We arrived in Flagstaff about 30 minutes before we left Japan. What a wacky trip. Because Laurie and I normally have Friday off, we actually had two Fridays this week. Not bad. When we got home, we quickly realized the temperature change from where we've spent the past two weeks. It is so good to be home. We are definitely going through some of the normal jet-lag stuff, but I'm pretty sure we'll be fine.
It was so nice to be at Grace this morning. Whenever we're out, we certainly enjoy ministering in other places, but nothing is quite like home. Grace is a great place to be! This morning I taught on the importance of praying for others, specifically missionaries. I used the opportunity to show a few pictures and tell some of the experiences on the trip. Because in Indo they refer to the missionaries as "M's" I was able to use that along with praying for our own ministry (M) and used M&M's to remind our crowd to pray for both missionaries and our own ministry.
I'll probably keep this blog open for a little bit to pass on any post-trip reflections. Thanks to those who have followed along and prayed for us on this wonderful journey. Now that we're home we re-enter our responsibilities here and continue pressing forward with the mission God has given right here in Flagstaff.
I'm not particularly sure who has followed us, if you'd like feel free to send a note or make a comment. Now that I've done my first blog, there's a pretty good chance I'll have something similar in the near future. Any ideas might be helpful. Bless each of you and thanks again for following along.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Friday, November 14, 2008
Almost Home
Bottom line: planes just were not made for sleeping. Though we have nothing to complain about, the sleep thing just doesn't happen as one would hope. We may have slept a couple of hours. We arrived at LAX the same time as about 4 million other people did from various parts of the world. The funny part was coming down the escalator and finding the line was backed up at the bottom. Laurie says out loud, "this isn't going to be good". And it wasn't. We finally got through the maze known as immigration and rechecked our luggage. After our burger and coffee, we kind of fell asleep on the airport floor. It wasn't comfortable, nor was it a pretty sight, but couldn't really help it. In just a few minutes we'll board the last leg of this journey. I'm too tired to give a meaningful summary of our trip, so that will wait a day or two. We're both very thankful to almost be home.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Narita Japan
We left Bandung Wednesday afternoon, and are just now with Internet connection at the airport in Japan. Pete, the director took us on a fast tour of Jakarta before we boarded our 10pm flight to Japan. Seriously people, I know I've mentioned the traffic more than a few times, but as my mother would say, "I never..." Well, she never really finished the statement, maybe that's the idea. We've had an exceptional driver to take care of us.
Pete said that a trip into Jakarta was usually rewarded with a meal at the local Chili's. I ordered my favorite little nacho appetizer which is ONLY good because of the jalapenos, that didn't make it to Indo. It was great to spend some time with Pete and have good discussion.
Didn't sleep to well on the all-night flight. So as not to mess up the sleep thing too much (like that's going to matter real soon) upon arrival in Japan Thurs a.m., we did the 90 minute train ride into Tokyo and jumped on a silly tour bus. Nothing like trying to blend in. Let's just wear t-shirts that say, "Hey, we're stupid tourists and proud of it." I kept telling Laurie to just blend in. Every male in Japan is about 5 feet tall and wears a suit. What's that about? The train station in Tokyo is a culture all it's own. After the obnoxious 'stare at the tourists in the big bus' experience, we found Starbucks and a place to have some Japanese soup for lunch. We saw a few of the sights and were back at the hotel in time for our overpriced, but tasty supper.
Now we're approaching this odd time thing. We're spending the afternoon in the airport, not bad here though. Then we fly out at 5:30pm today, Friday and arrive in LA Friday at 10am. After our few hours there, we finally arrive in Flag at about 5:30pm Friday, that's today, that's when we leave here. Is this where they got the idea of the Twilight Zone? I know people do this all the time and it's just normal. But not for us. I think I'll be fine for Sunday at Grace. If not, I may have to remind everyone of our somewhat abused slogan, "it's all about grace".
Looking forward to the trip home. And looking forward to being home. I may post again from LAX. Blessings...
