Written July 7th, 2006
Here I sit in the middle of a lava field watching hot magma flowing into the water of the Pacific Ocean. The steam from the collision of hot versus cold shoots up into the air and the trade winds carry it out to sea!!! What a magnificent sight! As night approaches, I can now see not only where the hot lava meets the sea but also the path down the side of the mountain.
Well if you haven’t guessed yet, I am at volcano national park in Hilo. My parents are out visiting. I met them at the airport on Monday and we flew to Big Island together. We have driven all over this island and have seen almost every part imaginable. I have gotten carsick and I have gotten soaked because I didn’t bring a raincoat!! Word to the wise: when visiting Hilo, bring a raincoat!
The longer I sit here writing the darker the sky is getting and the brighter the red of the lava shows which reminds me of God!! How so you may ask??? Just like the lava, God is always flowing through our lives creating a new landscape. When dark times approach, God should shine even more brightly. We should fade into the backdrop and the only thing that others see should be God through us.
Written and Sent July 14, 2006
After I wrote that last line in my journal, it was really too dark to see anymore! Mom, dad, and I hiked the three or so miles from the lava flow to our car parked on the side of the road. On our way back, I stopped to wait on mom and dad. Several people passed and I thought I recognized Dr. Nichol with his wife and daughter, Alanna. So I called, “Alanna” and she turned hearing her name. Sure enough, it was them! I go to church with this family on Molokai and he is my doctor. We talked while we walked back! “It’s a small world” became our theme song on our drive back to our hotel.
We left Big Island on Saturday afternoon and made it into Molokai that evening. Even though it is only a stone throw away, it takes several hours to travel between islands. To give you some idea… we arrived at Hilo airport at 2 for a 3:05 flight, flew 47 minutes to Oahu where we had to check in for our flight to Molokai that didn’t leave until 5:50. The flight to Molokai is only 20 minutes so we arrived at a little after six got our luggage and loaded into my jeep. We got to my house at 6:30!!
In the past week, mom, dad, and I have gone to the beach 3 times, been to the bog, worked up at school, and seen the sunset from the wharf. My parents have blessed me by doing electrical work, plumbing, gardening, cleaning, and organizing since they have been here. My car has had its oil, oil filter, air filter, and brake pads changed, tires rotated, and the underneath side greased!! I have definitely been blessed with parents who enjoy serving!!! I don’t know who is getting a better vacation!!
This is going to be the last email newsletter for the summer!! Mom and dad leave Tuesday the 18th. I have preschool parent orientation that night. Teacher meetings will be the rest of the week. School starts July 24th (my birthday)!! So far I have 17 children enrolled! It will definitely be an adventure this year. Please be praying!
I hope all is well with you. I would love to hear from you.
Much love and God’s blessings,
Angela
Friday, July 14, 2006
Wednesday, June 7, 2006
A morning accident
June 7th, 2006
What a day it has been!! My heart is so sad and broken at the moment for the people of Molokai. I was awoken this morning at 7:15 to a friend calling to inform me that a car accident had occurred this morning about 1am involving some of our youth. She really didn't know any details but was calling to make sure my roommate, Jasmine, wasn't involved. Praise God she wasn't but as I later found out four of our young people were involved. One killed, three in critical condition.
Living on an island of 7,000 people news travels quickly through coconut wireless and everyone knows everybody. So when something like this happens everyone is affected. The young lady that was killed was an exchange student from New Zealand. I met her when I went to New Zealand in March. (She was traveling to New Zealand with Molokai's Hawaiian Immersion class). She returned home to New Zealand and came back out to Molokai recently for the Hawaiian Immersion graduation last weekend. I also knew the driver of the car.
On my way to school this morning, I had to take a detour through Kualapuu because they closed a two-mile stretch of the main road. The accident took down two telephone poles. On my way home this afternoon, the road was reopened and there were friends and family cleaning up the remaining debris from the accident sight. After seeing that, I felt like bursting into tears, screaming at the top of my lungs, and stopping to pay my respects. I did the only thing that would do any good- I prayed!
Why are situations like this so tough???? God has promised in his word that he can turn a situation intended for evil and make it out for good. I have seen this happen where someone dies but through their death so many of their relatives and friends come to know Christ as the Savior of their life. A couple of years ago on Molokai, we had three of our youth die in separate incidents. God used these incidents to convict hearts and get our kids back on track. Our Tuesday evening youth Bible Study grew so much that there was no sitting room available.
I know in my own life it took losing a friend to an accident to get me back on the right track with God. It is a chilling thought- If you died tonight, are you going to heaven? If you can't say for positive that you are going to heaven, then I give you Jesus. He is the only way to heaven!! Just believe and receive. Acts 16:31 says, "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved." It is not by works but by accepting the gift of salvation. I love each one of you and want to spend eternity worshiping Jesus with you!!
Please be praying for Molokai- that God would use this accident to turn hearts and lives back to Him!!!
Much love and God's blessings,
Angela
What a day it has been!! My heart is so sad and broken at the moment for the people of Molokai. I was awoken this morning at 7:15 to a friend calling to inform me that a car accident had occurred this morning about 1am involving some of our youth. She really didn't know any details but was calling to make sure my roommate, Jasmine, wasn't involved. Praise God she wasn't but as I later found out four of our young people were involved. One killed, three in critical condition.
Living on an island of 7,000 people news travels quickly through coconut wireless and everyone knows everybody. So when something like this happens everyone is affected. The young lady that was killed was an exchange student from New Zealand. I met her when I went to New Zealand in March. (She was traveling to New Zealand with Molokai's Hawaiian Immersion class). She returned home to New Zealand and came back out to Molokai recently for the Hawaiian Immersion graduation last weekend. I also knew the driver of the car.
On my way to school this morning, I had to take a detour through Kualapuu because they closed a two-mile stretch of the main road. The accident took down two telephone poles. On my way home this afternoon, the road was reopened and there were friends and family cleaning up the remaining debris from the accident sight. After seeing that, I felt like bursting into tears, screaming at the top of my lungs, and stopping to pay my respects. I did the only thing that would do any good- I prayed!
Why are situations like this so tough???? God has promised in his word that he can turn a situation intended for evil and make it out for good. I have seen this happen where someone dies but through their death so many of their relatives and friends come to know Christ as the Savior of their life. A couple of years ago on Molokai, we had three of our youth die in separate incidents. God used these incidents to convict hearts and get our kids back on track. Our Tuesday evening youth Bible Study grew so much that there was no sitting room available.
