Since Darrick had the day off today we thought we would go to the beach. The boys always get up early so we thought we could get a good start in case it would be packed. We decided to go to Lanikai Beach since Darrick had not been there yet. We stopped at Jamba Juice for some smoothies and then hit the road.
We got to the beach at 9 am and there were some people there but we found a parking space and room for us on the beach. It was windy today and a little overcast so we were a little cold. KMart had a sale last week on beach stuff and Darrick and I got some snorkel gear that we wanted to try out. We each took a turn and saw some fish and really cool coral. Micah played in the waves and Jacob likes us to hold him in the water. We ate sandwiches and then left around 12:30. By then the beach was packed.
In the afternoon after we cleaned everything up we watched Star Wars I and II. Last week we watched our neighbors daughter so they could see episode III. They said then they would watch the boys so we could go see it. But first we wanted to be refreshed. The boys watched with us on and off and you guessed it now they both think that they are "Jedi Masters". Friday we are going to go see episode III and are really looking forward to it...don't tell us what happens!
Monday, May 30, 2005
Sunday, May 29, 2005
Aloha Anuenue...
Today was our last day worshipping at Anuenue. We were surprised by our friends Troy and Bow giving each one of us a lei. Mine had beautiful flowers that smelled so sweet, Darrick's had really cool berries and leaves and the boys each got a candy lei-which they thought was so cool! It was really touching to know that we would be missed even though we were only there for about 4 months.
We are excited to look for a new church home. We have a couple in mind. Next week we are going to try Hope Chapel West Oahu. It was recommened to us by Troy and Bow. We checked out their website and it looks good so we will see.
The rest of our day was spent picking up the house, doing laundry and mowing the lawn. I went over to the Goodwill today because they were having a 50% off everything sale. I spent $47.00 and got a ton of stuff. About 10 children's videos and a lot of nice clothes for the boys. I even found a pair of new swim trunks for Darrick. It is pretty much like any other Goodwill except for 2 things: they play hawaiian music on the radio and I have never seen so many Aloha (Hawaiian) shirts in my life! They are all arranged by colors so it is just a rainbow of any type of Aloha shirt you could possibly want. I bought a few for the boys that were pretty cute. I love finding good deals!
We are excited to look for a new church home. We have a couple in mind. Next week we are going to try Hope Chapel West Oahu. It was recommened to us by Troy and Bow. We checked out their website and it looks good so we will see.
The rest of our day was spent picking up the house, doing laundry and mowing the lawn. I went over to the Goodwill today because they were having a 50% off everything sale. I spent $47.00 and got a ton of stuff. About 10 children's videos and a lot of nice clothes for the boys. I even found a pair of new swim trunks for Darrick. It is pretty much like any other Goodwill except for 2 things: they play hawaiian music on the radio and I have never seen so many Aloha (Hawaiian) shirts in my life! They are all arranged by colors so it is just a rainbow of any type of Aloha shirt you could possibly want. I bought a few for the boys that were pretty cute. I love finding good deals!
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Aloha Jeff!
Well today Jeff left paradise...we miss him so much! It was so awesome having a part of home here but it hurts when he leaves. But we have so many good memories. I read somewhere that "A memeory is a picture you take with your heart". That is very fitting today.
Well we had pancake morning and then helped Jeff pack up. We went to Darrick's soccer game but the other team didn't show up so Darrick's team won. Then we brought Jeff to the airport. I tried to hold in my tears but they just kept coming...
Then we went to KMart and got some shopping done. From there we went to a BBQ and pool party for our Bible Study. It was the end of the year celebration because tomorrow will be our last Sunday at Anuenue and a few families are moving away.
The boys spent a lot of time in the pool with Darrick and I. The house we went to had such a beautiful view overlooking Kaneohe Bay. We walked down a little hill to the edge of their property and Darrick took Jacob and I on a kayak ride around the bay at Sunset. It was so relaxing and romantic. Micah didn't want to get out of the pool so he didn't go. We had yummy food and dessert.
But now we are feeling exhausted and ready for a good night sleep!
Well we had pancake morning and then helped Jeff pack up. We went to Darrick's soccer game but the other team didn't show up so Darrick's team won. Then we brought Jeff to the airport. I tried to hold in my tears but they just kept coming...
Then we went to KMart and got some shopping done. From there we went to a BBQ and pool party for our Bible Study. It was the end of the year celebration because tomorrow will be our last Sunday at Anuenue and a few families are moving away.
The boys spent a lot of time in the pool with Darrick and I. The house we went to had such a beautiful view overlooking Kaneohe Bay. We walked down a little hill to the edge of their property and Darrick took Jacob and I on a kayak ride around the bay at Sunset. It was so relaxing and romantic. Micah didn't want to get out of the pool so he didn't go. We had yummy food and dessert.
But now we are feeling exhausted and ready for a good night sleep!
Friday, May 27, 2005
Lanikai Beach
Since today is Jeff's last full day we wanted to do something relaxing. My neighbor Lauren had told us about a really wonderful beach. It is suppossed to be one of the most beautiful beaches here and it was! The sand was so fine it was like powder. The ocean was so clear and blue and the water was warm. It was a perfect day. Micah and Jeff swam in the water while Jacob and I played in the sand.
