Sorry these are so late, wish I had more time to give newer posts. Perhaps in the next day or so.
Thanks again for all you prayers. We have many services to attend over the next two days.
Hope this weekend goes well for everyone!
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Feb 9th
On Monday, our plane departure was scheduled for 430a, but we are being acclimated to IST (Indian Standard Time). These sort of things allow stretch our need to be more flexible in the midst of our to-do lists and nicely ordered world.
Upon arrival to Nagpur we hit the ground running. Our dear friend Samuel and the gracious Ashok met us the at the airport and whisked us to a ministry center, where we enjoyed song, prayer, and short devotion. I must say the hospitality of the Indian people is first class. They are gracious and humble servants. They always put others first and top the whole experience with zest of amazing chai, delectable fruit, and even tasty biscuits (cookies).
We all agreed that Nagpur is not nearly as chaotic as Mumbai. It was refreshing to see some semblance of order and a glimpse of respect for traffic etiquette. Granted this moments were few and far in between, but the flashes of light through the throngs of vehicles were welcome relief.
Having left Mumbai early, introduced to fellow servants of Christ, as well as seeing a large portion of Nagpur it was nice to sit down for lunch. Our lunch took place at a little restaurant called “Planet Food.” (Not to be mistaken with Planet HollyWood, or its cousin, Planet BollyWood). Naan, Fanta, Dosa, Tomato soup, and something else I can't remember the name filled our palette. We also were introduced to one of Pastor Eric's favorite desserts, Barfee. It was interesting; kinda reminded me of Applets and Cotlets, but after one I had enough. Surprising enough some in our group were not brave enough to taste barfee, we will not name, names, but I am sure you can guess who.
If our journey for the day was not enough, we drove another hour or two and arrived at Ghandi's Ashram. As a curious onlooker of Ghandi's life, it was worth the opportunity to tour his former abode. I must say I was surprised that it had the feel of a western ghosttown and a museum. I mean no disrespect, but the place was lifeless. It was like the model of living he exuded and practiced never left the walls of this center of non-violent, non-cooperation. As a matter of fact, Pastor Samuel informed me that many Indians hold him in high regard, but believe that the religious and life principles he fought so dearly to bring into the culture of India, was by and large, unrealistic and unattainable. Upon hearing that assessment, it reconfirmed the reality that no matter the attempts of humanity to be righteous on their own accord it will be met with discontent, disappointment, and disillusionment.
And yet our day was not complete until we travelled another hour or so to arrive at a FM hostel in a town called Yoatmal. This town is where our driver Gope and our host Ashok live. Granted this was an eventful and meaningful day, we were spent and grateful for a bed and shower.
Of course the summary of each day would not be complete without a “brief” assessment of an intriguing moment.
Now I am trying to complain, show dis-respect, or be ungrateful for the services of our driver and new friend, Mr. Gope but you must hear what it is like to drive in the countryside of India. It is like nothing your could ever imagine, view through pictures or the cinema. In all honesty my words will be a finite attempt, yet I still desire t to paint a picture in your minds eye.
Apparently travel in India is very slow, they have very few flyovers (highways) and so those with the means take the train, bus, or plane to major destinations. Everyone else must embark on a death defying roadtrip to desired destination. And this is not any roadtrip, it can be two blocks down the street, or in our case 100km south of Nagpur. Friends, I have never seen my life flash before my eyes so many times in such a short period of time. I mentioned before the pecking order of travel in the city, but on the county road, another wrench is thrown into the mix, the sacred cow (now you know where that term came from). You must keep in mind that Hindu's worship the cow and believe the god Brahim, incarnated himself into the world where his spirit found its place in the stomach of a cow. Don't ask me why, that is just what they say (if this bried summary is not entirely accurate or needs further explanation, Pstr Eric is available to provide clarification)
Anyhow, the cow rules the road and everyone must give way. This makes for terrifying travel and funny ha-ha's. Terrifying b/c sometimes you are playing chicken with a motorcycle, a pedestrian, a rickshaw, a bus, and/ or a bicycle (remember the pecking order of the road found in previous posts). You think you are in the clear by mere centimeters, when all of a sudden a cow decides that its life is not worth living and attempts to commit suicide by throwing its hulking body, ten-foot wide horns and all into the convoluted mass of chaos we have dubbed, “driving.” Of course all modes of transportation mash on the brakes, close their eyes, hold on to dear life, and recite a prayer before they step into eternity. Surprisingly this terrifying experience turns out OK and you venture off into another death defying feat called, “driving the country roads of India.” I realize that I am being a tad mellow-dramatic, but many times you wonder if that car next you will move into your lane, the motor bike will move one inch to the right, and the pedestrian will take one more step. Thankfully we have been blessed with an experienced driver that has taken Bishops, Superintendents, Pstr Eric, and many others across the great land of India. We also have your prayers, so we are in good hands. And for those of that are really concerned pray some more, value the road system in America and just laugh. That is what have learned—laugh, pray, think of family, good things, etc—what else can you do when you drive within feet, sometimes inches, of meeting Jesus?
