A day in the life of B and D

Yesterday was clean up day around here. One of the things we are learning is that sweeping sand out is a daily yet vital thing to do on the island. The no-see-ums (or sandflies) love the sand so we need to make sure our shoes are sand-free and sweep it all outside. I sweep our deck too, and then wash down every surface with a mild bleach solution. Since I have been doing this regime I am noticing less bugs. We also are going to spray our screens with a heavy duty insecticide. I hate to do that but it is just one of the things people do here. Especially with the rainy season upon us.

This morning is the first day of consistent rain. It is wonderful actually because the sound is so calming on all the branches outside and the birds are loving their refreshing bath. Their song this morning is sweet.

Bob and I walked around our property yesterday and there are lots of fruit trees (most of which we don’t know the names of), several orchids (whee!), a banana tree, coconuts galore, and I think we have a noni tree. You often see noni products in the health food store back home. Our friend Elizabeth puts them in a jar on her deck and then drinks the juice from them. I have to admit they looked totally gross and moldy. I am not sure I would want to drink that, but she said, But Debi it is good for you! I said, But Elizabeth look at all the mold on them… that’s gross! She said, Yes perhaps I should start a new batch. Ahhh yes I think so.

We have lots to learn about island life and everyday we learn more. Elizabeth gave me a recipe for lime-aid. The secret ingredient is ‘wanilla’… (vanilla). So I bought some limes yesterday and soon I will have my lime-aid with wanilla. Can’t wait. We got a bunch of veggies and fruit yesterday while at French Harbour. I have to wash them in a mild bleach solution. I will do that later on today.

(just a note: on my electric picture frame it is scrolling all sorts of photos of our time at Bob’s parents cottage in Ontario. We had so many wonderful memories there! Just saw a photo of Matt on the dock. It was such a delight to go there and rest, fish, go out in the boat, or swim off the dock. In fact the kids learned to swim there. They sold the cottage this summer to a young family who have a boy and a girl. I trust they will have as many wonderful times there as the Cowan family did!)

Around 11:00 our neighbours Ron and Patricia stopped by to see if we wanted to go for a walk along the beach. Okay I have to admit I don’t like walking on the beach because of the sandflies. They BITE! But when I have the option of being with people or not I will most always choose people, and I am so glad I did. We had a great visit with them. And the exercise, and the beauty along the way was worth it. Did we get bit? Oh yeah! For those of you who plan on coming down for a visit sometime (after the rainy season of course) I recommend you bring some cortisone cream.. it takes the itch away.

There is a huge ritzy development area close to where we live called Lawson Rock. It is like America comes to Roatan. It looks like Florida! Huge homes and condos. Beautifully landscaped. It was like walking through a botanical garden!! I was in heaven! Patricia used to do property management there at Lawson Rock so she took us for a tour throughout. Oh my. I should mention that she is from the Mainland and we are blessed to have her along since Spanish is her first language. I am going to really try hard to learn the language. Yes I am. Mattie, I can do it .. I really can!! J (speaking of Matt .. just saw a pic of him and Emily playing Cranium at Christmas)

We got back around 1:30, starving, hot, thirsty, and yes a little burnt. But it was a great time.

Bob and I did laundry yesterday too. It was good to get some things done around the place. Our laundry room isn’t in our place but a few doors down. Because of the dampness and water there are a lot of mosquitoes hanging out down there. So one of the things we do, is spray like crazy, then go in fast and get out fast. Okay people next time we go to do laundry just be thankful for the facility you have!! But on the other hand as I was walking back to our place I was able to stop and see a fantastic seascape, or notice the varying shades in a red hibiscus and or chuckle as a little hermit crab scurries by me. No I am not complaining.

We decided to hang the sheets on the deck and let the sea breeze dry them. The rest went into the dryer.

We sure thank God for our friend Lisa too. We got together with her in the afternoon and tried to do some banking (but it was closed) so we want back to her place for awhile. She lives in Sandy Bay area too and has air conditioning. OH JOY! She is the one who hosted the big birthday party and there was soooo much chicken left over so we helped her de-bone it, bag it and freeze it. Then we had wonderful chicken salad sandwiches (of course), sat around talking and then played a good game of chicken foot dominoes. Guess who won? ~~ clears throat~~~ J

She is making the island feel like home. What a wonderful friend.

Well I should stop now and go get some breakfast. We picked some fresh grapefruit the other day but they aren’t ripe yet.. drat!

Whatever your day holds remember that people are what really matter. May the Lord strengthen you to believe against all odds. Read Matt 21:18-21. Remember it isn’t about what we can do but about the authority and power of God and what He can do!! Miraculous things can happen by the power of God and not by our ingenuity. These are some of Bob’s thoughts that he shared with me this morning. May it bless your heart as well.

“those none go with me still I will follow”

Blessings.

