I'm sitting on a bench waiting for my next and last flight to Tel Aviv and what better way to spend my time than to blog. Saying goodbye to Maddison was the most emotionally difficult thing I've had to go through in a very long time. There were a lot of tears and salty kisses. Even now I am still amazed at her strength and her willingness to suffer this for the sake of the kingdom even so far as to lovingly pack and check the bags that would take me away from her through her tears. Still our love for each other gives me hope for what love can accomplish and sets for me an example of what I will strive to demonstrate to those I serve in Israel. Maddison and I both have faith that with God in control there is nothing to fear.
I left for the airport at 5:30 am, having not slept the night before. My first flight left at 9:11 to Washington D.C... yes, 9:11 to Washington D.C. Perhaps it was a blessing in disguise as there were a few rows with only one passenger including mine. I was able to lay down across my row of 3 seats and get a little shut eye, though not much after what I had just gone through. I slept through most of the view of the continental US which I had wished to see, but I was willing to sacrifice the view for some much needed sleep. I arrived in D.C. safely 4 hours later.
From D.C. I took a flight to Vienna where i sit now. It was a looong 8 hours. I tried to sleep for much of it but found myself only able to fall asleep just in time to be awoken for breakfast. The view from the take off was great though, as we followed the Eastern Seaboard just as night fell, so I was able to see the New York skyline lit up, albeit from 30,000 feet. The view of Europe in the morning was beautiful as well, when not covered by clouds I could see snow capped mountain ranges and villages below. The food and entertainment were good, I had my own TV which let me watch some Discovery channel half-conscious; but a lot went wrong, I lost my pillow, my first pair of headphones didnt work, and it was cramped. But I got here, and so far so good!
The next update will be from Israel. I will upload pictures from the plane soon.
Hey Justin, Great to hear from you. I'm sorry that I wasn't in church this past Sunday to say goodbye to you. We were home with a sick baby. Wow, your blog almost made me cry. I really admire your relationship with Maddison, and both of your committments to serve Jesus, no matter the cost. Many blessings on you!!! I'll get in contact with your organization to square away the monthly support from the church. ~Rebecca Carpenter
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