Today I Saw a Capybara
Today I saw a capybara. A real capybara in the wild! Well, kind of. It was at a Garden and Home store in Costa Rica, something similar to the Garden section at a Home Depot or Lowes. Does that count as in the wild? It wasn’t the store’s pet, to my knowledge. And the store […]
In Honor of Gabe
Then Written in the days following Gabe’s passing, in August 2025. I’m not quite sure where to begin. So here’s a list of memories, plans, expressions, ideas, and other thoughts about Gabe, whose life ended too soon and in an unimaginable way. I expect this will not be my easiest-to-follow blog. Instead, a collection of […]
Global Entry
I finally did it! After years of saying, I really need to get TSA Pre-check, I enrolled in Global Entry for that perk and more. If you aren’t familiar with Global Entry, it’s kind of like TSA Pre-check but for entering the country. It’s an expedited route through customs and immigration. During my first return […]
An Unexpected Gift of Cross-Cultural Communication
One of the many blessings and excitements of my work is the opportunity to travel to a different culture, over and over again. I’ve visited the same community of San Ramón, Costa Rica five times over the course of two years. The more I am there, the more I can see the gifts of this […]
My Favorite Airlines of 2025
I love to fly! Probably about as much as I love to ride the train. In 2025 I’ve taken 21 flights so far and have 6 more scheduled before the end of the year. With this much time in the sky, I’ve figured out which airlines and airports are my favorites (and least favorites) for […]
Today I Went Snorkeling
Today I went snorkeling. Off the coast of Costa Rica, I jumped into the water to see what was below. This is the third time I’ve snorkeled. The two other experiences were magical. My first time was in Hawaii on a family vacation when I was a child. I vividly remember swimming in a lagoon […]
Today I Led Bible Study
Today I led Bible Study. I led a group of young adults through a study on 2 Corinthians 12:9, But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest […]
5 Ways Costa Rica Surprised Me
Before going to Costa Rica for the first time in 2023, I considered myself reasonably well-traveled. Growing up we took family vacations–mostly road trips as good Midwesterners do. As an adult I’ve spent time on 3 continents, 8 countries, and many of the 50 states. I’ve taken planes, trains, buses, ferry boats, and cruise ships. […]
4 Reasons FSM is the Best First Mission Trip
It might be a bold statement, but I truly believe Faithful Servant Missions in San Ramón, Costa Rica is the best first mission trip. Whether you’re a new or experienced traveler, new to faith or walking with Jesus for years, or any age! I’ve been on international short-term mission trips with organizations in Kenya, Dominican […]
Culture
“What is your culture?” I recently taught a workshop around the historical, theological, and cultural dimensions of mission work, and this was the question that lingered longest. In a room full of women and men who believe there is a biblical imperative to love and serve others–every tribe, tongue, and nation. In a room full […]