Hey Y'all,
      This is my first attempt at blogging and hope that it will be informative and a blessing to all who read it.  The arrangements for this trip have come about like a whirlwind, and now it is 48 hrs until departure.  I hope some of you have visited the Hope Clinic website in Guinea to experience a taste of what these amazing folks have accomplished in just a few short years in order to provide medical care and spiritual guidance to this region in Guinea.

      Many of you have asked for prayer requests from me.  I would offer the obvious requests: safety while traveling, freedom from illness, peace in our household while dad is gone, and opportunities to be of help both medically and spiritually.  My task is to perform surgery, but I hope to do so while respecting the current system that is in place, and to avoid cultural mishaps.  Also, I have the opportunity to take many valuable medical and plumbing supplies with me, and selfishly, I hope that they arrive to the clinic unharmed.  I covet your thoughts and prayers during this journey.

      Please understand that I will do my best to respond to any of you who wish to follow along on the blog.  If I don't respond efficiently, please remember the internet service may be less than reliable, much like what we experience at times here in the gorge.  Also, remember, that this blog is meant to serve as an introduction to all who read to allow for you to consider your own opportunities to serve abroad in the future.

God Bless, Jeff