Pete said that a trip into Jakarta was usually rewarded with a meal at the local Chili's. I ordered my favorite little nacho appetizer which is ONLY good because of the jalapenos, that didn't make it to Indo. It was great to spend some time with Pete and have good discussion.
Didn't sleep to well on the all-night flight. So as not to mess up the sleep thing too much (like that's going to matter real soon) upon arrival in Japan Thurs a.m., we did the 90 minute train ride into Tokyo and jumped on a silly tour bus. Nothing like trying to blend in. Let's just wear t-shirts that say, "Hey, we're stupid tourists and proud of it." I kept telling Laurie to just blend in. Every male in Japan is about 5 feet tall and wears a suit. What's that about? The train station in Tokyo is a culture all it's own. After the obnoxious 'stare at the tourists in the big bus' experience, we found Starbucks and a place to have some Japanese soup for lunch. We saw a few of the sights and were back at the hotel in time for our overpriced, but tasty supper.
Now we're approaching this odd time thing. We're spending the afternoon in the airport, not bad here though. Then we fly out at 5:30pm today, Friday and arrive in LA Friday at 10am. After our few hours there, we finally arrive in Flag at about 5:30pm Friday, that's today, that's when we leave here. Is this where they got the idea of the Twilight Zone? I know people do this all the time and it's just normal. But not for us. I think I'll be fine for Sunday at Grace. If not, I may have to remind everyone of our somewhat abused slogan, "it's all about grace".
Looking forward to the trip home. And looking forward to being home. I may post again from LAX. Blessings...
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Tourists
Monday morning we were able to meet two more ministry partners doing wonderful things for the people in this region. They each have very unique opportunities, some we'll be able to share with you later.
We have become official tourists the past day and a half. Yesterday we shopped at a couple of places on our own then today Charity and Molly took us to a couple of great places. There are more than a few favorite spots. You guys know I love coffee, and I really love good coffee. So today we went to a place where they roast it. I learned a lot. They have what they call robust coffee. That is they 'cure' for like 5 years. The Aribika coffee is smoother, with less acid. Well, that's because it cures for 8 years. What? You gotta be kidding. I had no idea. The owner is 2nd or 3rd generation, operating in the same place with the same old equipment. He was a hoot. I asked about different roasts, like strong, medium, etc. "No, we have one roast, regular." I see. From what I can tell, it's maybe a medium roast. I'll add a photo of the beans that are curing. I'm not sure that's what they call it, but it's in bags for years, so I'm going with 'curing'.
We went to a volcano, and looked in on the crater. Sulphur was a little strong, but hey, it's a volcano. There was of coarse a jillion shops right there to buy anything you might ever need. It was fun to watch these girls do a little old fashioned bartering. I was the spectator and holder of the cash.
Lunch was at a fabulous place. All these open air bungalows where you sit on a mat and eat great food. Awesome atmosphere with waterfalls and tropical surroundings. Both cameras got locked in the car, with the driver no where to be found. So, we'll let the beauty of that place stay within our minds.
It's been a great day and a good ending to a wonderful time in Indonesia. Tomorrow we pack and say goodbye to our new friends. We leave Jakarta at 10 pm so there's a chance I'll check in during the day tomorrow before we start the long journey home.
We have become official tourists the past day and a half. Yesterday we shopped at a couple of places on our own then today Charity and Molly took us to a couple of great places. There are more than a few favorite spots. You guys know I love coffee, and I really love good coffee. So today we went to a place where they roast it. I learned a lot. They have what they call robust coffee. That is they 'cure' for like 5 years. The Aribika coffee is smoother, with less acid. Well, that's because it cures for 8 years. What? You gotta be kidding. I had no idea. The owner is 2nd or 3rd generation, operating in the same place with the same old equipment. He was a hoot. I asked about different roasts, like strong, medium, etc. "No, we have one roast, regular." I see. From what I can tell, it's maybe a medium roast. I'll add a photo of the beans that are curing. I'm not sure that's what they call it, but it's in bags for years, so I'm going with 'curing'.
