The Land of Living Stones

In what I can only describe as an unimaginable blessing, I have been told that I will meet my $4300 contribution requirement for my MCC term! I am incredibly humbled by all the support I have received from friends, family, and people I don’t know very well who appreciate what I will be doing for the next year. Many, many thanks to all of you who were able to donate and those who were praying on my behalf!

With two weeks to go until orientation, I am headed to Harrisburg PA this weekend to say goodbyes to my friends and support network there. Then I have a physical Monday and will be scurrying around next week to purchase last minute travel necessities like some warm clothes (good luck finding them in August, right?). I am reading lots of books and materials sent by SALT for cross-cultural preparation in hopes of learning all I can before I leave. I’ve always been one to cram.

This comes as a great relief to me as I can now concentrate on the more personal aspects of leaving home for so long without the worry of financial stress on top of it all. Thanks so much! If you still wish to donate to my personal drawing account which I will access for any extraneous expenses I have in Bethlehem, see my earlier post on the subject (April) and specify  “For the PDA of Kimberly MacVaugh.”

Everyone hates fundraising. Even if it is a way to learn patience in trusting God and a means to involve many people in my endeavor, it is still difficult to keep asking for money from people I know and love who have very little themselves.  Money is not a polite thing to talk about. Being in need is not a great place, though it’s a humbling place. I imagine, though, that if I had all the necessary funds from the beginning that I would not be so passionate in telling others why I find this program so meaningful that I am willing to fundraise .

So, one month until orientation and I am still looking to raise about $3000. I am very grateful to have raised $1400 in support thus far and I am hopeful that the rest will come soon. If you can help, please go to http://www.mcc.org/donate/donate.html You should designate your gift to “Other” and put this wording in the box that pops up: “SALT Support for Kimberly MacVaugh603867″ Thanks so much for your support!