zack and i went to the doctor’s tuesday morning to get our shots for our upcoming trip to Tanzania. that’s in Africa, which i learned of recently ;D i have been so nervous about the appointment because we thought it would be about $1,400 total for the shots — OUT OF POCKET — which makes me wanna pass out! but being the awesome husband zack is, while i was at snap! last week he made some calls and found a clinic that will accept our insurance. seriously, praise the lord!
so off to the doctor we went. the nurse chatted with us ~ she scribbled notes as we answered her questions. she left for a few minutes, then came back into the room with a TRAY of shots ~ 12 shots. that’s six shots, each. yikers! i volunteered to get stabbed first, but after the first two my arm was throbbing. four more to go, i told myself.
i started laughing.
zack was probably a little embarrassed, but oh well, ha ha! so three shots in each arm. i dropped zack off at work and headed home, then little by little i felt more + more worse. at first i was really tired, then achy, then nauseous, then hot. not to mention cramping from other womanly events. i was done; i didn’t think i could feel any worse, but surprisingly i kept feeling worse.
the entire time i tried to remind myself, “it’s not about ME. it’s about THE KIDS. it doesn’t matter that this hurts, this is short-term pain. going to Tanzania will be a long-term blessing. for everyone.”
but, i’m feeling nervous. i’m worried about not being able to sleep on our flights. we leave from detroit [A] and fly into amsterdam [B], then into kilimanjaro [C]. go ahead and look at the map.
i’ve spent these last few days feeling so restless, it’s unreal. yesterday i woke up and felt like i had the flu mixed with throbbing shoulders and cramping that was literally taking my breathe away. if you could take a moment to pray for me that would be really wonderful :) i’ve been spending a lot of time this week thinking about my purpose in this life… i’m sure it’s just the devil trying to challenge me, but it’s a little draining. i find myself wondering, what are my talents? what do i want from this life? how can i be more content?
do you ever have thoughts like that?
so tanzania is happening in 10 days.
i can SO do this.
if you’ve ever traveled to another country — or even halfway around the world — and you have any tips, PLEASE leave a comment below! i would seriously love to hear from you + learn a few! XOXO
Have a safe & wonderful trip Gussy :) There is no way I could of got 6 shots at once, I am scared the needles…lol! Is your Allora necklace gray?
yes yes ;D gray! xoxoxo
6 shots! Ouch!! :( I’ll be praying for you Gussy!
thank you cassie!!!! oh that means so much :)
Ouch is right! The shots and the travelling are the worst things. Not that I know from personal experience, but my daughter served three weeks in Botswana with Global Expeditions the summer of her senior year in high school.
What we learned from her experience? Drink plenty of water on the flights, get up and walk around. My daughter is rail thin, but her feet swelled up like an elephant’s when she was on a 20-plus-hour flight and then a long bus trip to get to the mission area. (They flew into South Africa and rode a bus to Botswana.) It’s so important to drink that water and walk around when you can. I’ll ask her if she has any other advice for you. So exciting!
Oh, and I meant to say that’s the cutest picture of you and your man. ;)
yay! thanks for the tips, renee! ♥ i’ll have to make a list of what i learn…
I spent 23 days in Tanzania in 2006, just outside Arusha. The flights were long, but people were so nice and we just made sure to get up and walk around, and learn about the stories of the passengers around us. That helps the time pass. And do make sure you look out over the ocean, because it’s spectacular!
The people of Tanzania are amazing, but will definitely talk about you in Swahili :) they called me “white girl with a hole in her face” because of my dimples, so I suspect you’ll be given a similar label!
Enjoy your trip, and be blessed!
LOL — oh my that’s hilarious! i can’t wait to report back on the nickname they give me. i hope it’s as good as yours!!!!
you look so darn cute there, bandaids and all!
i think you’re right – the devil doesn’t like it one bit that you guys are going! said a quick prayer for you. :) i can’t wait to hear more about your trip when you get back!
You poor thing! I will definitely be lifting you & Zack up in prayer for the next few weeks. I’m so sorry you’re not feeling well but you’re right, its all for a great cause & an amazing, life changing you’ll be experiencing soon! As to your other “wonderings” have you ever read the book The Search for Significance by Robert McGee? My hubby was struggling with some of those same answers & started reading that book & he loved it so much & its changing his outlook so much that I decided to start reading it too! I just started it but Its amazing & really helps you look more solely on what your walk with God should be & everything else that lines up after that. You should check it out! :-) Blessings to you my friend!
thanks friend. i’ll have to borrow that one from the library ♥
I spent 12 days in the Amazon jungle in Peru, South America. I came back a different person, more appreciative of the little things, the simple things. I think especially if you go to a third world country you will see life in a totally new perspecitve. Be safe friend and soak in every moment! Email me if you have any other questions.