We went to a volcano, and looked in on the crater. Sulphur was a little strong, but hey, it's a volcano. There was of coarse a jillion shops right there to buy anything you might ever need. It was fun to watch these girls do a little old fashioned bartering. I was the spectator and holder of the cash.
Lunch was at a fabulous place. All these open air bungalows where you sit on a mat and eat great food. Awesome atmosphere with waterfalls and tropical surroundings. Both cameras got locked in the car, with the driver no where to be found. So, we'll let the beauty of that place stay within our minds.
It's been a great day and a good ending to a wonderful time in Indonesia. Tomorrow we pack and say goodbye to our new friends. We leave Jakarta at 10 pm so there's a chance I'll check in during the day tomorrow before we start the long journey home.
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Sunday Church
Today we concluded the retreat with a Sunday morning church service. I was blessed to teach from Colossians 1 on the supremacy of Christ. We've really enjoyed our time with the staff here. There are many great families that make up this unique community. Because of what they are doing, God is working through many other ministries throughout this area.
Most Sunday mornings I don't eat anything. It's kind of a routine I have whenever I am preaching. Today, however, I not only ate, but I ventured out and had squid curry for breakfast. Next Sunday, I'll probably go back to not eating breakfast.
We've enjoyed some special individual time with Charity and Molly. They are both doing great, and it's easy to come alongside and encourage them. They both have been a real encouragement to me and Laurie.
Tomorrow we visit a few more ministries and meet more of God's servants. In a few minutes we're going to do a test run on skype for our church, which starts in an hour or so. This should be fun.
Most Sunday mornings I don't eat anything. It's kind of a routine I have whenever I am preaching. Today, however, I not only ate, but I ventured out and had squid curry for breakfast. Next Sunday, I'll probably go back to not eating breakfast.
We've enjoyed some special individual time with Charity and Molly. They are both doing great, and it's easy to come alongside and encourage them. They both have been a real encouragement to me and Laurie.
Tomorrow we visit a few more ministries and meet more of God's servants. In a few minutes we're going to do a test run on skype for our church, which starts in an hour or so. This should be fun.
Saturday, November 8, 2008
Sunday a.m.
I'm excited to be teaching from Col 1 in just a few minutes. We've had a great time with this group, the retreat has been successful. Pray for us, and for this last session. Thanks so much for standing with us, a really long way from home. We hope to check in with Grace on Sunday morning via Skype. Gotta run for now. Will post an update and some photos a little later.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Bible in a Sauna
After Laurie taught in the upper elementary chapel, we both went to the Bible classroom. Laurie talked with the seniors about transitioning to another country after high school. It was a good discussion that I was able to sit in on and contribute just a bit. Then we were invited to teach the Bible classes for a couple of hours. After the first hour, I went to the back of the class where my darling said I looked like I'd been through a car wash. The school is new and has only limited A/C. Basically they need a lot more cash to buy what they need. I will vouch for the need. Seriously, I don't know how they do it. I was told later that this is actually a cooler part of the year, with the rains and all.
Tonight we were guests at Miss Molly's place. It was great to visit with her roommates and another teacher, Aaron. They fed us some of their favorite Indonesian dishes. We ate it all! Enjoyed most of it. No, I'm kidding, I think we actually liked it all. This was good stuff! They were very generous to share with us.
Once again, the day comes to an abrupt end as we are zonked. Sleep is welcomed. Tomorrow we'll jump in again, with the retreat beginning in the evening. Thanks for praying for the retreat and for me to be ready to be used of God so the staff will hear what they need from the Lord.
Tonight we were guests at Miss Molly's place. It was great to visit with her roommates and another teacher, Aaron. They fed us some of their favorite Indonesian dishes. We ate it all! Enjoyed most of it. No, I'm kidding, I think we actually liked it all. This was good stuff! They were very generous to share with us.
