I met my second adopted Ohana as I was waiting for my flight to Maui on Monday.
Linda, her mom, niece, second niece and her son were all flying over to Maui in the 10-seater jet with me.
I quickly found out Linda is a believer. At this point in my journey, when I'm talking to someone and they say they are a believer, I'm no longer surprised. It's more like, score another one for God! He has faithfully been supplying me with Christian community everywhere I go!
Linda very graciously asked me if I would like to spend some time with her and her family while they were in town for 3 days. I told her I would probably spend my first day getting situated in my hostel and get my bearings on the town and then I would call her the next day. That worked perfectly for them.
On a side note, there are several roosters crowing in the distance-oh Maui! :D
I did as I had told Linda I would do; checked into my hostel, checked out the town, but then got to do one other unexpected thing...play a ukelele. There is a shop that sells only ukeleles called Mele Ukelele. The store is locally owned and Papa Peter insisted on giving me an impromptu ukelele lesson free of charge! So so special! I'm going to have to invest in a ukelele!
So, I called Linda, today, and she asked me to come on out to Kihei and spend the day at the beach with her family.
I got to stop by Mana Kai Maui, on my way out to meet Linda, and take some pictures and a video for Lisa and Terri, remembering Violet, their sweet Momma, and the time they got to spend in Maui. God totally set that one up!
The beach at Kihei was lovely as was my company. I got to play in the ocean like I did as a little kid for the first time since I've been in Hawaii! I just felt completely relaxed and at home. Sand in your underwear=a day well spent!
After spending something like 5 hours at the beach, Linda invited me to go out to dinner with the whole family. When 5 year old, Isaiah, heard I was coming with them, he exclaimed, "Awesome!" What a melt my heart moment :)
We waited an hour and 15 minutes to eat at the Mexican restaurant right down the street but it was so worth it! My heart was so light and happy as I looked at the faces of all of the people around the table. I had been adopted as part of their family and they had hardly known me for a day!
After dinner, I walked with the ladies and little man back to their condo. When I stepped through their door, Isaiah came right up to me and asked, "Are you going to stay and watch Rango with us?" How could I say no to that? I had just been crying out to God the night before, telling Him how lonely I felt. God truly answers prayers!
My ckeeks are pink, my tummy is content, my heart is light, and my eyes are heavy.
Father, thank You for this day and for the family you are surrounding me with here in paradise.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Run to the waves!
The ocean draws me; it beckons to me with some force unforeseen. It reminds me of my God!
I went swimming in the ocean today(something I will try to do each day I am in Hawaii) at high tide. Each time I enter the water, I find myself momentarily relearning how to keep from getting knocked down. The ebb and the flow of the waves is disorientating and I have to stand there for a little bit before I get my bearings.
From there, I wade toward the waves. Actually, I'm literally being pulled toward them! There is always a little flutter in the pit of my stomach because I realize just how strong the water is.
All of a sudden, a huge wave comes my way! I stand there for a moment and think through what my next move should be. I want to run away but if I do, I'll get pummeled! What I do next defies logical thinking. I run towards wave and dive through it!
It's amazing! I get just a hint of the sheer weight of the wave above me but nothing crushing. It's all encompassing and strangely comforting at the same time. It reminds me a little bit of how God's yoke is light. The thought of a yoke always sounded heavy to me. How could it ever be light!?! Now I've got a taste of what it means.
Lord, thank You for how you thrill my heart and show me more of You in the simplest of things. You are ever-changing but always the same. You teach those who are willing to learn. May my heart always be humbly bowed before You, my Teacher, my Friend, my Papa, my God. I love you!
Blessings to you, my loved ones! May you all find the courage to run to the waves of your life, be they big or small, and find within them an unexpected blessing; a meeting with the fierce yet loving God we serve!
I went swimming in the ocean today(something I will try to do each day I am in Hawaii) at high tide. Each time I enter the water, I find myself momentarily relearning how to keep from getting knocked down. The ebb and the flow of the waves is disorientating and I have to stand there for a little bit before I get my bearings.
From there, I wade toward the waves. Actually, I'm literally being pulled toward them! There is always a little flutter in the pit of my stomach because I realize just how strong the water is.
All of a sudden, a huge wave comes my way! I stand there for a moment and think through what my next move should be. I want to run away but if I do, I'll get pummeled! What I do next defies logical thinking. I run towards wave and dive through it!