Hey Maggie!
I’m so thrilled for you to go to Tanzania! It IS going to be amazing. Of course the Devil is trying to get at you because God is already working through you and He’s going to continue to work through you to bring aid and awareness to orphans which is his very heartbeat. It’s thrilling that you and Zack get to travel together and share this life-changing experience.
I’ve done the Detroit to Amsterdam leg before (and then traveled on to Romania) so my experience isn’t extensive, but here are a couple of practical tips.
1) extra underwear. If the food doesn’t agree with you, you’ll be super happy you have extra. (Not that I’d know from personal experience or anything like that. Ahem.) (That was probably an overshare, but shoot, it’s the truth.
2) If there is some sort of hard candy or something like that that you really like or that settles your stomach, it can be super helpful to have some on hand. I carry ginger chews with me in case I have any upset stomach issues or just need some freshness.
I’m sure there’s more, but none come to mind, lol.
Have an amazing trip and I can’t wait to read your posts. We’ll be praying for you.
YOU are so precious!
This is a little bit weird – I just finished blogging about my sisters upcoming trip to Africa http://ellaryeboutique.blogspot.com/2012/04/most-gorgeous-woman.html
And I come here and read this!! I would feel just like you, a little bit jittery and excited/nervous! I’ve done missions work in a rural part of Canada, Mexico and Honduras, and trust me, once you are there, all of the anxious nerves fly away with one smile of a precious, loving, thankful child!
I cannot wait, seriously, cannot wait to hear about your trip, friend!!
Dramamine is a beautiful thing. Last time i took it, I was out cold before the plane even took off. So excited for you on this trip. And yes, while it is “for the KIDS” its also going to change you, rock your socks off, and leave you different. P-U-M-P-PUMPED!
so excited for you— we support a little boy (who is now a teenager!!!) in tanzania through compassion. he was “our first child” before our own kids were born and before we added another child to our “compassion family”. will be praying for you!!! xo
Hi Maggie! I traveled to Africa for 2 months a couple of years ago with YWAM and while it was probably one of the hardest experiences of my life it was also the most rewarding and life changing. When things got rough for me while overseas I reminded myself that God had placed me there for that season and if He brought me there he was surely strong enough to carry me through my time there. God has a plan for you and Zack, I’m sure of it, and just know that there is nothing better in this world than what God has in store for you.
oh, the tears. thank you for your comment — this is just precious to me.
A couple of years ago I decided it was finally time to visit Japan. I had traveled overseas a couple of times before this but always with friends or family. This time I would be traveling alone. This was pretty scary for me since I was/am not the biggest fan of flying and I like to feel grounded. In preparation for the long travels and flights I brought along a little notebook to write down my thoughts should they try and overtake me, I filled my music players with music that could excite me but also music that could calm me down and keep me distracted. I did bring along some dramamine to help me feel tired and a little relaxed, not really for sleep, because like you I can’t sleep on planes. I’ve come to accept this. What I love about international flights are the little tv’s they put on the back of all the seats. This way I can watch movie after movie while everyone else is sleeping. This really helps to distract me. This may seem silly too but I get really excited about the food service. This is not because the food is good, it’s not, but it gives me something to focus on or look forward to on a long ride with little to no sleep. The sort of nice thing about being sleep deprived when I arrived in a foreign place was that sleep came a little easier once I landed. It helped to know I would be visiting with friends when I arrived in Japan but I did all the traveling between friends alone, this included trains and ferries. It was unsettling at times and I would wonder why this was something I had wanted to do. I think it’s nice to have these experiences to test ourselves and see what we can accomplish. I’m hoping some of these things will be easier for you since you won’t be traveling alone and you have a greater purpose there than just vacationing. I will be keeping you in my thoughts and I can’t wait to hear of your travels.
I flew to Israel for two weeks all the way back in 2000 (so pretty much any of my airport tips are not going to be accurate), those long flights are killer. I went from Portland, Oregon to Chicago, Illinois to Frankfurt, Germany and then landed in Tel Aviv. Oh my.
Be sure to move around on the plane at least a little every once in a while. I always bring eye drops when I fly because that recycled air on planes hates me. I recommend Refresh Optive. Please no Clear Eyes that stuff is terrible for you. I work at an eye clinic so I suppose that makes me qualified to say that? ;)
And I recommend carrying your toothbrush/toothpaste/deoderant and a change of underwear with you at all times. On the way home our flight out of Chicago got cancelled and our luggage was on some other plane and we had NOTHING. Awful.
