I am writing this post from a library in Decatur Indiana. I arrived here early this afternoon after spending the night with another set of my parents college friends in Huntington. The weather is absolutely beautiful and a welcome change given the rains of the past couple days.
I found a coffee house and have been relaxing there for a little over an hour deciding whether to stay here or press on before I lay down for the night.
There is a moment that keeps coming back into my mind and it's a story from two nights ago. In my last post, I mentioned that I was staying at a home with four very vibrant children. Soon after I arrived and was welcomed by this energetic bunch, their 8 year old son was so excited about my journey and God's provision that he went searching for a gift for me. After several minutes he appeared in the living room with a handfull of change. I couldn't imagine a child giving me the contents of his change jar and genuinely said, "You don't need to give me anything, God will provide." To which he replied "maybe God is using me to provide for you." And there I sat, silenced by the wisdom in an eight year old boy. All I could do was hold out my hand and fill my pocket with his precious gift.
I have been amazed at how stubborn my heart is. I, who left with nothing, saw God provide for everything in gifts of food and money. Yet, when the money that I have starts to diminish, I still have this stubborn fear that without money, I can't go on. How can I, who has been so blessed, even begin to doubt. With this in mind, God pressed it on my heart how much he has blessed me and will continue to do so; so I do not need to fear blessing others with the gifts He has given. There is still part of me that is very afraid to give out of the little that I have, but I am praying to meet people who have a very specific need that I can meet.
My promise to God this morning was that I would bless the first person to introduce themselves to me today. That person was the owner of the coffee house who is the self procalaimed sole liberal in this town. After talking with him, I could not tell if he had any specific need that I could meet, but I had made a promise and could not walk away without leaving a sizeable tip.
Often I wonder if there are times when God is simply aksing me to trust, to step out in faith, just to see if I will. Like Abraham who was aksed to sacrifice his only son (but much less dramatic). Without knowing the reason, Abraham obeyed God and would have done the deed had God not stayed his hand. God's question in all of that was, will you trust me? I love what is often said about Abraham in the scriptures, "He believed God and it was credited to him as rightousness."
God has proven Himself and even though I have little, God provides out of the riches of His kingdom and I will not worry.
Is not life more important than food.
Christopher Andrew
Friday, June 29, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
I Milked a What?!
I MILKED A GOAT!
I wish that I could end the blog right there. Because I am sure that all the other phrases that I come up with to describe yesterday could not compare with the sentance, "I milked a goat."
I had a few miles in before the first kind offer for a ride, and in trying to figure out whether I should be accepting them or not, I kindly refused. A few more miles and I waved on another driver. Right after the second driver left, I began thinking about the great opportunity that I had to show them God in action. And we're back to the dilema. Here's the decision that I've come to:
I have no idea what I'm doing.
The third gentleman who stopped was a Christian fellow, and I love it when Christians stop. What a great way to show the love of Christ by picking up a stranger in need. I am sure that Jesus today, if he wasn't a vagrant himself, would drive a fifteen passenger van (running on vegetable oil of course) simply to have room to pick up any hitchhikers or silly little vagrants like me. So all that to say, I took the ride.
He dropped me off 15 miles down the road and I started walking straight into a storm. Well not four or five miles more, I was praying for God to just hold off the rain untill I reached a restauraunt that a bilboard kept promising. Just before the first drop fell, that same Christian driver came back around. I never expect to see people a second time. So I hopped in the truck and we took off for Plymouth.
Some friends of the family had found me a place to stay in Plymouth that I was very much looking forward to. Though being that I came into town a little early I spent most of the afternoon sipping ab endless cup of coffee at a ribs joint called Bob Evans. I'd never heard of it before, but apparently they're like the plague around here. My Plymouth friend came to pick me up and brought me back to spend a night with his family, on their beautiful family farm.
I never spent much time on a farm but I always admired the work and dedication that they required. So I thought I'd dive right in. There wasn't all that much to do last night, but we put up several fence posts and then, oh yeah, I milked a goat. I fell in love with their farm house and their family. The parents and their three kids live without a television or the internet. They read, play cards, ride horse, and take care of the farm resposibilities. They find plenty to do, and seem to have a beautiful intimacy and now that I think of it, an amazing contentment about their lives. See folks, it can be done!
Anyways... I left early this morning and before long had a ride to Warsaw. The Farm family had contacted a friend here to find another bed for the night. The car ride was a divine appointment and a pleasure to talk with, but then I found myself in Warsaw with nothing to do for many hours. Alas, there was a coffee house and the hours flew by.
I'm now in Warsaw with another sweet family; complete with four kids and a lot of energy. I'm so glad to be indoors as the sky looks quite thunderous right now. My stomach is full, my heart is happy, and my patience has been tested with this dial-up connection. It's time for bed.
Goodnight all!
Christopher Andrew
I wish that I could end the blog right there. Because I am sure that all the other phrases that I come up with to describe yesterday could not compare with the sentance, "I milked a goat."
I had a few miles in before the first kind offer for a ride, and in trying to figure out whether I should be accepting them or not, I kindly refused. A few more miles and I waved on another driver. Right after the second driver left, I began thinking about the great opportunity that I had to show them God in action. And we're back to the dilema. Here's the decision that I've come to:
I have no idea what I'm doing.
The third gentleman who stopped was a Christian fellow, and I love it when Christians stop. What a great way to show the love of Christ by picking up a stranger in need. I am sure that Jesus today, if he wasn't a vagrant himself, would drive a fifteen passenger van (running on vegetable oil of course) simply to have room to pick up any hitchhikers or silly little vagrants like me. So all that to say, I took the ride.
He dropped me off 15 miles down the road and I started walking straight into a storm. Well not four or five miles more, I was praying for God to just hold off the rain untill I reached a restauraunt that a bilboard kept promising. Just before the first drop fell, that same Christian driver came back around. I never expect to see people a second time. So I hopped in the truck and we took off for Plymouth.
Some friends of the family had found me a place to stay in Plymouth that I was very much looking forward to. Though being that I came into town a little early I spent most of the afternoon sipping ab endless cup of coffee at a ribs joint called Bob Evans. I'd never heard of it before, but apparently they're like the plague around here. My Plymouth friend came to pick me up and brought me back to spend a night with his family, on their beautiful family farm.