PS~~ I used up over 12,000 packets of space just to log on here, add a couple of pictures and go on facebook so from now on I won't be posting alot of pics here. Please check facebook or you can see my pics on flickr (up top to the left) So we looking at a little place by the sea that we can possibly buy and once we get our own place hopefully our own internet will be better. For now, we have to make do.. such is island life and if that is my biggest problem then I am laughin'!

Sunday Sept. 29

Today will be a photo-less blog because although I brought my camera the batteries died so you will just have to use your imagination. It is a shame too because we went to one of my favorite places on the island... flowers bay. But I am getting ahead of myself.

Church.. that is what we did all day. No kidding! We went to a 10:00 service at SonRise Calvary Church. Here is the website for their church: http://hotel.ccroatan.com/partner.php
It is run by a family from California who bought a hotel and converted it to a church and also they have space for teams to come down to help around the island. Basically they are doing what Bob and I want to do. How interesting is that eh?

We were standing around outside chatting in the shade and the breeze was lovely. One of the sons came and told his Dad (pastor Chuck) that the power was out. Apparently RECO (roatan electic company) often shuts off the power on Sundays to work on the new generator system or fixing something. It is just unfortunate that they do that on a Sunday.

Without fans, there wasn't any movement or breeze coming in and I almost fainted at one point during the service. I wore a cute little skirt but what I didn't realize is that it has a liner (cotton on the outside with a liner) and that stuck to me like glue!! WOW !! Crazy hot. Sorry to keep writing about the heat but I have never encountered this before. I was thankful that although there were no overheads for the singing it was fortunate that we knew most of the songs. It was great to sing to the Lord.

One special moment was when the guy who lead the worship started to sing "this is the air I breathe" in Spanish. It was so touching and beautiful that I almost cried. Bob and I sang in English and most sang in Spanish. It just reiterated how BIG God is!! He knows every language, every tribe, every tongue and one day all will bow before Him.

After the service we visited with alot of people. There is a nice mix between whites and locals that attend there. They had a lunch so we stayed and had rice, coleslaw, orange and some cookies. Light but delicious fare!! And water!! I forgot to bring my water bottle so I drank tons of water.

We met a couple who are working at the Christian Radio station in Flower's Bay and since we were planning on attending a Harvest Service at 2:00 pm they gave us a ride to see the station. They said if I wanted I could volunteer at the station. I sounds fun but it is more technical then I think I can handle. We'll see.

We went over to there house for a short visit and all was well in my world when she served me some delicious coffee and brought out some swiss chocolate!!! I love both of those! Marlisse is from Switzerland and I was grateful for her willingness to share her stash with us. It was a great visit. Frederick reminded both of us so much Don Gibbs that it was incredible. Yes Don you have a look alike! (see if I had my camera I could have taken a picture!)

Our friend Elizabeth had invited us the other day to come to a harvest service at the Baptist church in Flower's Bay at 2:00 so we headed over there only to discover not a soul around and the door locked. Around 2:30 people started to meander over (oh yeah.. this is the island!!) As it turned out the service was to start at 3:00 and it eventually started at 3:30.

You know that Sesame Street song: One of these things just doesn't belong here, one of these thing just isn't the same?? Well that was Bob and I. I will do myself to describe this scene because it is rather humorous.

Okay for those of you raised in the church, think back to an Easter service. Remember the frilly dresses, the hats, the socks with the lace on the bottom, the white nylons, the floral dresses?? Well that was how everyone was dressed! I guess the expression is to the "nines". What Elizabeth neglected to say is that the Harvest Service is one of the most important services on the island. It is like thanksgiving meets Easter.

So now imagine Bob and I. Bob is wearing cotton shorts and of course a Hawaian shirt. He is wearing sunglasses. He also dons his crocks (which fortunately match his shirt!) I am wearing a little short cotton skirt and a white cotton top and sandels. I let my hair dry naturally so it is a messy kind of curly look.

We were definitely under dressed!! So there we are waiting for someone to open up the church. There is a little vestibule area that is shaded so we are all huddling underneath. Now some of the ladies that showed up were in their 70's for sure, all dressed up and hot so Bob stood up (we were sitting on a little railing) and I squished over. That lady who was somewhat large sat down beside me.. okay truth be told, she sat on me!! I stayed half under her for a few minutes until the sweat became to pool at my feet and then I slipped out and stood up! Wow that was close.. didn't think I'd make it out alive! :-)

So there we are all waiting. Nothing unusual about that. Then I said, Wow Bob is really out numbered! Where are all the men?? One lady laughed and said, Oh the men, they don't come to church. Poor Bob. As it turned out, once it started there were about 8 men there.. no maybe 10.

Fortunately once they opened the doors we were able to sit in a lovely building with lots of fans going everywhere. They had the place all decorated. In Canada we use pumpkins and squash for thanksgiving but here they had plantain hanging in bunches from the ceiling, palm branches lining the center isle, mango, grapefruit, coconuts, papaya and oranges all along the front. It was really beautiful.