Upon arrival to Nagpur we hit the ground running. Our dear friend Samuel and the gracious Ashok met us the at the airport and whisked us to a ministry center, where we enjoyed song, prayer, and short devotion. I must say the hospitality of the Indian people is first class. They are gracious and humble servants. They always put others first and top the whole experience with zest of amazing chai, delectable fruit, and even tasty biscuits (cookies).
We all agreed that Nagpur is not nearly as chaotic as Mumbai. It was refreshing to see some semblance of order and a glimpse of respect for traffic etiquette. Granted this moments were few and far in between, but the flashes of light through the throngs of vehicles were welcome relief.
Having left Mumbai early, introduced to fellow servants of Christ, as well as seeing a large portion of Nagpur it was nice to sit down for lunch. Our lunch took place at a little restaurant called “Planet Food.” (Not to be mistaken with Planet HollyWood, or its cousin, Planet BollyWood). Naan, Fanta, Dosa, Tomato soup, and something else I can't remember the name filled our palette. We also were introduced to one of Pastor Eric's favorite desserts, Barfee. It was interesting; kinda reminded me of Applets and Cotlets, but after one I had enough. Surprising enough some in our group were not brave enough to taste barfee, we will not name, names, but I am sure you can guess who.
If our journey for the day was not enough, we drove another hour or two and arrived at Ghandi's Ashram. As a curious onlooker of Ghandi's life, it was worth the opportunity to tour his former abode. I must say I was surprised that it had the feel of a western ghosttown and a museum. I mean no disrespect, but the place was lifeless. It was like the model of living he exuded and practiced never left the walls of this center of non-violent, non-cooperation. As a matter of fact, Pastor Samuel informed me that many Indians hold him in high regard, but believe that the religious and life principles he fought so dearly to bring into the culture of India, was by and large, unrealistic and unattainable. Upon hearing that assessment, it reconfirmed the reality that no matter the attempts of humanity to be righteous on their own accord it will be met with discontent, disappointment, and disillusionment.
And yet our day was not complete until we travelled another hour or so to arrive at a FM hostel in a town called Yoatmal. This town is where our driver Gope and our host Ashok live. Granted this was an eventful and meaningful day, we were spent and grateful for a bed and shower.
Of course the summary of each day would not be complete without a “brief” assessment of an intriguing moment.
Now I am trying to complain, show dis-respect, or be ungrateful for the services of our driver and new friend, Mr. Gope but you must hear what it is like to drive in the countryside of India. It is like nothing your could ever imagine, view through pictures or the cinema. In all honesty my words will be a finite attempt, yet I still desire t to paint a picture in your minds eye.
