In the beginning of January 2010, I had the great opportunity to travel with some family and visit our friend’s who live in Panama central America. The trip was a great experience, fun, adventurous, scary, exciting and I can’t wait to go back! I always love going to foreign countries. It makes me appreciate all the small things even more and not to mention my love for America. Traveling shows me how important it is to recognize that the world is filled with people who need love, help, encouragement, etc. Not only in under developed countries, but also here in the USA. We are surrounded by so many things that distract us from general human compassion, consideration and contact. We have become people who care about “I”, ipods, icoffee, icomputers, ijobs, imoney, icar, ilarge homes, ifashion, ikhakis (movie reference) and so on. If you have never traveled out side of the US I would encourage you do to so. However, go to a country who has developmental issues. Cost too much money to travel? Go down town, volunteer at the rescue mission/family shelters. Change your paradigm, change your world view. One such trip for me was to Africa. I don’t have much of my Africa pictures posted but you can check out a few here. I don’t want to come off as “too hippy”, but people need love and compassion. Around the world, or while you are in line some where. When you start thinking “I” stop and think about others too, give a simple smile even if YOU think that don’t deserve it. =)

While in Panama, I was able to see first hand how a missionary provides and gives to the jungle tribes and villages. Promoting economic growth, development, housing, and aid of various kinds etc. I donated $100 worth in the form of corn seed, food for pigs, and tools for a village while I was there. If you want to help support their efforts please visit http://www.panamamission.org/. Currently the boat used to travel to these villages was partially sunk in a flash flood and the engine was ruined in November. We had to 4×4 and then hike about 15 miles (24 kilometers) in to this village. The weather was about 93f (33c) and around 80-85% humidity. A trip that would take 4hrs by boat took almost all day, and I was lugging camera gear! Here are some pics.