So what is a harvest service you ask? Well each age group starting with the youngest slowly marched up the front and sing a song. The kids were adorable with their hair all braided with little barretts at the bottom of each braid. They were beautiful and so sweet!

This went on about 8 times .. up to the oldest group. In between there were choir numbers and little poems recited about being thankful. My all time favorite was when this adorable mentally challenged girl came up to sing... she was very shy and ackward but when she sang the whole place grew quiet. She was so gifted. Another girl sang a song in spanish (all the rest was in english because they are creole) and it was very moving. She kept singing "i don' necesidad todo menos usted de t" which means I don't need anything but You.

So although it was very long .. (we left after 3 1/2 hours) we were so glad we went because we saw a side of the culture here that we otherwise would have missed. There was one other white person there.

So my dear friends next time the service goes til 12:15 just think back to the Harvest Service in Flowers Bay and count your blessings. :-)

Lettuce rejoice

Our place from the front .. we are in the bottom unit. If you come to stay .. you'll be on the left. :-)
Doesn't Bob look like an explorer or something? (minus the computer of course)

My shell shot of the day. Found this old weathered shell up by a palm tree and placed it at the water's edge. The sky looks more ominous then it is. The clouds come and go, the rain falls then it clears, the lightning flashes, the thunder booms but it is all in the course of the day. Over all, it is still sunny and humid most of the day.

Today we visited our friends Zenola, Marco, Elizabeth and her daughter Jennifer. They have been living on the island all their life ... in fact both Zenola's grandparents and great grandparents are buried on the island. They are creole and speak English which really helps communicate.
This is sweet little Jennifer. I took this with the timed exposure .. it was so windy out on the dock but I love a good sea wind.. doesn't do much for my hair but I love it just the same!

There generosity and kindness to us is refreshing and a blessing beyond words. They came over today for a visit, then we went to see the house that someone just recently built and is interested in selling. We walked all along the property , swatting mosquitoes, and chatting. This is the view up there!

It was a wonderful way to spend the afternoon. They took us to the hydroponic farm and their friend took us for a tour. LETTUCE!! Oh joy! They also grow mangos, papayas, limes, lemons, herbs, tomatoes, and these little orange plums that are truly delicious!!



There are aspects to this island that most tourists never see.. they aren't near the dolphin show or the zip lines, or the scuba diving shops but it is real and devastating. A few years ago people from the mainland (Honduras) came over and became squatters on the island. Many of them live at the garbage dump, collecting garbage, and bottles.

Poverty is everywhere but each time I see it I find it disturbing. We have so much and many in the world have little or nothing. We spoke to someone on the island about helping the people and he said that we need to be careful with how we help people because they will suck you dry but they don't want to change. It can be frustrating. That is true anywhere. We found that in Canada as well (you know who you are!! j/k!) We will trust Him to lead us to those who we can help.

Tonight we all drove to West End and went out for dinner at Half Moon Bay. It was a lovely spot right on the water, there were glow fish in the water, and the lightning show was awesome! But the best part was listening to Marco and Zenola share their hearts, their faith and their love of God. We had such sweet fellowship tonight. We can home blessed and happy to have been able to spend the day with such a wonderful family!

We look forward to meeting more people here and seeing how He leads us to be of true help.
Tomorrow we are going to church.... we found out there are several english speaking churches (because they are creole and not spanish) so that will be great!!

This is a view from the sea to our place. How is that for a natural garden!? We have palms, coconuts, hibiscus, bouganvillea, mexican bird of paradise, a banana tree and many more plants that I don't know the names of. The only drawback to having such vegetation around is that when the breeze isn't blowing off the ocean it is a great place for mosquitos and bugs to hang out.


We are getting used to perpetually wearing either cactus juice (it's like a cream) for the no see ems or off spray with deet for the mosquitoes. It gives us a kind of natural glow... :-)

Here are some pictures of our place.

Alot of the houses in Roatan are either made of mahogany wood or concrete. Our little rental place is made of wood, with lots of screened windows and shutters. I really wanted to go up on the top floor (for the breeze) but Tony, the guy who manages these places said that once the rainy season comes we won't want to be up that high since the winds are pretty fierce. It is interesting who you talk to you get different responses to the rainy season. Some people make it sound terrible whereas today one guy we know said that last years rainy season was great because it only rained hard at night and most days were nice with occasional rain. We will see. I must say I welcome a cooler climate.


I had packed up alot of books, and stuff to make cards but when we didn't take the trailer we left that stuff (and lots of other things) at home and now that we are here I wish that I had it. The evenings are long. Once it is dark, there isn't much to do .. except for to a pub and we don't want to do that. Maybe I should write a book. Oh no, did I say that outloud. I showed some of my pictures to Lisa and she is convinced that I should either do a book on Roatan or write an inspirational book. We will see. She is writing two books right now and asked me to do some photography for her. I look forward to that. I need to get my photography copywrite.