I know in my own life it took losing a friend to an accident to get me back on the right track with God. It is a chilling thought- If you died tonight, are you going to heaven? If you can't say for positive that you are going to heaven, then I give you Jesus. He is the only way to heaven!! Just believe and receive. Acts 16:31 says, "Believe in the Lord Jesus and you will be saved." It is not by works but by accepting the gift of salvation. I love each one of you and want to spend eternity worshiping Jesus with you!!
Please be praying for Molokai- that God would use this accident to turn hearts and lives back to Him!!!
Much love and God's blessings,
Angela
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Survey
Participate with me on this. It's actually quite interesting. I only
sent this to folks whose answers are bound to be clever!
This is what you are supposed to do, and try not to be LAME and spoil
the fun! Just give in and do it.
Change all the answers so that they apply to you then send it to a whole
bunch of people *including* the person who sent it to you. Put your
name in the subject. The theory is that you will learn a lot of little
known facts about your friends. It is fun and easy.
50 questions to answer. (GROAN ! ! !)
1. FIRST NAME? Angela
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Nope.
3. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? 7-24-1979 Provo, UTAH
4. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Can''t remember
5. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Most of the time- but I am also comparing it to my preschoolers! :)
6. WHAT IS YOU FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Lunch meat-ugh! I prefer turkey!
7. ANY CHILDREN? Do my 11 preschoolers count???
8. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Probably
9. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? Yes- actually I have a couple- one for personal thoughts and what the Lord is teaching me and the other one is for prayer requests.
10. DO YOU USE SARCASM? I try not to b/c it hurts others but occasionally it slips out.
11. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes
12. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? I had the chance in New Zealand and chickened out!
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Can it be hot cereal? If so cream of wheat. IF cold, Oh's !!! (Can't find those out here, however)
14. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Depends on how many times I go in and out of the house. Most of the time I just wear slippah's because it easier to take on and off when entering a house. (Hawaiian culture- You remove your shoes before entering)
15. DO YOU THINK YOU’RE STRONG? Sure
16. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Hawaiian Mud Pie!!! (Oreo cookies, chocolate, and kona coffee ice cream combined)
17. SHOE SIZE? depends on the shoe- normally an 8 1/2 to a 9
18. RED OR PINK? Red
19. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? my sympathetic heart- it gets me into trouble!
20. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? depends on the moment and where I am at. Right at the moment- my family
21. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? yes, please! I am curious of your answers.
22. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? blue jean capris and no shoes (b/c I am inside- see above)
23. LAST THING YOU ATE? A casserole I made for dinner
24. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The 6 o'clock news- concerning a shark attack!
25. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Why would I want to be a crayon when I see what my preschoolers do to crayons on a daily basis? Chewed on, stuck in their noses, broken, etc.
26. FAVORITE SMELL? The smell before it rains.
27. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT OPPOSITE SEX? Do they have a ring on their left hand!!!
28. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? yes- we have been friends since kindergarten. That is over 20 years!!! :-)
29. FAVORITE DRINK? honestly, pink lemonade
30. FAVORITE SPORT? soccer, softball, and swimming
31. HAIR COLOR? dark brown with red highlights when I am in the sun
32. EYE COLOR? brown
33. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? no
34. FAVORITE FOOD? katsu chicken
35. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? happy endings- I do not like scary movies
36. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Into the blue
37. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? pink
38. SUMMER OR WINTER? summer (reminder- I live in Hawaii) I don't do well in the cold!
39. HUGS OR KISSES? hugs
40. FAVORITE DESSERT? icecream
41. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? I am not sure b/c I am normally not responding!
42. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? we will see
43. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? God's word, Brown bear, brown bear what do you see (preschool), ask in another week and I will be on summer vacation
44. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Nothing- I don't have one!
45. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Nothing- I went to a raw foods dinner. Very interesting
46. FAVORITE SOUNDS rain drops on my aluminum roof, waves crashing on the shore, children laughing
47. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles
48. WHAT IS THE LONGEST YOU'VE BEEN AWAY FROM HOME? Home is where the heart is!! Molokai is now my home!
50. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? hanging a spoon on my nose, my preschoolers think I have a special talent of kicking a playground ball across the yard!
(and by the way there are only 49 questions because there is no question number 49.)
sent this to folks whose answers are bound to be clever!
This is what you are supposed to do, and try not to be LAME and spoil
the fun! Just give in and do it.
Change all the answers so that they apply to you then send it to a whole
bunch of people *including* the person who sent it to you. Put your
name in the subject. The theory is that you will learn a lot of little
known facts about your friends. It is fun and easy.
50 questions to answer. (GROAN ! ! !)
1. FIRST NAME? Angela
2. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Nope.
3. WHEN AND WHERE WERE YOU BORN? 7-24-1979 Provo, UTAH
4. WHEN DID YOU LAST CRY? Can''t remember
5. DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? Most of the time- but I am also comparing it to my preschoolers! :)
6. WHAT IS YOU FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? Lunch meat-ugh! I prefer turkey!
7. ANY CHILDREN? Do my 11 preschoolers count???
8. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Probably
9. DO YOU HAVE A JOURNAL? Yes- actually I have a couple- one for personal thoughts and what the Lord is teaching me and the other one is for prayer requests.
10. DO YOU USE SARCASM? I try not to b/c it hurts others but occasionally it slips out.
11. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yes
12. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? I had the chance in New Zealand and chickened out!
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Can it be hot cereal? If so cream of wheat. IF cold, Oh's !!! (Can't find those out here, however)
14. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? Depends on how many times I go in and out of the house. Most of the time I just wear slippah's because it easier to take on and off when entering a house. (Hawaiian culture- You remove your shoes before entering)
15. DO YOU THINK YOU’RE STRONG? Sure
16. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM FLAVOR? Hawaiian Mud Pie!!! (Oreo cookies, chocolate, and kona coffee ice cream combined)
17. SHOE SIZE? depends on the shoe- normally an 8 1/2 to a 9
18. RED OR PINK? Red
19. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? my sympathetic heart- it gets me into trouble!
20. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? depends on the moment and where I am at. Right at the moment- my family
21. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? yes, please! I am curious of your answers.
22. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? blue jean capris and no shoes (b/c I am inside- see above)
23. LAST THING YOU ATE? A casserole I made for dinner
24. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? The 6 o'clock news- concerning a shark attack!