On our way home we stopped at Dave's Ice Cream and enjoyed a treat! It is made in Hawaii and is really yummy.
After baths and a little rest we headed to the ship to have dinner with Darrick. He has duty today so we picked up KFC and ate it with him on the mess decks. Then we headed to the commissary to get some groceries.
Micah cried tonight when we told him that tonight is Jeff's last night. I feel sad too. I think I feel more sad because I do not know the next time that I will see him. It is so awesome to be with family. It makes home seem not so far away...
On our way home we stopped at Dave's Ice Cream and enjoyed a treat! It is made in Hawaii and is really yummy.
After baths and a little rest we headed to the ship to have dinner with Darrick. He has duty today so we picked up KFC and ate it with him on the mess decks. Then we headed to the commissary to get some groceries.
Micah cried tonight when we told him that tonight is Jeff's last night. I feel sad too. I think I feel more sad because I do not know the next time that I will see him. It is so awesome to be with family. It makes home seem not so far away...
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Byodo-In Temple
Today we went to the Byodo-In Temple. It is a replica of a 900 year old temple in Japan. It was so amazing and beautiful. There are streams and it is so peaceful and quiet. Inside the temple is an 18 foot Buddha covered in gold laquer. Before you go in to see him you have to remove your shoes.
Outside the temple is the Bon-Sho or Sacred Bell. It weighs 3 tons and is 6 foot 8 inches. Ringing the bell is said to cleanse the mind of all evil temptations through its lingering tones. It was so heavy Micah could not do it alone. When it rang you could hear it through out the entire area.
In the ponds surrounding the temple are over 1000 Koi. They represent order and longevity. We learned a new fact that Koi fish are known to live for up to 100 years, so think twice if you are thinking of getting one.
In the afternoon we played outside and watered the lawn. We played baseball, soccer and frisbee.
Tomorrow is Jeff's last full day here-so one more adventure to be had!
Outside the temple is the Bon-Sho or Sacred Bell. It weighs 3 tons and is 6 foot 8 inches. Ringing the bell is said to cleanse the mind of all evil temptations through its lingering tones. It was so heavy Micah could not do it alone. When it rang you could hear it through out the entire area.
In the ponds surrounding the temple are over 1000 Koi. They represent order and longevity. We learned a new fact that Koi fish are known to live for up to 100 years, so think twice if you are thinking of getting one.
In the afternoon we played outside and watered the lawn. We played baseball, soccer and frisbee.
Tomorrow is Jeff's last full day here-so one more adventure to be had!
Sea Life Park
Last night we had such a good time with our friends for dinner. Darrick even made it home from work in time to join us. We had fajitas and we cut up a fresh pineapple. It was so delicious. If you have never eaten a pineapple from Hawaii, you are totally missing out! They are so awesome and melt in your mouth, we can't get enough! Then we had two different pies for dessert. Jeff interviewed Troy and we all learned some new knock knock jokes.
Today we took the beautiful drive on the H3 to Sea Life Park. We started out in the sun by our house, drove through pounding rain and ended back in beautiful clear sunny weather. We had a good time watching fish, rays and sea turtles. We watched the sea lion and dolphin shows and enjoyed a picnic lunch.
We feel like this week is flying by and Micah said tonight at dinner that he doesn't want Da to leave and was wondering if he could stay for 3 years.
Good thing we still have a few more days to enjoy our special visitor!
Today we took the beautiful drive on the H3 to Sea Life Park. We started out in the sun by our house, drove through pounding rain and ended back in beautiful clear sunny weather. We had a good time watching fish, rays and sea turtles. We watched the sea lion and dolphin shows and enjoyed a picnic lunch.
We feel like this week is flying by and Micah said tonight at dinner that he doesn't want Da to leave and was wondering if he could stay for 3 years.
Good thing we still have a few more days to enjoy our special visitor!
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
We're ok!
Yes, we are ok, we have just been really busy! It is nice to know that people are out there reading our blog and that they miss it when we don't write. So I will catch you up.
Saturday: We went to the Dole Plantation. We fed the koi fish and rode the Pineapple Express train. Then we had a treat, Jeff had a chocolate covered pineapple on a stick and we had a Dole whip. In the evening, our neighbors watched the boys and we went to our first luau with our friends Troy and Bow. The view was amazing, right on the beach. We had yummy food and watched a show.
Sunday: After church we headed to North Shore. We ate lunch at Cholo's, a mexican restaraunt. Then we headed to a beach. Darrick found a nice sandy new beach. We were surprised when we got in the water and there were 2 huge sea turtles swimming right by us. The waves pushed one into Darrick and it almost knocked him down. After our time at the beach we headed to Matsumoto's for a shave ice. I tried something new and ordered mine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom-it was so good! Then we drove around and enjoyed the sights. We later stopped at a hambuger place and got dinner to go. We took it to a beach park and ate it. Then we walked to the sand and watched the sun set. Every once in a while we saw turtles stick there heads out of the water. After the sun went down we headed home.
Monday: We rested! The boys especially were feeling pretty tired so we took a day of rest. The only thing we did was go to the commissarry.