I never spent much time on a farm but I always admired the work and dedication that they required. So I thought I'd dive right in. There wasn't all that much to do last night, but we put up several fence posts and then, oh yeah, I milked a goat. I fell in love with their farm house and their family. The parents and their three kids live without a television or the internet. They read, play cards, ride horse, and take care of the farm resposibilities. They find plenty to do, and seem to have a beautiful intimacy and now that I think of it, an amazing contentment about their lives. See folks, it can be done!
Anyways... I left early this morning and before long had a ride to Warsaw. The Farm family had contacted a friend here to find another bed for the night. The car ride was a divine appointment and a pleasure to talk with, but then I found myself in Warsaw with nothing to do for many hours. Alas, there was a coffee house and the hours flew by.
I'm now in Warsaw with another sweet family; complete with four kids and a lot of energy. I'm so glad to be indoors as the sky looks quite thunderous right now. My stomach is full, my heart is happy, and my patience has been tested with this dial-up connection. It's time for bed.
Goodnight all!
Christopher Andrew
Monday, June 25, 2007
Summer Nights in Suburbia
Well, I've had a lovely rest here in St. John Indiana, though not all of it was rest. The couple that I'm staying with was looking forward to my arrival to help out around the house. They are expecting a brand new baby girl in a week and had yet to paint the new addition's room. The project turned from just painting the walls a solid pink to decorative vines and flowers. Then, not to have their son left out, I was asked to paint a small mural of a train across his wall. The projects were right up my alley and a great way to pass the time.
The joy of it is that one of the neighbors had been wanting to do a similar project and she was more than willing to take advantage of my presence in their community. So today, I painted flowers in thier young daughter's room to my hearts content. But the most exciting part of this bit of providence is that these were all paying gigs. I'm almost regretting my departure tomorrow knowing that there are other neighbors who would be more than happy to pay for my services. Though painting decorative roses and choo-choo trains has never been on my list of things to do with my gifting; I may have to reconsider seeing what a market there is.
I have not seen much of the town of St. John, and what I have seen has not been of note. But this community has a very special charm about it that seems ripped from a simpler time. This is a brand new development and all the residents have only been here for several months. Mostly young families with children all around, they take full advantage of the adjacent backyards (and the one home with a swing set). Tonight we sat on the driveway in lawnchairs for what seemed like several hours. Neighbors came by and we talked through the sunset when all the children started chasing fireflies.
I have often lamented the loss of that neighborly connection that promised bunt cakes and brownies for the newcomers and babeques and lemonade all summer long. There is a treasure in a world like this where home is not just our four walls, but our block. And our family is more that just the ones you're required to feed but all those walking thier dogs and sitting on thier porches down the street. There is safety here and a genuine care for one another. What once was such a common sight has been lost to picket fences and brinks home security systems.
What else have we lost in our fear?
Tomorrow I must leave before my feet get soft and the blister phase returns. I am looking forward to heading out again, and trying to change my perspective on the time I have. I am currently over a month ahead of schedule, so there is no need to rush. But my mind is so engrained to set linear goals like 20 miles a day so that I can track my progress and feel okay about myself. Maybe things aren't always achieved in a linear, goal oriented. progress monitoring fasion; whoah, did you feel that paridigm shift?
I love you all, and congrats Ryan on your grad party! I heard it was quite the event!
The joy of it is that one of the neighbors had been wanting to do a similar project and she was more than willing to take advantage of my presence in their community. So today, I painted flowers in thier young daughter's room to my hearts content. But the most exciting part of this bit of providence is that these were all paying gigs. I'm almost regretting my departure tomorrow knowing that there are other neighbors who would be more than happy to pay for my services. Though painting decorative roses and choo-choo trains has never been on my list of things to do with my gifting; I may have to reconsider seeing what a market there is.
I have not seen much of the town of St. John, and what I have seen has not been of note. But this community has a very special charm about it that seems ripped from a simpler time. This is a brand new development and all the residents have only been here for several months. Mostly young families with children all around, they take full advantage of the adjacent backyards (and the one home with a swing set). Tonight we sat on the driveway in lawnchairs for what seemed like several hours. Neighbors came by and we talked through the sunset when all the children started chasing fireflies.
I have often lamented the loss of that neighborly connection that promised bunt cakes and brownies for the newcomers and babeques and lemonade all summer long. There is a treasure in a world like this where home is not just our four walls, but our block. And our family is more that just the ones you're required to feed but all those walking thier dogs and sitting on thier porches down the street. There is safety here and a genuine care for one another. What once was such a common sight has been lost to picket fences and brinks home security systems.
What else have we lost in our fear?
Tomorrow I must leave before my feet get soft and the blister phase returns. I am looking forward to heading out again, and trying to change my perspective on the time I have. I am currently over a month ahead of schedule, so there is no need to rush. But my mind is so engrained to set linear goals like 20 miles a day so that I can track my progress and feel okay about myself. Maybe things aren't always achieved in a linear, goal oriented. progress monitoring fasion; whoah, did you feel that paridigm shift?
I love you all, and congrats Ryan on your grad party! I heard it was quite the event!
Friday, June 22, 2007
Is the Treasure Worth the Cost?
Well, the city that frightened me most was a breeze thanks to the Metra Rail Line. I am through Chicago and currnelty hunkered down in St. John Indiana. I have been here for two days already and feeling quite rested. For those of you who were on the edge of your seat, I apologize for posting so late.
I admit that I was anxious and frightened at the prospect of walking through Chicago's many miles. I have seen the pension for people in large cities to ignore me competely and offer little help or consolation when I am in a bind. So naturally, my fear grew as I came to the largest city yet knowing full well that I would have no country to escape to for many days. So after finding the train into the city, I stayed the night and quickly found another rail to take me out.
The morning that I found myself in downtown unfamiliarity; I was suprised at how very small I felt. Everything was literally and metaphorically towering over me; with obvious applications such as the Sears Tower, but more subtle ones were insecurity and fear. Everything was dark in daylight and colored sinister in my head. Once I had a place to stay and my heart relaxed a little, I found that Downtown Chicago is incredibly beautiful, and from what everyone says; one of the safest areas in town. There was a free dinner that night at the hostel provided by the girlscouts (who knew they made more than cookies) where I met three Australians all traveling alone and looking for something to do. Well we had a grand night. We had a couple drinks at the sports bar (Pepsi for me) then picked up some coffee and headed for some deep conversation by the Grant Park Fountain. That's when I felt at home.
I would have loved to stay a couple days just to explore but I had dwindling funds and already knew that I would need money for a train in the morning. But this brings me back to the dilema.