Have fun and be brave and blessed. :)
you’re the second person to suggest an extra pair of undies, so CHECK! i’ve made a mental note ;)
Every time I go to Peru, I overestimate how well my body will adjust to the food (my father’s family is from there) and water and I lose valuable time sulking about tummy aches. Pack medicine from the US. They’ll always have medicine abroad but it’s never the same. I feel like it makes me better a lot faster.
Really admire you for going on your trip! I’d love to see Zanzibar one day!
Hi Maggie! How exciting about your upcoming trip! I know it can be nerve wracking right before you leave. I spent a summer in China in college and then lived there for a year after graduation so I’ve done a few loooong flights. My saving grace? A neck pillow! Seriously, it sounds so simple but it made sleeping on the plane MUCH more doable. I was also pleasantly surprised my first time that those international flights are huuuge plans and seem to be way more comfortable than a flight to Florida – so hopefully you’ll have a similar experience.
Bring some Cliff bars or some sort of small hearty snack that will fill you up when the airplane or local food seems it won’t go down too well. Like Kristina was saying, upset stomach is probably the worst “normal” part about traveling to a new country and culture. So bring some tums, peppermints, pepto…whatever you like to settle your stomach and the whole experience will be much more enjoyable.
And, I’m not sure what your conditions will be like, but pack some hand sanitizer to keep in your purse. When I was overseas, there wasn’t always an opportunity to wash my hands, so sometimes hand sanitizer before a meal was the best I could do!
Finally, ENJOY! How often do you do this type of thing?! It is going to fly by and you are going to look back on it and miss it. Trust me. And take comfort in your husband. What a sweet blessing that you both get to go on this adventure together! Praying that the Lord blesses you both and uses you in mighty ways!
I just wanted to tell you I’m praying for you and you’re such an inspiration to me! I’ve never traveled out of the country period. I think you’re brave and amazing and awesome. I’ll be thinking of you!
I second the ginger chews – they are great to settle your stomach on long flights!
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” 2 Cor 12:9-10
I am praying for you and that your nerves would be calmed by remembering Who is in control of all that will happen. I have been overseas a couple times and it can be nerve-wracking-the unknown is always like that for me. I can also tell you that those times overseas have been some of the best times of my life so far. Some of the best advice I can give you are these things 1. Read God’s word-it will help! 2. Pray 3. Take pictures 4. Write about your experience-sometimes it seems as though you could never forget this one thing or that-but over time the memories/emotions fade 4. Pray some more.. :)
Enjoy your time!
I was having one of those days just 2 days ago. My wonderful man keeps reminding me that my talent is to raise our beautiful little girl. Everything else is just icing! You are doing such wonderful and unselfish things in your life don’t let those negative thoughts get in the way!
I’ll be thinking of you in the coming days as y’all get ready for your trip!! :) Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly and y’all have a wonderful trip! :)
One good thing about long overseas flights is there are always snacks. :) On our flight to London, and then on our flight home from Brussels, I think they came by 100 times to see if we were hungry or thirsty! LOL :) So that helped with my stomach. My equilibrium always gets thrown off whenever I’m on a flight that’s about to land, it’s the descending part and changing altitudes that gets me everytime. I found these little pills at Target that are like a chewable dramamine, not as strong as regular dramamine though, so they don’t make you sleepy, but strong enough to keep your stomach calm! I always take 2 when we arrive at the airport, and I’m good to go! :) Hope this helps!!
I went to Mali, in west Africa a while ago…but I suggest…drinking lots of water even before the flight and during the flight and getting up often. You can look up stretch moves to do on the plane (sort of like what people would do at there office) Those are great to do as well.
Once there I recommend getting on their time zone soon. you might be tired and you will probably want to take a nap…but get on their time zone. Drink plenty of water after you are there…(as long as it’s the good kind) try new things, write down all the experiences, take pictures, enjoy the time…
and the shots are for your benefit! :)
I am very afraid to fly and do not sleep well on planes at all! When we flew to Ethiopia these things were super helpful: 1. a good neck pillow! (you know, the half circle ones) 2. melatonin (totally helped me get some rest) 3. a fleece blanket (those planes get cold)
Bring your Bible to read during take off and landing if you’re terrified like me…a book, some magazines, and pictures WHY you’re doing what you’re doing. I took pictures of our son who we were going to meet for the first time and any time I felt sick or scared on the flights I would flip through them, look at his sweet face, and remind myself that I would put myself through much more for him and it was ALL worth it! :)
You’ll do great and you will have an awesome experience!
