Back to Birmingham

Well I am back; I got back almost two weeks ago now, sorry it's been a while since I last updated!

The last two weeks of X-Track got crazy, there was a lot to be done and wrapped up before I flew out of Colorado to attend my friends Seth and Betsy's wedding (right) just outside Akron, Ohio leaving Lauren in Fort Collins to enjoy the US Staff Conference. From there I flew back to England the following day, in hindsight that was probably a little more travel in the space of two days than I bargained for!

I really enjoyed my classes this summer and feel so much better prepared to head to Italy in January. Some of the things I learnt this summer will have a massive impact on how I do ministry there not least the stuff about missiological dilemmas. Another thing that will really stick with me is the community I have been a part of this summer. It's so significant to know that I now have 60 or so friends heading overseas just as I am, people I'll always have a connection with and get chance to spend time with all over the world. I ended my time there with a goodbye party, a cookout in the canyon at Gateway Natural Area up in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. It's a truly beautiful place and a group of about 20 of us had a great time eating, fishing and enjoying nature! My personal favourite aspect was "Herman's Honey BBQ Chicken" which was incredible, watching him cook it was as much a part of the experience as eating it!

Since I've been back I have been getting acclimatised once again and working through all the emails and messages I've missed in the seven weeks I was away. Things are coming on well for the staff conference which starts August 18th and I've seen some excellent progress on Fireseeds too! I've also been busy putting together a newsletter which will hopefully get finished and mailed sometime this week!

Life doesn't slow down but I'm so thankful for all that God is doing! Thanks for all your support and prayers!