25. IF YOU WERE A CRAYON WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Why would I want to be a crayon when I see what my preschoolers do to crayons on a daily basis? Chewed on, stuck in their noses, broken, etc.
26. FAVORITE SMELL? The smell before it rains.
27. THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT OPPOSITE SEX? Do they have a ring on their left hand!!!
28. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? yes- we have been friends since kindergarten. That is over 20 years!!! :-)
29. FAVORITE DRINK? honestly, pink lemonade
30. FAVORITE SPORT? soccer, softball, and swimming
31. HAIR COLOR? dark brown with red highlights when I am in the sun
32. EYE COLOR? brown
33. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? no
34. FAVORITE FOOD? katsu chicken
35. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? happy endings- I do not like scary movies
36. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? Into the blue
37. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? pink
38. SUMMER OR WINTER? summer (reminder- I live in Hawaii) I don't do well in the cold!
39. HUGS OR KISSES? hugs
40. FAVORITE DESSERT? icecream
41. WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? I am not sure b/c I am normally not responding!
42. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? we will see
43. WHAT BOOKS ARE YOU READING? God's word, Brown bear, brown bear what do you see (preschool), ask in another week and I will be on summer vacation
44. WHAT'S ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Nothing- I don't have one!
45. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON TV LAST NIGHT? Nothing- I went to a raw foods dinner. Very interesting
46. FAVORITE SOUNDS rain drops on my aluminum roof, waves crashing on the shore, children laughing
47. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Beatles
48. WHAT IS THE LONGEST YOU'VE BEEN AWAY FROM HOME? Home is where the heart is!! Molokai is now my home!
50. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? hanging a spoon on my nose, my preschoolers think I have a special talent of kicking a playground ball across the yard!
(and by the way there are only 49 questions because there is no question number 49.)
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Take time to relax
May 28th, 2006
I was just reading in an education magazine that teachers that take work home with them on a regular basis are more likely to end their career earlier than those teachers who leave their work at school. Now as I am ending my fifth year of teaching, I am realizing how important it is to leave work at school. Even with teaching preschool, I find myself going to school at 6:45am, getting home at 4:30pm, and working til 9 or 10 on paperwork. As I look back, this is craziness.
So I am taking the advise of the article- delegating more, stressing less over the little things, and taking back my weekends. Most Sundays you will find me in my classroom setting up for the following week. I am now preparing for Monday before I leave on Friday rather than Sunday.
Which brings me to the current moment... It is Sunday afternoon and I am sitting on the beach journaling and thinking about everything that has gone on over this school year. As I reflect, the one thing that sticks out most in my mind is how God has kept me on my knees before Him. There have been so many odd situations this year that I can only look up and say, "Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness."
School is pau here on June 2nd. Preschool graduation is June 1st. Then the last day is water fun day. I will be working all of June- cleaning, setting up, registering children, interviewing parents, etc. My parents come out July 3rd through the 18th. The day they leave, I have preschool parent orientation. Then Thursday and Friday of that week are teacher workdays. School starts on July 24th (my birthday).
So far we have 17 children registered and I have 2 full time aides. Our goal is 24 children. Please be praying that God will bring in the children He wants. I am excited about the upcoming school year.
Thanks agian for all of you that are saving General Mills box tops and Campbell's labels. We have been able to get some much needed outdoor equipment this year. Keep them coming!!!
Hope all is well with you! I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Much love and God's blessings,
Angela
I was just reading in an education magazine that teachers that take work home with them on a regular basis are more likely to end their career earlier than those teachers who leave their work at school. Now as I am ending my fifth year of teaching, I am realizing how important it is to leave work at school. Even with teaching preschool, I find myself going to school at 6:45am, getting home at 4:30pm, and working til 9 or 10 on paperwork. As I look back, this is craziness.
So I am taking the advise of the article- delegating more, stressing less over the little things, and taking back my weekends. Most Sundays you will find me in my classroom setting up for the following week. I am now preparing for Monday before I leave on Friday rather than Sunday.
Which brings me to the current moment... It is Sunday afternoon and I am sitting on the beach journaling and thinking about everything that has gone on over this school year. As I reflect, the one thing that sticks out most in my mind is how God has kept me on my knees before Him. There have been so many odd situations this year that I can only look up and say, "Thank you, Lord, for your faithfulness."
School is pau here on June 2nd. Preschool graduation is June 1st. Then the last day is water fun day. I will be working all of June- cleaning, setting up, registering children, interviewing parents, etc. My parents come out July 3rd through the 18th. The day they leave, I have preschool parent orientation. Then Thursday and Friday of that week are teacher workdays. School starts on July 24th (my birthday).
So far we have 17 children registered and I have 2 full time aides. Our goal is 24 children. Please be praying that God will bring in the children He wants. I am excited about the upcoming school year.
Thanks agian for all of you that are saving General Mills box tops and Campbell's labels. We have been able to get some much needed outdoor equipment this year. Keep them coming!!!
Hope all is well with you! I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Much love and God's blessings,
Angela
Sunday, April 16, 2006
Healing Rain
April 16, 2006
Aloha Kakahiaka and Happy Easter!!
What a day it has been!! What a week it has been!! I have been back from New Zealand for 2 weeks and God has really been working so I thought I would share.
In preparation for today’s service, our halau (hula group) has been practicing for the past couple of months. Then about a week and a half ago my left foot started swelling and in severe pain. I had already gone to the doctor concerning the foot about 7 months ago. Since going to the doctor, I have been doing the exercise for my foot but sometimes it just hurts for no apparent reason. Most of the time it only swells and produces pain for a day or so. But not this time… Even after the exercises, wrapping it, icy hot, soaking it, and keeping it propped up, it has been really sore for a week and a half. I started praying that God would take the pain away. Then during hula practice on Wednesday, I was still in a lot of pain so I asked our halau to be praying for healing. I also asked my home fellowship group to be praying.
Well Thursday morning I woke up at 4:45am to take Jasmine and Marcus to catch the ferry. As soon as I placed my foot on the floor getting out of bed, pain shot up my leg. I took them down and came back to the house. I started my morning devotions and the lyrics to the song “healing rain” by Michael W. Smith came to my mind.