You will have a AWESOME time! I went to Ghana 3 years ago to work in a medical hospital for 10 days, and it really inspired and directed me with my nursing career I have today. Try to get a MD to give you some Ambien for the plane ride and for sleeping there. Trust me, it will make a huge difference!
we got a RX for Ambien, but after reading everyone’s suggestions to get up and stretch i’m wondering if it’s OK to be asleep most of the flight? our doctor said it would knock us out. i don’t want swollen ankles — any advice?? :)
Yes, it will knock you out, but only 4-6 hours. I have never had a problem taking it and having swollen ankles. I think you would be fine, if you have never taken it before. Maybe do a test run before you leave and see how you react to it? Even if you don’t take it one the plane, having it available once you get there will be helpful to adjusting to the time difference and a new weird environment. When I went to Ghana the weird birds, squirrels, and heat kept me up all night for several nights in a row, and I actually got sick one afternoon from exhaustion. I learned then that having a good sleep aid was a necessity. Especially when you are only there for a short time and want to really experience every minute that you can. Keep the questions coming! I’m an RN and love to travel, so I actually love answering questions!
Hey Maggie,
It’s Megan from bible study…just read your blog today and it’s so lovely! I just thought I’d tell you a few things that we were really glad to have when we were in Haiti last month..unfortunately we both got sick so it was nice to have what we needed – Hopefully you won’t, but in case it’s nice to prepared!
– Cliff bars and other snacks like pretzels or something more bland you don’t mind munching on if you have an upset stomach
– Your travel clinic should be able to write you a prescription for an antibiotic to bring along in case you get sick – we both ended up using ours!
– Immodium/tums/pepto
– Lots of water – staying hydrated was key!
– Hand sanitizer! – Kids will be touching you all the time, which is great, but good to have in case any flu germs are getting passed around.
– Something for bug bites – not sure how the mosquitos are in tanzania, but in haiti I didn’t even realize I was getting bit but ended up having quite a few bites and it was nice to have something for the itching – A lady on our trip had essential oils and those were great!
Those are the big things that we were glad to have and that we used a lot while there – Can’t wait for you to go! – I felt the same way, excited but anxious – I’m sure you’re just ready for it to be here! It will before you know it and then it flies by! Soak it up!
Maggie- You are going to have a FABulous time in Tanzania! Blessings to you and Zach as you embark on a life-changing trip! God will do great things through you! I’ll be holding you both up in prayer.
Having traveled aboard a number of times, a couple of key things for me are:
• Select a Bible verse for your trip and refer to it throughout the traveling part, meditating on it to calm you and bring your focus back to why you are doing this.
• On the longest leg(s) of your flight, after you have eaten take Tylenol PM and sleep while you can so your body can adjust to the time difference. Also, be sure to get up on a regular basis and walk the length of the plane a time or two. This keeps you from getting cramped.
• Drink lots of water while traveling- your body will thank you.
• When in doubt, just pray! It always helps!
Blessings to you and I look forward to reading your blog for all the glorious details of this trip!
• Load a few audio books on your iPod/iPad in case reading on the plane doesn’t agree with you.
Hi Miss Maggie!
I am so excited for you. I saw your post on FB yesterday and was going to post but I forgot, so I’ll leave a comment for you here.
You are going to have such an amazing time. It’s a lot to think about, and packing can be crazy, but you will have everything you need and then some. If traveling overseas has taught me anything, it’s that you really don’t need all that much to do what you need to do. I think about those questions you were posing about your purpose all the time – it’s normal, especially when you are on the brink of something new and different. It’s important to know the gifts that God has given you and how you can share them with the world, and I think this is just one of many opportunities you have to do that :). I find my greatest peace when I rest in who God has made me and trust Him that He truly will make my paths straight. Hopefully you’re feeling better by now from the shots…I remember that too. You’re body is like, “Excuse me, do you know what you just put in here?!”
Long flights – they can be hard. No way around it. Sometimes I can sleep and sometimes I can’t, but it is so worth it. The planes mostly all have personal tvs with movies now and you can choose the movies you want to watch – this really helps pass the time. And, like others have said, they feed you something every few hours and that keeps you occupied too. Amsterdam is a huge and fun airport – it’s been a long time since I’ve been there, but I remember them having a bunch of shops and things.
Make sure you know what your international plan/rates are on your phone if you’re bringing it with you. I know sometimes the people I’ve traveled with have gotten caught because if they turn the phone on and voicemails start to download overseas then they got hit with a big bill.
Other practical stuff….wet wipes, I’ve never been so thankful for wet wipes as I was overseas. Also, I always bring a lot of snacks. It’s just been good for me – my favorites are trail mix, granola bars, something sweet – they don’t eat as much sugar in Africa as we do and I liked having snacks around in the evening.
If there is anything you’d like to borrow so you don’t have to buy it please let me know. I have backpacks, those quick-dry travel towels, packing cubes, a good sleeping bag, luggage locks/keys, and all kinds of other stuff. I can UPS it to you if you need anything :). Just give me a call or email.