Apparently travel in India is very slow, they have very few flyovers (highways) and so those with the means take the train, bus, or plane to major destinations. Everyone else must embark on a death defying roadtrip to desired destination. And this is not any roadtrip, it can be two blocks down the street, or in our case 100km south of Nagpur. Friends, I have never seen my life flash before my eyes so many times in such a short period of time. I mentioned before the pecking order of travel in the city, but on the county road, another wrench is thrown into the mix, the sacred cow (now you know where that term came from). You must keep in mind that Hindu's worship the cow and believe the god Brahim, incarnated himself into the world where his spirit found its place in the stomach of a cow. Don't ask me why, that is just what they say (if this bried summary is not entirely accurate or needs further explanation, Pstr Eric is available to provide clarification)
Anyhow, the cow rules the road and everyone must give way. This makes for terrifying travel and funny ha-ha's. Terrifying b/c sometimes you are playing chicken with a motorcycle, a pedestrian, a rickshaw, a bus, and/ or a bicycle (remember the pecking order of the road found in previous posts). You think you are in the clear by mere centimeters, when all of a sudden a cow decides that its life is not worth living and attempts to commit suicide by throwing its hulking body, ten-foot wide horns and all into the convoluted mass of chaos we have dubbed, “driving.” Of course all modes of transportation mash on the brakes, close their eyes, hold on to dear life, and recite a prayer before they step into eternity. Surprisingly this terrifying experience turns out OK and you venture off into another death defying feat called, “driving the country roads of India.” I realize that I am being a tad mellow-dramatic, but many times you wonder if that car next you will move into your lane, the motor bike will move one inch to the right, and the pedestrian will take one more step. Thankfully we have been blessed with an experienced driver that has taken Bishops, Superintendents, Pstr Eric, and many others across the great land of India. We also have your prayers, so we are in good hands. And for those of that are really concerned pray some more, value the road system in America and just laugh. That is what have learned—laugh, pray, think of family, good things, etc—what else can you do when you drive within feet, sometimes inches, of meeting Jesus?
Feb 8th
Sunday was a good day. We attended two services and were privileged to spend lunch and the afternoon with Pastor Sheresh. We were also able to attend a bible study in his home. As much as Sunday was a day full of adventure, worship, food, and fellowship, it was so refreshing to commune with dear brothers and sisters of the faith. Following lunch we had the chance to rest. Ron and I particularly enjoyed the beds that were offered to our weary bodies. I had such an amazing nap I believe I was suspended in the tranquility of God's presence which covered Sheresh's home. Eric said I was sleeping so well (and loud) that I must have been in 9th level of REM. Whatever it was I felted refreshed. Perhaps Eric will disclose a picture of my Sunday nap, which can be viewed for a price. All royalties will go directly to me :)
In all seriousness, Sunday was a blessed day and we experienced diverse array of God's family communing in worship, praising our Lord, and celebrating our Savior in unity and love.
In all seriousness, Sunday was a blessed day and we experienced diverse array of God's family communing in worship, praising our Lord, and celebrating our Savior in unity and love.
Saturday Feb. 7th
Sorry this is so later, limited internet time
Imagine for one moment with me...it is your wedding day, the flowers are everywhere, the tables are adorned in beauty, the decorations of the banqueting area is memorable, all your family and friends are in attendance, the parents have given their blessings, you have said your vows, you have kissed the bride, and as they ready to announce you as Mr. And Mrs. “Smith” the speakers bellow a familiar tune which the theme song to “Star Wars.” Yes, you heard that right, the first moments as a happy couple are rung in by John Williams,' da da da da, daaaa da, da, da, da, da, daaa, da, duh, duh, duh, duhhhhh
That my friends was viewed by our Lakeside team as we returned from Domino's having consumed three cheese blast pizzas and walking by a New Year Party, Indian style (and a month late???). Needless, to say our stereo-types of what Indian culture was thrown into a tailspin. I wish I could say the Catholic-Indian wedding resumed some esmblance of a “traditional” Indian culture, as our generalized perspective had created in our minds eye, but it was to no avail. The next two hours were filled with interesting DJ comments, toasts from friends and family, and unexpected musical songs and artist, such as: Randy Travis, Richie Vallens (sp?), Elvis, Smokey Robinson, Billy Ray Cyrus, and my favorite, the Chicken Dance, without a verse left out (video soon to be posted). It was definitely not what I would have expected from an India wedding, but most of my memorable times here have not been what I would have expected. Thank God for the tapestry of his beautiful creation.
I must say India has to be one of the coolest places I have ever visited, I wish you could join us. Not just for the eye opening cultural revelations filled with American songs and fireworks, but the ways and means by which the gospel of Christ can be made known in every facet, highway and byway of God's beautiful, yet marred creation.
Thank you so much for prayers and I miss seeing you all very much. Grace and peace.
