Orientation Overview

Questions, questions, questions... some answered, some created, and some remain.

Orientation went quite well.  The Fearless Four (as we were dubbed by Mr. Erickson) were assembled for the first time, at the Erickson's home near Minneapolis/St. Paul.  We received amazing and plentiful food, and we received invaluable information essential to our upcoming adventure in the Middle East.  It was nice to finally sit down face-to-face with everyone in this year's team, and to learn from someone who has many years of personal experience living and working in Jordan.  On Friday, we primarily covered the history of the region and the project; on Saturday, we covered the need for and purpose of the project; on Sunday, we had a special guest.  This last session, one of the most helpful, came from one of last year's volunteers: Kelley Schreiber shared some of her experiences, both challenging and rewarding, and we were able to ask lots of detailed questions. 

The biggest question remaining is still "Where, exactly, are we working?"  Of course, we know that wherever we end up, it will be for the best.  Perhaps this will be answered before we leave... insha'allah, as the Arabs say, meaning "if God wills." 

Also if God wills, we will run in the Dead Sea Marathon in the spring, like last year's volunteers.  Not everyone is thrilled at the prospect, but so far everyone has agreed.  Of course, with this agreement comes the added cost of quality running attire and the search for such attire, not to mention the months of training we know are ahead. 

That about does it for now.  We will keep you posted...