You ask, “Who are rash, finger, and knee?”

Rash – Amy a.k.a. Thing

Finger – Josh a.k.a. Arms of Steel (he is still trying to hold the title to that name)

Knee – Natalie a.k.a. Fired Up

The three of us have spent the last week here in Nelspruit, South Africa, recovering from our ailments. We were able to see the doctor on our first full day here and started treatments. Turns out I had scabies…yuck. I am still scratching but it has gotten much better. A few more treatments and hopefully it will be completely gone. Josh’s finger was a reaction from what we believe was a spider bite he got in London. After soaking it, taking meds, and applying thick, orange goo his finger is looking loads better. And then we have knee…Natalie. Somebody was horsing around with Nat in London and dead legged her and it was in a lot of pain after that. She came here to have it checked out just to be on the safe side. It is ok for the time and she might have to have it looked at again at home. For now, she is good. No serious side effects for any of us.

I cannot tell you how great our time here has been with the Wilson family. They have taken us in a treated us like their adopted children, and spoiled us with delicious meals that we enjoyed while gathered around the dinner table. They have carted us on errands. They have encouraged us every day. Sheila and Richard have been our mom and dad while we have been here and I have loved every second I have spent with them. It is not just that this family has shown us the true definition of hospitality, this is just who they are. They serve us with joy in their eyes everyday and I have not met a family on this race that has poured more love into me as the Wilsons have. I think we all need the Wilson spirit into our heart so that we can be this genuine in the way we love and serve others.

I am learning, once again, to have a joyful heart. This seems like such an elementary lesson…but why is that the entire human race still struggles with these simple tasks? It seems easy enough, but boy oh boy I have a thick head when it comes to this!

Last month, I was a little mad and lonely. I pouted and wined. Geez, it makes me sick just listening to my thoughts I had in my head. But I realize that I need different things at different times. I needed an air of thanksgiving and cheerfulness in order to survive in Pattaya. Now I need peace to settle into this new set of tasks where I am now. I am determined not to miss out on any of the plans for this month. I am over striving for the past. I know there will be hard times, moments of doubt, but also joy all along the way. I am filled with His peace in this moment, and that is enough.

Let the race continue!