Many of you know that I want to have a dog so badly. Once we get our place (can't have dogs here) I will look into that. But it is interesting that the second day we arrived this big dog sauntered up on our deck and just plopped himself down. He comes everyday now and hangs out. I found out his name is Pepsi and I will enjoy having his visits to our place.


Showers are wonderful inventions in humid climates. I usually cool off at least twice a day. Let me say.. I certainly don't take that for granted!!


Today we finally figured out how to get on highspeed internet. It took us about 2 1/2 hours mind you. There is one guy who lives down here who is the administrator and his instructions were pure greek, but by the grace of God we finally figured out. It is great to be able to write, connect and hear from many of you. The internet makes this whole journey so much more bearable. I thank you for the emails, notes and comments.

Tonight there is some problems with the server due to a storm that is brewing. I remember our first night being a little nervous by the lightning and thunder (because as you see from the pictures those wooden slates are usually open.. it's too hot to close them) But last night I woke up to some a good lightning storm and just rolled over. It is amazing how quickly we adjust.


We met our neighbors today: Ron and Patricia. They are living here full time too. Ron is from the states and Patricia is from here. They are really very nice. We met out on the dock tonight. They caught a dog fish (ugliest thing ever!!!) and we sat our talking and enjoying the sea breeze.


Our car should be here on Monday. Please pray that we will be able to get it in the island without any complications (ha... oops sorry... there are always complications on the island... so I really asking for a miracle!!) Our friend Elizabeth is going to try to bring it in under her company so that we won't have to pay any duty on it. Not sure if they will go for that though. It will be wonderful to have a car!! But in the meantime I still sing the praises of those taxi drivers. They are great! We just walk to the end of our road (about a 5 min walk) and within minutes a driver stops to take us wherever we want to go.

Speaking of singing: one of the advantages of not having tv or good computer connections is that Bob and I often sing in the evenings. This is a song we sang together tonight. It brought alot of memories because our friends, the Hutchison's used to sing this when we lived in Saskatchewan. It was true then and still true today.

If I stand By Rich Mullins

There's more that rises in the morning
Than the sun
And more that shines in the night
Than just the moon
It's more than just this fire here
That keeps me warm
In a shelter that is larger
Than this room

And there's a loyalty that's deeper
Than mere sentiments
And a music higher than the songs
That I can sing
The stuff of Earth competes
For the allegiance
I owe only to the giver
Of all good things

CHORUS:
So if I stand let me stand on the promise
That you will pull me through
And if I can't, let me fall on the grace
That first brought me to You
And if I sing let me sing for the joy
That has born in me these songs
And if I weep let it be as a man
Who is longing for his home

There's more that dances on the prairies
Than the wind
More that pulses in the ocean
Than the tide
There's a love that is fiercer
Than the love between friends
More gentle than a mother's
When her baby's at her side

So if I stand let me stand on the promise
That you will pull me through
And if I can't, let me fall on the grace
That first brought me to You
And if I sing let me sing for the joy
That has born in me these songs
And if I weep let it be as a man
Who is longing for his home

Second day JOY!

So relieved to be on the plane!!!

\The tip of the island.. West Bay area

This is a bit dark but this is Bob being super excited to go out on the dock our first morning there. He goes out every morning and that is where he reads his Bible and prays for many of you.
We went to a birthday party last night and they had karaoke ... what a blast! This is me singing with Carol..another lady who lives here... we are singing.. "lean on me"... seems appropriate. we need each other on the island. We met sooo many great people!
Two things we need: His Word and the key to get into our place. Oh to keep things that simple!!

Some things I learned yesterday:

Bugs: The little bugs are called ‘sugar ants’ .. in order to get rid of them you can either put some powdered milk (which they love!) in a small container with some boric acid (which they don’t love!) They eat it, and this is a bit graphic but the tiny shards they ingest eventually kill them. If they take some back to the nest then you totally eridicate them. Tony brought over some and today I am happy to say there aren’t any ants on the counter. Sorry to say they are probably all dead but it’s better then dealing with them crawling everywhere. Food needs to go either in plastic containers, bags or in the fridge.

Lettuce: … there is hope in the salad department!! The hydroponic farm supplies the stores with pre-washed lettuce mix. They are often in stores on Tues.

Basic Grocery Shopping: In fact that is the best day to get produce because that is the day the ship comes in. Take note: I will be shopping on Tues. The other thing is because everything gets shipped in by boat, if you see something you like, buy it! It may not in in stores for awhile. You gotta get it while you can.

It is also good to go to the market as long as you clean the vegetables and wash the meat and fish well. Most people put some bleach in water and clean them that way.