Healing Rain
Healing rain is coming down
It's coming nearer to this old town
Rich and poor, weak and strong
It's bringing mercy, it won't be long
Healing rain is coming down
It's coming closer to the lost and found
Tears of joy, and tears of shame
Are washed forever in Jesus' name
Healing rain, it comes with fire
So let it fall and take us higher
Healing rain, I'm not afraid
To be washed in Heaven's rain
Lift your heads, let us return
To the mercy seat where time began
And in your eyes, I see the pain
Come soak this dry heart with healing rain
And only You, the Son of man
Can take a leper and let him stand
So lift your hands, they can be held
By someone greater, the great I Am
Healing rain, it comes with fire
So let it fall and take us higher
Healing rain, I'm not afraid
To be washed in Heaven's rain
To be washed in Heaven's rain...
Healing rain is falling down
Healing rain is falling down
I'm not afraid
I'm not afraid...
Did I truly believe in that healing rain from heaven that Jesus could heal my foot? Could he heal the leper or the lame man?? After the reminder of several of Jesus’ miracles, I knew that Jesus’ could heal my foot in his perfect timing. The problem was that God’s timing isn’t always my timing.
Anyway, I woke up this morning at 5am to get ready for Sonrise service and MY FOOT DIDN’T HURT!!! Hallelujah!!! I learned God as Jehovah Rapha- the God who heals! I was able to dance this morning with absolutely no pain. Praise be to the God who heals!!
This song covers both spiritual and physical healing. I have seen both types of healing in my life. The spiritual healing is what makes Easter so special. God sent his Son to die on the cross as the sacrifice for our sin. Jesus Christ didn’t stay dead but he rose on the 3rd day. He conquered death and the grave. He is our true healing rain sent by heaven. He can give this old, dead heart new life.
I hope and pray that all is well for you. If you would like to know more about that healing rain let me know.
Much love and God’s blessings,
Angela Calhoun
Aloha Kakahiaka and Happy Easter!!
What a day it has been!! What a week it has been!! I have been back from New Zealand for 2 weeks and God has really been working so I thought I would share.
In preparation for today’s service, our halau (hula group) has been practicing for the past couple of months. Then about a week and a half ago my left foot started swelling and in severe pain. I had already gone to the doctor concerning the foot about 7 months ago. Since going to the doctor, I have been doing the exercise for my foot but sometimes it just hurts for no apparent reason. Most of the time it only swells and produces pain for a day or so. But not this time… Even after the exercises, wrapping it, icy hot, soaking it, and keeping it propped up, it has been really sore for a week and a half. I started praying that God would take the pain away. Then during hula practice on Wednesday, I was still in a lot of pain so I asked our halau to be praying for healing. I also asked my home fellowship group to be praying.
Well Thursday morning I woke up at 4:45am to take Jasmine and Marcus to catch the ferry. As soon as I placed my foot on the floor getting out of bed, pain shot up my leg. I took them down and came back to the house. I started my morning devotions and the lyrics to the song “healing rain” by Michael W. Smith came to my mind.
Healing Rain
Healing rain is coming down
It's coming nearer to this old town
Rich and poor, weak and strong
It's bringing mercy, it won't be long
Healing rain is coming down
It's coming closer to the lost and found
Tears of joy, and tears of shame
Are washed forever in Jesus' name
Healing rain, it comes with fire
So let it fall and take us higher
Healing rain, I'm not afraid
To be washed in Heaven's rain
Lift your heads, let us return
To the mercy seat where time began
And in your eyes, I see the pain
Come soak this dry heart with healing rain
And only You, the Son of man
Can take a leper and let him stand
So lift your hands, they can be held
By someone greater, the great I Am
Healing rain, it comes with fire
So let it fall and take us higher
Healing rain, I'm not afraid
To be washed in Heaven's rain
To be washed in Heaven's rain...
Healing rain is falling down
Healing rain is falling down
I'm not afraid
I'm not afraid...
Did I truly believe in that healing rain from heaven that Jesus could heal my foot? Could he heal the leper or the lame man?? After the reminder of several of Jesus’ miracles, I knew that Jesus’ could heal my foot in his perfect timing. The problem was that God’s timing isn’t always my timing.
Anyway, I woke up this morning at 5am to get ready for Sonrise service and MY FOOT DIDN’T HURT!!! Hallelujah!!! I learned God as Jehovah Rapha- the God who heals! I was able to dance this morning with absolutely no pain. Praise be to the God who heals!!
This song covers both spiritual and physical healing. I have seen both types of healing in my life. The spiritual healing is what makes Easter so special. God sent his Son to die on the cross as the sacrifice for our sin. Jesus Christ didn’t stay dead but he rose on the 3rd day. He conquered death and the grave. He is our true healing rain sent by heaven. He can give this old, dead heart new life.
I hope and pray that all is well for you. If you would like to know more about that healing rain let me know.
Much love and God’s blessings,
Angela Calhoun
Friday, April 7, 2006
Indescribable!
April 7, 2006
Aloha family and friends-
Wow, time flies when you’re having fun (or so they say!). It is Friday night. I have been home one week from New Zealand and what a week it has been. On the 9 hour plane flight from Auckland , I started a letter to email while I was stuck in my seat but I really have not had the chance to type it up and send it. So I will attempt to rewrite and send this again.
After a nine hour flight and a 22 hour time difference, my friend, Julie, and I arrived in Auckland , New Zealand to stay with some of my friends that I met while I lived in NC- the Frinks. God had some spectacular things for us to learn while we were visiting New Zealand . We spent the first 4 days in the Auckland area then we flew down to Queenstown on the South Island for 4 days. While Julie and I were cruising around Queenstown, we were listening to Chris Tomlin’s song “Indescribable”. That became the song for this trip because it so described what our hearts were saying. The words are…
From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea
Creation's revealing Your majesty
From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring
Every creature unique in the song that it sings
All exclaiming
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God
Who has told every lightning bolt where it should go
Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow
Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light
Yet conceals it to bring us the coolness of night
None can fathom
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
Incomparable, unchangeable
You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same
You are amazing God
You are amazing God
Even as I reread the lyrics of the song, my heart and mind are flooded with wonderful memories of this trip and how amazing our God is!!! Every part of creation screams of God’s amazing hand. My heart cannot fathom all that God has done.
As we were driving from Queenstown down to Milford Sound, the views were majestic. On one side of the road, we had the Remarkables mountain range and on the other side there were the depths of the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu . It gives a whole new meaning to “From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea Creation's revealing Your majesty”.
