Training Camp for sure looked different with COVID. All the squads were separated, daily temperature checks, masks, daily tests to assess symptoms and live streaming speakers.

But somehow it felt like a normal training camp.

I got to work with Steph (another mentor at AIM) with her new Expedition squad. They aren't sure if they will launch domestically or internationally, but they plan to launch in January.

Several of the Racers on this squad tried to go on the Race this year, but got sent home in March due to COVID. I love that they came back, ready to try again.

There is an expectancy, eagerness and joy flowing out of them.

They have their teeshirts made for where they thought they were headed this coming year, but are ready to face that getting changed significantly.

They are an army of warriors ready to go out....period. They don't know where they are going exactly, but they have their oil ready. I sense this is the fruit of COVID. I believe this pandemic exposed who were the nominal Christians from the ones who are truly saved. This remnant will be firm in the storm and on sunny days. Circumstances might rattle, but won't shake them.

There is so much diversity on this squad. There are Latinos, blacks, whites, Europeans and more. We intentionally had discussion groups about this at training camp and it felt so healthy.

We all come from various backgrounds, like the fact we are an interdenominational ministry, various cultures and races and how our differences are welcome in this organization.

We even had two Racers that are currently on World Race America here at Training Camp to go for some more! Raquel, pictured here, in the floral tank, is a Racer who went on the Race this year, got sent home, joined World Race America and will go international HOPEFULLY in January. Love the determination I see in her.

Just like these flowers, that we could easily pass by and not notice....this year, I am intentionally seeing all the beauty in the crazy.

All the strategy of God that I can.

All the things praiseworthy....and for this I rejoice.

Thank you God. You are worthy of it all.