Tuesday: Today we went to the Aquarium in Waikiki. You can go through the whole thing in about an hour so it was a nice morning outing. Tonight Troy and Bow are coming over for dinner for fun and so that Jeff can interview Troy for his study of Hawaii!
So as you can see we have been very busy! Aloha!
Saturday: We went to the Dole Plantation. We fed the koi fish and rode the Pineapple Express train. Then we had a treat, Jeff had a chocolate covered pineapple on a stick and we had a Dole whip. In the evening, our neighbors watched the boys and we went to our first luau with our friends Troy and Bow. The view was amazing, right on the beach. We had yummy food and watched a show.
Sunday: After church we headed to North Shore. We ate lunch at Cholo's, a mexican restaraunt. Then we headed to a beach. Darrick found a nice sandy new beach. We were surprised when we got in the water and there were 2 huge sea turtles swimming right by us. The waves pushed one into Darrick and it almost knocked him down. After our time at the beach we headed to Matsumoto's for a shave ice. I tried something new and ordered mine with a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom-it was so good! Then we drove around and enjoyed the sights. We later stopped at a hambuger place and got dinner to go. We took it to a beach park and ate it. Then we walked to the sand and watched the sun set. Every once in a while we saw turtles stick there heads out of the water. After the sun went down we headed home.
Monday: We rested! The boys especially were feeling pretty tired so we took a day of rest. The only thing we did was go to the commissarry.
Tuesday: Today we went to the Aquarium in Waikiki. You can go through the whole thing in about an hour so it was a nice morning outing. Tonight Troy and Bow are coming over for dinner for fun and so that Jeff can interview Troy for his study of Hawaii!
So as you can see we have been very busy! Aloha!
Saturday, May 21, 2005
Darrick's home!
We spent a relaxing morning at home. We had been going so many places, we were all pretty tired. Jeff slept in and I caught up on some laundry and household chores. We played in our little pool and had lunch outside. Jeff is getting a little color-he was so white when he first got here!
After lunch we went to Hickam Airforce base to a place where the ships pass by when they pull back into Pearl Harbor. Darrick told us what time to be out there to see the USS Hopper go by. That is the first time we have ever seen his ship sailing, it was pretty cool.
Around 5 pm Darrick got off the ship and we headed to Waikiki for dinner. We ate at Bibas which is in the Hale Koa. The Hale Koa is a resort for military. We had a great dinner out on the lanai (Patio). Then we headed to the beach because the Hilton, which is right next to the Hale Koa, shoots off fireworks every Friday night. They were awesome and a great end to our day!
After lunch we went to Hickam Airforce base to a place where the ships pass by when they pull back into Pearl Harbor. Darrick told us what time to be out there to see the USS Hopper go by. That is the first time we have ever seen his ship sailing, it was pretty cool.
Around 5 pm Darrick got off the ship and we headed to Waikiki for dinner. We ate at Bibas which is in the Hale Koa. The Hale Koa is a resort for military. We had a great dinner out on the lanai (Patio). Then we headed to the beach because the Hilton, which is right next to the Hale Koa, shoots off fireworks every Friday night. They were awesome and a great end to our day!
Thursday, May 19, 2005
Another great day!
My wonderful neighbor Lauren watched the boys for me today so that Jeff and I could do some activites that were not very kid friendly. She is a brave woman and took 4 little boys to the Zoo! The boys had such a great day and so much fun with their friends!
Even though it was overcast and drizzling Jeff and I headed out to Hanauma Bay. We got there early and it was not very crowded. I slipped on the wet stairs but caught myself on a bar. I hurt my arm but besides that I was ok.
After we got all of our snorkel gear on we headed out to the water. It was hard to walk in the shallow water with our fins but we made it! We had such a great time and saw some beautiful fish. We were not cold in the water but when we got out we were pretty cold. So after drying off we headed to our next activity.
We sighned up for a tour of 'Iolani Palace. Hawaii use to have a King and this was the palace he built, it was great. The palace was nice but even better was our docent. She was amazing and had so much knowledge that Jeff and I both learned so much. Kids 5 and under are not allowed on the tour so it was so nice of my neighbor to have the boys.
Jeff and I are both feeling pretty sore from snorkeling, I guess we used muscles we don't use very often! Hopefully we can get out of bed in the morning!
Even though it was overcast and drizzling Jeff and I headed out to Hanauma Bay. We got there early and it was not very crowded. I slipped on the wet stairs but caught myself on a bar. I hurt my arm but besides that I was ok.
After we got all of our snorkel gear on we headed out to the water. It was hard to walk in the shallow water with our fins but we made it! We had such a great time and saw some beautiful fish. We were not cold in the water but when we got out we were pretty cold. So after drying off we headed to our next activity.
We sighned up for a tour of 'Iolani Palace. Hawaii use to have a King and this was the palace he built, it was great. The palace was nice but even better was our docent. She was amazing and had so much knowledge that Jeff and I both learned so much. Kids 5 and under are not allowed on the tour so it was so nice of my neighbor to have the boys.
Jeff and I are both feeling pretty sore from snorkeling, I guess we used muscles we don't use very often! Hopefully we can get out of bed in the morning!
