October 24-30: Sendai, Japan
Many of my former students have scattered all over Japan and I was only able to talk with them via phone. However, it was nice getting updates on their lives and families.
I was able to have time with Midori, even got to watch one of her concerts. I had some quick gatherings with Keiko, Makiko, Joy Murchie, and Izumi. I wish I could explain how special it was to have time with old friends. Everyone seems to be doing well.
Aside from meeting with folks, we took a few extra side trips. Matsushima and Hiraizumi were two of them. It was beautiful but the rain poured on us throughout the day. A nice man gave us an umbrella, I think he must have been worried about us. Both towns are great for exploring and getting a taste for Japanese culture. All of our trips were made special by having a homemade obento(lunchbox) provided by Kumiko.
Another day, Hanae-sensei took us on a trip to Akiu falls to see the changing leaves. We had great weather and have some incredible pictures from the day. We ended with tonkatsu, one of my favorite Japanese foods. Almost forgot, before this day started we made a friend at the subway station. She hung out with us while we waited for Hanae and asked us lots of questions about our trip.
I also had the opportunity, at Taitomi & Nankodai churches, to share an update of what God has been teaching me. I did this update in Japanese, quiet a challenge, thanks Yuchan for the translation.
All in all the last two weeks were incredible, thanks everyone. A special thanks to the Itous for taking such great care of us!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Week 23
October 30- November 3:
San Francisco, CA
If you are thinking I made a mistake about the date, you are wrong. We left Sendai, Japan at 8:55am on the 30th and arrived in California at 11am on the 30th. After a long trip, almost completing our trip around the world, we arrived in San Francisco to meet my cousin, Teresa.
It is nice to be back in the states.
We have watched some football and attended a halloween party, although I think we were both still half asleep. We went as backpackers.
My friend and former Japanese teacher, Kumiko, is in the area. We met her for lunch Sunday. Today I met with Kimberly, friend from BCM days at JSU. She and Fred moved here to Pastor a church. .
Yesterday we took a ride to San Francisco and took a walk down by the piers. We saw the Golden Gate bridge, Alcatrez, and Ghiradelli chocolate factory.
San Francisco is a charming city with trolley cars and rolling hills. They also have a rather large sea lion population. They are entertaining to watch.
I think we are both ready to head home and get started on new phases of our lives. We will have another post later on some overall thoughts from the trip.
San Francisco, CA
If you are thinking I made a mistake about the date, you are wrong. We left Sendai, Japan at 8:55am on the 30th and arrived in California at 11am on the 30th. After a long trip, almost completing our trip around the world, we arrived in San Francisco to meet my cousin, Teresa.
It is nice to be back in the states.
We have watched some football and attended a halloween party, although I think we were both still half asleep. We went as backpackers.
My friend and former Japanese teacher, Kumiko, is in the area. We met her for lunch Sunday. Today I met with Kimberly, friend from BCM days at JSU. She and Fred moved here to Pastor a church. .
Yesterday we took a ride to San Francisco and took a walk down by the piers. We saw the Golden Gate bridge, Alcatrez, and Ghiradelli chocolate factory.
San Francisco is a charming city with trolley cars and rolling hills. They also have a rather large sea lion population. They are entertaining to watch.
I think we are both ready to head home and get started on new phases of our lives. We will have another post later on some overall thoughts from the trip.
Friday, October 23, 2009
Week 21
Japan: October 16-23
Tokyo:
It was so good to finally be back in Japan after several years. The first few days we spent in Tokyo. I introduced Lisa to the many sights of the city including Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjiku, and etc. We had some wonderful food and watched football with Kent.
Sunday I got to see some friends, Atsi & Naoko, we attended church with them and I met their daughter. It was nice to see them as a family, last time I was here they were on the road to marriage.
Kofu:
We took a road trip to see Mt. Fuji and explore this small town or suburb. We had a picnic near the castle and enjoyed the view.
Before heading to Sendai we caught up with another friend, Yuki. He has come to TN once, I was introduced to him through TN BCM summer missionaries, Amanda and Jen, on a prior trip to Japan.
Sendai:
Home Sweet Home, or at least it was for 3 years of my life. We are staying with my Japanese family and enjoying some of the best food ever. I told Kumiko tonight that she should open a restaurant.
We've attended a kids English class and prayer meeting with the Itous, where I was able to visit with old friends.
I have seen one of the new church buildings and taken Lisa on a tour of the city. There is now a Starbuck's in Sendai. That would have been nice years ago!
Lisa likes the 100¥ shops ($1 store). I find myself waiting on a lot of benches!!
Today we took a day trip to Kakunodate, known for its Samurai houses. We had a picnic by the river, made by Kumiko, and walked around town looking at the houses.
We have another week here in Sendai. It will be a busy one but we are so excited to be here and so grateful for the Itous and our time together thus far.
Tokyo:
It was so good to finally be back in Japan after several years. The first few days we spent in Tokyo. I introduced Lisa to the many sights of the city including Asakusa, Shibuya, Shinjiku, and etc. We had some wonderful food and watched football with Kent.
Sunday I got to see some friends, Atsi & Naoko, we attended church with them and I met their daughter. It was nice to see them as a family, last time I was here they were on the road to marriage.
Kofu:
We took a road trip to see Mt. Fuji and explore this small town or suburb. We had a picnic near the castle and enjoyed the view.
Before heading to Sendai we caught up with another friend, Yuki. He has come to TN once, I was introduced to him through TN BCM summer missionaries, Amanda and Jen, on a prior trip to Japan.
Sendai:
Home Sweet Home, or at least it was for 3 years of my life. We are staying with my Japanese family and enjoying some of the best food ever. I told Kumiko tonight that she should open a restaurant.
We've attended a kids English class and prayer meeting with the Itous, where I was able to visit with old friends.