Imagine for one moment with me...it is your wedding day, the flowers are everywhere, the tables are adorned in beauty, the decorations of the banqueting area is memorable, all your family and friends are in attendance, the parents have given their blessings, you have said your vows, you have kissed the bride, and as they ready to announce you as Mr. And Mrs. “Smith” the speakers bellow a familiar tune which the theme song to “Star Wars.” Yes, you heard that right, the first moments as a happy couple are rung in by John Williams,' da da da da, daaaa da, da, da, da, da, daaa, da, duh, duh, duh, duhhhhh
That my friends was viewed by our Lakeside team as we returned from Domino's having consumed three cheese blast pizzas and walking by a New Year Party, Indian style (and a month late???). Needless, to say our stereo-types of what Indian culture was thrown into a tailspin. I wish I could say the Catholic-Indian wedding resumed some esmblance of a “traditional” Indian culture, as our generalized perspective had created in our minds eye, but it was to no avail. The next two hours were filled with interesting DJ comments, toasts from friends and family, and unexpected musical songs and artist, such as: Randy Travis, Richie Vallens (sp?), Elvis, Smokey Robinson, Billy Ray Cyrus, and my favorite, the Chicken Dance, without a verse left out (video soon to be posted). It was definitely not what I would have expected from an India wedding, but most of my memorable times here have not been what I would have expected. Thank God for the tapestry of his beautiful creation.
I must say India has to be one of the coolest places I have ever visited, I wish you could join us. Not just for the eye opening cultural revelations filled with American songs and fireworks, but the ways and means by which the gospel of Christ can be made known in every facet, highway and byway of God's beautiful, yet marred creation.
Thank you so much for prayers and I miss seeing you all very much. Grace and peace.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Adventures in Mumbai
Yesterday we went into the city of Mumbai. How to describe it in words is virtually impossible, but I shall try. We began the day eating some amazing dosa, a type of potato curry, and these miniature bananas that my kids would devour? Of course the day meal came with chai. It was a very light, but filling meal.
Shortly after we were whisked away into the city at race like speed. Dodging and darting, merging and honking our way at desired destination. I had no idea where we were, but I learned an interesting traffic/driving rule: at all cost push your way into the desired position; the bigger the vehicle the greater the command of the road ( the pecking order appears to be—truck or bus, big vehicle, small vehicle, new vehicle, rickshaw, bicycle and pedestrian must meander their way through the madness).
We found our eyes wide shut, attempting to consume everything, but on the other hand moved by the disparity amongst the riches. Merely scratching the surface of an endless world, I feel equipped to do justice to the beauty and tragedy of this great land.
The adventure continued as we found our “sightseeing” at the heart of the city, filled with billboards, trains, scads of people, temples, cathedrals, cricket matches, shops, and finally to the Arch of Mumbai. This arch was constructed to commorate the arrival the first English monarch on Indian land. In the shadow of this landmark was the site of sadness and tragedy, the Indian 911. Evidence of this horrific attack can still be seen—burn marks on the building broken window, closed shops, and apprehension among the people that witnessed and lived through this cowardly act of terrorism.
After walking for quite some time and being thoroughly sunburned our walkabout brought us to one of the days highlights—a tucked away Indian restaurant. Normally I am selective with what Indian food I eat, based entirely upon the heat of the dish. I think through God's intervention I was bold in what I ate. We began with a chutney that set my mouth on fire, but this seeming misstep was turned into a magnificent memory. I had Afgan chicken, vegetable curry, chicken biryani, and garlic naan. Aside from drowning myself with water, the senses in my mouth and nose were filled filled with heavenly taste and smells. Perhaps best of all was the lack of retribution for from my stomach for devouring some amazingness.
I could go on, but I believe I have hit my blog quota. I shall post a part two of the day, with the addition of our Sunday worship time.
As always thank u for ur prayers. We rejoice that God has been with us and the constant reminder that he is Good, all the time he is Good!!!
Shortly after we were whisked away into the city at race like speed. Dodging and darting, merging and honking our way at desired destination. I had no idea where we were, but I learned an interesting traffic/driving rule: at all cost push your way into the desired position; the bigger the vehicle the greater the command of the road ( the pecking order appears to be—truck or bus, big vehicle, small vehicle, new vehicle, rickshaw, bicycle and pedestrian must meander their way through the madness).
