February 15, 2008

Well, we have had a couple of pretty eventful days specifically in the area of the trailer and getting it to perform correctly. First we had a problem with the electric brake system. We finally ran a new power wire to get that working - found the old one was broken about half way back. Then we had some pretty exciting problems with the hitch / sway controller configuration which made the handling really exciting, especially when tractor trailers went by. I think my forearms look like Popeye from trying to keep the van / trailer on the road a couple of times. : ) I believe we have this sorted out finally as well. Very glad about that.

After leaving Stuarts Draft, VA yesterday, we drove 357 miles to Lenoir City, Tennessee. We spent last night in a Walmart parking lot and things got pretty cold without running the furnace but everyone stayed really warm under the many down blankets. I think the temperature in the trailer dropped down to about 40 according to the thermometer.

Today we have driven approxamitely 680 miles and are now in Pearl, MS. (just on the banks of the Mississippi River)

Thinking about the last 2 days we could really find many things to complain about but in reality we are all very blessed. The Lord is showing us some things that we really need to work on as a family and is allowing us to be in a place were we can draw very close together. Additionally, He is showing us how to rejoice in times of trial and to still find joy when things are a bit rough. Due to our problems, specifically with the handling of the trailer, we have seen a great outbreak of spontaneous prayer. : )

I believe that we have our itenerary fairly nailed down as well. We are going to go to Texas first and see a couple of tourist sites there. Then hopefully visit with some bretheren there. Then to Mexico for a brief over-the-boarder visit. After that Arizona to visit Russ Toews and Jim Miller on the Hoppi Indian reservation for a few days. Out to CA for a multi-person visit including Robins Grandmother and hopefully some other brethren in LA. After that we may take a "quick" trip to British Columbia to see the brothers from "Christ Our Life" and hopefully Greg Gordon. Finally we are going to head back East to see Alan Martin and the brethren in Missouri. We decided to make MO our last stop as I am sure that we will need some rest and encouragment at that point. : )

Ok, time to rest....