Wednesday, May 18, 2005
Bishop Museum
Usually I write my posts at night, but I am completely exhausted and am going to try to get to bed early tonight. Jeff is playing soccer in the backyard with the boys so I thought I would write my blog. They just called me because they found a frog!
We started off our day by going out to breakfast at Hickam Airforce Base at the Wright Bros. Cafe. It was really yummy and we saw two big ships sail by.
From there we headed to Bishop Museum. The map I had was wrong and we ended up in downtown Honolulu. We were pretty lost but eventually found our way. We had a good time at the museum. We went to a planeterium-which Micah loved! And we looked at all the Hawaiian culture exhibits, it was so interesting.
On our way home we stopped at MWR on the base to rent snorkel gear for Jeff and I for tomorrow. Curious about what we are doing...check out our blog tomorrow!
We started off our day by going out to breakfast at Hickam Airforce Base at the Wright Bros. Cafe. It was really yummy and we saw two big ships sail by.
From there we headed to Bishop Museum. The map I had was wrong and we ended up in downtown Honolulu. We were pretty lost but eventually found our way. We had a good time at the museum. We went to a planeterium-which Micah loved! And we looked at all the Hawaiian culture exhibits, it was so interesting.
On our way home we stopped at MWR on the base to rent snorkel gear for Jeff and I for tomorrow. Curious about what we are doing...check out our blog tomorrow!
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
Polynesian Cultural Center
Today our adventure led us to the Polynesian Cultural Center. We stopped at a really cool McDonalds for lunch-it had a waterfall on the inside. After lunch we went into the Center. There are 7 native cultures represented: Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, Samoa, Aotearoa, Marquesas and Hawaii. You can visit each village and watch a show. They were great and so entertaining and really funny too.
We saw drum presntations, learned Tahitian dance moves, fished the ancient way, watched a mock pig hunt, got tatoos and coconut tree climbing plus many other things. It was a great time. We aslso tried delicious pineapple coconut juice-which the boys especially loved. And Jeff and I tried cooked tapioca root and poi. We watched the canoe pageant and rode a canoe.
The center was built by the mormons and many of the people working there are students at Brigham Young University right next door. A lot of the money the center makes is returned to the students in the form of financial aid. It is all very interesting!
We saw drum presntations, learned Tahitian dance moves, fished the ancient way, watched a mock pig hunt, got tatoos and coconut tree climbing plus many other things. It was a great time. We aslso tried delicious pineapple coconut juice-which the boys especially loved. And Jeff and I tried cooked tapioca root and poi. We watched the canoe pageant and rode a canoe.
The center was built by the mormons and many of the people working there are students at Brigham Young University right next door. A lot of the money the center makes is returned to the students in the form of financial aid. It is all very interesting!
Monday, May 16, 2005
Our Day
This morning we watched our neighbor friends for a couple of hours. So Jeff and I took all 4 boys to the park for about and hour and a half. They all had such a good time-including Jeff! Then we came home and had lunch and then their mom came.
After lunch we headed to the USS Arizona Memorial. We got there at 1:20 and were able to get in line for the 1:30 show. First you see a movie and then you ride a boat over to the memorial. This was my second time and it brought me to tears again. I just can't imagine how those Navy wives must have felt that day. They even have letters on display that were sent to wives telling them that their husband died. It must have been so scary.
Then we headed to the exchange to buy all our tickets for the places we are going to this week. We can get really good prices for the military.
Then we came home and had dinner. It was a nice day and the weather has been great! Until tomorrow...
After lunch we headed to the USS Arizona Memorial. We got there at 1:20 and were able to get in line for the 1:30 show. First you see a movie and then you ride a boat over to the memorial. This was my second time and it brought me to tears again. I just can't imagine how those Navy wives must have felt that day. They even have letters on display that were sent to wives telling them that their husband died. It must have been so scary.
Then we headed to the exchange to buy all our tickets for the places we are going to this week. We can get really good prices for the military.
Then we came home and had dinner. It was a nice day and the weather has been great! Until tomorrow...
Things have been crazy!
Well, as the title says things have been crazy here! Toward the end of the week Jacob got the stomach flu. It always amazes me how I can function when I am woken out of a dead sleep. One minute I am dreaming and then I hear Jacob cry and my maternal instincts just kick in. I see him and the bed covered in throw up and I just know what to do, strip bed, put sheets in washer, bathe Jacob, set up sick bed in living room. But he is finally starting to feel better today.
Saturday I was invited to go to a scrapbooking day in honor or national scrapbooking day 2005 at a hotel in Honolulu. I went with 2 friends from church. It was from 9am-4pm. I started and completed Jacob's ABC scrapbook and had such a nice time.
When I got home we went to Wendy's for dinner and then each got a free Frosty (Thanks for the tip Uncle Marv)! Then we went to the commissary. After that we dropped off our groceries at home and then left for the airport to get Jeff! The boys were so excited the could hardly control themselves. Jeff came in on time and Micah greeted him with a big hug and a lei. Jacob went right to him and they hardly leave his side all day.
We brought Darrick to the ship this morning because he has duty and then they leave on Monday for another week out to sea. We did not go to church since Jacob was just getting over the flu. We took Jeff for a walk around the base and down to the west side of the penisula to see the view, the ocean and the crabs in the water. We enjoyed the warm sunshine and the sweet smell of plumeria in the air.