Since New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, they are headed into fall. The colors on the south island were absolutely breathtaking. “From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring every creature unique in the song that it sings, All exclaiming Indescribable, uncontainable,”
The weather was much cooler than Hawaii and the sunsets were magnificent. There were moments that I so wanted to take a picture and did, but looking back at the photo it just doesn’t do the actual image justice. We serve a Holy God that made all of this to reflect His glory!! Do we give Him the glory He deserves or do we dismiss it as “Oh that’s nice”???
The most humbling part of all this is the last line of the song that says- Incomparable, unchangeable You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same, You are amazing God!
The same God that created everything also created you and me. He sees the depths of our wretched hearts and HE LOVES US THE SAME!!! That is amazing to me! Even in our sin, God loves us. He loved us enough to send his only son, Jesus, to die on the cross to be the sacrifice for that sin. That is our only way to heaven. We must accept that sacrifice in order to go to heaven. Jesus conquered death and the grave for you and for me! I pray that if you do not know this amazing God, that you will call me or email me to find out more information.
I had a three year old in my class accept God’s forgiveness for her sins today! What a day of rejoicing it was to see her name written in the Lamb’s book of life. Oh how my heart desires to see each one of you in heaven one day!!! God has given each one of us the choice- accept Him and live eternally in Heaven with Him or deny Him and live eternally condemned to Hell. It is your choice!!
Again, if you need to talk, call me (808-553-8124) or email me!! I would love to talk with you!
Much love and God’s blessings,
Angela Calhoun
Aloha family and friends-
Wow, time flies when you’re having fun (or so they say!). It is Friday night. I have been home one week from New Zealand and what a week it has been. On the 9 hour plane flight from Auckland , I started a letter to email while I was stuck in my seat but I really have not had the chance to type it up and send it. So I will attempt to rewrite and send this again.
After a nine hour flight and a 22 hour time difference, my friend, Julie, and I arrived in Auckland , New Zealand to stay with some of my friends that I met while I lived in NC- the Frinks. God had some spectacular things for us to learn while we were visiting New Zealand . We spent the first 4 days in the Auckland area then we flew down to Queenstown on the South Island for 4 days. While Julie and I were cruising around Queenstown, we were listening to Chris Tomlin’s song “Indescribable”. That became the song for this trip because it so described what our hearts were saying. The words are…
From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea
Creation's revealing Your majesty
From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring
Every creature unique in the song that it sings
All exclaiming
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God
Who has told every lightning bolt where it should go
Or seen heavenly storehouses laden with snow
Who imagined the sun and gives source to its light
Yet conceals it to bring us the coolness of night
None can fathom
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
All powerful, untameable,
Awestruck we fall to our knees as we humbly proclaim
You are amazing God
Indescribable, uncontainable,
You placed the stars in the sky and You know them by name.
You are amazing God
Incomparable, unchangeable
You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same
You are amazing God
You are amazing God
Even as I reread the lyrics of the song, my heart and mind are flooded with wonderful memories of this trip and how amazing our God is!!! Every part of creation screams of God’s amazing hand. My heart cannot fathom all that God has done.
As we were driving from Queenstown down to Milford Sound, the views were majestic. On one side of the road, we had the Remarkables mountain range and on the other side there were the depths of the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu . It gives a whole new meaning to “From the highest of heights to the depths of the sea Creation's revealing Your majesty”.
Since New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, they are headed into fall. The colors on the south island were absolutely breathtaking. “From the colors of fall to the fragrance of spring every creature unique in the song that it sings, All exclaiming Indescribable, uncontainable,”
The weather was much cooler than Hawaii and the sunsets were magnificent. There were moments that I so wanted to take a picture and did, but looking back at the photo it just doesn’t do the actual image justice. We serve a Holy God that made all of this to reflect His glory!! Do we give Him the glory He deserves or do we dismiss it as “Oh that’s nice”???
The most humbling part of all this is the last line of the song that says- Incomparable, unchangeable You see the depths of my heart and You love me the same, You are amazing God!
The same God that created everything also created you and me. He sees the depths of our wretched hearts and HE LOVES US THE SAME!!! That is amazing to me! Even in our sin, God loves us. He loved us enough to send his only son, Jesus, to die on the cross to be the sacrifice for that sin. That is our only way to heaven. We must accept that sacrifice in order to go to heaven. Jesus conquered death and the grave for you and for me! I pray that if you do not know this amazing God, that you will call me or email me to find out more information.
I had a three year old in my class accept God’s forgiveness for her sins today! What a day of rejoicing it was to see her name written in the Lamb’s book of life. Oh how my heart desires to see each one of you in heaven one day!!! God has given each one of us the choice- accept Him and live eternally in Heaven with Him or deny Him and live eternally condemned to Hell. It is your choice!!
Again, if you need to talk, call me (808-553-8124) or email me!! I would love to talk with you!
Much love and God’s blessings,
Angela Calhoun
Monday, March 20, 2006
NZ Adventures
March 20th
Our journey has begun... Candace, Ginger, and Aisha picked us up about 4pm and took us to MKK airport. It took no time to check in and our flight didn't leave until 5:30. Ginger is such a hoot. Julie and I are now sitting here waiting to check in at Air New Zealand.
Check in went really fast. Julie and I went to the food court for dinner and had Chinese. While eating, we had the chance to talk with an older couple from Lake Tahoe, CA. They are involved in a Catholic church there.
Galatians 1:10- "For do I not persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased man, I should not be the servant of Christ."
Romans 1:16
Wednesday, March 22nd
We arrived into Auckland airport about 7am, got our luggage, went through customs, and then waited on Charlie. He got stuck in traffic so it took him about half an hour longer then he thought. I realized coming in that people drive on the left side of the road. That is something I still haven't gotten used to yet.
Charlie took us to their house- very nice 2 story house. We are staying in Caleb's old room. I didn't know that the Frinks have been serving here for 17 years!
We settled in and went with Bo to town to exchange money and go grocery shopping.
Gas is $1.57 for a litre!
Postage to mail a letter to the US mainland is $2.00.
Postcard $1.50
Fruit is relatively inexpensive.
Julie and I came back to the house and worked on booking a trip to the South Island.
About 2pm, we all loaded into the van and headed to downtown Auckland to the Kelly Tarlton Antartica Encounter. There we got to go on snow cats and see gentoo and king penguins. All of this is build under the road. The Underwater world was built in Aucklands old sewer system. It is one of those clear tunnels with sharks and fish swimming all around. They also have a huge stingray tank.
After we finished there, Charlie and Bo took us to Mt. Eden (an extinct volcano). There was an excellent view of Auckland.