It's amazing! I get just a hint of the sheer weight of the wave above me but nothing crushing. It's all encompassing and strangely comforting at the same time. It reminds me a little bit of how God's yoke is light. The thought of a yoke always sounded heavy to me. How could it ever be light!?! Now I've got a taste of what it means.
Lord, thank You for how you thrill my heart and show me more of You in the simplest of things. You are ever-changing but always the same. You teach those who are willing to learn. May my heart always be humbly bowed before You, my Teacher, my Friend, my Papa, my God. I love you!
Blessings to you, my loved ones! May you all find the courage to run to the waves of your life, be they big or small, and find within them an unexpected blessing; a meeting with the fierce yet loving God we serve!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
I really identify with Abraham
Genesis 12:1
The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you."
God has asked me to "leave and go" somewhere new many times in my life. He uses those foreign locations to draw me closer to His heart.
I look back on my time in Africa, Alaska, Minnesota, and now here in Hawaii. Some of those moves came so easilly and almost seemed effortless. This move has proven to be the most difficult but it is because I've come to a Hawaii with no plan or agenda. I don't know what God is up to. He's purposely kept me in the dark. This has been the truest testing of my faith. Some days, my anxiety is so great but I am reminded that it is probably because I am finding it difficult to submit all of myself to God.
Lord, I believe in Your goodness. You have always been constant in my life even when I wasn't following you completely. You never left me. My life, my hopes, my dreams, I just speak out and say that they are Yours.
Show me the places in my heart that are unyielded to You. Help me to breathe You in and exhale my own self.
Lord, I believe you brought me here, help my unbelief.
Reveal Yourself to me in this place. Show me Your glory that my life may never be the same!
I love you, my friends. I have never been more aware of needing community than I am now. As I follow God, you are the support behind me that gives me the courage to keep on going. Thank you that even though I am on a literal island, your presence in my life does not make me an island unto myself.
Mahalo(Thank you)!
The Lord had said to Abram, "Leave your country, your people and your father's household and go to the land I will show you."
God has asked me to "leave and go" somewhere new many times in my life. He uses those foreign locations to draw me closer to His heart.
I look back on my time in Africa, Alaska, Minnesota, and now here in Hawaii. Some of those moves came so easilly and almost seemed effortless. This move has proven to be the most difficult but it is because I've come to a Hawaii with no plan or agenda. I don't know what God is up to. He's purposely kept me in the dark. This has been the truest testing of my faith. Some days, my anxiety is so great but I am reminded that it is probably because I am finding it difficult to submit all of myself to God.
Lord, I believe in Your goodness. You have always been constant in my life even when I wasn't following you completely. You never left me. My life, my hopes, my dreams, I just speak out and say that they are Yours.
Show me the places in my heart that are unyielded to You. Help me to breathe You in and exhale my own self.
Lord, I believe you brought me here, help my unbelief.
Reveal Yourself to me in this place. Show me Your glory that my life may never be the same!
I love you, my friends. I have never been more aware of needing community than I am now. As I follow God, you are the support behind me that gives me the courage to keep on going. Thank you that even though I am on a literal island, your presence in my life does not make me an island unto myself.
Mahalo(Thank you)!
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
The fog is lifting!
I did not realize just how difficult my transition to Hawaii would prove to be. The first couple of days, I felt like I was walking through quick sand. A deep and never ending anxiety veiled the beauty around me and kept me from truly reveling in it. I found it hard to meet the eyes of the people around me and I felt very much like an outsider.
God, in His goodness, intervened. My first day in Hawaii, He brought Cindy into my life. It's like we have known each other for a long time! I am completely at ease with her.
She is a wealth of knowledge and has helped me to get connected to quite a few people in a short amount of time. Her faith inspires me on a daily basis and her encouragement was exactly what I needed to break out of the funk I was in. She has shed light on the culture, the spiritual state of the island, and how I can best love and impact those around me.
You are truly a blessing, Cindy!
Cindy and I went to a Bible study this morning and I'm so glad she invited me...and that I went! It set the tone for the rest of today. Spending time with some lovely women of faith, reading Scripture, praying, taking communion, singing, and journaling all acted like a shot of life into my puny veins of faith.
Then, after almost 10 years of dreaming of seeing the University of Nations, I finally got to see it, walk the grounds, and marvel at the diversity of the people that surrounded me. It was intoxicating!
Cindy and I later put our heads together and found a good deal for a snorkel and dolphin adventure for Thursday. I can't wait to swim with the dolphins! Lord, help me conquer my fear a being in the water with big animals!
