Starting A New Year

Hello! Winter is ebbing away from the Willamette Valley. Frost, fog, and rain-soaked are being replaced by warming sunshine and crocus blossoms carrying the promise of Spring. In the midst of school studies, the wind through newly budded boughs is bringing new anticipation for this year's adventures.

Though Spring has not fully subdued its frozen predecessor, my summer preparations cannot wait; things are happening too quickly. My summer has an early start, beginning in April. A Christian Ministry in the National Parks (ACMNP) is placing me in a new location this year. It is one that I am very excited for: Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, located primarily in Utah. This reserved expanse contains Lake Powell, an extensive reservoir fed primarily by the Colorado River before it descends into the Grand Canyon. I will be serving at Wahweap Resort, located on the Arizona/Utah border only 8 miles outside of Page, Arizona. This will be my sixth summer serving with this ministry and I am trying to contain my joy and excitement to return to Utah's canyon country.

Only two weeks remain before I leave Oregon; I am wrapping up final details before my expedition begins, and preparing to launch into what indicates to be a very promising ministry opportunity. After a five-month suspension, I get to start a new year in my travel journal. As a reader, I hope you will enjoy and benefit from the months of upcoming posts as I describe the adventures and ministry opportunities unfolding as the months pass by. I will continue to post each week--a goal I am fairly faithful to.

My true New Year (2013) began in Leavenworth, Washington...a Bavarian-styled town in the North Cascades, learning to cross-country ski and enjoying the Germanic cuisine and shops. It was here that my year began, and it seems appropriate that this year began with an adventure. Beyond the opportunity to see new places, I am afforded the opportunity to gain a deeper appreciation for the remarkable world God has placed us in, and discover His heart for us all as we continue to journey with Him throughout the year.

So as this year launches, it is my prayer that we will be encouraged to step out and meet God's adventures with willing anticipation and trusting hearts. Blessings to you!

Tobyn

Photos from my Leavenworth Trip are available on the "Photos of the Week" tag on the right column of the webpage.