We found our eyes wide shut, attempting to consume everything, but on the other hand moved by the disparity amongst the riches. Merely scratching the surface of an endless world, I feel equipped to do justice to the beauty and tragedy of this great land.
The adventure continued as we found our “sightseeing” at the heart of the city, filled with billboards, trains, scads of people, temples, cathedrals, cricket matches, shops, and finally to the Arch of Mumbai. This arch was constructed to commorate the arrival the first English monarch on Indian land. In the shadow of this landmark was the site of sadness and tragedy, the Indian 911. Evidence of this horrific attack can still be seen—burn marks on the building broken window, closed shops, and apprehension among the people that witnessed and lived through this cowardly act of terrorism.
After walking for quite some time and being thoroughly sunburned our walkabout brought us to one of the days highlights—a tucked away Indian restaurant. Normally I am selective with what Indian food I eat, based entirely upon the heat of the dish. I think through God's intervention I was bold in what I ate. We began with a chutney that set my mouth on fire, but this seeming misstep was turned into a magnificent memory. I had Afgan chicken, vegetable curry, chicken biryani, and garlic naan. Aside from drowning myself with water, the senses in my mouth and nose were filled filled with heavenly taste and smells. Perhaps best of all was the lack of retribution for from my stomach for devouring some amazingness.
I could go on, but I believe I have hit my blog quota. I shall post a part two of the day, with the addition of our Sunday worship time.
As always thank u for ur prayers. We rejoice that God has been with us and the constant reminder that he is Good, all the time he is Good!!!
We landed with a thud...
...And took off on a motorcycle ride through the city of Mumbai, it was ZABARDUST!!! (Awesome)
Words cannot describe the adrenaline, the chaos, the close calls, the intense, and the shocking that was compressed into those precious 20 minutes, I will never forget (and I do not want to). The only thing else I have to say about that is my new friend Moses should be on the grand prix circuit, he is that good or crazy of a driver (not sure which). Too bad he won't teach me to drive on the streets of Mumbai, I asked him and he ever so gently laughed, along with his friends. Hey it never hurts to ask.
A few words to describe my first impressions of India: surreal, colorful, captivating, aromatic, intense, all-encompassing, shocking, extreme, and contradictory just to name a few. I am sure more words are to come.
Funny and/or interesting things: I saw a airport cop that reminded me of Barney Fife; so far the town reminds me of Nairobi, Kenya, but on steroids; I learned awesome in Hindi (very cool); already mentioned the motorcycle escapade; witnessed a Muslim “parade” as my life hung in the balance (we were surrounded by auto-rickshaws, motorcycles, buses, drums, and cows with horns); it took 3 Indians to serve our table at dinner; I now know why they burn incense (and not just for idols...it covers many odorous and pungent smells); sad to say I saw a rickshaw drive missing one of his legs from the knee down; u are supposed to ride a motorcycle holding on to the seat or “look ma, no hands;” Hotel California (the live version) playing as we prayed for our meal; I could go on but that is enough for today.
Thank you friends for keeping up with me, I hope by now you have found my blog, I am way out in the boondocks of cyberspace. And please continue to pray for us...it helps so much.
Words cannot describe the adrenaline, the chaos, the close calls, the intense, and the shocking that was compressed into those precious 20 minutes, I will never forget (and I do not want to). The only thing else I have to say about that is my new friend Moses should be on the grand prix circuit, he is that good or crazy of a driver (not sure which). Too bad he won't teach me to drive on the streets of Mumbai, I asked him and he ever so gently laughed, along with his friends. Hey it never hurts to ask.
A few words to describe my first impressions of India: surreal, colorful, captivating, aromatic, intense, all-encompassing, shocking, extreme, and contradictory just to name a few. I am sure more words are to come.
Funny and/or interesting things: I saw a airport cop that reminded me of Barney Fife; so far the town reminds me of Nairobi, Kenya, but on steroids; I learned awesome in Hindi (very cool); already mentioned the motorcycle escapade; witnessed a Muslim “parade” as my life hung in the balance (we were surrounded by auto-rickshaws, motorcycles, buses, drums, and cows with horns); it took 3 Indians to serve our table at dinner; I now know why they burn incense (and not just for idols...it covers many odorous and pungent smells); sad to say I saw a rickshaw drive missing one of his legs from the knee down; u are supposed to ride a motorcycle holding on to the seat or “look ma, no hands;” Hotel California (the live version) playing as we prayed for our meal; I could go on but that is enough for today.