Love you! Have a wonderful time :).
My only advice is to take turns sleeping. When HB and I went to Spain we both had a very difficult time getting comfortable in our chairs so we took turns leaning on each other and catching a few Zzzs. HB faired a bit better than me (he’s a naturally heavy sleeper and falls asleep quickly).
I was told to take melatonin and didn’t – boy that was a mistake! It’s not a sleeping pill so you won’t feel groggy, but you should start taking it before you leave. It works like a vitamin so you want to have it in your system for a bit. :D
Stress spray. It’s not just for airplanes you know! I have had many occasion to use it at home too :) Praying.
I am so so so rooting for you! (And praying daily!) xoxo
wow all those shots just thinking of it makes me weak and feel for you. Ill be praying for your journey.
I love all of the pictures of you and your hubs on Instagram. They are just adorable.
Also, I have traveled to Europe a few times and this is what I learned. Pack clothes you ca throw away (if possible). This leaves room for souvineer (you may pick up some sweet African fabric, after all). The easiest things to wear and then toss are older undies, socks, and maybe t-shirts. Not sure what the dress code is.
I also pack a few granola or energy bars. And tums. Different food sometimes upsets my stomach, so it was good to have a couple of clif bars in my bag for backup. Pack any meds, contacts + case, and an extra change of clothes in your carry on. That way if anything happens, you can make it a day or two without your bag.
Have a blast, I’m so excited to hear about how the Lord uses you there!
it defintely sounds like the enemy is trying to attack you as you prepare for this trip where you will be a vessel of God’s love. he SO does not want you to go… or at least wants you to feel terribly uneasy about it. i’ll be praying for victory for you!!
Yay for you! My husband has traveled to Ukraine 6 or 7 times to lead groups on mission trips (he’s a youth pastor) and swears by taking a Tylenol PM before they pass out dinner. You’ll eat dinner and give the Tylenol PM some time to work. Then (hopefully) you’ll snooze the flight away! :)
Another bonus of international flights are the TVs/movies…on the trip that I took to Ukraine several years ago, I watched everything they had to offer. It was a great way for me to pass the time on the flight! Ha!
Good luck on your trip! Blessings to you and your husband!
I second (third, fourth, etc.) the water thing. I always take a few nalgenes with me on plane trips and refill often. When I was in Fiji (where we couldn’t drink the water, or weren’t supposed to….I did and was fine!) that was a lifesaver before we found a place to buy bottled water and if we found a tap with potable water.
Bring a bunch of bandanas and extra feminine products. Bandanas because they do all kinds of things (sweat band, place mats for picnics on the ground, hair covering for whatever reason) and feminine products (even if you THINK you won’t need them) b/c if you’re anything like me, planes induce that time of the month. Seriously, I think I’ve started on a plane 5 or 6 times, and international travel ALWAYS throws off my schedule.
Aside from those, soak up the experience! My travels are some of my most cherished memories.
Oh Gussy, I hope you’re feeling better already. Isn’t it good to be able to call on your “Gussy” friends for prayer?
Monday, my 13 year old friend and her 27 year old sister will be jumping on a jet plane in Chicago. They’re traveling to see their sister who has been serving in Uganda as a librarian there for 1.5 years for a mission. That’s quite a trip for two young women by themselves.. Your trip is quite exciting as well. I’d be having butterflies if I were you too. Will keep you in my prayers, girlie! And looking forward to hearing all the wonderful things God is doing.
When I was a teenager I went to Kenya for 40 days with my Mom and sister. It was hard, but amazing! You’re going to do great. Remember HE is with you!
I’ve been reading your blog for a while, but this is the first time I’m commenting. I just wanted to say that I said a prayer for your health and peace of mind. Blessings to you as you travel, and may God bless you and use your willingness to be his hands and feet!! :)
I spent a semester in Egypt and traveling through the Middle East, and to throw my two cents into the ring, here’s my advice –
1. Definitely drink as much water as you can. However, try to drink a ton in the evening when you are near a bathroom, and drink less during the day when you are out and about. If sub-Saharan African is anything like Saharan Africa, bathrooms will be scarce and you might end up going in a ditch on the side of the road. Drinking less water during the daytime and staying hydrated at night will eliminate some of your daytime bathroom needs.
2. With the no-toilets thing in mind, carry a packet of tissues or simply a roll of toilet paper with you wherever you go. You might need it if you have to go unexpectedly (I had to pee in the Sahara desert behind a rock, just saying), and it comes in handy for lots of other stuff – wiping noses, wiping hands, wiping unmentionable stuff from your shoes if need be. Also, yes, carry hand sanitizer for all those reasons.