I now own a quality pair of sunglasses to protect my eyes from the damaging sun. Yet another blessing.
So much has happened today. So much to be thankful for! I'm plum tuckered out!
I think tomorrow I will just rest and search out some still moments with my Papa. More beach time is definitely on the agenda!
God, in His goodness, intervened. My first day in Hawaii, He brought Cindy into my life. It's like we have known each other for a long time! I am completely at ease with her.
She is a wealth of knowledge and has helped me to get connected to quite a few people in a short amount of time. Her faith inspires me on a daily basis and her encouragement was exactly what I needed to break out of the funk I was in. She has shed light on the culture, the spiritual state of the island, and how I can best love and impact those around me.
You are truly a blessing, Cindy!
Cindy and I went to a Bible study this morning and I'm so glad she invited me...and that I went! It set the tone for the rest of today. Spending time with some lovely women of faith, reading Scripture, praying, taking communion, singing, and journaling all acted like a shot of life into my puny veins of faith.
Then, after almost 10 years of dreaming of seeing the University of Nations, I finally got to see it, walk the grounds, and marvel at the diversity of the people that surrounded me. It was intoxicating!
Cindy and I later put our heads together and found a good deal for a snorkel and dolphin adventure for Thursday. I can't wait to swim with the dolphins! Lord, help me conquer my fear a being in the water with big animals!
I now own a quality pair of sunglasses to protect my eyes from the damaging sun. Yet another blessing.
So much has happened today. So much to be thankful for! I'm plum tuckered out!
I think tomorrow I will just rest and search out some still moments with my Papa. More beach time is definitely on the agenda!
Sunday, July 17, 2011
I'm finally here!
Okay, shall I recap all that has taken place so far?
I left Kansas City on Friday the 15th and flew to Denver, Colorado. There was a really big rain storm that kept us from landing for 50 minutes. When we got in to Denver, I had to "book it" to make my connecting flight to San Jose, California, but I made it! In the back of my mind, I found myself hoping my two checked bags would make the plane too, but then put it out of my mind.
When I got into San Jose, it was 11 at night, I was tired, and my Auntie Irina was waiting for me to take me back to her house where I would spend the night. At the baggage claim, I found that my worries were warranted. My bags had not made it. I shed some tears thinking I would never see them again but the attendant assured me they would make it to Hawaii, just a day later.
I was praising God Lisa and Jessica Anetsberger had urged me to pack a change of clothes, toothbrush, and anything I couldn't live without in my carry on. I was also thankful to have an address to give the airline for where I'd be staying in Hawaii.
I went back with Auntie Irina, saw Justin and gave him a big hug, and then got a couple of hours of sleep before I woke up. Auntie, Uncle and I drank some tea and chatted a bit before they took me back to the airport to catch my plane for Hawaii.
What a blessing it was to see the Buzz Stegners and have a safe and comfortable place to catch a couple hours of sleep before my long plane ride!
I passed out for several hours once I got on the plane, woke up and listened to some music, nibbled some food, and then talked to the couple sitting next to me. They told me about their experiences on the islands and I told them about my plans to live there even though I had never visited before. They were both very sweet.
When the pilot announced we were coming in for a landing, I drank in the sight of Hawaii and it felt like my heart would burst. I was finally getting to see a place I have dreamed of for years!
Once we had landed, I poured over the sights out my window. Palm trees, black lava formations, the mountain in the distance with its halo of clouds. I probably needed someone to pinch me :)
I stepped off the plane onto the stairs and immediately took in a breath of fresh Hawaiian air. It felt good! The airport was all outdoors and something I have never experienced before. The mynah birds were singing from the trees and several of the brightest yellow birds I had ever seen flew down from the trees. I'm still not sure if they were canaries or yellow finches. It doesn't matter though, they were beautiful!
I went and picked up my rental car and then drove towards my hotel. I still could not believe I was actually in Hawaii!
I drove around, stopped at WalMart and picked up a bathing suit, grabbed a bite to eat, and then checked into my hotel.
I put on my bathing suit and then just sat on the breach, breathed, and tried to let go of all of my stress and worries from the past couple of days.
I went to the grocery store and that is where I met my first friend, Cindy. I asked her how to pick out a ripe pineapple and then we got to talking. I gave her my phone number and we set a time to meet.
Fast forward to today. I slept like a rock and woke up at 8am to an air horn of all things. I had to chuckle a bit.