Once again, the day comes to an abrupt end as we are zonked. Sleep is welcomed. Tomorrow we'll jump in again, with the retreat beginning in the evening. Thanks for praying for the retreat and for me to be ready to be used of God so the staff will hear what they need from the Lord.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
It's early Thursday morning here. Last night I wasn't able to send out my update, so here goes.
Yesterday we both spent time teaching in classrooms. Laurie helped in two Spanish classes and the third grade and I assisted in a Bible class. I had a real good meeting with the Director of the school and am looking forward to a follow up time with him as well. So, for lunch we met with another family doing translation work. It is an amazing story, that again I must say, I have to wait and tell you in person. They fed us another great Indonesian meal and then showed us some of their work. It was a real treat to meet three men from an island who are working with them on a translation for their language. There are over 600 languages throughout this country spread out on 17,000 islands.
Charity, our host, had us over for a wonderful Indonesian meal to end the day. We spent some time with her and her roommate and another couple from the school.
Have I mentioned the traffic? It's not like I've been all over the world, but driving throughout Mexico and some in Ecuador, I thought I would be ready for most anything. As we were on our way back from the translator's home yesterday we were in seriously congested traffic. There are probably more little motorbikes, kind of like mopeds, but also like small motorcycles weaving in and out of cars. I'm not sure what the rules are, or if there are any, but it's hard to not be a little nervous. Yesterday, we only hit one lady on the arm with our side view mirror. She had it coming I'm sure. I can't imagine walking anywhere near these roads, let alone, like on the road. Our driver is a gifted soul.
Well, better get going with the day. The pace is starting to get to us a little bit, but I think we have some time off this afternoon as the retreat starts tomorrow and I'll need some prep time for that. Thanks for your encouraging words and praying for us.
Yesterday we both spent time teaching in classrooms. Laurie helped in two Spanish classes and the third grade and I assisted in a Bible class. I had a real good meeting with the Director of the school and am looking forward to a follow up time with him as well. So, for lunch we met with another family doing translation work. It is an amazing story, that again I must say, I have to wait and tell you in person. They fed us another great Indonesian meal and then showed us some of their work. It was a real treat to meet three men from an island who are working with them on a translation for their language. There are over 600 languages throughout this country spread out on 17,000 islands.
Charity, our host, had us over for a wonderful Indonesian meal to end the day. We spent some time with her and her roommate and another couple from the school.
Have I mentioned the traffic? It's not like I've been all over the world, but driving throughout Mexico and some in Ecuador, I thought I would be ready for most anything. As we were on our way back from the translator's home yesterday we were in seriously congested traffic. There are probably more little motorbikes, kind of like mopeds, but also like small motorcycles weaving in and out of cars. I'm not sure what the rules are, or if there are any, but it's hard to not be a little nervous. Yesterday, we only hit one lady on the arm with our side view mirror. She had it coming I'm sure. I can't imagine walking anywhere near these roads, let alone, like on the road. Our driver is a gifted soul.
Well, better get going with the day. The pace is starting to get to us a little bit, but I think we have some time off this afternoon as the retreat starts tomorrow and I'll need some prep time for that. Thanks for your encouraging words and praying for us.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
Memorizing Scripture
Laurie taught the younger kids today. She did what she loves to do most, teaching kids to memorize a verse to a beat. It's really amazing to me how well she does, and how well it works. Today the kids memorized Joshua 1:9
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
If I could figure out how to add it here, I do have a 30 second video clip.
What a great reminder for us, not just to memorize scripture, but the very message of today's verse. Joshua and his people would certainly need this message as they embark on a journey that would involve a lot of bad and confusing days. I wonder how many times Joshua would say, "This isn't what I thought it would be like", or "Is this really the best thing I can do for God right now?" Not sure what you're going through today, or even some of the doubts you may be facing, but how reassuring to know that God is with us, wherever we are. That's great news for us, thousands of miles from home. And it's great news for you, wherever you are today.