I know that God would have done amazing things to provide for me in Chicago, finding me places to stay and kind families with free dinners. But my fear got the best of me. So now I sit in Indiana wondering what I missed and whether the train was God's provision or simply me running away. I feel like God is giving me that choice where ever I go. The easy way is bumming rides and finding beds with family friends; I would get to Philidelphia much sooner than expected but wouldn't find that intimacy with God that I truly desire. The harder choice is walking and trusting taking my time with him and facing the darkness in my head. I know which option involves more growth and personal change, but I also know that I really want the best of both worlds and if I have to settle, easy has priority.
So I apologize to all of you for all the stories that I was too scared to experience. My prayer for so long has been "God give me stories" and I feel like I just missed a few chapters that would have been amazing to share. Though God is sufficient and I have many miles yet to go. I am sure that I won't be short of some tall (but true) tales for all of you when I've reached my destination, and I almost tremble as I ask God for many more volumes after that.
I will stay in Indiana for several days spending time with old friends and helping with projects around the house. I am so relaxed here right now that I am very borderline lazy. I hope that I don't get too comfortable.
Point of Prayer.
If you have not heard already, the community that I plan on connecting with in Philly, suffered a terrible disaster. After a fire began in a factory down the street, it soon became out of control and burned eight homes including that of The Simple Way. From what I know, no one was injured, but there was a considerable loss in damage all around. Please keep these families and The Simple Way in prayer as they will need provision and guidance in the coming weeks and months.
For more information on the fire and how to donate to the families in need, check out www.thesimpleway.org.
christopher andrew.
I admit that I was anxious and frightened at the prospect of walking through Chicago's many miles. I have seen the pension for people in large cities to ignore me competely and offer little help or consolation when I am in a bind. So naturally, my fear grew as I came to the largest city yet knowing full well that I would have no country to escape to for many days. So after finding the train into the city, I stayed the night and quickly found another rail to take me out.
The morning that I found myself in downtown unfamiliarity; I was suprised at how very small I felt. Everything was literally and metaphorically towering over me; with obvious applications such as the Sears Tower, but more subtle ones were insecurity and fear. Everything was dark in daylight and colored sinister in my head. Once I had a place to stay and my heart relaxed a little, I found that Downtown Chicago is incredibly beautiful, and from what everyone says; one of the safest areas in town. There was a free dinner that night at the hostel provided by the girlscouts (who knew they made more than cookies) where I met three Australians all traveling alone and looking for something to do. Well we had a grand night. We had a couple drinks at the sports bar (Pepsi for me) then picked up some coffee and headed for some deep conversation by the Grant Park Fountain. That's when I felt at home.
I would have loved to stay a couple days just to explore but I had dwindling funds and already knew that I would need money for a train in the morning. But this brings me back to the dilema.
I know that God would have done amazing things to provide for me in Chicago, finding me places to stay and kind families with free dinners. But my fear got the best of me. So now I sit in Indiana wondering what I missed and whether the train was God's provision or simply me running away. I feel like God is giving me that choice where ever I go. The easy way is bumming rides and finding beds with family friends; I would get to Philidelphia much sooner than expected but wouldn't find that intimacy with God that I truly desire. The harder choice is walking and trusting taking my time with him and facing the darkness in my head. I know which option involves more growth and personal change, but I also know that I really want the best of both worlds and if I have to settle, easy has priority.
So I apologize to all of you for all the stories that I was too scared to experience. My prayer for so long has been "God give me stories" and I feel like I just missed a few chapters that would have been amazing to share. Though God is sufficient and I have many miles yet to go. I am sure that I won't be short of some tall (but true) tales for all of you when I've reached my destination, and I almost tremble as I ask God for many more volumes after that.
I will stay in Indiana for several days spending time with old friends and helping with projects around the house. I am so relaxed here right now that I am very borderline lazy. I hope that I don't get too comfortable.
Point of Prayer.
If you have not heard already, the community that I plan on connecting with in Philly, suffered a terrible disaster. After a fire began in a factory down the street, it soon became out of control and burned eight homes including that of The Simple Way. From what I know, no one was injured, but there was a considerable loss in damage all around. Please keep these families and The Simple Way in prayer as they will need provision and guidance in the coming weeks and months.
For more information on the fire and how to donate to the families in need, check out www.thesimpleway.org.
christopher andrew.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Red Sky in the Morning
So I actually just wrote this incredible posting for this heading, unfortunately, I am on a timed computer in a youth hostel, and as I was rushing to sign my name and save the post, my 20 minutes was up. So I get to write it again. YAY.
And so the testing begins.
It's so easy to say that I'll trust the Lord in any circumstance that He will provide and protect. But it's a whole different animal when I walk into a city that could care less about the stange vagrants coming through down. Its interesting that the more people there are in a city, the more deffensive, the more lonely, the less real, they seem. I wonder who all of us are when we meet strangers.
Well I'm writing this post from a youth hostel in downtown Chicago, and to be honest, I'm still shaking a little at the prospect of this huge city. I am glad to have a place to call base and I'll probably stay for a few nights, but I am still a stranger amongst thousands in a place that feels wild.
I arrived here on a train that looked entirely too appealing after getting a very late notice place to stay last night. After leaving my campsite on a quiet farm in the wake of a very lonely night, I headed out under a beautiful red sky. But we all know what that means. I was resting outside a liqour store just after crossing the border into Illinois. It was late, and I was headed straight into a storm that folks on the news claimed was the worst they had ever seen. The man who found me invited me into his home which was an apartment on the back of a garage without bed or bedroom. His girlfriend welcomed me as we swapped stories and they kept repeating, "we've been there." I was so glad to have a place as I am now in this hostel; but I'll admit that I was afraid. For those people who have praised my trust in God, please know that my I am no better than any. Like I said. It's so much easier to talk than to believe in frightening places.
But God has protected and provided. I know that He will take care of me, even as things get more difficult though I'm sure my hands will get shakey from time to time.
Thanks so much for all your prayers, I love you and miss you all!
Christopher Andrew.
And so the testing begins.
It's so easy to say that I'll trust the Lord in any circumstance that He will provide and protect. But it's a whole different animal when I walk into a city that could care less about the stange vagrants coming through down. Its interesting that the more people there are in a city, the more deffensive, the more lonely, the less real, they seem. I wonder who all of us are when we meet strangers.
