Category: World Tour 2017

I’m feeling pretty miserable right now as I push on the pedals of my bicycle against the long steady hill out of Westport, Ireland. We left Ballina on September 3rd and began following a mapped tourist route called the Wild Atlantic Way. We found this trail to be aptly named because the west coast is known for being the most rural part of Ireland. The views are stunningly beautiful with rugged cliffs, mountains, and luscious green fields. This normally would be an enjoyable ride for us with few concerns. However, this time our trip has taken an unexpected turn. We have absolutely no money. Continue reading “The Lost Wallet”

Have you ever tried to execute a financial plan, only to have it turn completely on its head? This is what Matt and I experienced this winter. When we first arrived in Halifax, we were very low on funds and our journey east had come to a sudden halt. Unsure as to how we should proceed, Matt and I came up with a very simple plan. We would both find full-time employment and save up our money to continue on The Narrow Shoulder. We estimated that it would take approximately two years to save up enough money.  It was a good plan. However, God’s plan turned out to be much different than our own. Our jobs ended up being both part-time and temporary. Our paychecks were only enough to pay for our rent and livelihood. When we did receive extra funds, God encouraged us to be generous and give it away. During this season, God tested our hearts like never before. In so many situations, Matt and I were challenged with a choice. To put our faith in our jobs and finances, or to put our faith in God. Continue reading “Winter Assignment Part 2: Move the Mountain”

Matt and I have some amazing news. We are going to Ireland! We are leaving on August 8th and continuing our journey on The Narrow Shoulder. It is an amazing story about how God has guided our steps and provided a way for us to continue our journey east. When Matt and I first arrived in Halifax we felt a little lost and confused. The bicycle trip had come to a complete stop at the Atlantic Ocean and our faith was about to be tested on a whole new level. The Waiting Game had begun. Continue reading “Winter Assignment Part 1: The Waiting Game”

 

Hey friends,

I have to be honest with you guys. Over the last month Matt and I have been struggling financially and almost had to consider going home or moving into a homeless shelter. Allow me explain in more detail the situation and how God has provided for us over the last few months. Continue reading “A Christmas Miracle”

“We have to stop here.” Matt insisted as he pulled over to the side of the road.

“Again?” Stephen said with annoyance.

I understood his frustration. We had planned to cycle 90 kilometers to Kakabeka Falls, but already the day had been filled with interruptions. This morning we had met a total of seven different cyclists making their way across Canada. We had also stopped to explore a shop on the side of the highway, and then took pictures at the sign indicating we had just crossed into the Eastern Time Zone. The morning had certainly been exciting, but we had only cycled about 40 kilometers.

“Maybe you guys haven’t noticed, but we are down to our last litre of water.” Matt pointed out. “If we don’t refill now, it doesn’t look like there will be any lakes or cities for a long time. We should turn into this town and see if anyone can help us.”   Continue reading “A Garden of Blessings”

This story begins with a young married couple in a small basement suite in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Matt and I had been living a quiet and simple life for the last year.  Matt was attending college to become an aircraft maintenance engineer. I was working full-time as a dental receptionist to support him and pay the rent. We were enjoying this season of our lives and getting quite comfortable with our routine. Money was tight but our life was filled with love, joy, and peace. Every evening we were among friends playing board games, meeting for bible studies, and participating in the free social events at Church of the Rock. We could see the direction that our lives would take over the next few years. Matt would graduate and get a job in his trade. Then it would be his turn to support me as I finished my masters degree. When our careers were established we would start having children. This was the dream we were pursuing and I was excited for my future. There was just one problem. Late at night when my mind was quiet, there was a restlessness in my spirit and a whisper that said,

I have so much more to show you. Come and see. Continue reading “The Journey Begins: The First Call”