It's been a good day here. Laurie and I have both had opportunities to meet with individuals for some counseling, and others just needing a word of encouragement. Thanks again for caring for us and praying with us for God's work to move forward here and at home. God bless you today.
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."
If I could figure out how to add it here, I do have a 30 second video clip.
What a great reminder for us, not just to memorize scripture, but the very message of today's verse. Joshua and his people would certainly need this message as they embark on a journey that would involve a lot of bad and confusing days. I wonder how many times Joshua would say, "This isn't what I thought it would be like", or "Is this really the best thing I can do for God right now?" Not sure what you're going through today, or even some of the doubts you may be facing, but how reassuring to know that God is with us, wherever we are. That's great news for us, thousands of miles from home. And it's great news for you, wherever you are today.
It's been a good day here. Laurie and I have both had opportunities to meet with individuals for some counseling, and others just needing a word of encouragement. Thanks again for caring for us and praying with us for God's work to move forward here and at home. God bless you today.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Chapels, taxis and Sundanese
I feel bad that I like to eat. I'm not overly adventurous, but so far I haven't had to turn anything away. Today's lunch was all about stuff I had no idea about. Didn't even ask. Me and the dude ate with our fingers in typical Sundanese style (The indigenous people of West Java). Laurie and the gal wisely used normal utensils. But I had more fun!
Earlier today I had the pleasure of speaking to both the High School kids and the Middle School kids in their weekly chapels. I enjoyed the opportunity and I was equally blessed by the students worship and response. This is a very 'international' school. Tomorrow is Laurie's turn with the younger students.
After chapel we rode in a taxi across town to meet some wonderful people working in a very unique ministry to a group that is often neglected. More on that later, in person. I won't say we got lost, but I did have to dial one of our contacts to help the driver find the right place. I watched the meter go up as we circled the neighborhood a time or two. But, at the end of the 45 minute journey, we were only out a few bucks. Seriously, we just loved meeting these people and learning about their work.
Tonight we enjoyed a roast at Charity's birthday dinner. She is most definitely loved by these people. Earlier she gave us a tour of the new school. It was a treat to be in Molly's classroom at the start of the day to pray for her students, and their teacher.
So, once again, it's hard to stay awake, even though it's only 9pm here. Thanks for following our journey and praying for us as you think of it. God is gracious to give us the chance to speak for Him and His people here.
Earlier today I had the pleasure of speaking to both the High School kids and the Middle School kids in their weekly chapels. I enjoyed the opportunity and I was equally blessed by the students worship and response. This is a very 'international' school. Tomorrow is Laurie's turn with the younger students.
After chapel we rode in a taxi across town to meet some wonderful people working in a very unique ministry to a group that is often neglected. More on that later, in person. I won't say we got lost, but I did have to dial one of our contacts to help the driver find the right place. I watched the meter go up as we circled the neighborhood a time or two. But, at the end of the 45 minute journey, we were only out a few bucks. Seriously, we just loved meeting these people and learning about their work.
Tonight we enjoyed a roast at Charity's birthday dinner. She is most definitely loved by these people. Earlier she gave us a tour of the new school. It was a treat to be in Molly's classroom at the start of the day to pray for her students, and their teacher.
So, once again, it's hard to stay awake, even though it's only 9pm here. Thanks for following our journey and praying for us as you think of it. God is gracious to give us the chance to speak for Him and His people here.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Jet lagged and thankful
We arrived in Jakarta Saturday evening and tried very hard not to fall asleep during the two hour drive to Kota Baru. That's a fight we didn't win. I remember Laurie asking a question, and as I was answering it, she was asleep. But, then I couldn't remember the question. I'm sure Molly and Charity were impressed and amused with their new guests.
After a great breakfast we went to church with the ladies and met many of the people we'll be seeing throughout the week. For lunch, Molly was very excited to share her banana and blueberry pizza with us. I soon discovered that there's nothing wrong with a man wanting a little meat on his pie. The food was great, as was the opportunity to get to know some of the other staff members
Tomorrow I'll be speaking to the Middle school and High school chapels. Thanks for praying for me. Laurie is up the following day speaking at one of the elementary chapels.