Well I'm writing this post from a youth hostel in downtown Chicago, and to be honest, I'm still shaking a little at the prospect of this huge city. I am glad to have a place to call base and I'll probably stay for a few nights, but I am still a stranger amongst thousands in a place that feels wild.
I arrived here on a train that looked entirely too appealing after getting a very late notice place to stay last night. After leaving my campsite on a quiet farm in the wake of a very lonely night, I headed out under a beautiful red sky. But we all know what that means. I was resting outside a liqour store just after crossing the border into Illinois. It was late, and I was headed straight into a storm that folks on the news claimed was the worst they had ever seen. The man who found me invited me into his home which was an apartment on the back of a garage without bed or bedroom. His girlfriend welcomed me as we swapped stories and they kept repeating, "we've been there." I was so glad to have a place as I am now in this hostel; but I'll admit that I was afraid. For those people who have praised my trust in God, please know that my I am no better than any. Like I said. It's so much easier to talk than to believe in frightening places.
But God has protected and provided. I know that He will take care of me, even as things get more difficult though I'm sure my hands will get shakey from time to time.
Thanks so much for all your prayers, I love you and miss you all!
Christopher Andrew.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
The Fast Track
This morning, the couple I was staying with brought me nearly thirty miles down the road for coffee and a lovely send off. I was so excited to get back on the road for this next leg of the journey across Wisconsin and into Madison just under 100 miles away. I had estimated at least seven days trek across the state, assuming that I walked the whole way, and I was looking forward to the adventure of it.
Tonight, I am writing this blog from Madison.
Obviously I didn't walk the whole way and I was blessed with several rides. I was picked up by a range of people; from the road biker who had been stranded with a flat tire the week before when no one stopped to help and had vowed to pick up the next person he saw, to the fresh high school grad that has picked up the 'picking up' habit from his dad. I even had a short ride on a horse drawn carriage in the middle of their ride for a cure for some major incurable.
There are two parts of me battling right now; the one is so glad to have a ride and elated at the idea of walking into Philly a month early; the other is afraid that I am missing out on what God wants me to see by flying by it at 60 mph.
When I had started this trip, I partly imagined myself fasting for long periods of time when nothing was provided, and scrounging for places to stay. The image in my head was that of a road weary traveler in torn up clothes, tangled beard, and skin toughened to leather by the sun. Apparently my romantic imagination is rather bleak. So I can't help but wonder; 'am I cheating?' or 'am I taking the easy way out?'
At the core of me, I really want to experience all that God has for me on this journey. And I'm sure that I will wrestle with questions like this not only for the rest of this trip, but even my life. I simply have to trust that His guidance will correct me when He needs to and keep me in the plan He has.
One thing that I am finding is that some will assume (christians and otherwise) that I am simply in the seeking 'phase' of my life. And partly that is true. I only wince at the idea that there will be a time that I stop seeking. I am convinced that there is always more to be found and if I stop and rest convinced that I have all the answers, then what great treasures will I miss? God's promise to us is if we seek then we will find. There is no shelf life on that promise and no end to the knowledge, experience, or life that He has to offer. So let us always seek that we may always find.
There is more; there is more; there is more.....
I am now staying with family friends here in Madison who just gave me a beautiful tour of the city. I absolutely love university towns. From the quaint coffee houses to the music scene, everything seems so full of life and possibility! We walked the streets downtown amid time tested architecture from an age when ornate was the norm, down to the campus and the lake with a patio full of people awaiting the live music selection for the evening. I am not sure yet whether I am a country boy or a city kid, but I do love this place.
I plan to stay a day or two to explore and get reacquainted with these friends that I haven't seen in 14 years (we have a bit to catch up on) before moving on to my next leg in which I have to cross two state lines before I find another bed.
Blessing on all of you, I love you and miss you; unless I don't know you, but I'm sure I would if I did.
Christopher Andrew.
Tonight, I am writing this blog from Madison.
Obviously I didn't walk the whole way and I was blessed with several rides. I was picked up by a range of people; from the road biker who had been stranded with a flat tire the week before when no one stopped to help and had vowed to pick up the next person he saw, to the fresh high school grad that has picked up the 'picking up' habit from his dad. I even had a short ride on a horse drawn carriage in the middle of their ride for a cure for some major incurable.
There are two parts of me battling right now; the one is so glad to have a ride and elated at the idea of walking into Philly a month early; the other is afraid that I am missing out on what God wants me to see by flying by it at 60 mph.
When I had started this trip, I partly imagined myself fasting for long periods of time when nothing was provided, and scrounging for places to stay. The image in my head was that of a road weary traveler in torn up clothes, tangled beard, and skin toughened to leather by the sun. Apparently my romantic imagination is rather bleak. So I can't help but wonder; 'am I cheating?' or 'am I taking the easy way out?'
At the core of me, I really want to experience all that God has for me on this journey. And I'm sure that I will wrestle with questions like this not only for the rest of this trip, but even my life. I simply have to trust that His guidance will correct me when He needs to and keep me in the plan He has.
One thing that I am finding is that some will assume (christians and otherwise) that I am simply in the seeking 'phase' of my life. And partly that is true. I only wince at the idea that there will be a time that I stop seeking. I am convinced that there is always more to be found and if I stop and rest convinced that I have all the answers, then what great treasures will I miss? God's promise to us is if we seek then we will find. There is no shelf life on that promise and no end to the knowledge, experience, or life that He has to offer. So let us always seek that we may always find.
There is more; there is more; there is more.....
I am now staying with family friends here in Madison who just gave me a beautiful tour of the city. I absolutely love university towns. From the quaint coffee houses to the music scene, everything seems so full of life and possibility! We walked the streets downtown amid time tested architecture from an age when ornate was the norm, down to the campus and the lake with a patio full of people awaiting the live music selection for the evening. I am not sure yet whether I am a country boy or a city kid, but I do love this place.
I plan to stay a day or two to explore and get reacquainted with these friends that I haven't seen in 14 years (we have a bit to catch up on) before moving on to my next leg in which I have to cross two state lines before I find another bed.
Blessing on all of you, I love you and miss you; unless I don't know you, but I'm sure I would if I did.
Christopher Andrew.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Catching the Bug
Well folks, I made it to La Crosse. Only God knows how I'm here already. I really didn't think it possible. Especially as I was walking at 7:30 pm just trying to make it to the 'booming' town of Centerville still 24 miles away.