Then we went to meet Darrick on the ship for a tour of the USS Hopper. On our way home I drove Jeff to Ford Island and showed him a few of the original buildings from the Pearl Harbor attack. We came home for a yummy lunch of homemade tacos and then off again!
We headed to Pali Lookout to see the view and then a little hike. As we were walking up a man told us "You better hold on to your kids!" and boy was he right! The wind was insane. If we would of put Jacob down the wind easily would had blown him over. But the view was amazing! Micah looked at me and told me that my hair was crazy!
We hiked a little and the wind died down on the trail. We visited the nest and bird eggs Micah discovered a few weeks ago. They were still there and had turned a little brown. We returned home and had popsicles. The boys played and rode bikes and then Jeff played soccer with them while I made dinner. After baths and a game of ZINGO the boys were ready for bed.
We need to rest because we have a lot planned!
Saturday I was invited to go to a scrapbooking day in honor or national scrapbooking day 2005 at a hotel in Honolulu. I went with 2 friends from church. It was from 9am-4pm. I started and completed Jacob's ABC scrapbook and had such a nice time.
When I got home we went to Wendy's for dinner and then each got a free Frosty (Thanks for the tip Uncle Marv)! Then we went to the commissary. After that we dropped off our groceries at home and then left for the airport to get Jeff! The boys were so excited the could hardly control themselves. Jeff came in on time and Micah greeted him with a big hug and a lei. Jacob went right to him and they hardly leave his side all day.
We brought Darrick to the ship this morning because he has duty and then they leave on Monday for another week out to sea. We did not go to church since Jacob was just getting over the flu. We took Jeff for a walk around the base and down to the west side of the penisula to see the view, the ocean and the crabs in the water. We enjoyed the warm sunshine and the sweet smell of plumeria in the air.
Then we went to meet Darrick on the ship for a tour of the USS Hopper. On our way home I drove Jeff to Ford Island and showed him a few of the original buildings from the Pearl Harbor attack. We came home for a yummy lunch of homemade tacos and then off again!
We headed to Pali Lookout to see the view and then a little hike. As we were walking up a man told us "You better hold on to your kids!" and boy was he right! The wind was insane. If we would of put Jacob down the wind easily would had blown him over. But the view was amazing! Micah looked at me and told me that my hair was crazy!
We hiked a little and the wind died down on the trail. We visited the nest and bird eggs Micah discovered a few weeks ago. They were still there and had turned a little brown. We returned home and had popsicles. The boys played and rode bikes and then Jeff played soccer with them while I made dinner. After baths and a game of ZINGO the boys were ready for bed.
We need to rest because we have a lot planned!
Thursday, May 12, 2005
It has been a few days...
This has been such a busy week abd very challenging at the same time. The boys have really been misbehaving which usually happens when Darrick is gone for awhile. I am so glad that he will be home tomorrow.
We were going to go to the beach today with our neighbors but Jacob had an upset tummy and we opted to stay home, much to our disappointment. We had a pajama day and just relaxed. I also started getting the guest room for my brother Jeff who will be here on Saturday.
I also sat down and made a schedule of what we will do while Jeff is here, we will be busy but it is going to be so fun. Jeff is coming to Hawaii to visit us and do a cross cultural study so some of the places he needs to go to are places that I have not been yet so I am looking forward to seeing them too!
We were going to go to the beach today with our neighbors but Jacob had an upset tummy and we opted to stay home, much to our disappointment. We had a pajama day and just relaxed. I also started getting the guest room for my brother Jeff who will be here on Saturday.
I also sat down and made a schedule of what we will do while Jeff is here, we will be busy but it is going to be so fun. Jeff is coming to Hawaii to visit us and do a cross cultural study so some of the places he needs to go to are places that I have not been yet so I am looking forward to seeing them too!
Monday, May 09, 2005
Taking time to listen
Nothing exciting happened today...we got up early to bring Darrick to the ship since they are out to sea again this week. So we are all feeling pretty tired tonight.
I was thinking today about listening to God. Last year at God's Moms we had a guest speaker who had an amazing testimony. She talked to us about being obedient to God's call and what happened to her when she did not obey. It was then that I realized that I hear God's voice in my life too. Since then I have been taking time to listen more.
As Darrick wrote last night, last week I received confirmation that we should be leaving Anuenue. I heard it so clear but then I wondered "Why did we feel that at first we needed to be at Anuenue?" And God brought to my mind the story of Abraham and Isaac. If you are not familiar with the story God asks Abraham to sacrifice his only son. Abraham was obedient even though God had promised him that he would have many desendents, so sacrificing his only son made no sense. When he was obedient, God stopped him and gave him his son back.
I feel like that is what the reasoning was. I wanted so bad to be at an established church, but I was obedient to God's calling to go to Anuenue. It was a struggle for me to give up I wanted but I laid all my desires down to follow His will. But now God is releasing us to go somewhere else. It is overwhelming to me that He loves me so much and listens to the desires of my heart.
There are some people that we have grown to care about at the church and it is difficult for us to leave in that aspect but we are excited to see what else is out there for our family.
