Some of you may know this life time goal I have wanted, while others have no idea!  I had a dream to become a member of the peace corps at an early age, but knew I needed to have a college degree before being accepted.  God had other plans for me, while I am blessed with his plans being perfect for me, I still have an aching heart that wants to continue that goal. I entered the world of teaching 19 years ago and have enjoyed touching the lives of students, but have also learned so much from my students.  I have a passion to teach; I love the connections I have made with other teachers to improve the students' education.  I have been approached by various organizations to attend mission trips in the past, but have never had that, "yes, this is what God wants for me" moment.  Until .... now!  Several months ago our church mentioned that they were going to be sending over a few teachers to help a small community in Rwanda, Africa.  We have adopted this community and have made astounding relations with them.  Their country was devastated by tragic genocide years ago and now they pride themselves on peaceful serenity as the safest country in their entire continent.   They have held a very special place in my heart.  From April - July of 1994 their country went through a devastating slaughter of an estimated 800,000 Rwandans.  I never remember hearing about this growing up or when I was in high school!  It was kept very quiet. I finally learned about it when I was co-teaching with a Global teacher 8 years ago and was beyond shattered when I heard the details.  I have held this country in high regards for their forgiveness, their ability to overcome and become one country and live among each other.  So what does this mean to me,  I took on this challenge and I am heading over there in August with a team of teachers to collaborate and share ideas about what students from around the world have in common and how they can be their absolute best.  There are many reasons you may consider helping me on my journey.  You may just love me and want me to be safe and healthy in my travels.  You may love education and want me to become a more thoughtful teacher, and hope I can be valuable to the teachers I work with in Rwanda.  You may love God and know His work can be done through me on this mission trip. 1.  I need prayer! Pray for our travel, safety, health, our relationships with the teachers, and especially for Shannon and the kids, Carlene, Logan and Makenna.  2. donate money.  Anything $5. -$100. Whatever God leads you to donate is a blessing.  The money will go to supplies for the 1200 students, the teachers we will be collaborating with, gifts to families such as necessary everyday living products, and travel expenses. 3. I am even looking for people to write me letters of encouragement  that I can open up and read while over there.  Thank you for considering, and I am appreciative in your prayers and support.  Love to you all!