My Team

I am sitting in the DP (The Dana Porter Library for you who are not familiar with the Waterloo campus) today thinking of doing research for my papers but instead catching up on e-mails, to-do lists, news, Kinshasa weather and apparently writing this blog. Anyway, I have come to the realization that I have not introduced my team members! I'm not just going to the Congo alone, oh no, my parents may have had a fit, I'm going with a wonderful team! So I thought I should introduce you to them before we head out on this wonderful adventure and I forget that you have no idea who I'm talking about!

Most of us know each other from church, but for some of us this trip has given us the first opportunity to meet each other! I will go in alphabetical order!

Amanda: she is lollipop provider and immunization trip planner extraordinaire, she has an incredible sense of humour, and will be our saving grace in any situation that we need to plan, organize or look ahead! She dives wholeheartedly into any situation with a smile and lots of love. I know I have so much more to learn and I'm looking forward to it!

Aurora: She is our french friend, loving and kind and full of laughter. She has come over from France to co-lead our trip to the Congo! My roommate Joanna and I get the lovely chance to chat with her over dinner every Wednesday and laughter always ensues. She has a big heart and an understanding character. It will be a blessing to have her with us on the trip.

Emily: She is gentle, and quiet but full of life and spunk (I have not used that word in ages!). She has a huge heart for people, and shines God's love! Her gentleness and patience will keep us all calm and in line at times I'm sure! Her laugh can also fill up a room, I love having it fill our apartment every Wednesday at bible study!

Jacob: He is full of ideas, supportive and pretty much willing to help in every situation! I love his ability to make people laugh, and to encourage people as well. I look at this trip as an opportunity to get to know him better as well!

Josh: He has a calm and easy-going nature! His stories made us cringe and laugh in the doctors office! His ability to keep conversation going and make people feel comfortable is going to be a huge blessing while we're constantly in new and potentially uncomfortable situations.

Rob: His patience, understanding and caring nature are going to be well appreciated! His sense of humour will also be able to bring light to heavy situations. I know that his ability to listen and make people feel as though valuable will transcend across any culture or language barriers that may arise.

I am so excited for the chance that this trip will give me to get to know each one of these people better! I also know that we will have a lot of laughs, because this team has a great sense of humour! Hopefully these little descriptions will help you feel a little bit more connected to us as we head off!