Came home and had lamb chops and beans for dinner. After dinner, Abigail found a hedge hog outside and ended up bringing it to the kitchen. They are so cute to watch. They ball up when scared and they are really poky. We named him Hedgy!
We were in bed by 7:30pm. It had been Sunday since we had actually slept in a bed!
Thursday, March 23rd
Woke up at 7:30 to use the "loo". Laid back down to read my Bible and ended up falling back to sleep until 8:45. Got up and had breakfast. We then walked into town to go to the mall. Julie and I shopped for a while, had McDonald's for lunch, then walked back. On the way back we dropped tracks in mail boxes along the road. Came back and did some of my Bible study. Had dinner of corn beef, potatoes, and carrots. Then figured out what we were going to do over the next couple of days. Watched some of the commonwealth games with Abigail. Wrote postcards. Had chocolate chip ice cream and went to bed.
Friday, March 24th
We got up a little after 8 and go ready. Julie and I went up and had breakfast and devotions with the Frink family. I was really impressed that they do a morning Bible Study and they are singing through the hymnal. So we sang "Away in the Manger!" Bo took Julie and I to the travel agency to pick up our itinerairy for our trip to Queenstown. Once we got some material for our trip we drove to Auckland Domain where Bo dropped us off at the Auckland Museum. Julie and I explored there for a couple of hours. They had a lot of artifacts from the different Pacific Islands. They also had a very cool volcano exhibit.
Julie and I were both amazed at how museums are brainwashing the public in the areas of the world being "millions" of years old and what evolved from what.
After the museum we caught a bus for $3.00 to the Sky tower and walked to the Victoria Park Market. Had a chicken kabob and potatoe wedges for lunch then did some shopping. About 3:30pm we called Bo and Charlie to come pick us up.
We drove home in pretty heavy traffic. Unpacked. I got my stuff together for Sunday's children church. Had dinner of sausages, pea salad, and potatoes. Ended our day by having a major pillow fight with Abigail and Julie!
Saturday, March 25th
After a night with a sore stomach and several trips to the loo, I woke up at 8:45, put on hiking clothes, went upstairs for breakfast. Had devo's with the Frink family. Did a load of laundry. Their washing machine is very small compared to the American washer. I hung the clothes on the line. Bo took Julie, Abigail, and myslef up to the Arataki Visitors Center where we walked around for a bit. We then drove down to Piha Beach- which is known for its surfing with pretty rough undertow. There were quite a few surfers out. We hiked up and around the edge of the beach. It was quite the hike. Once we got to the end we climbed down the rocks to an area with several tidepools where we discovered starfish and lots of other mollusks. It was really cool. The beaches are black sand and absolutely beautiful. We drove back home, had lunch, and then went to craftworld where NZ artisan's sell their homemade goods. I bought a candle for J & L and a head pack for myself. We also stopped by the grocery store to pick up some treats to take home. Bo bought some TimTams and HokeyPokey Ice Cream (which is very yummy!!) We drove home. Julie and I with Abigail's help washed all of the windows in the house. Had fish and chips for dinner and then watched NZ brightest kid and the Common Wealthy games. Julie and I packed for Queenstown and now it's time to sleep!
Sunday, March 26th
Well it is Sunday! I can't believe that we are half way through with our trip. We have seen a lot but there is so much more to see. God has been so good!
Julie and I got up a little after eight. We got dressed for church then went upstairs for muffins. We left for church about 9:30. The church that Charlie preaches at is Waitakere City Bible Church. We met several families. The church is small (maybe 25 people) but very multicultural. They are very conservative with their music (all hymns). Bo played the piano. After worship, I ran through the rain to the Sunday school room where I had 2 kids (Sam and Nicca) and 4 adults. We went through the Easter story with the Resurrection Eggs. The kids were very quiet. The adults were evaluating me so that was kind of odd. Afterward they went over the evals with me. Everything went well except for being questioned if "Father Abraham" the song was Biblical. I will have to do some investigative work on that. Julie and I chatted with some of the people while we waited on Bo to have her women's meeting. We had enough time to run home and grab a bite to eat before we headed to the airport. They dropped us off at the airport, we checked in and headed toward the gate to board. For domestic flights you only have to be there 30 minutes in advance. I sat beside a man named Iesu from Kuwait. We had a good conversation on the hour and 45 minute flight. He is flying to Queenstown for a United Nations Agriculture meeting. Landing in Queenstown, the scenery was beautiful. We rented a car from Budget then went out and prayed over it. Julie was a bit nervous driving on the left side of the road. She did a great job driving to the Queenstown lodge where we had reservations to stay. Very nice place!!! In awe of the beauty. We checked in and took the 6pm shuttle down to town for dinner and window shopping. The temperature was nice and cool and the sunset was magnificent over Lake Wakatipu. We caught the evening bus back to the lodge. We mapped out what we want to see while sitting here watching the closing ceremonies of the Common Wealth Games.
Monday, March 27th
It is 6:30am! Julie and I are up and getting ready for a long day of driving and sightseeing. Breakfast was at 7am with eggs, toast, sausage, cerael, yogurt, fruit, etc. Very nice to be complimentary. God our bags and hit the road at 7:30am bound for Milford Sound. Our first major sight was the Remarkables (a huge mtn range) right outside of Queenstown. We stopped at a cafe about 2 hours into the trip for coffee. Very good. Stopped a lot for scenery pictures. Went to the visitors center in Te Anau. Julie got a book about backpacking through the Fjiordland. Also went past and stopped for pictures at Walker Creek, Lord of the Rings Scenery, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn, Homer Tunnel, The chasm...
Got to Milford Sound about 2 and walked around a bit. Paid $3.00 for a 20 ounce soda!! Then hit the road to head for Queenstown. After a couple of stops for pictures and a dinner stop in Te Anau we made it to Queenstown in a little over 4 hours. For dinner we had meat pies per Bo's suggestion. Julie had steak and I had chicken. They were very yummy.
Well after a long day of riding in the car and walking around... I am going to bed!
Tuesday, March 28th
Almost the end of our trip! We leave Queenstown tomorrow and also arrive in HI on the 29th.