Regarding packaged foods like beans or pasta: if there is a bit of sawdust type of material on the bottom side of the box then DON’T buy it because often it means that bugs have burrowed in through the packaging and are residing happily inside. Not good to bring home!!

We are at Rudy's cafe using their highspeed until they get us set up where we are staying at SeaDancer. Life is funny here ... there is only one man who has the code for us to get logged on and no one can reach him. :-) But this is a pretty sweet place to hang out... they have tropical birds nearby, beautiful flowers, bamboo and a view of the sea that is breathtaking!! Oh yeah... so much for being inconvenienced!!

The only other thing on the agenda today is going to the bank but from what we have heard it can be an 'all day event'. We are learning patience and slowly down more and more everyday.

Have a great day!

We made it!!

Isn't it amazing how things can look great on paper but in reality sometimes they take on a life of their own?? Yesterday we had planned to go to the Fort Lauderdale airport and pick up a rental car then both drive to the shipping dock yard then take the rental car back to the airport in Miami .. get on the plane to Roatan. Simple huh? NOPE.

Firstly map quest failed us this time, and instead of actually finding the airport we drove to the middle of Miami, had to backtrack. Fortunately everything went smoothly at Hyne's shipping. The guy who was going to wait on us was just getting ready to leave for lunch but Bob begged *yes he did!) and the guy consented to processing our car and taking his lunch later. We drove back to the airport and Bob dropped me off with a mountain of luggage and was going to be 'right back.' Alright honey.. I will wait here (we couldn't check in because we both needed to be there) Well it was getting later and later and I thought .. should I try to maneuver this mountain of luggage, and carry ons and laptops over to the counter. Fortunately there was only one english speaking couple around and they were sitting behind me so I took a chance and left it with them.

I wish you could have seen the look on the airline agents face when I told her our dilemma. "Your plane is leaving in less then a half hour!!! Where is your husband???!" Ummm...taking back the rental car. She looked at me as if we had never travelled before.. which we have.. I just hoped that something terrible hadn't happened to him. Well this lady was a saint because she said, ok I will check you in (even though Bob had both passport on him.. you know.. he was going to be right back!) and then she sent all our luggage to the plane with further noticification as to whether we'd be on it or not. If we couldn't make the flight then she would get them to bring our luggage back and then we would pay an extra 100 dollars each and fly stand by the next day. Needless to say, I was sweating buckets and praying like crazy!!!

When Bob came running in 15 min before our plane was to leave I was overjoyed!!! The lady actually escorted us through security.. pays to be late I guess!!

As we were sitting at the very back of plane together I began to hear Bob's side of the story. He couldn't find the Thrifty rental car agency because it was under another name. Finally he asked (after 3 times of driving around) It turned out that the car rental was over 4 miles from the airport and he had to wait for a shuttle and also our airline is small.. TACA airlines is situated at J in the airport.. that meant ALOT of stops before his!!!

Big sigh.. we got on....!!!

Our friends Zenola and Marco came to greet us at the plane .. island time.. about 45 min. late but we were glad they finally arrived. They were kind to us and took us to get some groceries. It is a bit of a culture shock to shop in a spanish store because things are in spanish and alot of brands that I don't recognize. Oh they did have some american brands but you pay an arm and a leg for them. Plus they are in limpiras.. so for everything I had to do the math (which isnt my forte) I did okay until I got to the produce section. Those of you who know me well know that Bob and I eat a salad a day..sometimes 2 so when I saw the shrivelled little lettuce and the wrinkly veggies I almost cried. But He gives strength when we need it most.

One thing that is astounding is how helpful the locals are (if they speak english of course) Our taxi driver drove us to a store to buy a fan (man it is HOT HERE!!) and he even came in to translate for us. They he drove us to a store to buy cell phones and came in again. Then he proceeded to show us how to set up the phones and everything. He must have forgotten something because they aren't working. We will figure it all out. Little by little. This is a whole culteral shift for us. It will take time.

I am writing this from our neighbor's because our internet isn't working.. it can't be configured for us for some reason. Again.. such is island life. Pray for me in particular. I am menstral (sorry guys) and so the small things loom bigger for the next week or so.

We had a good time of prayer this morning sitting on the dock. Here is a beautiful thought... no matter where we go .. He remains the same. He is reachable. He is available. He is ultra helpful. He is. May that be the same for you too.

Tonight we are going to a birthday party. wheeee. We are excited about that.
Tomorrow we are going to Rudy's restaurant to use the highspeed there and I will post some photos. Can't do it here because Tony didn't want me to surf too long.