So take time to listen to that still small voice and recognize who it is.
I was thinking today about listening to God. Last year at God's Moms we had a guest speaker who had an amazing testimony. She talked to us about being obedient to God's call and what happened to her when she did not obey. It was then that I realized that I hear God's voice in my life too. Since then I have been taking time to listen more.
As Darrick wrote last night, last week I received confirmation that we should be leaving Anuenue. I heard it so clear but then I wondered "Why did we feel that at first we needed to be at Anuenue?" And God brought to my mind the story of Abraham and Isaac. If you are not familiar with the story God asks Abraham to sacrifice his only son. Abraham was obedient even though God had promised him that he would have many desendents, so sacrificing his only son made no sense. When he was obedient, God stopped him and gave him his son back.
I feel like that is what the reasoning was. I wanted so bad to be at an established church, but I was obedient to God's calling to go to Anuenue. It was a struggle for me to give up I wanted but I laid all my desires down to follow His will. But now God is releasing us to go somewhere else. It is overwhelming to me that He loves me so much and listens to the desires of my heart.
There are some people that we have grown to care about at the church and it is difficult for us to leave in that aspect but we are excited to see what else is out there for our family.
So take time to listen to that still small voice and recognize who it is.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Mother's Day / Big Decision
Happy Mother's Day! I had a nice relaxing day. This afternoon Darrick and the boys took me out to dinner in North Shore to Kua'aina Burgers. We were told that this was the closest hamburger we would find to an In-n-Out Burger. The atmosphere was awesome and we were able to eat outdoors. It was really good but we think In-n-Out is still better. Then we walked across the street to Flavormania-Homemade Ice Cream and we had hot fudge sundaes, yummy! We then took the long scenic drive home and watched the sun set. It was beautiful. I hope all the moms reading this had a nice day, now I'm handing it over to Darrick...
Well here I am. I am writing tonight to tell you about a decision we finally made. I think everybody knows that our Pastor at Anuenue is leaving for Colorado in June. Well the church was asking for people to pray about and decide if they were going to stay or leave the church. Jenn and I have been praying. I have been feeling that we should leave but I wanted to be sure that it was God telling me that and not me. I have to be honest I was feeling like "here we go again, Friendship all over." They are even looking to raise up someone from the inside of the church. Last week Jenn finally got her answer from God saying we are not suppose to stay at Anuenue so that was the answer that we were looking for. I was sensing that I would not be able to serve the way they would need with my terrible schedule with work. We will be looking for a new church again. So please pray for us to find the right church home here in Hawaii.
Well here I am. I am writing tonight to tell you about a decision we finally made. I think everybody knows that our Pastor at Anuenue is leaving for Colorado in June. Well the church was asking for people to pray about and decide if they were going to stay or leave the church. Jenn and I have been praying. I have been feeling that we should leave but I wanted to be sure that it was God telling me that and not me. I have to be honest I was feeling like "here we go again, Friendship all over." They are even looking to raise up someone from the inside of the church. Last week Jenn finally got her answer from God saying we are not suppose to stay at Anuenue so that was the answer that we were looking for. I was sensing that I would not be able to serve the way they would need with my terrible schedule with work. We will be looking for a new church again. So please pray for us to find the right church home here in Hawaii.
Saturday, May 07, 2005
Another day in Paradise...
I am so excited because next week this time I will be giving my brother Jeff a BIG hug! He is coming to stay with us for 2 weeks!
Darrick took someone else's duty day today so that he could have a Saturday off while Jeff is here. He took the van so the boys and I hung out at home. We did a ton of cleaning, I am so tired! Around 10 am, we went in the backyard to give the boys a haircut. I was so nice and warm that when we were done I put the sprinkler on so the boys could play and wash off the hair. They were having a blast! All of the sudden Jacob says "Diaper off!" and takes it off and runs in the sprinkler. Micah looks at him and takes his underwear off too! It just made me think how kids are so free and uninhibited.
In the afternoon we played in the front yard and Jacob has finally started riding his scooter! It is so cute to see him ride around with his big yellow helmet on. It seems like just yesterday it was Micah learning to ride his scooter.
As I was walking to our computer room to write this I was startled by a pretty big gecko in our hallway! I have no idea when he got in the house. And I just checked to see where he was and he is gone! Hopefully he will not turn up my bed!
Darrick took someone else's duty day today so that he could have a Saturday off while Jeff is here. He took the van so the boys and I hung out at home. We did a ton of cleaning, I am so tired! Around 10 am, we went in the backyard to give the boys a haircut. I was so nice and warm that when we were done I put the sprinkler on so the boys could play and wash off the hair. They were having a blast! All of the sudden Jacob says "Diaper off!" and takes it off and runs in the sprinkler. Micah looks at him and takes his underwear off too! It just made me think how kids are so free and uninhibited.
In the afternoon we played in the front yard and Jacob has finally started riding his scooter! It is so cute to see him ride around with his big yellow helmet on. It seems like just yesterday it was Micah learning to ride his scooter.
As I was walking to our computer room to write this I was startled by a pretty big gecko in our hallway! I have no idea when he got in the house. And I just checked to see where he was and he is gone! Hopefully he will not turn up my bed!