3. If you’re going to be experiencing that time of the month, you might want to consider buying a Diva Cup or other cup device (divacup.com). It might sound really yucky at first, but my Diva Cup was a lifesaver when I stayed a week with a poor family with dubious plumbing and no trash can in sight. I seriously don’t know what I would have done if I had been using disposable feminine items instead of using my empty-wash-and-reuse Diva Cup. I know it’s not for everyone, but I was glad I had decided to give it a try. BUT, you really need to get used to it before you go! So if you don’t have time, just keep it in my mind for your next trip. ;)
4. This is less practical advice and more philosophical, but God used my trip to these impoverished countries to change me in so many ways, so I thought I would pass this on. This is my two cents: Don’t feel like a failure if you don’t feel like you “did” the trip correctly. It’s okay to be overwhelmed. It’s okay to feel like you don’t like the people you meet. It’s okay to be glad to go back to your more affluent life in the USA. When I stayed for a week with my poor host family and their faulty plumbing, I was desperate to get back to my normal lodgings. I hated that week. It was good for me, but I hated it. I did my utmost to be a gracious guest, but that week living in their impoverished neighborhood was the hardest for me. I finally came to terms with my reaction and basically forgave myself for having had a hard time. It’s okay. I needed to be open to what God was teaching me, I needed to be gracious to my hosts and to show them love, but I didn’t need to LIKE it. I didn’t need to “do” it perfectly. I just needed to show up and let God use me.
Well, sorry that was long. :) I will pray for you! Even though my semester in the Middle East was hard, I have THE BEST memories ever. It was profound and wonderful to live and travel in those countries, despite the poverty and lack of Western conveniences I’m used to! May God bless your trip, may you be his hands and feet, and may the trip be a blessing to you as well!
So excited for you. We just returned from Botswana where we served for 8 years. My heart is still hurting, but Africa will always be a part of our lives! I think everyone has already given great tips. Really, the flight is horribly long and you’ll be tired and ready to never see an airplane again, but once you see those precious faces…..it will all be worth it. My advice is to just take it in. Africa has a way of tingling all of your senses. Allow yourself to soak in what she will show you, teach you, and change you! Feel deeply, love deeply and she’ll do the same in return through her precious people. Have an amazing time. I can’t wait to follow your journey! :) Hugs….Sarah :)
Southern Gal…..who was your daughter? I served as a missionary with Love Botswana for 8 years and went on Teen Mania trips with them to Botswana prior to moving there in 2004. Amazing place….will always have my heart. Thanks for letting her come and experience such an amazing place! :)
Yay! I’m not sure what kind of conditions you are staying in but my staple items for my work in Ethiopia, Brazil, and Ecuador have been EAR PLUGS EAR PLUGS EARPLUGS, a flash light (preferably a head light if you find yourself wandering to the bathroom at night its hard to do your business and hold a flash light :), a money belt since you’ll likely be carrying all of your money in cash, cards (uno is a favorite) to entertain yourself and the people you meet without having to speak the language, a bag of mini chocolates, and a lot of your favorite granola bars. Those are the things that make my life MUCH easier! Let me know if you have questions specific to your environment. At this point I’ve had quite the fair share of squat toilets, diarrhea, and cinderblock! Have FUN!
Hey there – so excited for you going to Tanzania! I grew up there and it is the most wonderful country :)
Advice? Expect the unexpected. Expect to not be sure what you are feeling or thinking, or at all comfortable, quite often initially! It will be overwhelming but it will be amazing and worthwhile. You can watch videos and hear stories but when you actually get there and the heat and the smell and sounds are added to what you see and understand… well, it gets intense, especially with people around you all the time. And of course that does get easier as you get used to it :)
Tell Zack that a protective husband can be a very cool thing especially when bartering in the markets. Girls do not always get as much respect as guys, sad but true. Zack’s presence can make the difference in some situations, and enable a more pleasant time for you both. It’s not a big concern – just speaking as having been there as an unmarried girl (and you do look young, honey! Plus they struggle to guess our ages!!), having a male around helped quite often :) But if you’re travelling with others as well, then that is not as much of an issue.
And of course having said that you may not encounter the few that would try to bully you! The people are generally warm and welcoming, gracious and kind. But they love to laugh and crazy “wazungu” (white people) are pretty funny!! Don’t mind giving them plenty to laugh about :)
You’ve had some other great advice on everything else so I won’t bother repeating it.
Just enjoy it and share all the details and pictures with us afterwards… Goodness but I miss it so much! To say it was a wonderful place to grow up is an understatement. God blessed me enormously when He took my family there. So go and be blessed as well :)
Maggie! You’re just so pretty.
