Imagine getting to a new place, with friends you haven't
seen in a while, spending your first night getting settled, and the next morning
having your leader tell you that the next 3 days are going to be spent in
solitude! No computers, no phones, no talking to anyone except for God! That
was our welcome to Mexico, and even though it sounds hard, it was truly amazing!
It gave me a chance to take my mind off the past season in my life, and begin
to focus on this new season.  I can't say
it was easy, but it was a blessing! I don't think I've ever read my Bible more
in a two day span. Mom and Brigette, I read and highlighted the scriptures you
gave me!

Life is slowly going from a surreal state of being here, to
a realization that this is my life for the next 8 months! That's awesome, but
it also reminds me that I won't see most of you reading this for that period of
time, and that isn't a pleasant thought! But, I know God is going to do amazing
things in and through me, so I'm cool with it.

Everyday here is different, but it also brings something new
and exciting! I already have a couple hours worth of stories, and I've only
been here 6 days!  Everyday involves exercises
at 7 a.m., team building times, teaching which is radically changing and
reshaping my view of Jesus, times for meals, and of course, ministry times!
Each team has a family which we've been spending time getting to know. Today I
got to play Halo 3 with Bryan, my Swazi Brother, and one of the kids from the
family. They have an Xbox 360 at their home (their not wealthy, I have no clue
where the got the Xbox), so we decided to do some guy stuff!

Today we also got to go to a foster home. The kids were friendly
and immediately asking for piggy back rides! I have never seen so much joy in
kids that have lost so much! I almost cried as we left, because all I could
think of is the love of my parents, and how much I love my brothers and my little
brother and sisters (the Kimmer children). These kids deserve so much more than
what they've been given!

I know a lot of people have asked me for a physical address
for this base so they can send things. Well, there isn't one! Totally not cool!
But, I'll try to figure out another way if someone wants to send something!

This has been my life for the past week, and I know there
are even greater things to come. I love all of you back home, I miss you, and I
can't say I'll see you soon cause that wouldn't  be true, but time will fly by and before you
know it I'll be home again! In the mean time, I'll keep you updated on life!
Thank you for all your prayers and support! Oh, just to let you guys know I'm
currently only $2,165 away from my total goal! You guys are amazing! Thank You!

In Christ,

Jon