Friday, May 06, 2005
North Shore-Part 2
Today after Darrick got home from work, we headed out to North Shore Again. Our first stop was turtle beach and this time there were 4 turtles sleeping on the beach-it was amazing! They are so huge and incredible! We took some pictures by them and then headed back to the car to pick up a sandwich at the deli for Darrick and I. I had made the boys sandwiches at home. Then we headed to a different beach with much calmer waves.
After we ate our picnic dinner Micah was ready to try out his new Batman boogie board. He was a little scared at first but we both encouraged him and he tried. The waves were pretty small so he was able to get a feel for laying on the board without getting knocked over by big waves. He had so much fun and rode a lot of waves.
It was getting cooler so Darrick and Micah got out of the water and we sat and enjoyed the beautiful sunset.
After we ate our picnic dinner Micah was ready to try out his new Batman boogie board. He was a little scared at first but we both encouraged him and he tried. The waves were pretty small so he was able to get a feel for laying on the board without getting knocked over by big waves. He had so much fun and rode a lot of waves.
It was getting cooler so Darrick and Micah got out of the water and we sat and enjoyed the beautiful sunset.
Thursday, May 05, 2005
A Day Trip to North Shore
We had such a great adventure today with our friends(Lauren, Charlie and Alex) who live across the street from us. Darrick is out to sea for 2 days so it always helps to get out of the house. I watched Charlie and Alex for about an hour and a half this morning while their mom went to the doctor. What a busy morning I had with 4 boys!
Then we packed up and enjoyed a beautiful ride to North Shore. We first stopped to feed some horses, at a ranch, some carrots but they were across the field and not interested in coming over to us. So then we headed for turtle beach which is known for sea turtles that swim in the ocean and sun bathe on the shore. Well, this was strike two: no turtles today! There was one swimming in the water but we could not see him very good. But the ocean was beautiful and we took a nice picture that you can see below.
Then we headed to Lauren's favorite sandwich shop: Storto's Deli and Sandwich Shoppe. It was so, so good! They serve their sandwiches on sweet hawaiian bread, I can't wait to go back! We ate it in the car enjoying the view of the beach.
The we headed to the Dole plantation. For the first time in my life I saw how pineapple grow, I was quite surprised. See picture below. Then we fed the koi fish in the pond. They went crazy for the food and splashed water on us. All of the sudden, Micah was crying and was so upset because his slipper fell in the koi pond. Thankfully they were not interested in eating it! We found an employee who fished it out with a net! We then tried their famous dole pineapple whip. It is a pineapple sherbert and so refreshing and yummy! We then rode the dole train and then headed back for home.
There is so much to see here, we are having a great time!
Then we packed up and enjoyed a beautiful ride to North Shore. We first stopped to feed some horses, at a ranch, some carrots but they were across the field and not interested in coming over to us. So then we headed for turtle beach which is known for sea turtles that swim in the ocean and sun bathe on the shore. Well, this was strike two: no turtles today! There was one swimming in the water but we could not see him very good. But the ocean was beautiful and we took a nice picture that you can see below.
Then we headed to Lauren's favorite sandwich shop: Storto's Deli and Sandwich Shoppe. It was so, so good! They serve their sandwiches on sweet hawaiian bread, I can't wait to go back! We ate it in the car enjoying the view of the beach.
The we headed to the Dole plantation. For the first time in my life I saw how pineapple grow, I was quite surprised. See picture below. Then we fed the koi fish in the pond. They went crazy for the food and splashed water on us. All of the sudden, Micah was crying and was so upset because his slipper fell in the koi pond. Thankfully they were not interested in eating it! We found an employee who fished it out with a net! We then tried their famous dole pineapple whip. It is a pineapple sherbert and so refreshing and yummy! We then rode the dole train and then headed back for home.
There is so much to see here, we are having a great time!
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
Old Pali Hike
Darrick has duty today which usually makes for a long day so I thought the boys and I should go somewhere. I was looking for something FREE, so it would fit into our budget! I read in one of our books about a 1 mile hike that is on a paved road and "stroller friendly" so I thought I could combine an outing with my workout.
So we packed up and headed for Old Pali Road Hike. The drive was so beautiful! So green and lush. The hike starts at a lookout point and it was awesome, we will definitly be taking visitors there. The hike started out on a wide paved path. The boys walked some since it was downhill and a flat path. Again, the views were breath taking. We would stop and look at plants and birds. We stopped by a banyan tree to look and Micah noticed a nest tucked in the roots of the tree with white eggs in them! Micah was thrilled at his discovery!
The path kept getting more narrow and the plants were covering the path at parts, which would of been fine except I had the double exercise stroller. The path kept going downhill and the boys were having so much fun but I decided that we should turn around since the entire way up would be uphill. They both wanted to ride and I pushed them as far as I could. I was sweating and breathing hard. I had Micah get out and walk and that helped. After a little while he got back in and I pushed then both again. I think them plus the stroller is 70 lbs. Micah walked the last little bit to the top. It was a great workout and another chance to see another part of the island!
