We all arrived on time for our 6:15am call to the airport. After trying to negotiate with United Airlines about the expense of our extra bags, which included the medical supplies and water pumps, we awaited our departure for Washington D.C. When it came time to board, we were all surprised by what seemed to be the smallest airplane most of us had ever traveled by. Even the folks in first class seemed to lack the usual spacious advantage! Luckily, this is the shortest leg of our journey to Malawi. Kip has assured us the next plane will be much bigger.

Malawi Bags

Just some of the luggage that the team hauled to Malawi. Medical supplies were split between team members to store in their personal bags along with 8 checked bags that were entirely composed of supplies.

We departed Kansas City around 8:00am and arrived at Washington Dulles International Airport at 10:20am eastern time. We somehow managed to board and retrieve all 16 of our checked bags before we made the trek across the airport to our bus. After arriving at Spring Hill Suites, the group dispersed to their rooms to get some much needed R&R.

Dinner was “two long city blocks” away at O’Malley’s Pub. Meals were delicately chosen based on what we will miss from our diets in the next 2 weeks – Burgers, salads, and if you are Dorothy, fried calamari! After our tummies were satisfied we made our way back to the hotel to get some sleep.

Lord, we pray for the patience to endure the long journey we have ahead of us tomorrow as we make our way into Malawi. Let us remember that “whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” – Proverbs 14:29. Help us to keep the true purpose of our this trip in mind despite the possible frustration, fluster, and fatigue that lies ahead.

Love and Blessings,

Mary Beth, Kip, Rob, Eric, Harriet, Dorothy, Kristen & Shandi