Regardless, I made it here last night and I'm staying with some family friends who have been more than welcoming. This will be the fourth night in a row that I will sleep in a bed. I had no idea what to expect on this trip, but I couldn't have imagined that it would be as comfortable as some of these beds.
I don't know if I'm catching the bug for this walking thing, but right now, I am really excited to get back on the road tomorrow. Not so much for the long day in the sun, but just the anticipation of how the Lord will provide tomorrow night and the night after that. He has proven that He will take care of my needs, so rather than worry, I am starting to look forward to it.
God is so supremely good.
Christopher Andrew.
Regardless, I made it here last night and I'm staying with some family friends who have been more than welcoming. This will be the fourth night in a row that I will sleep in a bed. I had no idea what to expect on this trip, but I couldn't have imagined that it would be as comfortable as some of these beds.
I don't know if I'm catching the bug for this walking thing, but right now, I am really excited to get back on the road tomorrow. Not so much for the long day in the sun, but just the anticipation of how the Lord will provide tomorrow night and the night after that. He has proven that He will take care of my needs, so rather than worry, I am starting to look forward to it.
God is so supremely good.
Christopher Andrew.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Pepin! (just like the musical, minus all the music)
I've never actually seen Pippen and don't know what it's like. But regardless, if there was a town that deserved its own singing, dancing, commemorative production, it would be this town of Pipen Wisconsin.
Yesterday, I bagan my walk from the wayside rest where my mad dash from Bay City ended. All along the road, historical markers and scenic outlooks became the perfect rest stops. I met bikers, learned the history of Maiden Rock Wi, and found a place to stay for the night all during these stops; but the latter is the greater story.
Resting beneath the historical marker sign nearly 4 miles befor Pepin, I was savoring some reprieve from the sun. Two young women stopped by on their road bikes to ask where I was headed. When I told them my geographical finale, one gal asked if I was headed to the Simple Way!? Well, color me dumbfounded that she had even heard of it!
As it would be, a friend of hers had spent some time there and still works with them on other projects.
They invited me to lunch where they worked in Pepin and promised to pick up the tab. By this point I could nearly run to Pepin out of my excitement! I was thrilled to have somewhere to look forward to and a couple names to go with it.
Just before the town I'd stopped at another rest to find a vacationing retired couple and talked with them a while. They offered me a ride into town and to the restauraunt called the Harbor View.
The view was spectacular! The Harbor View was down by the docks that serviced Lake Pepin. The couple who drove me down decided to stay for dinner with me, so I greeted the young women I'd met earlier and we all sat down to browse the menu.
I had no idea the type of meal that I would be getting. Turns out that the Harbor View has been voted the best area dining by Twin Cities publications and it's not even in the same state!
I talked with the lovely retirees over my marlin, coffee, and later some chocolate torte. My meal couldn't have been less than forty dollars. And as I sat by the docks watching the sunset after dinner I knew that I didn't deserve any of this, and to God be all the thanks.
One of the young women, who was also our waitress, had invited me to stay with her and her husband that night. So after close, she and her husband, met me outside then drove me to their place in Stockholm.
I am continually amazed that I met this young couple here in smalltown Wisconsin. These young christians have such a similar heart to mine in so many different ways (they even have a little tree-hugger in them). Artists, adventurer's, idealists, and more.
They live in a majestic old colonial home (not theirs, though they are currently the only residents) while another friend lives in a refurbished barn in the back yard. This morning after an awesome breakfast, I asked to stay another day. I immediately felt that these were good friends, and they were glad to have me a while longer.
We spent the morning tubing down the Rush river, though do not be deceived, there is no rush in this river. We floated and talked as if we knew each other well, as our arms were sunburnt and our hands froze in the 'chilly' waters. This one or two mile stretch of the river took two hours to meander down in our tubes; getting stuck in the shallows, and tipped in the quasi-rapids.
I am incredibly relaxed and at peace as I write this from their home computer and I am so excited that I have met them.
God has blessed this trip in so many ways, and I know that none of it is my doing. So thank you God! I don't always understand you, but I love you!
Christopher Andrew
Yesterday, I bagan my walk from the wayside rest where my mad dash from Bay City ended. All along the road, historical markers and scenic outlooks became the perfect rest stops. I met bikers, learned the history of Maiden Rock Wi, and found a place to stay for the night all during these stops; but the latter is the greater story.
Resting beneath the historical marker sign nearly 4 miles befor Pepin, I was savoring some reprieve from the sun. Two young women stopped by on their road bikes to ask where I was headed. When I told them my geographical finale, one gal asked if I was headed to the Simple Way!? Well, color me dumbfounded that she had even heard of it!
As it would be, a friend of hers had spent some time there and still works with them on other projects.
They invited me to lunch where they worked in Pepin and promised to pick up the tab. By this point I could nearly run to Pepin out of my excitement! I was thrilled to have somewhere to look forward to and a couple names to go with it.
Just before the town I'd stopped at another rest to find a vacationing retired couple and talked with them a while. They offered me a ride into town and to the restauraunt called the Harbor View.
The view was spectacular! The Harbor View was down by the docks that serviced Lake Pepin. The couple who drove me down decided to stay for dinner with me, so I greeted the young women I'd met earlier and we all sat down to browse the menu.
I had no idea the type of meal that I would be getting. Turns out that the Harbor View has been voted the best area dining by Twin Cities publications and it's not even in the same state!
I talked with the lovely retirees over my marlin, coffee, and later some chocolate torte. My meal couldn't have been less than forty dollars. And as I sat by the docks watching the sunset after dinner I knew that I didn't deserve any of this, and to God be all the thanks.
One of the young women, who was also our waitress, had invited me to stay with her and her husband that night. So after close, she and her husband, met me outside then drove me to their place in Stockholm.
I am continually amazed that I met this young couple here in smalltown Wisconsin. These young christians have such a similar heart to mine in so many different ways (they even have a little tree-hugger in them). Artists, adventurer's, idealists, and more.
They live in a majestic old colonial home (not theirs, though they are currently the only residents) while another friend lives in a refurbished barn in the back yard. This morning after an awesome breakfast, I asked to stay another day. I immediately felt that these were good friends, and they were glad to have me a while longer.
We spent the morning tubing down the Rush river, though do not be deceived, there is no rush in this river. We floated and talked as if we knew each other well, as our arms were sunburnt and our hands froze in the 'chilly' waters. This one or two mile stretch of the river took two hours to meander down in our tubes; getting stuck in the shallows, and tipped in the quasi-rapids.