I was feeling pretty lonely and discouraged because I didn't have any real connections here, when Cindy called. We chatted on the phone, found out we are both believers, shared our testimonies, and then decided to meet up with her daughter at a tide pool.
What a blessing and answer to prayer!
After that, I got a call from my airline telling me my bags had made it to Hawaii.
Another PRAISE GOD!
Cindy offered to drive me out to the airport. We picked up my bags and then she treated me to lunch at a local health food store.
I felt like I was in heaven and shed some tears as I sat there enjoying my food and her company.
Cindy also gave me the greatest gift of showing me how to hook my Mac up to the ethernet. Now I don't have to walk down the street to the lobby to check my emails, facebook, and twitter, but can sit in the comfort of my own room!
Tomorrow, I'm heading over to the University of Nations to start trying to make some friends and connections. Cindy has already made some calls to friends she has at the U of N and I will hopefully get to meet them tomorrow.
I am already missing all of my friends and family back in the states but I know I'm where I am supposed to be. Please be praying for God encounters, open doors, and that I would be able to discern between what is important to get done during my stay here in Kona and what is not.
I carry you all close to my heart. All my love!
I left Kansas City on Friday the 15th and flew to Denver, Colorado. There was a really big rain storm that kept us from landing for 50 minutes. When we got in to Denver, I had to "book it" to make my connecting flight to San Jose, California, but I made it! In the back of my mind, I found myself hoping my two checked bags would make the plane too, but then put it out of my mind.
When I got into San Jose, it was 11 at night, I was tired, and my Auntie Irina was waiting for me to take me back to her house where I would spend the night. At the baggage claim, I found that my worries were warranted. My bags had not made it. I shed some tears thinking I would never see them again but the attendant assured me they would make it to Hawaii, just a day later.
I was praising God Lisa and Jessica Anetsberger had urged me to pack a change of clothes, toothbrush, and anything I couldn't live without in my carry on. I was also thankful to have an address to give the airline for where I'd be staying in Hawaii.
I went back with Auntie Irina, saw Justin and gave him a big hug, and then got a couple of hours of sleep before I woke up. Auntie, Uncle and I drank some tea and chatted a bit before they took me back to the airport to catch my plane for Hawaii.
What a blessing it was to see the Buzz Stegners and have a safe and comfortable place to catch a couple hours of sleep before my long plane ride!
I passed out for several hours once I got on the plane, woke up and listened to some music, nibbled some food, and then talked to the couple sitting next to me. They told me about their experiences on the islands and I told them about my plans to live there even though I had never visited before. They were both very sweet.
When the pilot announced we were coming in for a landing, I drank in the sight of Hawaii and it felt like my heart would burst. I was finally getting to see a place I have dreamed of for years!
Once we had landed, I poured over the sights out my window. Palm trees, black lava formations, the mountain in the distance with its halo of clouds. I probably needed someone to pinch me :)
I stepped off the plane onto the stairs and immediately took in a breath of fresh Hawaiian air. It felt good! The airport was all outdoors and something I have never experienced before. The mynah birds were singing from the trees and several of the brightest yellow birds I had ever seen flew down from the trees. I'm still not sure if they were canaries or yellow finches. It doesn't matter though, they were beautiful!
I went and picked up my rental car and then drove towards my hotel. I still could not believe I was actually in Hawaii!
I drove around, stopped at WalMart and picked up a bathing suit, grabbed a bite to eat, and then checked into my hotel.
I put on my bathing suit and then just sat on the breach, breathed, and tried to let go of all of my stress and worries from the past couple of days.
I went to the grocery store and that is where I met my first friend, Cindy. I asked her how to pick out a ripe pineapple and then we got to talking. I gave her my phone number and we set a time to meet.
Fast forward to today. I slept like a rock and woke up at 8am to an air horn of all things. I had to chuckle a bit.
I was feeling pretty lonely and discouraged because I didn't have any real connections here, when Cindy called. We chatted on the phone, found out we are both believers, shared our testimonies, and then decided to meet up with her daughter at a tide pool.
What a blessing and answer to prayer!
After that, I got a call from my airline telling me my bags had made it to Hawaii.
Another PRAISE GOD!
Cindy offered to drive me out to the airport. We picked up my bags and then she treated me to lunch at a local health food store.
I felt like I was in heaven and shed some tears as I sat there enjoying my food and her company.
Cindy also gave me the greatest gift of showing me how to hook my Mac up to the ethernet. Now I don't have to walk down the street to the lobby to check my emails, facebook, and twitter, but can sit in the comfort of my own room!
