M and M - brave and tired

At the weekend, we hauled a huge tank on board. 180 kilos - as much as three slim women - but far more unwieldy and a lot of stuff to move and tidy up to clear the narrow entrance so that we could lower it into the engine room. In between, I squeezed in two coaching sessions. And on board in the open air is also something really special.

That night I slept in my brand new bunk for the first time. And on Sunday I was simply exhausted. Really flat. And I did what I would like future coaching guests on board to do: just sat on deck, read a bit, occasionally talked to others or to God, went for a swim, but otherwise just looked at the water and relaxed.

I was physically tired from the work, but also mentally tired from all the normal efforts at Down to Earth. Soon the 40th month of construction on the ship will begin... we had originally reckoned with 24. At the moment, the account is so full that I'm struggling to pay my rent. That's probably part of being a pioneer and taking on daring projects. But it's still tiring. A few days ago, inspired by a YouTube video, I decided that whenever I start to worry about finances, I want to pray for another woman who God is using very much at the moment, as protection for my soul. For strength, protection, blessing and empowerment.

If the worries come from my soul, then there is no harm in focussing on the fact that I can bless and be a blessing for others despite and in all challenges. And if they are attacks from the enemy, then he can consider whether he wants to attack me with worries and risk another woman being constantly blessed. And if it is a test from God, let him see that I want to protect my heart from frustration and despair as best I can. Out of love for him, because he is worth trusting.

Yes, it's true:

• The dream is still alive - to create a place where people can find inspiration and guidance.
• The hard work, the little rest (since the ship has been in Berlin, I've practically always had a 6-day week and no real holiday since 2013), the non-stop financial challenges, sometimes make me very tired mentally and physically... (then rest, massages, flowers and beauty help).
• I am sooo thankful for hundreds of answers to prayer during the process
• I am so grateful for everyone who has supported me during this blessed but not always easy time - in prayer and financially. It is not only my dream, but in many ways our dream. THANK YOU!