I am incredibly relaxed and at peace as I write this from their home computer and I am so excited that I have met them.
God has blessed this trip in so many ways, and I know that none of it is my doing. So thank you God! I don't always understand you, but I love you!
Christopher Andrew
Sunday, June 10, 2007
Tale of Two Cities
I'm in Wisconsin!
I haven't been able to post for a few days, so I will try and catch you up in the next two entries.
My Granparents so graciously brought me to lunch the day that I left. And as we came to their favorite restauraunt in Stillwater, Mn, it was closed for the season. So dang, we had to drive farther south to the town of Afton (nearly three days walk from where we started). After a beautiful walk along reclining pastures, I crossed over the St. Croix River into the Dairyland.
Just as I turned the corner into Prescott, I met the sweetest woman who was hostessing for a bar downtown. She wanted to know everything about my journey then insisted on helping in any way she could. After directing me to a cafe and talking the owner into buying me a drink, she then brought some muscle relaxing ointment, a bible verse, nutritional supplements, then even found me a place to stay.
When she had handed me her phone number repeating 'If there is anything you need,' I went to find the patch of grass that would be home for the night. There were four young men at the house doing normal small town things (launching tennis balls into the street). The five of us set up a bonfire and they brought out pizzas and other great health foods. I just relished the time sitting around the fire getting to know them and talking about God and life. God bless you guys! I'll write you when I get a chance.
The town of Prescott was picturesque. I kept imagining 15 years down the road, when somehow I had come back to Prescott, bought a little brick house, and moved in with my wife and a baby on the way (all imaginary of course).
But the next morning, I left at dawn towards the second city of this story.
This section of road has the most incredible scenery thus far. And I was enjoying the views all day long. During a stop for water, I was invited into a couples home for a lunch of fried chicken, pasta, and whatever leftovers they had. They filled what little space I had left in my pack with treats then decided to drive me a few miles down the road. And I was so very grateful.
Only 3 miles of walking later, I was in Bay City; which I thought would be my night's destination. God orchestrated things beautifully and soon I had a place to stay (even in a bed!) a meal, and a chance to do laundry.
When the women who owned the home went into town, I relaxed while watching a movie on their couch until I bagan to feel very uneasy. I wish I could describe it better, but it was almost as if everything around me became suddenly unnatural. The town the people, the home I was in, soon felt as if they weren't real. Like they existed, but wouldn't be found on a map or in any phone book; and if I left, I would never be able to find the place again. And I was the only one who didn't belong.
Around 8:30 pm I could feel God's leading saying "get out of this town and fast." I still don't understand why but I began to pack as fast as I could before common sense talked me out of it. I quickly scrawled a note of thanks and headed out the door.
I explained as best I could to the next door neighbor and, thank God, he drove me out of town. Wether he understood, or simply thought it best to get this lunatic out of the city limits, I'm not sure. I spent the night in a wayside rest while my head wrestled for answers until sleep beat me down.
Then on to the most beautiful place and people on my journey thus far; but you'll have to wait until tomorrow for that.
Christopher Andrew.
I haven't been able to post for a few days, so I will try and catch you up in the next two entries.
My Granparents so graciously brought me to lunch the day that I left. And as we came to their favorite restauraunt in Stillwater, Mn, it was closed for the season. So dang, we had to drive farther south to the town of Afton (nearly three days walk from where we started). After a beautiful walk along reclining pastures, I crossed over the St. Croix River into the Dairyland.
Just as I turned the corner into Prescott, I met the sweetest woman who was hostessing for a bar downtown. She wanted to know everything about my journey then insisted on helping in any way she could. After directing me to a cafe and talking the owner into buying me a drink, she then brought some muscle relaxing ointment, a bible verse, nutritional supplements, then even found me a place to stay.
When she had handed me her phone number repeating 'If there is anything you need,' I went to find the patch of grass that would be home for the night. There were four young men at the house doing normal small town things (launching tennis balls into the street). The five of us set up a bonfire and they brought out pizzas and other great health foods. I just relished the time sitting around the fire getting to know them and talking about God and life. God bless you guys! I'll write you when I get a chance.
The town of Prescott was picturesque. I kept imagining 15 years down the road, when somehow I had come back to Prescott, bought a little brick house, and moved in with my wife and a baby on the way (all imaginary of course).
But the next morning, I left at dawn towards the second city of this story.
This section of road has the most incredible scenery thus far. And I was enjoying the views all day long. During a stop for water, I was invited into a couples home for a lunch of fried chicken, pasta, and whatever leftovers they had. They filled what little space I had left in my pack with treats then decided to drive me a few miles down the road. And I was so very grateful.
Only 3 miles of walking later, I was in Bay City; which I thought would be my night's destination. God orchestrated things beautifully and soon I had a place to stay (even in a bed!) a meal, and a chance to do laundry.
When the women who owned the home went into town, I relaxed while watching a movie on their couch until I bagan to feel very uneasy. I wish I could describe it better, but it was almost as if everything around me became suddenly unnatural. The town the people, the home I was in, soon felt as if they weren't real. Like they existed, but wouldn't be found on a map or in any phone book; and if I left, I would never be able to find the place again. And I was the only one who didn't belong.
Around 8:30 pm I could feel God's leading saying "get out of this town and fast." I still don't understand why but I began to pack as fast as I could before common sense talked me out of it. I quickly scrawled a note of thanks and headed out the door.
I explained as best I could to the next door neighbor and, thank God, he drove me out of town. Wether he understood, or simply thought it best to get this lunatic out of the city limits, I'm not sure. I spent the night in a wayside rest while my head wrestled for answers until sleep beat me down.
Then on to the most beautiful place and people on my journey thus far; but you'll have to wait until tomorrow for that.
Christopher Andrew.
Friday, June 8, 2007
Onward
Well after a couple days rest with my wonderful Grandparents I'm headed out again. I am so thankful for these few days. My body and my feet are functioning normally again, and after a few mornings with Grandma, my caffiene addiction is back in full swing.
I am not sure how soon I will be able to post again, as I don't have another place to stay untill La Crosse, Wi. In this leg of the journey, I am starting into unknown territory with very few contacts along the way. So any blessings from here on out can only be credited to God. He has proven himself thus far and I have no doubt that He will provide the rest of the way.
God is more powerful than I ever truly knew and I pray that I never question His authority or His ability again.