Tomorrow, I'm heading over to the University of Nations to start trying to make some friends and connections. Cindy has already made some calls to friends she has at the U of N and I will hopefully get to meet them tomorrow.
I am already missing all of my friends and family back in the states but I know I'm where I am supposed to be. Please be praying for God encounters, open doors, and that I would be able to discern between what is important to get done during my stay here in Kona and what is not.
I carry you all close to my heart. All my love!
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
I.Need.You.
It's 1:30 in the morning. The house is quiet and I hear the gentle hum of the fan and Abe's steady breathing next to me. I cherish moments like these; resting in the eye of the hurricane.
Today has been a very productive day. I got to cross quite a few things off my To Do List. It feels really good! My stress level is slowly being brought under control.
I can't tell you how many thoughts, feelings and emotions I have swirling around inside of my heart and my head as I think about leaving on Friday. It's difficult to think of leaving the life I have here, behind, and starting a new one in Hawaii. Make sure you don't misunderstand me. I am starting a new life, not cutting you, my friends, out of it. I need each of you probably more than you will ever know. You are my family!
I think of each one of you and the time we have gotten to share together. Whether you're from Alaska, Ghana, Kansas City, Liberty or St Paul, I remember you. You helped me to become the woman I am today. When I get on the plane, Friday, I do not leave you behind but I carry you with me in my heart. If I find a forever home in Hawaii, I extend an open invitation to come and visit me in paradise. I hope you will take me up on it!
Today has been a very productive day. I got to cross quite a few things off my To Do List. It feels really good! My stress level is slowly being brought under control.
I can't tell you how many thoughts, feelings and emotions I have swirling around inside of my heart and my head as I think about leaving on Friday. It's difficult to think of leaving the life I have here, behind, and starting a new one in Hawaii. Make sure you don't misunderstand me. I am starting a new life, not cutting you, my friends, out of it. I need each of you probably more than you will ever know. You are my family!
I think of each one of you and the time we have gotten to share together. Whether you're from Alaska, Ghana, Kansas City, Liberty or St Paul, I remember you. You helped me to become the woman I am today. When I get on the plane, Friday, I do not leave you behind but I carry you with me in my heart. If I find a forever home in Hawaii, I extend an open invitation to come and visit me in paradise. I hope you will take me up on it!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Surprised by God
So, this is the thing: No matter how long I've been following God, He still shocks me with His thoughtfulness; the way He moves almost effortlessly in our lives if we let Him.
On Saturday, I got to see my Miss South Carolina, eat some amazing Ethiopian food and enjoy the different ethnicities of the River Market. Remember my Turkish Delight kick, Daisy? I think I might have to go back and get some and see if it is as amazing as the kind from the Narnian movies :)
Well, after Daisy and I said our goodbyes, I walked to my car and realized that I happened to be parked right in front of a bike shop.
The back story to what makes this story pretty cool is that I want to fly my bike to Hawaii. I think it would be a lovely thing to have available for me to get around on. I love my bike! Always have, always will.
I started thinking, just the day before, that maybe I wouldn't fly it out because the bike shipping boxes I have been looking at are very expensive.
Now, go back to the bike shop with me. I walked in and told the first guy I saw that I wanted to fly my bike out to Hawaii with me. He then proceeded to tell me that the box he would give me would be free and it would only cost $50 to take my bike apart and get it ready to fly. I was amazed and I told him I would be back! When I got in my car, I saw the guy come out and lock up. They had been there 30 minutes past close. They should have been closed. I think they were open just for me :)
Another really cool realization I had was just minutes ago, hence the blog at 2am!
I've been having a really hard time getting in bed at a decent time. It's like I just can't seem to make my body go to sleep earlier than 1am! I took Abe out for a potty break and it was then that God reminded me that Hawaii's time is 5 hours behind the time here. If I go to bed at 2am here, that would be 9pm there! I haven't been having trouble sleeping. God has just been helping me to better acclimate to the time in Hawaii! Wow! I just had to share :)
Today was a great day too! I got to see my sister, brother-in-law and the kids, play in the water and eat at the Olive Garden. Now I'm ready for bed! Ha ha!
On Saturday, I got to see my Miss South Carolina, eat some amazing Ethiopian food and enjoy the different ethnicities of the River Market. Remember my Turkish Delight kick, Daisy? I think I might have to go back and get some and see if it is as amazing as the kind from the Narnian movies :)
Well, after Daisy and I said our goodbyes, I walked to my car and realized that I happened to be parked right in front of a bike shop.
