can I get an AMEN?!

Others sent beautiful hand picked Hallmark cards.

You are a great example for all of us. Have a safe trip to Belize.

Isaiah 58:11

The Lord will guide you continually, and satisfy you with all good things.

The little things you do....

the sacrifices you make....

may not always be noticed by others-

but GOD sees every one

of them and smiles.

Delaney,

Your note was wonderful surprise for me to find in my mailbox. You are learning so many important lessons as you are growing up. God certainly must be smiling down at you as you work so hard to take a trip to serve others. Your cheerful ways will brighten the lives of so many children. May God continue to touch you in many wonderful ways so that you can go forth and serve others. Sending you my love and prayers.

Those that can't give monetarily have offered to be a part of the Pray Support Team. College students with baby sitting experience encourage me to call when I need some help with kiddies, free of charge. I'm not really concerned about the yard while we are away but some of our green thumb friends are.

Oh no problem Victoria, I can scoot on over with my truck and equipment. It can be my way of helping.

WOW, again!

It really does take a village. I know this, feel it and live this everyday while raising a troop of kids.

BUT

Growing up we heard this saying more than a couple times.

LOVE MANY, TRUST FEW
ALWAYS PADDLE YOUR OWN CANOE
It's sure seems much easier to give ,than to graciously receive. Even after you have asked.

The owner of FUNDAYGO here in Florence has offered to help. We talked briefly on the phone. Her super smiley I love the Lord voice was cheerful and motivating. She was excited to hear about the trip and Delaney's plans to share the Good News of the Gospel. I have an idea, you could hold a fundraiser here, after we close one Saturday night!

WHAT?

There goes another pair of socks!
If you you aren't doing anything this Saturday May, 14Th come play around on some really cool huge jumpy things.

6:30-8:00 only $5 admission

If you have had your spiritual socks blown off recently, grab another pair. You need them to play. Just saying.