Have you ever heard of “raw footage”?  It’s the ‘unpretty’ images used in movies, magazines, photo studios, and others who deal with any kind of electronic imagery.  “Raw” in this context means it’s not yet been touched by the editting tools – no one has zapped out blemishes or adjusted the color so Aunt Berta doesn’t look so pale.  It’s footage that hasn’t been cut to prevent the ugliness of humanity from being revealed.  Or, in the case of the media, it’s cut for PRECISELY that reason – showing us what’s generally none of our business.  Regardless, if you looked through a magazine of “raw images” you may decide to cancel your subscription.

That’s what I offer you now – the opportunity to cancel your subscription!  For those of you that have joined me through many a blog you already know that I rarely candy coat things.  In the past, my blogs have been a source of information as our family traveled through many journies; adoption, pregnancy, and most recently our venture into ministry.  If you look back at those previous sites, you’ll soon realize that most of what I write could also be called “raw”.  I’m sure from time to time people have assumed that I have shared entirely too much personal information.  But those folks are a minority.  Instead, I frequently hear others share how the honest approach to my writing has ministered to them and how one post or another has stimulated their mind or heart or spirit.  “Why don’t you write a book”, they say.  “I do, every day”, I tell them, “just click on the link for a free copy”.

This blog will be no different.  We are embarking on a process that only a select few ever have the privelege of journeying through.  What you may be used to from a missionary newsletter or e-mail is most likely NOT what you will find here.  Should my faith waiver – you’ll see it here.  Should I get angry – you’ll hear it here.  Should danger impose on our family – you’ll watch me cry in fear.  Yes, the squeemish should turn away!

But my intent with this blog is to keep you all close to the vest; to let you all be intimately involved in what we are doing and how the Lord is using our lives to glorify Himself.  As I read in my devotions only this morning, suffering is what grows us into the seasoned warriors God needs us to be.  My hope is that you will identify with some things, be challenged in others.  But most of all, as you read these entries, may you experience the joy of being a part of something huge.  Because if you read this blog, you are automatically on the team.  Once you venture into our lives, God is going to grab a hold of you and bring you along.  Wow, Jami, that’s a pretty bold statement.  Were you not just warned?  I’m telling you, it’s going to be a ride.  And you can polish off your armor and suit up, or you can erase this link from your favorites and miss out on a great adventure!

So, let’s get started…first stop: fundraising and flight evaluations!