The back story to what makes this story pretty cool is that I want to fly my bike to Hawaii. I think it would be a lovely thing to have available for me to get around on. I love my bike! Always have, always will.
I started thinking, just the day before, that maybe I wouldn't fly it out because the bike shipping boxes I have been looking at are very expensive.
Now, go back to the bike shop with me. I walked in and told the first guy I saw that I wanted to fly my bike out to Hawaii with me. He then proceeded to tell me that the box he would give me would be free and it would only cost $50 to take my bike apart and get it ready to fly. I was amazed and I told him I would be back! When I got in my car, I saw the guy come out and lock up. They had been there 30 minutes past close. They should have been closed. I think they were open just for me :)
Another really cool realization I had was just minutes ago, hence the blog at 2am!
I've been having a really hard time getting in bed at a decent time. It's like I just can't seem to make my body go to sleep earlier than 1am! I took Abe out for a potty break and it was then that God reminded me that Hawaii's time is 5 hours behind the time here. If I go to bed at 2am here, that would be 9pm there! I haven't been having trouble sleeping. God has just been helping me to better acclimate to the time in Hawaii! Wow! I just had to share :)
Today was a great day too! I got to see my sister, brother-in-law and the kids, play in the water and eat at the Olive Garden. Now I'm ready for bed! Ha ha!
Friday, July 8, 2011
Remembering the little things
Each day I wake up, my immediate thought is, "I have so much to get done!"
God has been so faithful to slow me down. He knows my worries. He knows that going going going only serves to get me even more worked up.
Just calm down and focus on one thing at a time, little bird.
My To Do List is getting sizably smaller with each day that passes. There are a great many things that I need to get done but they require someone else getting back to me. Can I make them go any faster? No. Well, yes, but that would require a cattle prod ;) I choose to be patient instead :)
There have been some smaller, yet important things that I have been able to get done. They never made it to my To Do List but they will make all the difference once I'm in Hawaii. I am reminded not to dismiss any forward movement. It all matters!
I giggled when I looked at myself in the mirror today. I had my second session to get my base tan and I can tell my skin is getting the hint it needs to be darker. It's an adjustment but one more step in preparing for a new life in a foreign land.
I can't wait to start sharing actual pictures with you! I will do my best to portray the beauty that I know will surround me :)
God has been so faithful to slow me down. He knows my worries. He knows that going going going only serves to get me even more worked up.
Just calm down and focus on one thing at a time, little bird.
My To Do List is getting sizably smaller with each day that passes. There are a great many things that I need to get done but they require someone else getting back to me. Can I make them go any faster? No. Well, yes, but that would require a cattle prod ;) I choose to be patient instead :)
There have been some smaller, yet important things that I have been able to get done. They never made it to my To Do List but they will make all the difference once I'm in Hawaii. I am reminded not to dismiss any forward movement. It all matters!
I giggled when I looked at myself in the mirror today. I had my second session to get my base tan and I can tell my skin is getting the hint it needs to be darker. It's an adjustment but one more step in preparing for a new life in a foreign land.
I can't wait to start sharing actual pictures with you! I will do my best to portray the beauty that I know will surround me :)
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Quarantine!
Some days, the sheer weight of what I am trying to do comes crashing down on my shoulders. I woke up to that feeling and said a silent and urgent prayer to God, asking Him for relief. He brought relief but in kind of a round about way.
I took Abe in to see the vet, today, to begin quarantine procedures and to check him over to make sure he is airplane ready. His airplane ride is still a long way off but it really put my heart to rest to hear Dr. Grow say, "He's in great shape!" She said she could see no reason why he couldn't travel! She was also very excited to hear about my venture and proceeded to tell me about her younger sister that moved to a warm, tropical climate.
I walked out of the vet with a bounce in my step, feeling much lighter about Abe's side of the journey and refreshed for mine as well.
The last couple of days I have not blogged have been full of spending time with dear friends, reserving rental cars for each of the islands, more research, more prayer, and reminding myself to breathe. I know once I get to Hawaii, I will look back at some of these entries and laugh at how anxious I was. The planning phase of any journey has always been the most stressful for me. I really thrive on just jumping in and going. The more I think about anything, the more I give myself time to worry.
