Greetings, It is getting closer and closer. I have a departure date of October 12, 2006. I begin work for hasta inc. on September 1, 2006. The condo is sold. The car is next. I just returned from a short term trip to Panama with the Frederick Regional Council team. I am so excited about this opportunity. Preparing to go is at times a heavy burden; lots of letting go, good byes and anticipation of the unknown. And, still I am so excited. On the short term trip three medical doctors and one dentist from the Ministry of Health joined our team in Nueva Arenosa. It was a wonderful opportunity to share what we were doing in Arenosa and to begin to make strides in solidifying the partnership between the short term teams and the ministry of health. The time in Panama in August was very helpful for me in my planning to move to Panama. I learned that business attire is a suit and pumps-please pray-when have you seen me in a suit and pumps-but I now have them. I have begun to make some Panamanian friends and have seen my living quarters and the office I will share. Things are coming in to focus. Thank you for your support as together we enter this adventurous journey of service to our Lord. ~jo ellen