Thursday, May 10th

Hello all -

The day is soon approaching where I wil get on a train - the "Empire Builder" - and head west. I'm nervous. I've been trying to do everything possible - going on tree jobs with my dad, going through my packing list, framing artwork, anything and everything - to keep my mind off the coming days.

Tomorrow will be the packing day. The sooner I can get things organized the better. I'm meeting my grandmother for lunch, where I will say my goodbye to her. I said goodbye to my Safe set of grandparents on Sunday, when we had a graduation/send off celebration.

Having said some goodbyes already makes it easier, I think. Realizing that I won't be seeing anyone until October (when my parents, brothers, and grandparents are coming out to the Village) is extraordinarily difficult. I will miss everyone - Cannon Falls family, Waldorf family, friends - so, so, so much. But, in the end, I know that this year out at Holden Village will be one of the best.

Anyway. Thursday is soon approaching. My train departs the Saint Paul/Minneapolis station at 11:15 pm. I'd ask for your prayers and good thoughts, as they'd be greatly appreciated. While this leg of life is daunting right now (for me, at least), I know it will be great.

I'm brought back specifically to Psalm 18 as I look toward these next few days, as it goes: "I will love You, O LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold."

In God, I have everything I need. I've been reflecting on the fact that I'm going out to Holden not only to serve others, but also to be changed by God. Transformed. Renewed. Where I can actually take time away from everything this world throws at us and focus on what is truly important. Getting back to God. The one who loves us all. While I may be nervous and terrified to leave family and friends, I know that what I will get out of this year will be worth it: a chance to do real ministry, talk and debate with real, broken, honest children of God, as well as have my own mind and heart transformed as God wills. And I couldn't be more excited.

I'm sorry I'm rambling, but doing this helps me clear my thoughts. Especially now.

My next update will either be on the train or at the Village!

Dean