Christopher Andrew
I am not sure how soon I will be able to post again, as I don't have another place to stay untill La Crosse, Wi. In this leg of the journey, I am starting into unknown territory with very few contacts along the way. So any blessings from here on out can only be credited to God. He has proven himself thus far and I have no doubt that He will provide the rest of the way.
God is more powerful than I ever truly knew and I pray that I never question His authority or His ability again.
Christopher Andrew
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Napping in Squad Cars
God is so supremely sufficient, and how blessed are we to know Him!
First of all, let me describe for you the most beautiful acts of generosity that I have ever experienced.
Last night, as I camped by the river in the quaint town of Princeton, I spent some time with a family and a young man permanently camped there. For whatever the circumstances may be, these people have no place else to go. And at $5 a night, this campground is their only option. Throughout the night, more and more people, young and old, vagrant or otherwise, congregated with them. And here I was, amid this beautiful new family, being welcome and loved without question.
Then came the barbecue, which appears to be a nightly occurrence. After a trip to the food shelf, these men and women began to prepare a feast for anyone nearby; including myself. Burgers on the campground grill, chicken breasts over a broken Weber, and whatever else they could throw together. One man looked over my gear and gave me the compass I was lacking, and a young girl felt that God asked her to give me her calling card. And at the end of the night, they refused to take my measly two dollars that I had to offer (it would have been more had I won the texas hold'em tournament at the local VFW).
All in all, I regretted parting ways with them. I will never forget their generosity in light of what little they had. And they (and the town of Princeton)
will all be in my prayers.
I packed up and left at sunrise today saying goodbye to sleepy tents. I walked several miles before stopping for water at a farmhouse that seemed occupied. The man came back with my water bottles and a bag full of fruit and cookies (mmm cookies)'just in case.' After walking four more miles and taking a couple naps along the side of the road, one of my legs began to cramp up and I prayed for a ride. Seeing a local restaurant, I hobbled over to see if I could find a place to rest. But no sooner had I entered their parking lot, then a state patrol car pulled in and called me over.
'Were you sleeping in the ditch a ways back,' he said. 'I was only resting for a moment,' was my nervous reply. Apparently someone had called about a young man sleeping on the road that they may want to check out. Imagine that! Two calls in two days to the local authorities, and all on my behalf!
He asked where I was headed and I said Philadelphia, but a more immediate goal was Stacy, nearly three days walk from there, where I was to visit an Uncle.
'Well I can take you to Stacy.' And my face must have looked like I'd found a precious gem as I said 'Do i get to ride in back?'
Thus describes the happening of my first ride/nap in a squad car.
I arrived in Stacy to call my Uncle who woke up from a deep sleep (he's nocturnal) to pick me up and drive me the rest of the way to Forest Lake and my Grandparents.
I will relish a couple days rest here (and the wonderful Scandinavian foods), allowing my body to recoup before moving on.
Thank you all for your prayers, this experience has been amazing thus far; and as I fear, almost too easy, though I know difficulty will come.
I love you all, and God bless.
Christopher Andrew.
First of all, let me describe for you the most beautiful acts of generosity that I have ever experienced.
Last night, as I camped by the river in the quaint town of Princeton, I spent some time with a family and a young man permanently camped there. For whatever the circumstances may be, these people have no place else to go. And at $5 a night, this campground is their only option. Throughout the night, more and more people, young and old, vagrant or otherwise, congregated with them. And here I was, amid this beautiful new family, being welcome and loved without question.
Then came the barbecue, which appears to be a nightly occurrence. After a trip to the food shelf, these men and women began to prepare a feast for anyone nearby; including myself. Burgers on the campground grill, chicken breasts over a broken Weber, and whatever else they could throw together. One man looked over my gear and gave me the compass I was lacking, and a young girl felt that God asked her to give me her calling card. And at the end of the night, they refused to take my measly two dollars that I had to offer (it would have been more had I won the texas hold'em tournament at the local VFW).
All in all, I regretted parting ways with them. I will never forget their generosity in light of what little they had. And they (and the town of Princeton)
will all be in my prayers.
I packed up and left at sunrise today saying goodbye to sleepy tents. I walked several miles before stopping for water at a farmhouse that seemed occupied. The man came back with my water bottles and a bag full of fruit and cookies (mmm cookies)'just in case.' After walking four more miles and taking a couple naps along the side of the road, one of my legs began to cramp up and I prayed for a ride. Seeing a local restaurant, I hobbled over to see if I could find a place to rest. But no sooner had I entered their parking lot, then a state patrol car pulled in and called me over.
'Were you sleeping in the ditch a ways back,' he said. 'I was only resting for a moment,' was my nervous reply. Apparently someone had called about a young man sleeping on the road that they may want to check out. Imagine that! Two calls in two days to the local authorities, and all on my behalf!
He asked where I was headed and I said Philadelphia, but a more immediate goal was Stacy, nearly three days walk from there, where I was to visit an Uncle.
'Well I can take you to Stacy.' And my face must have looked like I'd found a precious gem as I said 'Do i get to ride in back?'
Thus describes the happening of my first ride/nap in a squad car.
I arrived in Stacy to call my Uncle who woke up from a deep sleep (he's nocturnal) to pick me up and drive me the rest of the way to Forest Lake and my Grandparents.
I will relish a couple days rest here (and the wonderful Scandinavian foods), allowing my body to recoup before moving on.
Thank you all for your prayers, this experience has been amazing thus far; and as I fear, almost too easy, though I know difficulty will come.
I love you all, and God bless.
Christopher Andrew.
Monday, June 4, 2007
From the Desk of a Vagrant.
This is my third post in as many days. I hope you aren't sick of me quite yet, but I know there will be times that I cannot post at all; so I must take advantage when I can. CARPE DIEM!
Last night I woke up around 1 am with such pain in my feet that I nearly had to crawl to get myself some asprin. As I laid back down, I prayed, "God, I will take these feet as far as they will go, but I won't make much progress unless you step in." Well this morning, my feet were in fine enough shape to get me to the lovely little town of Pierz. I sat there in a gas station eating my Great Stuff Pizza (yes that was for you Dean) then laid myself onto a bench outside for nearly an hour only to be questioned by an officer who was apparently called there on my behalf (I knew I couldn't trust those cashiers with the shifty eyes!). On my way out, I asked the gentle cop which nearby towns had vagrancy laws; he said 'Pierz.' And I was out the door.