Thank you friends for keeping up with me, I hope by now you have found my blog, I am way out in the boondocks of cyberspace. And please continue to pray for us...it helps so much.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
tears for Hong Kong
the flute flutters, the mandolin picks, voices chatter, air flows through my hair as I gaze at the jewel of Asia's World City. I feel a sadness as I scan the endless expanse of throngs, concrete pillars, garden filled abodes--my heart weeps
light among the lights, salt among the free flowing aroma, where do you stand? Flavor of season-less souls, have you been trample?
Who is the voice of the drowned?
Who is the advocate for the prison held?
Who is the redeemer the captive?
Who is the mender of the broken bones and the bruised reed?
Where has God's spirit been pervading and the His news of Goodness proclaimed?
Jesus I pray for the perseverant one's.
Jesus I pray for the lowly in spirit.
Jesus our cries go out to the need of those for comfort
Jesus our cried beg for makers of peace, not wanton greed and destructive power grabs.
Hear the voices of the righteous.
Refuge those surrounded by predators of the unprotected
Plant firm the steadfast one's and guide their steps
May songs of praise and hymns of adulation fill their deep
Let many hear the resound of the of salvation which descends
Rejoice for those redeemed and grafted into the fold of the God's community
light among the lights, salt among the free flowing aroma, where do you stand? Flavor of season-less souls, have you been trample?
Who is the voice of the drowned?
Who is the advocate for the prison held?
Who is the redeemer the captive?
Who is the mender of the broken bones and the bruised reed?
Where has God's spirit been pervading and the His news of Goodness proclaimed?
Jesus I pray for the perseverant one's.
Jesus I pray for the lowly in spirit.
Jesus our cries go out to the need of those for comfort
Jesus our cried beg for makers of peace, not wanton greed and destructive power grabs.
Hear the voices of the righteous.
Refuge those surrounded by predators of the unprotected
Plant firm the steadfast one's and guide their steps
May songs of praise and hymns of adulation fill their deep
Let many hear the resound of the of salvation which descends
Rejoice for those redeemed and grafted into the fold of the God's community
Airplane Musings
Perched atop the stratosphere my eyes capture the beauty of God's creation; on the left I catch a glimpse of the rising sun, Mt Ranier in silouette; to the right the Oregon coastal range is snow-capped in the foreground, while the coast is light burning fresh and waves crashing beaches topped by dollops of foam.
The Psalmist in 37:4 echoes in my mind, "taste and see that the Lord is good." Here I sit in awe as my taste buds long to experience the salty air that fills the coastal towns and for my eyes behold the endless strokes and brush marks of God's canvas. God is indeed Good, all the time God is good!!!
The Psalmist in 37:4 echoes in my mind, "taste and see that the Lord is good." Here I sit in awe as my taste buds long to experience the salty air that fills the coastal towns and for my eyes behold the endless strokes and brush marks of God's canvas. God is indeed Good, all the time God is good!!!
Learning to turn on the hot water in a Hong Kong hotel
Doesn't seem like rocket science, but when you are in a new place still trying to figure out the correct day and time and people drive and walk on the wrong side of the road, things get a little muddled. I think this is officially the last day I get to use the "culture shock" and jetlag excuses. But I was surprised that the instant coffee, powder cream, and brown sugar was drinkable. Of course within the next hour I was sipping down a nice Cafe Au Lait at a near by sbux.
We had fun sightseeing, Victoria Peak, walking, lunch, more walking, nap time, more walking, dinner, late night shopping, IM with Karen.
All in all a good day. Now the next leg of the trip begins. Leave airport at 9am, bus ride through the city, check in at airport (which was rather efficient. Cathy says there is something to say for Communist rule). Now we find ourselves enjoying some sweets, eating a plate of cheese, and a rather good latte.
Keep you posted on how things are transpiring in India.
We had fun sightseeing, Victoria Peak, walking, lunch, more walking, nap time, more walking, dinner, late night shopping, IM with Karen.