Sorry this note is short, but its kinda hard to keep my eyes open. Knowing the time difference, we're praying for many of you that are just getting started on your Sunday that you'll have a great time as the church gathers together. God bless each one of you.
After a great breakfast we went to church with the ladies and met many of the people we'll be seeing throughout the week. For lunch, Molly was very excited to share her banana and blueberry pizza with us. I soon discovered that there's nothing wrong with a man wanting a little meat on his pie. The food was great, as was the opportunity to get to know some of the other staff members
Tomorrow I'll be speaking to the Middle school and High school chapels. Thanks for praying for me. Laurie is up the following day speaking at one of the elementary chapels.
Sorry this note is short, but its kinda hard to keep my eyes open. Knowing the time difference, we're praying for many of you that are just getting started on your Sunday that you'll have a great time as the church gathers together. God bless each one of you.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Japan
Had a great flight from LAX to Narita, Japan. The miles program we used enabled us to be in what they call business class. I'm sold! We stretched out and enjoyed great service and amazing food. BUT, all that said, 11 hours is still an insane amount of time to be on a plane. Saw two movies, read most of one book, had some limited study time and took a nice healthy nap. Most everyone slept most of the way. Laurie had it figured out that we needed to stay awake and try to get ready for serious time change. We tried. But we also slept.
What an odd feeling to get off the plane and realize we're not just the foreigners, but we're completely on our own. There are plenty of English signs, but still needed to ask for help on more than one occasion to get to the right spot to get the bus to the hotel.
Went to the ATM to get cash for the next leg of the trip. So, I go into the little booth with absolutely no thought on what I'm doing, exchange rate, amount I think we need, or anything What a stupid American. At home, I NEVER use ATMs. So, I'm in the booth, and there are hundreds of people scurrying about the airport. I yell out to Laurie, "so how much do we need?" Then that follows with "and what's the exchange rate?" Like she's supposed to know. So, I pull out 2000 yen, thinking it's maybe 200 USD. I'm hot, kinda tired (2:00a.m. Flag time), and basically clueless. It wasn't until I was getting some bottles of water in the hotel gift shop, that I realized I maybe had about 20bucks. The water and snacks came to about 800 yen. Oops. So, needless to say, I found another atm this morning.
My curiosity is up about the Japanese people. Why are we so isolated? Okay, I mean, why am I so isolated? This culture appears to be so very different. In some ways I'm sure it is, in other ways, people are people. I will say we have enjoyed the wonderful hospitality.
By the way, who decides what countries will have drivers on the left side of the road and who gets the right? Why are 'characters' so different from 'letters'? Is this all about Babel?
This morning, Laurie and I are so thankful to God for allowing us this unique opportunity to travel and minister. Thanks for praying for us as we continue the journey. Today, we board for a 7 hour flight. Can't wait to meet up with Charity and Molly tonight and begin the adventure!
What an odd feeling to get off the plane and realize we're not just the foreigners, but we're completely on our own. There are plenty of English signs, but still needed to ask for help on more than one occasion to get to the right spot to get the bus to the hotel.
Went to the ATM to get cash for the next leg of the trip. So, I go into the little booth with absolutely no thought on what I'm doing, exchange rate, amount I think we need, or anything What a stupid American. At home, I NEVER use ATMs. So, I'm in the booth, and there are hundreds of people scurrying about the airport. I yell out to Laurie, "so how much do we need?" Then that follows with "and what's the exchange rate?" Like she's supposed to know. So, I pull out 2000 yen, thinking it's maybe 200 USD. I'm hot, kinda tired (2:00a.m. Flag time), and basically clueless. It wasn't until I was getting some bottles of water in the hotel gift shop, that I realized I maybe had about 20bucks. The water and snacks came to about 800 yen. Oops. So, needless to say, I found another atm this morning.
