Doubts

This week has been a hard week for 'hoofprints'. I've been thinking/outlining the enormity of the task to organize everything and the more I delve into it, the more anxious I become. On top of that is what other people think. It's hard not to take it into account. Some people think we are crazy (including parents) especially since Brent has never ridden a horse. However, despite my fears and doubts, I can't forget Phillipians 4:13, 'I can do anything through him who gives me strength' and Psalm 23:4, 'Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me.'

I know that the next year and a half are going to be huge. We also musn't forget that Brent and I are students still...this is going to take all the energy we have (plus a whole lot extra from God), to get us through this. Even if we manage the task, I also fear that it won't be worth it. What if we don't fundraise very much? At this point, I need to release my fears and push onwards if this is going to commence. Otherwise, the dream will be crushed and I just know in my heart of hearts we can't let that happen. So what if this is crazy, maybe we are a little crazy. But we have an opportunity to do something good. Isn't that reason enough to trudge on?

A couple of questions we have about the trip also are 1) can I take my dog? He might get trampled! We will have to test him around horses and see if he is sensible. It's a given some days he would have to ride in the support vehicle but hey, it would be nice for him to come along!

2) Where can I teach Brent to ride? We don't have the money to pay for lessons. Brent lives next to some people who own horses so we thought that maybe we could ask them. God willing they will let us use their horses!

One thing that was inspiring me today were old photos taken when I attended a Christian outdoor leadership training course at Sonshine Ranch in Papakura. We went for a beach ride during sunset and looking over these photos makes me feel excited at the adventure ahead. Along with the great opportunity it is to raise money for a charity organization like Tearfund, what a joy it will be to experience the entire length of NZ on horse back. Many kodak moments to be had I'm sure. Here are some pics from the beach ride:

Phew, what a journey ahead.

PS: I just want to acknowledge Chris Riding and Alex Oliver for helping with website and logo design which will be up soon. I'm not gifted in that area and you guys are a real blessing.

Sarah