I lived in Italy for 6 months in 2008…kind of a different experience than you are in for since I was studying abroad in college! But as far as the travel portion goes: earplugs and an inflatable travel pillow are helpful for getting comfy on the plane. I didn’t really have any problems once we took off, it was all the waiting in the airports that made me super duper anxious! Good luck!
My husband and I went to a conference last week called Freedom Immersion. We prayed a lot about the strongholds in our lives that are holding us back from being the people that God wants us to be. When we finally let go of the resentment from injustices that have happened to us and asked for forgiveness for things we have done to others, it was freeing and felt like a weight had been lifted.
It allowed the “shades” to be taken off of our eyes and get just a small glimpse of what God wants for us. So my prayer is that you and Zack have the shades taken off of your eyes so that you are able to see and learn all that God has in store for you. God wants you both there for a reason(s) and you might not fully understand those reasons for a while, but you are heeding his call. Safe travels and I’m excited to hear about your trip.
I look forward to reading about your trip to Tanzania. When I went to Peru with Compassion, I took a soft frisbee and it was such a hit with the kids. So that’s my tip – it’s simple and fun and doesn’t require a translator!
Take the ambien :) I would test it out though to make sure you don’t have a reverse affect. Melatonin is a natural sleep aid too that’s not as strong. I’ve never had trouble with my ankles swelling or anything & I’ve flown to Europe many times. Walk around for a little bit & then take the pill to sleep a while & then walk around again when you wake up. You will be lucky if you can sleep. It won’t be that bad ;) Bring ear plugs for sure, an eye mask, pillow that wraps around your neck, socks/slippers & blanket (if you don’t want to use the airlines pillow & blanket). Good luck!
Hello!
When I’ve traveled overseas I’ve worn a money belt around my waist, just inside the waist of my pants. In it I keep my passport and emergency money, so that if we were robbed, the important things are safe. I got my money belt from Rick Steves’ website – it has a plastic shield so your money stays dry even when you sweat.
Have fun!
Shannon
The aches, etc., from the shots should go away by Sunday; at least, they always do for me after about 3 days. Rest & water are seriously the best thing. For the flight – I usually end up sleeping when I fly overseas because it’s so long, but I always bring a couple good books just in case. And my iPod. Oh, and try to drink a LOT of water on the flight. You won’t realize how dehydrated you are until you get off the plane and just feel… blah…. for a couple days. To help with the jet lag, I always set my watch to my destination’s time as soon as I get on the flight and then I can try to sleep on that time zone’s schedule – it helps a little with the jet lag, since you’ve already started adjusting. Good luck, and have fun! :)
i saw this suggestion at least once, but definitely bring some wipes. the other thing i brought with me on my trip to kenya a couple years ago was peanut butter – i had the little individual tubs, so i could take one with each day, but a small jar might work, too. i was a little nervous to try meat, since the first time i was in kenya i didn’t have great luck, but this was a good way to get some protein. you’ll have an amazing, blessed experience – can’t wait to read along as you embark on this adventure!
Hi Maggie! My husband and I JUST returned from a mission trip to South Africa. I can relate to your anxious anticipation. All I can say is that it’s gonna rock your world in the most amazing and hard ways you’ve ever experienced. But, it’s so important to say “yes.” My best advice is to not allow yourself to be reserved in the love you give those kids. It was easy to feel intimidated at first, but just go for it! Love them like you’re Jesus with skin on. Many of these orphans don’t ever get a loving touch. They seemed desperate for it.
Our team leader also gave us great insight about acclimating to life back home after Africa. It was harder than I thought. Mostly because it’s so far from ordinary, that it almost felt like it didn’t happen. You come back to life as you knew it, but you’re not the same. Our trip leader reminded us that God sends us there to send us back. It’s His plan for you to come home and you have to decide what you’re going to do with this gift and insight you’ve been given.
My biggest takeaway was simply having my eyes opened to what sponsorship means to those kids. If you’re interested to read my takeaways, I’ve written a few posts on my blog.
I know we’re perfect strangers, but I’m excited for you and VERY excited you get to take this trip with your man. It was life-changing for us and has really helped us catch a fresh vision for our marriage and family.
Sending up a prayer as I post my comment :)
hi jenni — oh thank you so so so deeply much for your comment :) it is going to be an eye-opener, there’s no doubt about it. and the kids, i can’t wait to hug them and spend the week together. — wrapping your prayers around me — thank you — xoxo
Hi, Luvvv your map! How did you do that?
All the best on your trip~ May God bless you both!
My sixteen year old son is leaving for Bolivia {South America} in one month to minister to children whose mothers are in prison…in Bolivia children have to go to prison with their mothers. :-/ . ::deep breath:: I can SO do this…and so can you! :-) Proud of you.
