You can hear the gentle voices of ‘Upper Room’ by Hillsong United playing from my top bunk around 5:30-6 every morning. 

Slipping out without a word and an attempt to keep my team mates asleep, I find myself in the living room for a few moments of solitude. 

You’ll catch me rubbing my eyes and dragging my feet to the kitchen, usually without another soul in sight. 

Alone time is favored time. It doesn't happen often so I soak in all I can get. 

As I begin the slow process of making my morning coffee I see a few familiar faces - Kaylin and Samson usually being the first. And then starts the dance between boiling water and brewing coffee as I journal and read on the couch. 

Currently I'm reading through the book of Psalms and also 1 John. I’m learning what it looks like to wait on the Lord and be in His presence 24/7. 

Some verses that have been on my heart lately:

'"In place of your fathers shall be your sons; you will make them princes in all the earth. I will cause your name to be remembered in all generations; therefore nations will praise you forever and ever." -Psalm 45:16&17

"This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, thqat God is light, and in him is no darkness at all." -1 John 1:5

Eventually the rest of Kaylin's team has come through and a few other boys. And soon enough worship music is playing on the speaker in the kitchen as another team starts on the day’s breakfast.

My favorite conversations happen in the morning, whether it be with the Lord or some of my squadmates. Thanks God for days like this!

Sooner than later you’ll catch me in a NEW COUNTRY with new people! But even with expectancy in my heart I already feel how hard it will be to leave this beautiful place (in less than a month!).