Can you believe it, I leave in a week and a day! Eek! :D
I took Abe in to see the vet, today, to begin quarantine procedures and to check him over to make sure he is airplane ready. His airplane ride is still a long way off but it really put my heart to rest to hear Dr. Grow say, "He's in great shape!" She said she could see no reason why he couldn't travel! She was also very excited to hear about my venture and proceeded to tell me about her younger sister that moved to a warm, tropical climate.
I walked out of the vet with a bounce in my step, feeling much lighter about Abe's side of the journey and refreshed for mine as well.
The last couple of days I have not blogged have been full of spending time with dear friends, reserving rental cars for each of the islands, more research, more prayer, and reminding myself to breathe. I know once I get to Hawaii, I will look back at some of these entries and laugh at how anxious I was. The planning phase of any journey has always been the most stressful for me. I really thrive on just jumping in and going. The more I think about anything, the more I give myself time to worry.
Can you believe it, I leave in a week and a day! Eek! :D
Sunday, July 3, 2011
whittling refINING TRUSTING!!!!
Yesterday, found me on my hands and knees, going through all of my clothes and critically assessing what my needs are and what they will be. I really only want to own 7 changes of clothes. Anything more is just, well...more. So, I whittled and will continue whittling each group of my belongings until they are just perfect for my needs. Man, it feels good not to be weighed down by my "stuff"!
I'm also doing this in preparation for the fact that I might not be coming back once I board the plane on July 15, 2011! It's a heavy thought that can sometimes be crushing but God's grace also abounds greatly in my heart and gives me boldness to put one foot in front of the other. He is the One I run to. He is the One I am chasing!
The song, Come Away With Me, by Nora Jones pops into my head as I ponder my next steps. That is what I hear God singing over me. I have personally witnessed just how incredibly jealous God is for our hearts, and not just part of our hearts, but the whole. In light of all of the hurt and betrayal I have felt from earthly relationships, God has shown me just how trustworthy, faithful, and over the moon in love with me He is.
How could I NOT follow Him to the ends of the earth!?1
I have cried out to Him over my lifetime to refine me and make me into His image. Each year, I have seen Him do that very thing. This year, He has intensified the flames. Some days, the very heat from His presence makes me cry out in pain, while on other days, I find myself able to crawl into His lap and fall asleep.
I think it is very fitting that He would challenge me by taking me to a foreign land and ask me to trust Him to be my Provider. It just makes sense to me. It just fits because He knows me. He knows that when I get comfortable, I settle. He wants more just as He knows my heart yearns for more.
Father, continue to speak so that I know Your voice more than any other. Strengthen my heart so that I do not quake, but trust when You ask me to act. I place my life completely in Your hands for You are worthy!
I love you all and I hope this sharing of my heart and adventure encourages you and gives you hope for the great things to come in your own lives!
I'm also doing this in preparation for the fact that I might not be coming back once I board the plane on July 15, 2011! It's a heavy thought that can sometimes be crushing but God's grace also abounds greatly in my heart and gives me boldness to put one foot in front of the other. He is the One I run to. He is the One I am chasing!
The song, Come Away With Me, by Nora Jones pops into my head as I ponder my next steps. That is what I hear God singing over me. I have personally witnessed just how incredibly jealous God is for our hearts, and not just part of our hearts, but the whole. In light of all of the hurt and betrayal I have felt from earthly relationships, God has shown me just how trustworthy, faithful, and over the moon in love with me He is.
How could I NOT follow Him to the ends of the earth!?1
I have cried out to Him over my lifetime to refine me and make me into His image. Each year, I have seen Him do that very thing. This year, He has intensified the flames. Some days, the very heat from His presence makes me cry out in pain, while on other days, I find myself able to crawl into His lap and fall asleep.
I think it is very fitting that He would challenge me by taking me to a foreign land and ask me to trust Him to be my Provider. It just makes sense to me. It just fits because He knows me. He knows that when I get comfortable, I settle. He wants more just as He knows my heart yearns for more.
Father, continue to speak so that I know Your voice more than any other. Strengthen my heart so that I do not quake, but trust when You ask me to act. I place my life completely in Your hands for You are worthy!
I love you all and I hope this sharing of my heart and adventure encourages you and gives you hope for the great things to come in your own lives!
Saturday, July 2, 2011
To Do List
Each day into July takes me closer to Hawaii!
I have been getting incredibly anxious thinking about all I have to do before I leave. It finally dawned on me that I needed to make a To Do List. It helps me get my thoughts out on paper and that way, I don't have such a ruckus going on inside of my head.
