"Now Boarding..."

We're here! First step on the way to Rome... Houston! And things have moved along swimmingly! I'm in!

An then on for a quick American bite to eat with friends... And the plane is now in sight!

A few waiting for boarding at the gate are speaking Dutch... The first leg is to Amsterdam after all! As we wait to board, lanyards in tote and checked in, and cleared through security, I wonder what others are preparing for and praying for our other Rome pilgrims. We continue to say... "This is really happening!" ...And, indeed, it is. What a gift it has been thus far...

There are things to do and to plan for, but now we're boarding, and soon enough a nap to come to get ready for the 7 hour time jump! Arrivederci!

Remembering and Forgetting

So we're off! However, what would a trip be without a few hiccups? Planning went wonderful, but how is the oft-repeated line? "If want God to laugh, tell God your plans."

Well, packing wasn't as productive as I would have hoped, but it did get done. All the assortment of things to bring were remembered. I didn't feel pressured though behind schedule after being exhausted last night. Even when I missed the first ground shuttle in the morning and the second would arrive too late, why worry? I can't control the past and what is set ahead is set. Luckily some fellow travelers and friends had an open seat! Deo gratias!

Stress is less about control and more about understanding what can be control and leaving the little things to the One Who Is. En route and with friends! God provides!