AS I hobbled out of the parking lot looking more and more like Quasimoto in capris, a sweet midwestern mom and her daughter insisted on giving me a ride. How could I refuse. As they drove me the 35 miles down the road, I counted the hours it would have taken to cross the terrain now flying by at 60 miles an hour, and my feet greatly rejoiced.
They dropped me off, and I walked nearly three more miles before taking a rest alongside the highway. Not 5 minutes later there was a kindly gentleman pulled over offering a ride to Princeton and a cheap campground by the river.
Today, my body took me 9 miles but the lord took me nearly 60 and I was here by 12:30. I've set up my tent and met some men who live here during the summers, they guided me to the library and the local hang-out and we talked a bit about our journeys. I hope to have a bonfire with them tonight, they are, after all, vagrants; and according to the Pierz police force, so am I.
Last night I woke up around 1 am with such pain in my feet that I nearly had to crawl to get myself some asprin. As I laid back down, I prayed, "God, I will take these feet as far as they will go, but I won't make much progress unless you step in." Well this morning, my feet were in fine enough shape to get me to the lovely little town of Pierz. I sat there in a gas station eating my Great Stuff Pizza (yes that was for you Dean) then laid myself onto a bench outside for nearly an hour only to be questioned by an officer who was apparently called there on my behalf (I knew I couldn't trust those cashiers with the shifty eyes!). On my way out, I asked the gentle cop which nearby towns had vagrancy laws; he said 'Pierz.' And I was out the door.
AS I hobbled out of the parking lot looking more and more like Quasimoto in capris, a sweet midwestern mom and her daughter insisted on giving me a ride. How could I refuse. As they drove me the 35 miles down the road, I counted the hours it would have taken to cross the terrain now flying by at 60 miles an hour, and my feet greatly rejoiced.
They dropped me off, and I walked nearly three more miles before taking a rest alongside the highway. Not 5 minutes later there was a kindly gentleman pulled over offering a ride to Princeton and a cheap campground by the river.
Today, my body took me 9 miles but the lord took me nearly 60 and I was here by 12:30. I've set up my tent and met some men who live here during the summers, they guided me to the library and the local hang-out and we talked a bit about our journeys. I hope to have a bonfire with them tonight, they are, after all, vagrants; and according to the Pierz police force, so am I.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
June 3rd 2007, A Brighter Day.
I have no watch or concept of time, but I am fairly certain that I woke up very soon after sunrise, packed up, and went on my way.
I had heard about a town down the road called Freedhem whose only business is a 100 year old general store. Now, especially after finding a mysterious $20 left in my bible, I was looking forward to that stop.
I arrived there shortly before it openned at 9:30 and had a simply surreal moment as I sat outside. The town was quiet, and the building was serenely old. It's only advertisement was a rusted, faded, standard gas sign that seemed to stand for resiliance; not much unlike the old town itself.
When the owner arrived to open up, so did several townsfolk, just to shoot the breeze. I picked out a sandwich and drink for an early lunch, and as I put down my twenty dollars, the owner simply waved it away and asked what else I would like. So naturally, (and this is for Chelsea!) I left with several packs of mini cigars.
Yesterday morning, a friend had stopped on the side of the road to let me know that his home was right on the way. And today that was my goal.
I arrived here right as blisters began to frustrate me, and just in time for a pork steak meal. Tonight I have a bed to sleep in and a reasurring promise of breakfast. God has been and always will be sufficient!
Christopher Andrew.
I had heard about a town down the road called Freedhem whose only business is a 100 year old general store. Now, especially after finding a mysterious $20 left in my bible, I was looking forward to that stop.
I arrived there shortly before it openned at 9:30 and had a simply surreal moment as I sat outside. The town was quiet, and the building was serenely old. It's only advertisement was a rusted, faded, standard gas sign that seemed to stand for resiliance; not much unlike the old town itself.
When the owner arrived to open up, so did several townsfolk, just to shoot the breeze. I picked out a sandwich and drink for an early lunch, and as I put down my twenty dollars, the owner simply waved it away and asked what else I would like. So naturally, (and this is for Chelsea!) I left with several packs of mini cigars.
Yesterday morning, a friend had stopped on the side of the road to let me know that his home was right on the way. And today that was my goal.
I arrived here right as blisters began to frustrate me, and just in time for a pork steak meal. Tonight I have a bed to sleep in and a reasurring promise of breakfast. God has been and always will be sufficient!
Christopher Andrew.
June 2nd 2007. Letter Transcribed
I wrote this letter last night with intentions to mail it on Monday. However God has blessed me with a place to stay and an internet connection on this, my second night. The letter is as follows:
Dear Friends and Family, God willing, by the time you read this letter, I will be well on my way. But as of now, June 2nd, it is the fist day of my journey.
I will try not to bore you with endless details and a play by play of the weather; but it is important to know that today it rained. And only as soon as I set up my tent for the night, was it accompanied by its sisters thunder and lightning.
I met some delightful people today, who fed me as we talked on their lawn. However, my zeal to keep moving did not let me tent there. Right now, I am on the lawn of a very uncongenial couple whose frowns make me more lonely than I ought feel.
I cried tonight as I found $20 secretly stashed in my bible (thanks mom). The tears were not a surprise and I'm sure they won't be the last. I had just hoped that I could've lasted a few more days without them.
I think it was the realization that the uncongenial couple would not have let me use their phone if I'd asked. Making this the first night that I actually can't call home.
I miss you all already!!!
Christopher Andrew.
P.S. For those of you following my course. I left Brainerd going south on county road 45 and I am now at its intersection with county road 49.
Dear Friends and Family, God willing, by the time you read this letter, I will be well on my way. But as of now, June 2nd, it is the fist day of my journey.
I will try not to bore you with endless details and a play by play of the weather; but it is important to know that today it rained. And only as soon as I set up my tent for the night, was it accompanied by its sisters thunder and lightning.
I met some delightful people today, who fed me as we talked on their lawn. However, my zeal to keep moving did not let me tent there. Right now, I am on the lawn of a very uncongenial couple whose frowns make me more lonely than I ought feel.
I cried tonight as I found $20 secretly stashed in my bible (thanks mom). The tears were not a surprise and I'm sure they won't be the last. I had just hoped that I could've lasted a few more days without them.
I think it was the realization that the uncongenial couple would not have let me use their phone if I'd asked. Making this the first night that I actually can't call home.
I miss you all already!!!
Christopher Andrew.
P.S. For those of you following my course. I left Brainerd going south on county road 45 and I am now at its intersection with county road 49.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
