So, with the important part of the trip aside, here are a few snap shots of all the fun in the sun had in Kona. There were many whales spotted, "BOOMS!!!" had when complete breached whales soared through the air, memories made, and the introduction to funny pictures begun. The conversation was never lacking and the beach was always inviting as well as the delicious meals shared together. This was a much needed time of rest with My Love as we honeymooned and found refreshment with one another. We were blessed to spend much of that time with our mentors, Kim and Anne Ryan as they too, find themselves preparing for the mission field and getting the refreshment needed. Kim's eagerness for life is contagious and Anne's humble ways are inspiring. Not a moment was wasted as we enjoyed the island life together.
{ Besides his hair loss, her few gray hairs, and some "shifting"on both parts, I'd say we look better now then we did 12 years ago }
{ We love this place but really, all you need is a beach towel and a swimsuit }
{ The Ryan's invited us to a night of worship at YWAM Kona Base, University of the Nations }
{ Celebrating our renewal with a toast on the lanai where the Ryan's are staying. Most impressive next to the stunning view from over 1000ft. above sea level, was the amount of books collected from Pastor David in his home (my guess is over 2000) and the random wild turkey walking down the street }
{ The Ryan's gave us a tour of the Hilton, and a few other beaches, introducing us to the dolphin pools as we indulged in chili fries with these cute friends playing besides us }
{ Tim found himself blushing as he stumbled upon three human-like flamingos at the Hilton }
{ Found me a turtle along with many of his friends in the Hilton Logan }
{ The sunsets are beyond stunning…especially in the arms of the one you love }
{ Anne and I on the look out for whales as we dip our toes and wait for the sunset }
{ Almost every morning the spinner dolphins showed up to swim next to the training, iron man swimmers and water goers }
{ Last night on the island }
Let's not forget about the whale sightings! It was terribly hard to catch a breach on camera but here's what we saw most of the time and as many as 10 at one time.
Sure there are more pictures, but that's enough to get you to book a ticket and find some sunshine. Our toes were frozen as we stepped off the plane to our surprise snow storm which for the kids was a bummer as I didn't pack their snow clothes to Papa and Nana's. What a shift in temperatures!
Now, the suitcases are emptied and everyone is unpacked, my parents are quietly sitting in there non-chaotic home once again, and Dad's gladly not chasing Myriam through the McDonald's kitchen. All the kids are sleeping soundly in their own beds and routine has found it's place again. I'm dreaming of sandy beaches, but for now early bedtime and a clean house will do. God gave me the charged battery I needed, the quiet times worshipping at the pool (yes, I caught myself humming and singing out loud a few times), and a renewed marriage, a refreshed, cleansed heart. Thank you Jesus for these moments and creation!
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