Have I mentioned that I’m going to Panama this summer?
I think I did – really briefly – when I talked about the boot camp my hubby and I went on in preparation for the trip. This week I’ve been starting to prepare for my missions trip to Panama. My hubby and I are taking 8 teens from our youth group and working with Operation Renewed Hope to conduct a medical camp in the jungles of Panama. There are approximately 30 people going on this particular trip. Besides us, almost the entire group is made up of medical professionals (Medical Doctors, nurses, dentists, EMT personnel, etc.) We leave June 10 and arrive back on the 18th.
It’s going to be a very primitive trip. Read: no showers. no toilets. Our meals will be MREs. (I’m planning to stuff granola bars in any available spot in my suitcase. Have you ever eaten an MRE? They aren’t horrible. But it’s not exactly the best burger I’ve ever eaten either. 😉
It’s a BYOTP trip. That stands for Bring Your Own Toilet Paper. I just made that up – all by myself. 😉
just in case you’re concerned, this isn’t the exact TP I got.
It looks similar, but mine actually is biodegradable.
It even shows a proof picture on the back of the package. 😉
This week, I’ve been starting to get some things for the trip:
Immunization shots – check
Biodegradable toilet paper – check
Biowipes – check
Passport – check
Bug spray – check
Medical release form for my daughter – check (she’s staying with my parents during the trip.)
Malaria meds – check
I still need to print off some pics of my baby girl. We won’t have cellphone service, so I’m not even bringing my phone along. And there’s no way I want to be on the other side of the world without some pics of my baby.
I also need to get a mosquito net. Do you have any idea how expensive those things are?? great day – the one that’s recommended for this trip is $85. yikes. Times 2 = $170. That’s some serious cash. I mean, definitely worth it if the only other option is to die, but… 😉
Anyway, I’ve been trying to think of what to do on this blog during the time I’m away. I would love it if I could post an update and pics of what I’m doing but…you guessed it – no internet. And even if there was internet, there’s absolutely no way I would have time for this. no prob. 🙂
However, I am going to give you a daily post of our itinerary while we’re away. That way, you’ll know what I’m up to and know better how to pray for our team while we’re away. I’m excited about the trip and hope to share some of that with you so you can have a part in it too.
Thanks in advance for your prayers.
Comments
7 responses to “Prepping for Panama”
Been there – no desire to go back 🙂 Spring for the mosquito net. I have had injections that hurt less than Panama bugs. Very humid – light layers and cotton materials work best – but don’t forget long pants and long-sleeved shirts for dusk and dawn. Don’t forget sunglasses and hats. Don’t take anything you would not mind leaving behind. You can practically set your watch by the afternoon rain showers. If you get a chance to tour the canal and locks, do it! They are truly a modern wonder. Best wishes and many prayers for a safe and productive trip! While some people don’t like foreigners, most appreciate any little thing that you can do for them.
Almost forgot – get some of the small, sinlge serving bottles of hot sauce…it helps with the MREs. Also, drink water, lots and lots of water.
Wow – thanks SO much for these tips. That is all super helpful. I love hot sauce anyway, so that is a great idea! And I’m glad for the reminder about the rain – I need to get a poncho! If you think of anything else I should know, please comment again or email me. Experience from people who have been there before is the best!
Well, we’re sure going to miss you during that time, and we’ll be all over the praying for sure – but can I selfishly say I’m very excited to see your baby girl?!?! And can I just say again that I’m going to be praying for you a LOT?! And that I love you … a LOT? Can I say all that? 🙂
yes, you can!!! 🙂
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