Julie and I got up at 7am, dressed, went to breakfast and left the room at 8:30. Filled up with Petrol on our way out of town. Got $ and hit the road. As we were driving we stopped to see some guys bungee jumping. The river they were jumping in is used in LOTR as the river that the fellowship float down. We passed by several vineyards and wineries. Drove up to Wanaka. Stopped at a cafe for a Mocha and a Austrian delight. Enjoyed walking around then got back in the car and headed back down to Queenstown via the crown range. We got pulled by a police woman on our way to Arrowtown for going 61 km/hour in a residential neighborhood. We were supposed to be going 50! Anyway, Julie got an $80 fine. We headed to Arrowtown with dampened spirits. Drove around and took some picts.
Highlight of the day- Driving through Deer Park Heights ($20 entrance fee). There are animals everywhere. We stopped to take a picture and I almost had a goat in my window. He jumped up on the car window! We got some great movie shots from Lord of the Rings. Drove back down and around to our lodge. Parked, unloaded, and caught the shuttle to town... had pizza hut for dinner and then cruised through the shops looking for souvenirs. God back to the room at 9:15pm... showered and wrote postcards.
Wednesday, March 29th
Last day in Queenstown. We slept in until 8am. Got packed ate breakfast and headed to Glenorchy. It was about a 45 minute drive down. Some pretty sights and a very small town at the end. We drove back to town and circled a while trying to find a parking spot. Ended up paying to park. Walked down to town. Julie paid her speeding ticket, bought a hoodie and the nwe walked up to the gondola. It was $19 to take the Gondola up but an awesome view from the top. We headed down a little after 1pm... ate lunch at KFC, got the car, filled up with Petrol, and headed to the airport to drop off the car. We checked in with no worries and sat in the terminal for a few minutes before board to head back to Auckland.
Thursday, March 30th
Well we head back to Hawaii today. What a trip it has been!
We got up at 5:45, finished getting packed and got ready, had breakfast. Abigail came down to say goodbye. She is such a sweet girl. Charlie took us to the airport and walked us to the security check point. Did a bit of shopping to spend the rest of my $. Waited to board the plane and then once we boarded we waited on the tarmac for a while. As I am writing this we are three hours into the flight.
Dear Lord, As I sit here watching people, reading a book and listening to music, my heart wonders what you have in my future. Please make my hearts desire yours and if it is not in your will for me to get married and have a family then take the desire away. I want to be focused on your work not on the things of this world. Please forgive me for not being bold with my faith and witnessing. Lord I want to believe you but so much of me wants to see proof but that goes agains faith. I don't want anything less than your best. Show me where you want me!
Thank you for your patience with me. I am amazed that you haven't struck me down yet. Thank you for your grace and mercy.
Our journey has begun... Candace, Ginger, and Aisha picked us up about 4pm and took us to MKK airport. It took no time to check in and our flight didn't leave until 5:30. Ginger is such a hoot. Julie and I are now sitting here waiting to check in at Air New Zealand.
Check in went really fast. Julie and I went to the food court for dinner and had Chinese. While eating, we had the chance to talk with an older couple from Lake Tahoe, CA. They are involved in a Catholic church there.
Galatians 1:10- "For do I not persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased man, I should not be the servant of Christ."
Romans 1:16
Wednesday, March 22nd
We arrived into Auckland airport about 7am, got our luggage, went through customs, and then waited on Charlie. He got stuck in traffic so it took him about half an hour longer then he thought. I realized coming in that people drive on the left side of the road. That is something I still haven't gotten used to yet.
Charlie took us to their house- very nice 2 story house. We are staying in Caleb's old room. I didn't know that the Frinks have been serving here for 17 years!
We settled in and went with Bo to town to exchange money and go grocery shopping.
Gas is $1.57 for a litre!
Postage to mail a letter to the US mainland is $2.00.
Postcard $1.50
Fruit is relatively inexpensive.
Julie and I came back to the house and worked on booking a trip to the South Island.
About 2pm, we all loaded into the van and headed to downtown Auckland to the Kelly Tarlton Antartica Encounter. There we got to go on snow cats and see gentoo and king penguins. All of this is build under the road. The Underwater world was built in Aucklands old sewer system. It is one of those clear tunnels with sharks and fish swimming all around. They also have a huge stingray tank.
After we finished there, Charlie and Bo took us to Mt. Eden (an extinct volcano). There was an excellent view of Auckland.
Came home and had lamb chops and beans for dinner. After dinner, Abigail found a hedge hog outside and ended up bringing it to the kitchen. They are so cute to watch. They ball up when scared and they are really poky. We named him Hedgy!
We were in bed by 7:30pm. It had been Sunday since we had actually slept in a bed!
Thursday, March 23rd
Woke up at 7:30 to use the "loo". Laid back down to read my Bible and ended up falling back to sleep until 8:45. Got up and had breakfast. We then walked into town to go to the mall. Julie and I shopped for a while, had McDonald's for lunch, then walked back. On the way back we dropped tracks in mail boxes along the road. Came back and did some of my Bible study. Had dinner of corn beef, potatoes, and carrots. Then figured out what we were going to do over the next couple of days. Watched some of the commonwealth games with Abigail. Wrote postcards. Had chocolate chip ice cream and went to bed.
Friday, March 24th
We got up a little after 8 and go ready. Julie and I went up and had breakfast and devotions with the Frink family. I was really impressed that they do a morning Bible Study and they are singing through the hymnal. So we sang "Away in the Manger!" Bo took Julie and I to the travel agency to pick up our itinerairy for our trip to Queenstown. Once we got some material for our trip we drove to Auckland Domain where Bo dropped us off at the Auckland Museum. Julie and I explored there for a couple of hours. They had a lot of artifacts from the different Pacific Islands. They also had a very cool volcano exhibit.
Julie and I were both amazed at how museums are brainwashing the public in the areas of the world being "millions" of years old and what evolved from what.
After the museum we caught a bus for $3.00 to the Sky tower and walked to the Victoria Park Market. Had a chicken kabob and potatoe wedges for lunch then did some shopping. About 3:30pm we called Bo and Charlie to come pick us up.
We drove home in pretty heavy traffic. Unpacked. I got my stuff together for Sunday's children church. Had dinner of sausages, pea salad, and potatoes. Ended our day by having a major pillow fight with Abigail and Julie!