I've got to find places to stay on each island! I could camp on the beach, sleep in a rental car, couch surf, stay at a hostel, stay in a hotel, etc. I'm finding it hard to think of breaking out of my comfort zone once I'm there. I'm trying not to blow through my money so the inexpensive or free options will win out. I would love for it to feel like a vacation and have every detail perfectly planned out but it won't be that way. There will probably never be a mint on my pillow ;)
On another note, I'm sitting and watching Abe sleep on my bed as I type this. Even in my joy, I am sad at having to say good-bye to him for the longest time we have ever been apart. If I'm able to find a job and settle in on one of the islands, Abe will still have to go through a 120 day quarantine. Luckily, he can do that stateside and all that really entails is blood work and staying with the Anetsbergers until his 120 days are up. In Hawaii, it would mean extreme isolation for that same stretch of time.
I know that just as God has been making a way for me, He will make a way for my animals to come be with me. And if none of that comes to pass, He will give me the grace for whatever is to come.
I have been getting incredibly anxious thinking about all I have to do before I leave. It finally dawned on me that I needed to make a To Do List. It helps me get my thoughts out on paper and that way, I don't have such a ruckus going on inside of my head.
I've got to find places to stay on each island! I could camp on the beach, sleep in a rental car, couch surf, stay at a hostel, stay in a hotel, etc. I'm finding it hard to think of breaking out of my comfort zone once I'm there. I'm trying not to blow through my money so the inexpensive or free options will win out. I would love for it to feel like a vacation and have every detail perfectly planned out but it won't be that way. There will probably never be a mint on my pillow ;)
On another note, I'm sitting and watching Abe sleep on my bed as I type this. Even in my joy, I am sad at having to say good-bye to him for the longest time we have ever been apart. If I'm able to find a job and settle in on one of the islands, Abe will still have to go through a 120 day quarantine. Luckily, he can do that stateside and all that really entails is blood work and staying with the Anetsbergers until his 120 days are up. In Hawaii, it would mean extreme isolation for that same stretch of time.
I know that just as God has been making a way for me, He will make a way for my animals to come be with me. And if none of that comes to pass, He will give me the grace for whatever is to come.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Preparations
I would be lying if I said I didn't have a case of the nerves right now.
In two weeks, I will be moving to Hawaii!
As it stands right now, I will be flying from Kansas City, MO to San Jose, CA on July 15th. I will be getting into San Jose around 11 pm, and I'm hoping to get into contact with my Aunt and Uncle in Los Altos, and see if I can spend the night with them. I will leave San Jose at 7 am and will be flying into Kona, Hawaii. I will stay 10 days in Kona and then take my next flight to Maui. I'll stay 7 days in Maui and then fly to Oahu. I'll spend a week in Oahu and then fly to Kauai where I will spend another week.
From there, I will hopefully have an idea of which island I'd like to make my home, and will begin my "nesting preparations".
There is this perfect balance of anxiety and joy/excitement constantly going on inside of me. There are still a lot of unknowns and I think that is where my anxiety comes in. I have a lot of questions. There are some things I can plan for but others that I just have to trust God will work out.
Last night, I went to Celsius Tannery and started on my base tan. I've honestly really enjoyed being pale but that just won't work in Hawaii. I want to keep burning to a minimum.
I can't wait to share pictures and stories with you about my adventures in Hawaii!
In two weeks, I will be moving to Hawaii!
As it stands right now, I will be flying from Kansas City, MO to San Jose, CA on July 15th. I will be getting into San Jose around 11 pm, and I'm hoping to get into contact with my Aunt and Uncle in Los Altos, and see if I can spend the night with them. I will leave San Jose at 7 am and will be flying into Kona, Hawaii. I will stay 10 days in Kona and then take my next flight to Maui. I'll stay 7 days in Maui and then fly to Oahu. I'll spend a week in Oahu and then fly to Kauai where I will spend another week.
From there, I will hopefully have an idea of which island I'd like to make my home, and will begin my "nesting preparations".
There is this perfect balance of anxiety and joy/excitement constantly going on inside of me. There are still a lot of unknowns and I think that is where my anxiety comes in. I have a lot of questions. There are some things I can plan for but others that I just have to trust God will work out.
Last night, I went to Celsius Tannery and started on my base tan. I've honestly really enjoyed being pale but that just won't work in Hawaii. I want to keep burning to a minimum.
I can't wait to share pictures and stories with you about my adventures in Hawaii!
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