So we packed up and headed for Old Pali Road Hike. The drive was so beautiful! So green and lush. The hike starts at a lookout point and it was awesome, we will definitly be taking visitors there. The hike started out on a wide paved path. The boys walked some since it was downhill and a flat path. Again, the views were breath taking. We would stop and look at plants and birds. We stopped by a banyan tree to look and Micah noticed a nest tucked in the roots of the tree with white eggs in them! Micah was thrilled at his discovery!
The path kept getting more narrow and the plants were covering the path at parts, which would of been fine except I had the double exercise stroller. The path kept going downhill and the boys were having so much fun but I decided that we should turn around since the entire way up would be uphill. They both wanted to ride and I pushed them as far as I could. I was sweating and breathing hard. I had Micah get out and walk and that helped. After a little while he got back in and I pushed then both again. I think them plus the stroller is 70 lbs. Micah walked the last little bit to the top. It was a great workout and another chance to see another part of the island!
Monday, May 02, 2005
The Dentist
Today Micah and I went to the dentist. It was a big day because it was Micah's first trip to the dentist. I was nervous about how he would do but he did great. It helped that the people working with him were really good with kids. He had 2 x rays and a cleaning. I am happy to report that he has 0 cavities! The dentist just said we need to floss his teeth every night! That should be a good trick. Have you ever tried to floss someone else's teeth? Well let me tell you, because I did it tonight, it is not easy!
I also had a check up and have 0 cavities too! They said that they like to start seeing kids at 2 so I made an appt. for Jacob for next Friday, but I have a feeling it is not going to go as smoothly as Micah's appt! We'll see...
I also had a check up and have 0 cavities too! They said that they like to start seeing kids at 2 so I made an appt. for Jacob for next Friday, but I have a feeling it is not going to go as smoothly as Micah's appt! We'll see...
Sunday, May 01, 2005
Our Weekend
We had a really nice weekend. This past week Darrick and I have been working on a new budget for our family. We have tried many times but have not been disciplined enough to stick to it. This time we were very specific in our numbers and are determined to make it work. I wonder how many people out there really have a budget and if so do you have any advice for us? We would love to hear from you. Anyways, we are cutting back on eating out and trying to slow down our weekends. And it was great!
Saturday morning started off with pancakes. We are trying to incorporate "traditions" into our family. The boys are at ages now that this is working. Like Saturday morning is "Pancake morning" or no TV on Sunday morning. Does anyone have any other traditions ideas? We have a few more that we are thinking about.
Darrick had two soccer games on Saturday so we spent most of the afternoon at the soccer field. They did not play so great and lost both games. But we had an umbrella and our lunches and the boys and I had a nice time. After the game we went to the commissary to grocery shop.
Then we had a BBQ to go to for a guy on the ship's birthday. I met some really nice new people and the food was really yummy. I like to see who Darrick works with. Everyone seems to think that Darrick has big ears. I have never thought that. Once they did a skit on the ship and the person playing Darrick taped plates on the sides of his hat so everyone would know he was Hays and they did! Have you ever thought that...be honest...I guess maybe love is blind!
Today Darrick was not feeling well and did not go to church. The boys and I went by ourselves. I taught the 3-5 year old class for the first time. It went so great, the hardest part was that I didn't know all the kids names. I had 13 kids!
In the afternoon they boys played in their pool, and we made puppy chow. We made our own pizza muffins for dinner. Micah kept putting on too much sauce and Jacob kept taking bites of it raw, but they had fun. Then the boys rode skateboards. Micah grew out of his old skateboard and it was getting old, so they each got a spiderman skatebaord with batman pads. See Picture below. They are really into superheros, especially Batman, Spiderman and Superman. Micah did good and Jacob tried a little but mostly just likes walking around with his gear on! Ahhh...life with boys!
Saturday morning started off with pancakes. We are trying to incorporate "traditions" into our family. The boys are at ages now that this is working. Like Saturday morning is "Pancake morning" or no TV on Sunday morning. Does anyone have any other traditions ideas? We have a few more that we are thinking about.
Darrick had two soccer games on Saturday so we spent most of the afternoon at the soccer field. They did not play so great and lost both games. But we had an umbrella and our lunches and the boys and I had a nice time. After the game we went to the commissary to grocery shop.
Then we had a BBQ to go to for a guy on the ship's birthday. I met some really nice new people and the food was really yummy. I like to see who Darrick works with. Everyone seems to think that Darrick has big ears. I have never thought that. Once they did a skit on the ship and the person playing Darrick taped plates on the sides of his hat so everyone would know he was Hays and they did! Have you ever thought that...be honest...I guess maybe love is blind!
Today Darrick was not feeling well and did not go to church. The boys and I went by ourselves. I taught the 3-5 year old class for the first time. It went so great, the hardest part was that I didn't know all the kids names. I had 13 kids!
In the afternoon they boys played in their pool, and we made puppy chow. We made our own pizza muffins for dinner. Micah kept putting on too much sauce and Jacob kept taking bites of it raw, but they had fun. Then the boys rode skateboards. Micah grew out of his old skateboard and it was getting old, so they each got a spiderman skatebaord with batman pads. See Picture below. They are really into superheros, especially Batman, Spiderman and Superman. Micah did good and Jacob tried a little but mostly just likes walking around with his gear on! Ahhh...life with boys!
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