Saturday, March 25th
After a night with a sore stomach and several trips to the loo, I woke up at 8:45, put on hiking clothes, went upstairs for breakfast. Had devo's with the Frink family. Did a load of laundry. Their washing machine is very small compared to the American washer. I hung the clothes on the line. Bo took Julie, Abigail, and myslef up to the Arataki Visitors Center where we walked around for a bit. We then drove down to Piha Beach- which is known for its surfing with pretty rough undertow. There were quite a few surfers out. We hiked up and around the edge of the beach. It was quite the hike. Once we got to the end we climbed down the rocks to an area with several tidepools where we discovered starfish and lots of other mollusks. It was really cool. The beaches are black sand and absolutely beautiful. We drove back home, had lunch, and then went to craftworld where NZ artisan's sell their homemade goods. I bought a candle for J & L and a head pack for myself. We also stopped by the grocery store to pick up some treats to take home. Bo bought some TimTams and HokeyPokey Ice Cream (which is very yummy!!) We drove home. Julie and I with Abigail's help washed all of the windows in the house. Had fish and chips for dinner and then watched NZ brightest kid and the Common Wealthy games. Julie and I packed for Queenstown and now it's time to sleep!
Sunday, March 26th
Well it is Sunday! I can't believe that we are half way through with our trip. We have seen a lot but there is so much more to see. God has been so good!
Julie and I got up a little after eight. We got dressed for church then went upstairs for muffins. We left for church about 9:30. The church that Charlie preaches at is Waitakere City Bible Church. We met several families. The church is small (maybe 25 people) but very multicultural. They are very conservative with their music (all hymns). Bo played the piano. After worship, I ran through the rain to the Sunday school room where I had 2 kids (Sam and Nicca) and 4 adults. We went through the Easter story with the Resurrection Eggs. The kids were very quiet. The adults were evaluating me so that was kind of odd. Afterward they went over the evals with me. Everything went well except for being questioned if "Father Abraham" the song was Biblical. I will have to do some investigative work on that. Julie and I chatted with some of the people while we waited on Bo to have her women's meeting. We had enough time to run home and grab a bite to eat before we headed to the airport. They dropped us off at the airport, we checked in and headed toward the gate to board. For domestic flights you only have to be there 30 minutes in advance. I sat beside a man named Iesu from Kuwait. We had a good conversation on the hour and 45 minute flight. He is flying to Queenstown for a United Nations Agriculture meeting. Landing in Queenstown, the scenery was beautiful. We rented a car from Budget then went out and prayed over it. Julie was a bit nervous driving on the left side of the road. She did a great job driving to the Queenstown lodge where we had reservations to stay. Very nice place!!! In awe of the beauty. We checked in and took the 6pm shuttle down to town for dinner and window shopping. The temperature was nice and cool and the sunset was magnificent over Lake Wakatipu. We caught the evening bus back to the lodge. We mapped out what we want to see while sitting here watching the closing ceremonies of the Common Wealth Games.
Monday, March 27th
It is 6:30am! Julie and I are up and getting ready for a long day of driving and sightseeing. Breakfast was at 7am with eggs, toast, sausage, cerael, yogurt, fruit, etc. Very nice to be complimentary. God our bags and hit the road at 7:30am bound for Milford Sound. Our first major sight was the Remarkables (a huge mtn range) right outside of Queenstown. We stopped at a cafe about 2 hours into the trip for coffee. Very good. Stopped a lot for scenery pictures. Went to the visitors center in Te Anau. Julie got a book about backpacking through the Fjiordland. Also went past and stopped for pictures at Walker Creek, Lord of the Rings Scenery, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn, Homer Tunnel, The chasm...
Got to Milford Sound about 2 and walked around a bit. Paid $3.00 for a 20 ounce soda!! Then hit the road to head for Queenstown. After a couple of stops for pictures and a dinner stop in Te Anau we made it to Queenstown in a little over 4 hours. For dinner we had meat pies per Bo's suggestion. Julie had steak and I had chicken. They were very yummy.
Well after a long day of riding in the car and walking around... I am going to bed!
Tuesday, March 28th
Almost the end of our trip! We leave Queenstown tomorrow and also arrive in HI on the 29th.
Julie and I got up at 7am, dressed, went to breakfast and left the room at 8:30. Filled up with Petrol on our way out of town. Got $ and hit the road. As we were driving we stopped to see some guys bungee jumping. The river they were jumping in is used in LOTR as the river that the fellowship float down. We passed by several vineyards and wineries. Drove up to Wanaka. Stopped at a cafe for a Mocha and a Austrian delight. Enjoyed walking around then got back in the car and headed back down to Queenstown via the crown range. We got pulled by a police woman on our way to Arrowtown for going 61 km/hour in a residential neighborhood. We were supposed to be going 50! Anyway, Julie got an $80 fine. We headed to Arrowtown with dampened spirits. Drove around and took some picts.
Highlight of the day- Driving through Deer Park Heights ($20 entrance fee). There are animals everywhere. We stopped to take a picture and I almost had a goat in my window. He jumped up on the car window! We got some great movie shots from Lord of the Rings. Drove back down and around to our lodge. Parked, unloaded, and caught the shuttle to town... had pizza hut for dinner and then cruised through the shops looking for souvenirs. God back to the room at 9:15pm... showered and wrote postcards.
Wednesday, March 29th
Last day in Queenstown. We slept in until 8am. Got packed ate breakfast and headed to Glenorchy. It was about a 45 minute drive down. Some pretty sights and a very small town at the end. We drove back to town and circled a while trying to find a parking spot. Ended up paying to park. Walked down to town. Julie paid her speeding ticket, bought a hoodie and the nwe walked up to the gondola. It was $19 to take the Gondola up but an awesome view from the top. We headed down a little after 1pm... ate lunch at KFC, got the car, filled up with Petrol, and headed to the airport to drop off the car. We checked in with no worries and sat in the terminal for a few minutes before board to head back to Auckland.
Thursday, March 30th
Well we head back to Hawaii today. What a trip it has been!
We got up at 5:45, finished getting packed and got ready, had breakfast. Abigail came down to say goodbye. She is such a sweet girl. Charlie took us to the airport and walked us to the security check point. Did a bit of shopping to spend the rest of my $. Waited to board the plane and then once we boarded we waited on the tarmac for a while. As I am writing this we are three hours into the flight.
Dear Lord, As I sit here watching people, reading a book and listening to music, my heart wonders what you have in my future. Please make my hearts desire yours and if it is not in your will for me to get married and have a family then take the desire away. I want to be focused on your work not on the things of this world. Please forgive me for not being bold with my faith and witnessing. Lord I want to believe you but so much of me wants to see proof but that goes agains faith. I don't want anything less than your best. Show me where you want me!
Thank you for your patience with me. I am amazed that you haven't struck me down yet. Thank you for your grace and mercy.
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