Love you all.. Thanks for your prayers. We pray for you too. We are far away across the globe but not in the realm of His Spirit.
xoxox

Sorry for any spelling mistakes or grammar.. i am not going to check it. there isn't a fan in here and I am melting.. xox

Leaving in the Morning

Well folks, the adventure continues. Tomorrow we are getting up early, driving to Fort Lauderdale, renting a car, driving that and our car to Hydes Shipping so we can ship our car and kayaks over, then taking the rental car to the Miami airport and flying out in the afternoon.

We will be arriving in Roatan around 5:15. I checked the weather, it is hot with thunderstorms and a chance of rain. I never thought I would welcome rain as much as I do now.


It rained cats and dogs here in Sebring this afternoon!! I sat out in the carport and took pictures. A few times the lightning was so close that the hair stood up on my arms. I love a good storm.




Well Bob needs help putting the kayaks on the car. It is almost midnight, but it is good to get it done tonight. Oh by the way, he drove to Bradenton to get the A/C fixed on the car which we are sooo happy about!! That is why he are still at it so late because that took longer then we expected.

Thanks again for your prayers and support. We are excited to see what the Lord has ahead for us. May we all be open to be used by Him in big or small ways.

Blessings and goodnight for now.
xo

Taking a Break from Packing

Hi everyone!

Just thought I would take a break from packing. It is probably one of my least favorite things to do so this is a great excuse...!!! :-)
We are each allowed to take 2 suitcases each weighing 50 lbs. into the country so the tricky part is prioritizing what we will need for the first 3 months that we are there. We will be coming to Florida in December so we can take the rest then. Since we didn't bring a trailer it was just what we fit into the car but once we took out everything we realize that we did bring quite a bit of stuff. On top of the usual stuff we are bringing books, spices, seeds from my garden, my coffee bodem, tools, pictures of family, some larger pictures from home (esp. the one the church gave us as a farewell gift.. thanks again!), music, laptops, dvds, etc etc.

We have been doing some shopping the last couple of days getting things we need like toiletries (it's amazing how we get used to certain brand names isn't it?), shoes, luggage (been going to thrift stores looking for BIG SUITCASES), laptop for Bob, a digital frame so I can have pictures scrolling of all of you whom we love and miss. You know stuff like that!

While Bob shops I take pictures... it works for us because he is a quick shopper and I am not. So this is the best of both for us!!


I am getting some great sales on summer dresses and tops because it is almost 'fall' here. I went to Old Navy and came out with some awesome deals! That is the one thing I have realized since the A/C broke on our car (that is a whole other story which, if time permits, I will write about) that I don't do well in the heat, so even tank tops become soaking wet on me. Not pretty...so I found some thin straps loose fitting tops and I am wayyyy more comfortable in them.

Here is something interesting I learned about being hot. I stresses me out, I get cranky and irritated and all that makes me more HOT! So I am learning to breathe, relax and just not get all worked up and guess what? Truly it helps a lot. It's amazing actually. That is a big lesson in life I think.

We have had our share of challenges lately. The car would be one of them. We took our car to a Nissan dealership in Fort Myers and they weren't able to fix it because they couldn't get a condenser in for us on time. The time we spent on the phone (at Susie and Gary's) on hold waiting to talk to someone at the dealership was ridiculous and frustrating. We are going to see if the dealership in Sebring can fix it tomorrow or Bob may even drive to Tampa if need be. In a Canadian climate A/C isn't really a big deal but here... !! Well let me just say we were the only people driving around Fort Myers with our windows down. :-)

We spent way too much time on that car in my estimation. It made us both realize that we need to continue to trust Him to guide us moment by moment. Our plans seem good but we can waste a lot of time and energy 'working things' out. We have also spent a great deal of time trying to fax stuff to Roatan. It never did work! We ended up scanning it and hopefully they will fax us back.. tomorrow!!! It made us realize that things are going to be different and not as efficient as we are used to.

It was humbling this morning for both of us to come before Him together admitting that we are doing too much 'on our own' instead of following Him. Now you may say ...so what's the big deal with that? Well I will tell you: stress is the big deal!! We experienced unnecessary stress the last couple of days. It's nuts. I love the way Bob put it this morning (I hope I am quoting him right) It should be a joyful thing for us to submit ourselves to such a great God who takes care of things so wonderfully. It's true.

We know better too. Here's my excuse: hot and tired! But seriously I think it is because we are out of our routine and sometimes, although life is simple and easy, it requires us to make split second decisions. Sometimes we pray and ask His direction and sometimes we don't. The car problems are a classic example of what happens when we don't. We spent a lot of time driving back and forth, hounding people for parts, getting frustrated, talking on the phone when we have a dealership right here in Sebring (we found that out today!) and I think things would have gone different had we stopped to 'inquire of the Lord.' Oh I don't think that.. I know that!!! I think living like this requires more faith then ever actually. Today I read in Romans that the "righteous live by faith". The word that popped out to me was LIVE! That speaks of a daily dependence and a sense of surrender to One who is wiser, stronger and more capable then I.