My husband went to Haiti 2 years ago…one thing our Pediatrician friend told him before going was, “If you can’t peel it, don’t eat it.”
As far as sleeping, have you considered a sedative? No shame. ;-)
WHAT? they have to go with their mothers?! that is seriously crazy. i have never heard of that……….
and yes, we have 10 sedatives each. hehe ;D
This is a video from when our church went 2 years ago. http://vimeo.com/36154937 You simply must watch it. Yes, these kids have to go to prison with their mothers. They slept on concrete floors and had distended bellies from only getting 2 meals a week. The Bolivian Hope Center now offers them a home and a hope. The mothers too once released. I had no idea either. Amazing what happens in the world that we are unaware of here in our cushy American lives. Have you read Kisses From Katie?
I traveled to Liberia, West Africa, & stayed for several weeks 10 years ago when I worked for a non-profit Christian organization…so I totally get the restlessness & the whole purpose in life thing! It sounds like everything I was going to mention has been mentioned (wet wipes, rolls of toilet paper, immodium, granola bars, a money/passport wallet thing that hangs around your neck, Tylenol PM,etc.)
Wanted to ask if you got a prescription for an anti-milarial medicine…I also packed a mosquito net…the mosquitoes were a bit out of control. Oh & from my experience traveling in India, where we weren’t allowed to drink anything but a particular kind of bottled water (can’t remember if it was the same in Africa…), you have to remember not to eat salad, because the lettuce is usually rinsed in the contaminated water…
Also, the kids in Africa LOVE bubbles…absolutely LOVE bubbles, ha ha. I would share the bottles/wands with kids I met along the way & just watch their eyes light up like crazy & take pics of their happy selves. One of my favorite memories of the kiddos in Liberia & Cote d’Ivoire! So…..bring bubbles! :D
I took a journal to jot down memories & love going back & reading the entries. I kept a list in the back of local sayings, because I love regional jargon, etc.! My only regret is that I would have spent more time writing about every emotion/thought/experience while there…sometimes I was too tired to write.
All in all, I had an amazing experience & came back with such great appreciation for the little things in life we take for granted (toilet paper, running water, potable water, etc.) I know you will also have an amazing, rewarding time & it will definitely help you guys draw closer to the Lord & rely on Him!
I’ll be praying for you! Have a stellar trip!
yes — no leafy greens, only boiled water or water from a sealed bottle, we’re taking doxycycline for malaria prevention.
i want to go out and find packs + packs of bubbles to bring now. ohhhh thank you heather for this little bit of insight ♥
Agreed — bubbles were a HUGE hit in Ethiopia!!
I am so happy for you Gussy! I will add you to my prayer list. What an exciting time for you… you will be so incredibly blessed with this journey. My kids and I went to an orphanage in Jamaica a few years ago and it was a wonderful experience to share with them. Take a journal and write as much as you can there, but also when you get back as well, as memories will flood you as you try to re-enter “real-life”. God will lead you in discovering what this new adventure will mean for your life going forward… give it to Him. Memorize some special scripture to get you through while you’re there and can’t always have a bible handy. Enjoy your last hot shower and comfortable night of sleep before you go too! I still can hardly take a hot shower without thinking of those who never get that opportunity. We are truly the ones who are blessed when we get to do something like this. Those kids will write love all over your hearts. Have a wonderful God-venture!
Love them like Jesus with skin on – I love this! Wonderful story Jenni! I am going to check out your blog and read more about it! :)
And, as for you Maggie, you are going to be suck an amazing blessing and I can’t wait to hear all about your trip when you get back!:)
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I went to Ethiopia a couple months ago!! I remember having nightmares about losing my passport and not being able to sleep worrying about packing my bags correctly or forgetting my malaria medicine. But everything came together and I felt so purposeful during the trip, like God had me in my sweet spot. :) You will have a WONDERFUL time and I’ll be reading every single one of your posts. If you’d like to read my travelogue at some point {probably when you get back}, here’s the link to the Ethiopia posts. Praying for you!! http://www.housewifeintown.com/search/label/Ethiopia
Well, maybe YOU can’t do this.
But the good news is that GOD CAN. You don’t have to rely on you own physical, mental, and emotional stamina. ‘Cause they’re going to falter. Mission trips are hard. But so incredible. I’m so very excited for you! Godspeed!
[…] shaun} it suddenly became official. forget the passport we applied for, the visa we received, the six shots administered into my arm. we — zack + i along with our fabulous team — were going to africa, and come friday it […]
DaveSorry not to respond last night. I thhogut I did but this a.m. got a No Delivery message. What a blessing to get this email last night. You made me feel much better. I will definitely keep you posted on the wells in Tanzania. Thank you and Ann both, for your support (both the wells and the Revival in Elm City).