Baggage

I pack and re-pack. I started a month ago, maybe more. I edit and edit and the zippers still don't seal it all in. My problem is not the clothing, it is the stuff. Stuff you can simply not live without when you travel. A coordinated wardrobe, Cameras, art supplies, journal, ipod, ipad, phone (now this technology thing should be simpler!)....oh and all the cords and connectors to make the technology function. I am not carrying film...I guess that is a plus. Then there is the blankey and neck rest (we are not flying first class)...and snacks (they sell everything on the plane these days) ....and, of course my vitamins and my Bible (don't leave home without it!) ....it will all fit...yes, I am determined!
How did we ever get by with suitcases with no wheels? I imagine that my precious students have never seen a suitcase without wheels.  When I think about it, they probably have never seen anything but an e-ticket either.  I feel privileged to be exploring the world with these young people....I love their youthful enthusiasm. They keep me feeling young!

Roma ~ the Eternal City. Yes, it is. A lot of what we will see in Rome is old, very very old. I hope the students appreciate craftsmanship when they see the sculptures and the architecture. Those things are not plastic, mass produced. Talent was required and each piece of sculpture was one of a kind. Kind of like our students, right? God created each one as a masterpiece, one of a kind, unique, individual, clay in the potter's hands.....not finished yet!  I am thankful for individuality and I embrace it. It is great to begin to see how unique you are 'in Christ'....it just makes the stuff of the world so much less important.    So, Roma......show us your craftsmanship, your masterpieces....and the presence of God, who allowed it all to endure.

Anticipation

2011 has arrived. My bags are packed and ready to go. The itinerary has been set for months now and by all appearances, students are excited and packing as well. January 3 is the start of the second J-Term session for The Master's Academy high school students. The course offerings are amazing, but we who are scheduled for the overseas trip certainly think that our destination is the best!  Italy. Specifically, Florence and Rome with some little villages in Tuscany, sandwiched between the two.
How many books have I read.....volume after volume, to be sure. I think that the planning for the trip and learning about my destinations excites me about as much as the actual arrival in the foreign airport. I don't want to miss a thing! I want to savor the sounds and sights, the smells and textures of the towns and cities we visit. I want to blend in with the Europeans and not just be an observer of their lives....and I certainly do not want to be only a tourist.
I packed lighter this year. I am personally lighter this year. There is a skip in my step and a lilt in my voice and I look forward to re-visiting places I loved when first visiting Rome. I am so glad that I threw my three coins in the fountain (Trevi Fountain) and that indeed, I get to return to Rome ~ the Eternal City.
I hope this is more than just a destination or just a trip for our students. I hope they determine to learn a little more about themselves, a lot more about what Christians before them endured, and that they become more passionate about the Lord they serve. I hope they see God's hand in history and learn as young people that He has a great plan for their lives ~ and yes, if they only will allow Him to lead and let Him guide them, I wonder if they have any real idea what a marvelous life is in store for them.
My advice to the students was to rest well, stay hydrated, and stay well.....so they could enjoy this trip to the max. I need to take my own advice!  
Firenze and Roma.....here we come!