Ready for Round Two?
Well, here we are, back at it again. It was a wonderful Christmas break with all our family and friends. We definitely needed the rest, but we are definitely ready to get back into the arena! Over the past few weeks we've had the luxury to try to wrap our heads around the last 6 months- countless family memories, amazing scenery, reconnecting with friends, overcoming adversary. While we are still sifting thru pictures and journal entries, we've managed to agree on a few new "rules of engagement" based off mistakes we made.
Rule # 1: We will not be rushed. There's no need for us to introduce unnecessary stressors from artificial timelines. We had 30 different stops during the last 6 months, we are aiming for 15 this go around. SLOW down. There is no problem that we have to hurry thru-- we have time to figure it out as a team.
Rule # 2: Be like Mr. Rogers. Focus on the person you are with, ask them questions, be more curious. Don't so intent on making the next stop that you miss out on the person you are with. Listen more, speak less.
Rule # 3: Don't be afraid to ask for help. It took us way too long to ask for vehicle, medical, lodging support. Ego gets in the way too often. I will spend more time on my knees seeking God's plan rather than thinking I have everything under control.... because I don't.
There are so many more improvements we seek for the remainder of the trip (and beyond), but these resonate the most. I'm sure we'll discover even more as time goes by.
We've been on the ground for three days and have already felt a sense of peace despite the readjustment and some "turbulence" on the trip back (1 hr delay on the flight line at DFW and an uncleaned Air BnB upon our arrival at midnight). The kids have worked thru the jet lag, started school and back to doing the dishes. Nikki's health is great. And all my immediate logistical tasks are complete (trailer maintenance, an unexpected flat tire, and getting the RV tarp back into the bag!!).
So here we go, letting the Lord guide our journey. Looking forward to taking you with us!
Aloha
Mike and Nikki
So excited to read about your adventures. It also teaches me new ways to look at things. Thanks for your encouragement to me. Safe travels and enjoy your time on the road. Vicki in Florence. We miss you and talk about our special time together.
You guys are part of the adventure. The kids still talk about their time in Florence. And everytime I setup the RV I use the drill Paul graciously gave me… a symbol of your hospitality and a constant reminder of the wonderful friends we have.
Rule #4: stay teachable
Rule# 5: keep your sense of humor and be Gumbies not popcicle sticks❣️
Have fun!
Great seeing you❣️🙏
We’ve got the humor part down for sure…. look forward to seeing you all again on the backend of the trip. Orlando here we come!
safe travels brother!
-demog
Mahalo nui… you’re turn next!
Thank you for allowing us to follow along on your journey. It’s been so fun to see the places you visit. I’m praying for all of you as you adjust once again to travel. May the Lord be your #1 focus each day. Without Him we are nothing. Love you all! 💕
We are thrilled to take you along the journey with us. We continue to pray for your strength and resilience. You are correct, we are nothing without him.God Bless!
So looking forward to your visit 😊
We truly enjoyed our time together…. if the amount of tears the kids cried when we left is any indication, we are definitely going to miss you all. Thoughts and prayers, until we meet again.