Lots and lots of pavement today.
Saw some pretty impressive views of Mt. Shasta, fruit and nut trees. And then many sad and eerie reminders of the recent economic meltdown too. Lots of unfinished construction projects and empty malls, abandoned buildings. We ran into a father and son at a rest stop who had a wanting work sign. They were having a tough go of it. Really sad, I’ve been thinking about them all day.
Everybody’s tired but really stoked for what’s ahead. Tomorrow is a whole lot less driving, plus we will hit Venice Beach! Although we’re a tight fit in the vans, we’re all getting along really well. We’re sharing music, stories, and playing games. A highlight today was stopping in Davis at In-N-Out Burger. It was predictably amazing and filling and completely nutritious for even the most discerning diet. And did you know? The scripture verse John 3:16 is stamped under each and every soda cup that is sold. This is very spiritual! I also checked out my patty and was pretty sure there was an image of St. Eric Ens floating in the grease -although that’s not confirmed.
As we begun to absorb this meal, we stopped just outside of Davis for a quick group activity. There’s a large pile of rocks on an overpass on I-80 that people arrange to spell out messages.
Since we always have something to say, we stopped and got creative…
Why FORD? This creative brain child is brought to you by Eric, who has us all driving Ford vans. He’s directing a short video which he wants to submit to Ford of Canada and who will hopefully give him a free t-shirt – or even a new fleet of vans. We can only hope!
More pics to come tomorrow since we will be doing a wee bit more than sitting and quick meal breaks. - Graham
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Hi, I’m Tombert, one of the Youth Unlimited leaders on this trip.
Just a quick bit to share with you: It’s awesome to be heading down to Mexico. We’ve made lots of stops and chatted with our friends south of the border. They have been so friendly, and all the people I have chatted with are amazed that we Canadians are passing through their country to help out in Mexico. There has been so much support for the young people to make a real difference… and many have been in awe and want to come with us as well.
Personally, I’m so thankful to be on this trip. God has assembled our team, but I’m also really thankful for; and we need to acknowledge all the people who are “holding down the fort” back home. Thank you to all our families who have encouraged, supported, and prayed for us… and giving us this wonderful opportunity to serve God down here. All of you are a blessings to us. - Tombert
Thank you for stopping in Bakersfield! We were honored and blessed to have you bunk down at our office. The politeness and family like feel you shared has been rippling through the office. A sweet smell of perfume is also an added bonus and makes for the day to be even sweeter. God’s success in sharing your lives. Thank you again for including us, it is our joy. Thanks for the offering too! Maybe with more advance planning, we could put together a Project Serve team to join with you, then it would be two chapters, two countries??? God be with you, protect you and with His hand uphold you.
Jerry and the YFC of Kern County team.
The picture of everyone jumping looks great! A shout out to Ariel – hope you are having a great time. I hope you ALL are having a great time!
Looks like everyone is having a blast! I am a bit disappointed with the “Ford” message…is that the best you could come up with??
ENSES: Kate and I are at the cabin – the water is insanely high! Higher than it was when we were here…just missing the boat and the family (in that order)…and yes, Dad, I cut the grass.
Really boys? The “you peed your pants” game is still that funny? I guess some things never get old!