When I look at my staff account balance and contributions, I...

am really humbled at how the Lord has provided through my end of the year ask! I am also encouraged and energized that I have a renewed faith to step out and continue raising support. Even though I am in an ok spot at the moment, I know I must continue to look for new support. ~Mik

When students don't respond like I hoped for, I...

get frustrated. I am finding that I am growing in not blaming myself, but it is still so discouraging to see students choose something you see that they shouldn't. Or if they are not making something a priority that you know would be best for them. But, it gives me a glimpse of how the Lord must feel (even infinitely more) when He sees me choosing what is not best for me, or if I respond in a way that is different than He would hope. Seeing the patience He has for me encourages me to have more patience with others. ~Mik

Taking a day with the Lord is...

something I long to do more often. It is really cool to see how I used to not even really know what to do with myself for even half a day. I think it was especially during Cameroon this summer when we were given so much time to spend with the Lord, and I learned it can look so different...worshipping to the music on my ipod, reading a book, praying, spending time in the Word, journaling...there is just so much! Going to workout can even be part of it! It's communing with Him, and the more I taste of Him, the more I want of Him. Psalm 34:8, "Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him." ~Mik

My sleep, exercise and eating habits are...

better than they have been in a long time! I am especially excited to be in a routine of running a few times a week. I can tell I feel better, eat better, and sleep better because of it. I could do a better job of making sure I am eating enough and not just whatever I happen to have on hand. But, I do feel like I am improving at being ok going to bed at a decent hour. Tuesday and Thursday nights are hard for me to hang on! I'm getting old :) ~Mik

My financial partners know...

that I am so thankful for them. It was really fun to write my end of year ask and share with them what Ellis had advised us...how thankful we are for them, especially in the times our economy is seeing. For the first time in an ask, I asked for a goal amount I was praying for, instead of suggesting amounts for them to give. And the Lord has provided so graciously!! ~Mik