My curiosity is up about the Japanese people. Why are we so isolated? Okay, I mean, why am I so isolated? This culture appears to be so very different. In some ways I'm sure it is, in other ways, people are people. I will say we have enjoyed the wonderful hospitality.
By the way, who decides what countries will have drivers on the left side of the road and who gets the right? Why are 'characters' so different from 'letters'? Is this all about Babel?
This morning, Laurie and I are so thankful to God for allowing us this unique opportunity to travel and minister. Thanks for praying for us as we continue the journey. Today, we board for a 7 hour flight. Can't wait to meet up with Charity and Molly tonight and begin the adventure!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Hello LAX. 4:15 alarm actually needs to wake us up! That's a good sign. 4:55 in car to the big Flag airport, quick drive thru the local Starbucks and we're off. In the next couple of hours here at LAX I'll learn how to add photos. Upon arrival we head to the international terminal to find JAL opens an hour later. A good Mexican breakfast calls to me, while Laurie enjoys her all time favorite egg mcsomething.
So, here's where it gets fun. We go ahead and wait in the almost non-line at the JAL counter for a few minutes, thinking we'll get this part out of the way and go sit somewhere, and well, do what I'm doing now. As we wait...all of a sudden a line, single file, all smiles of Japanese gals come out and go directly to their terminals to begin waiting on...well, people like us. Laurie says, "Oh, I'm gonna like this trip". Order. It's all about order. Gotta tell you, it was a rather impressive entry. How can I add this to our Grace presentation on Sunday mornings.??
Now we wait and do some catch up and maybe a little learning about blogworld, then we board our first ever 747 for the 11 hour flight to Tokyo, where we spend the night and head out in the morning to Jakarta.
Thanks to many of you that we've heard from. Thanks for praying for us as you think of us, both on the journey, and the destination. Can't wait to teach and encourage. This will be quite the adventure. Hopefully, a few pictures soon...
So, here's where it gets fun. We go ahead and wait in the almost non-line at the JAL counter for a few minutes, thinking we'll get this part out of the way and go sit somewhere, and well, do what I'm doing now. As we wait...all of a sudden a line, single file, all smiles of Japanese gals come out and go directly to their terminals to begin waiting on...well, people like us. Laurie says, "Oh, I'm gonna like this trip". Order. It's all about order. Gotta tell you, it was a rather impressive entry. How can I add this to our Grace presentation on Sunday mornings.??
Now we wait and do some catch up and maybe a little learning about blogworld, then we board our first ever 747 for the 11 hour flight to Tokyo, where we spend the night and head out in the morning to Jakarta.
Thanks to many of you that we've heard from. Thanks for praying for us as you think of us, both on the journey, and the destination. Can't wait to teach and encourage. This will be quite the adventure. Hopefully, a few pictures soon...
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
T minus
What does that even mean? I don't know, but I think they use it when they get ready for take off. We're getting ready for take off. It's noon here in Flag. Tomorrow morning we fly from Flag at 6am. So, it's go time. I probably should help with packing, but I tend to mess things up. Laurie is pretty good at this travel stuff. I just ask questions like, 'where are we headed next?', 'when can we eat?', and 'do they serve coffee?'.
Along with the trip details, today is a big day to finish up stuff at Grace office. I'm so very thankful for Pastor Bob. He's definitely a 'go-to' guy.
As we head out tomorrow, I'll do my best to keep you updated. To be honest, with where we're going, I'm not even sure how much I can post and talk about stuff. I'm pretty sure we'll be okay, but I'll wait till we arrive to give some details.
Along with the trip details, today is a big day to finish up stuff at Grace office. I'm so very thankful for Pastor Bob. He's definitely a 'go-to' guy.
As we head out tomorrow, I'll do my best to keep you updated. To be honest, with where we're going, I'm not even sure how much I can post and talk about stuff. I'm pretty sure we'll be okay, but I'll wait till we arrive to give some details.
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