All in all a good day. Now the next leg of the trip begins. Leave airport at 9am, bus ride through the city, check in at airport (which was rather efficient. Cathy says there is something to say for Communist rule). Now we find ourselves enjoying some sweets, eating a plate of cheese, and a rather good latte.
Keep you posted on how things are transpiring in India.
U know that a bathroom door in the airplane is closed when...
....Apparently being on a place for 14 hours, traveling at altitudes in excess of 30000 ft, and watching countless movies to pass the time, diminishes one's ability to remember the basics of travel.
Needless to say the someone tried to enter, but the door barely opened before I could call out the traditional, "Hey" (with love of course). Now i know, lights illumined =door locked. Maybe I should consider Cathy's suggestion to dye my hair?
Add that to the list of funny ha-ha's that will fill the next 17 days.
So highlights for the day...departure and arrival, Happy meal at Old MacDonald's (as Mariah likes to call it -and yes, I just called McDonald's a highlight, but be sure it will not happen for at least the next 15 days ), and hitting the pillow on a very hard bed (actually my sore back found comfort in lying a padded board). Anything in between I could have done with out—cramped quarters, desperate longing to consume mass amounts of water, and the fact that fact that we were on a place for 15 hours. With all the technology our society has attained, why is it that only Star Trek has been mastered the art of beaming individuals from place to place. I would be willing to pay the price. It sure would make for easier travel. Unless of course a fly flew into teleport. Then I might have to be concerned with taking on some characteristics of said bug (yes that reference was for all you closet Jeff Goldbloom fans out there, you know who you are).
In the midst of my rambling thoughts and observations, I am very excited to experience this corner of the world, with all it smells and sights, cultures and people. Right now I am sitting in the lobby of the BP International hotel and the sun is just starting to light the day. Buses, cars, and people are beginning to fill the streets, I am excited to experience Hong Kong. It is supposed to be 72ish degree (21 Celsius) and relatively clear.
Needless to say the someone tried to enter, but the door barely opened before I could call out the traditional, "Hey" (with love of course). Now i know, lights illumined =door locked. Maybe I should consider Cathy's suggestion to dye my hair?
Add that to the list of funny ha-ha's that will fill the next 17 days.
So highlights for the day...departure and arrival, Happy meal at Old MacDonald's (as Mariah likes to call it -and yes, I just called McDonald's a highlight, but be sure it will not happen for at least the next 15 days ), and hitting the pillow on a very hard bed (actually my sore back found comfort in lying a padded board). Anything in between I could have done with out—cramped quarters, desperate longing to consume mass amounts of water, and the fact that fact that we were on a place for 15 hours. With all the technology our society has attained, why is it that only Star Trek has been mastered the art of beaming individuals from place to place. I would be willing to pay the price. It sure would make for easier travel. Unless of course a fly flew into teleport. Then I might have to be concerned with taking on some characteristics of said bug (yes that reference was for all you closet Jeff Goldbloom fans out there, you know who you are).
In the midst of my rambling thoughts and observations, I am very excited to experience this corner of the world, with all it smells and sights, cultures and people. Right now I am sitting in the lobby of the BP International hotel and the sun is just starting to light the day. Buses, cars, and people are beginning to fill the streets, I am excited to experience Hong Kong. It is supposed to be 72ish degree (21 Celsius) and relatively clear.
Brewing Coffee, water optional?
On a lighter note, Ron Hogan and I discovered that when brewing hotel coffee, water is optional. I really want to blame it on him and the fact that it was 330a, but I will not throw my friend under the bus. Yes, the former starbucks barista of 4 years failed to include the most important ingredient to coffee...WATER!!! Aren't you glad I never made you coffee?
Well, stay tuned to updates to hear about the next crisis averted and humorous faux pax
Well, stay tuned to updates to hear about the next crisis averted and humorous faux pax
arriving at seatac for the trek across the world
So we had our first stressful event where God stepped in...one of our compatriates had their passport fall out at the bookstore in our hotel. Of course we did not realize this until we arrived at the airport. Thankfully, good people are still out there and the lost passport was returned to hotel desk. So, we had enough time to get checked in, through security, and enjoy a starbucks coffee!
God is good!!!!
God is good!!!!
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