so much (words to picture)

The last two weeks have been so interesting, impactful, and exciting, but I unfortunately have about ZERO pictures to post about it. Mostly because I wasn't allowed to bring my camera to the last two weekend events. So here is a word recap.

First of all, not only was I accepted as a team leader to Thailand, I now have a co-leader, potential team members, and an approved trip. There are 6 groups going out this winter, and two leaders (guy and girl) for each trip. Last weekend we went on an initiation sort of retreat to Wats. The area is known for it's poverty and mostly violence. We stayed at a church where we spent the evenings in service and worship with the congregation (including a Spanish prayer vigil), and the day on Saturday serving the pastor by helping renovate and clean up the park area and after-school program building. The pastor was SOO awesome. What a model of a real pastor, sheparding and serving his people! He worked right along side of us, and when he wasn't it was because he was with the kids encouraging and teaching them. There was so much that happened that weekend, but basically I saw the hope being spread by an amazing church in a trial filled area, and bonded in an amazing group of student leaders.

This weekend I went with a class to Skid Row for urban research. Also a crazy experience. Among other things we panhandled, ate with guests (what the missions call the homeless that come in) at the LA Rescue Mission, got coffee at a 5 star hotel (in sweats), and slept at the Mission on Skid Row. We also took a tour of the Union Mission on Skid Row. It was amazing to see all that they are doing.

From East LA I took the Metro to North Hollywood and walked, blanket and backpack in hand, to West Hollywood where I met up with Shannon to find out how I will be helping out with a photographer editing photos. A job!

So, pretty much. Crazy. That's just some of the major things, too.

Learning is good. I recommend it.