And yet all around us we see such serene and beautiful sights. This was taken just at the end of Gary and Susie's street.


On a lighter note, I had a special thing happen on Sanibel Island. I found a Junonia. Now if you aren't a sheller that may not seem like a big deal but for anyone who searches for Florida shells that is the cream of the crop. They are extremely rare and hard to find. In fact, those who find one get their picture in the paper (which I did!!!)


We went to beach #4 at low tide. It was a beautiful morning with a lovely breeze off the ocean. We met Rachel and her kids there so I was just strolling through a tide pool with her, taking pictures and getting shells for her. I thought I saw a tulip shell and reached into the water to get it and was thrilled to see it was a Junonia! I screamed!! I squealed with delight!!

For years, we have come down here hoping to find one. I had actually prayed many times that Bob would find one and that day I was not even looking and voila there it was!! It was slightly worn and a bit green but still not broken at all. I think it must have been buried for sometime. Good ol' Hurricane Ike really stirred things up along the Gulf Coast in a good way!! :)

Here is Bob in a tide pool. As the tide goes out these little pools are created and shells get trapped in them. It is the best way to shell in my estimation!


And yes, I went to the local paper and they took my picture!!

We had such a wonderful time visiting with our friends. Aside from dealing with the car and trying to get things faxed, I think that may have been our best trip to Sanibel ever!!


It is one of my most favorite places on earth. The beaches are just covered in shells! It is a shellers paradise, plus the vegetation is so lush, the pelicans, ibis, cranes fly free, the flowers are gorgeous and the pace is slow once you get on any beach.

So onward we go, seeking Him more each day. Trust the same is with you my friend.... xoxo

Unencumbered

Free...as a bird.. that is how I am feeling. It is remarkable!
We went to Barefoot Beach today and Bob presented me with this heart shaped rock.
I have been collecting them for years.. but my most favorite ones come from his hand.
So thankful to be loved from above and here on earth.
Blessed.

I can't begin to express how free I am feeling these days. It is almost as if we are living in another sub-culture. It is like we are cheating in the game of life.. not playing by the rules but just living simply, unencumbered, free! It suits us. Some people would get restless and want to get back to the real world and make a living, find a routine, fill up their schedule. But for now, there is an incredible peace about getting up every morning and just letting that day unfold.

One of the highlights for us was meeting Rachel and her family. I met her on flickr and we quickly connected through of common interest in photography and also through our faith in the Lord. We spent the afternoon and the following day together. It seemed so natural to be together, didn't feel strained or ackward. It felt like we had known each other for a very long time. I was thankful that Bob also connected with her husband Gil. They have stolen our hearts in such a short time. Their children are beyond adorable!!!!

Every afternoon there is a build up of clouds and rain and Bob was holding Nora safe and reassuring her. It was such a precious moment and I was thankful to have caught it. I reminded me often of how the Father speaks reassurance in the storm. We are so blessed.



The other day Bob was getting out of the pool and their daughter said, Bob I like you (all mushy like) and then she said, But I don't like your yucky boobies! We almost died laughing.

We have also re-connected with our friends the Sowers. It is always good to see them! They opened their home to us about 16 years ago (on our 10 anniversary). They have a ministry to pastors and missionaries where they welcome them into their home and hearts. It is such a blessing!!!

We took our car into a Nissan dealership to get our A/C fixed. It is unbearable to drive around with it not working properly. I am started just wearing my bathing suit everywhere and keep a light dress available if we go into a store or a restaurant. How is that for island life?? :-)

We have been enjoying the beach. Bob is back shelling full force but I have to admit I have shifted away from shelling and am more inclined to take pictures. They are so many wonderful things to capture!!



Tonight we took Rachel and her kids out for dinner (her husband had to work) and then we went to the beach, but the lightning was so intense and close that we didn't feel safe being so near the water. We ran back to the car and literally got SOAKED!!!



How cool is that??!! Bob wanted that but they wouldn't part with it.


Ollie took this of me and N.P. I love the sweet expression on her face.. she loves so fully that at times it can be almost heartbreaking. We went out for dinner at the Mad Cow and these chairs were outside. The pink was was calling her name!!!



Not sure why this is blurry but they were running due to the rain, and I was running backwards. Lesson #472: Don't take pictures while running... esp. backwards!! :-)


From the rising of the sun to the setting of the same, the Lord's name is to be praised!!!


Tomorrow we are meeting Rachel and her kids again for another beach day. Low tide is about 9:30 so we will be out in good time for that!

One of our challenges: some people really are doubtful about the success of our life change and that can be disheartening. I guess it does seem a little ridiculous what we are doing but we have a peace about it so when the opposition comes (and sadly it does) we simply cast ourselves at His feet. Believing that He has made us with an adventuresome spirit, a willingness to serve people where ever, and that He is the One who will keep us safe, sound in spirit and available to whoever He puts in our path. It is a lifestyle change that may seem like we are 'checking out' of things but in reality it requires us to trust Him ever MORE then ever. He has been faithful all the way and we are assured that He will continue to lead and guide our feet.

Faithful is He who has called you, and He will bring it to pass - 1 Thes. 5

Many of you have been so encouraging and I thank you for that.

Florida Fun!

We have been coming down to Florida for about 20 years now. It is such a wonderful place to relax and wind down. The only strange thing about coming down this time is not being able to see Bob's Mom. It just doesn't seem right. But we are thankful that we can stay here to regroup, get last minute Roatan paperwork done, re-pack our stuff, relax and take in the beauty!



I thoroughly enjoy these little salamanders that make their home here. I remember once when Matt was young he quickly grabbed one of these guys and it shed it's tail. The look of horror on Matt's face was priceless. I had to reassure him that he'd be okay it was just the way God made him so he would deal with predators.

This was on the florida room screen this morning!


I used to sit out in the Florida room and watch the birds and usually would see over 10 different varieties a day. I saw this bird earlier today as we were going out for lunch. I am not sure what he is called but we stopped the car and I got within a couple of feet from him. Beautiful isn't he?!




He got a little ruffled as I got near but wasn't afraid of me at all. I was hoping to get a picture of him in flight so I started to stomp my feet and clap my hands (yes looking rather idiotic!) and he just stood there staring me down with those eery red eyes as if to say, "settle down woman, I am not in the mood to fly!!" And where was Bob all the while? In the car, patiently waiting! I am blessed with the world's most patient husband. Speaking of which, Bob started to wear his progressive glasses today. Things were a bit 'wonky' for him. I kept saying, "you sure you don't want me to drive. I will. I want to!!" :-) Fear not, we got there and home again safely.


This afternoon I went to the pool and finished reading my book. It was about 92 F and so hot then I was in and out of the pool about 3 times just trying to cool off. I am not complaining really! :-)

At one point this lady came to the pool area pushing a walker, she looked at least 90, very frail and thin, with short white hair, a visor covered in silver sequins and big dark sunglasses. So classy. She proceeded to take off her visor and glasses and put on a bright purple swimming cap, went gingerly down the ladder, grabbed her bright orange noodle and then did the backstroke for about a half hour (maybe more).

I was so impressed with her determination to continue to get exercise. I imagined that she was a good swimmer in her younger years. You could see how comfortable, at ease and almost one she was with the water. It made me realize how important it is to continue to get exercise. (something that is lacking in my life presently)

We have decided while we are here to not worry about getting groceries etc but instead to eat at the Hospital. Now for those of you who haven't been here you'd think that is a terrible choice, but truly it is great!!! The food is good and CHEAP! Which works for Bob's scottish tendencies!
The other day we got 2 big salads, and loads of fresh fruit and they charged us 4.95. Yeeehawww!!



One dilemma we are working on is that our silly cell phone doesn't work here. We aren't sure why because it worked in San Fransisco but not this far over. We bought a little pre-paid cellphone but it only allows us to make 3 international calls. Crazy. Oh well. Good thing we have email. We are still trying to finalize working out the details about shipping our car to Roatan. Please pray that would get sorted out quickly.


But we have peace. Really we do. That in itself is a miracle. Life is full of so many changes and this transition has the potential to be so STRESSFUL but it ISN'T!! I am deeply grateful for the re-assurance about this next big step in our lives.

Today I emailed Lisa who is our friend in Roatan to ask about how to dress for the rainy season. I had tried to get information of the net but it was rather vague. So basically the temperatures are in the high 60's, low 70's. Should bring a couple of long pants and shirts. Maybe a jacket (although she never wears one). It can get chilly in the evenings, but even when it rains it is still warm out. That was helpful because I often pack wrong. All wrong. It is sort of my trademark. I admit I have worn alot of Bob's clothes when we go on trips. :-)

Tomorrow we are driving to Fort Myers to spend some time with one of my flickr friends. I am totally excited to meet Rachel and her family. You should check out her photos if you have time. She is very talented and has a wonderful way of showing the everyday life of her adorable children!
Then we are heading to Sanibel to visit with Gary and Susie (our long time friends). We were blown away when they told us that their friends gave them a key to their condo while they were away and we are going to stay there. Right on Bowman Beach. Ahhh some serious shelling lay ahead!!

What a blessing!!! The Lord is taking care of all the details.. we just haven't seen it all unfold yet.


Well as you can see from the next picture, the sun is setting, (that was taken from where I am sitting at the kitchen table). So ends another beautiful day. I trust all is well with you. At times this seems awfully one sided. I do appreciate those of you who have written. If you ever need prayer or anything, please don't hesitate to email us k? We love you and stand with you wherever we are. Distance can't disrupt true love.