I have seen one of the new church buildings and taken Lisa on a tour of the city. There is now a Starbuck's in Sendai. That would have been nice years ago!
Lisa likes the 100¥ shops ($1 store). I find myself waiting on a lot of benches!!
Today we took a day trip to Kakunodate, known for its Samurai houses. We had a picnic by the river, made by Kumiko, and walked around town looking at the houses.
We have another week here in Sendai. It will be a busy one but we are so excited to be here and so grateful for the Itous and our time together thus far.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Week 20
October 9-15: Taiwan
As we continue to make our way through Asia we are having a great time meeting up with friends. In Taipei, we stayed with Lisa's family Oliver & Jan Lee, parents of Saul.
Our first days were packed with a ferris wheel ride, a trip to the fisherman's wharf, a ride through a national park, and a trip to the beach. We had great timing with the beach visit, just in time for a kite festival on a windy day. Another interesting thing, we saw a shrimp farm..???, not sure what to call it. Basically, lots of shrimp throw into a murky pool of water with people gathered around with fishing poles, kind of like fishing in a fish tank.
We spent lots of time at Taipei 101, tallest building in the world, apparently soon to be surpassd by Dubai. We finally had a clear day and made it to the top to get the view of the city.
A highlight for Lisa was getting to meet Melody's parents. We had a great time talking to her mom about various mission trips and experiences.
The week ended with the national museum, a trip to the countryside and freedom square.
Thanks for everything Oliver and Jan!!
As we continue to make our way through Asia we are having a great time meeting up with friends. In Taipei, we stayed with Lisa's family Oliver & Jan Lee, parents of Saul.
Our first days were packed with a ferris wheel ride, a trip to the fisherman's wharf, a ride through a national park, and a trip to the beach. We had great timing with the beach visit, just in time for a kite festival on a windy day. Another interesting thing, we saw a shrimp farm..???, not sure what to call it. Basically, lots of shrimp throw into a murky pool of water with people gathered around with fishing poles, kind of like fishing in a fish tank.
We spent lots of time at Taipei 101, tallest building in the world, apparently soon to be surpassd by Dubai. We finally had a clear day and made it to the top to get the view of the city.
A highlight for Lisa was getting to meet Melody's parents. We had a great time talking to her mom about various mission trips and experiences.
The week ended with the national museum, a trip to the countryside and freedom square.
Thanks for everything Oliver and Jan!!
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Week 19
Sorry for the hasty ending of my last post, our ride to the airport showed up early and I was forced to shorten things a little.
October 1-8
China: Xichang
Our time in China was so much fun. My friends took such great care of us and we enjoyed catching up with each other. We even got a chance to watch some football together. I was also grateful for their knowledge on ordering food, we had some great meals.
Xichang has mountain views and also a lake. One day we took a trip there with some Chinese friends. We tried out new foods, took a boat ride, and enjoyed watching JD(almost 2 years old) play in the water. He was the star of most of our outtings getting lots of attention from the Chinese.
Another highlight of the week was a trip to a nearby village. The kids were so cute. They became our tour guides for the day and loved getting their picture made. We enjoyed getting a taste of the culture upclose.
We took in some local sites including a museum on the local minority group. The museum was overlooking the city and we took a slide back to the bottom.
It was sad to say goodbye. Always hard to be far away from such great friends. Love you guys and thanks for everything!!
October 1-8
China: Xichang
Our time in China was so much fun. My friends took such great care of us and we enjoyed catching up with each other. We even got a chance to watch some football together. I was also grateful for their knowledge on ordering food, we had some great meals.
Xichang has mountain views and also a lake. One day we took a trip there with some Chinese friends. We tried out new foods, took a boat ride, and enjoyed watching JD(almost 2 years old) play in the water. He was the star of most of our outtings getting lots of attention from the Chinese.
Another highlight of the week was a trip to a nearby village. The kids were so cute. They became our tour guides for the day and loved getting their picture made. We enjoyed getting a taste of the culture upclose.
We took in some local sites including a museum on the local minority group. The museum was overlooking the city and we took a slide back to the bottom.
It was sad to say goodbye. Always hard to be far away from such great friends. Love you guys and thanks for everything!!
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Week 18
September 22-30: Thailand
Our first day in Bangkok was a pleasant one, everything seemed almost too easy in comparison to other travel days. We explored a little around where we were staying and I was surprised at similarities between here and Japan. Lisa was pleased as she found a cheap shopping area, 6 floors filled with it. Luckily, they had food too.
The next morning we had breakfast with Tony and Marsha, friends from Japan/Australia now living in Bangkok. We had a great time catching up.
We spent the rest of the day taking a boat through the middle of the city and ended with a movie, complete with a golf cart ride back to the street our hotel was located on.
We noticed right away the friendly nature of the Thai people. It has been so much fun just getting to know some of them.
The rest of our time was spent in Chiang Mai. We went to the Thailand version of the golden triangle (Laos/Mynamar border), rode elephants, rafted a river with a bamboo and regular raft. However, the best part was getting to know Nan, Op, and Kno. The girls who ran the hostel we stayed at.
Our first day in Bangkok was a pleasant one, everything seemed almost too easy in comparison to other travel days. We explored a little around where we were staying and I was surprised at similarities between here and Japan. Lisa was pleased as she found a cheap shopping area, 6 floors filled with it. Luckily, they had food too.
The next morning we had breakfast with Tony and Marsha, friends from Japan/Australia now living in Bangkok. We had a great time catching up.
We spent the rest of the day taking a boat through the middle of the city and ended with a movie, complete with a golf cart ride back to the street our hotel was located on.
We noticed right away the friendly nature of the Thai people. It has been so much fun just getting to know some of them.
The rest of our time was spent in Chiang Mai. We went to the Thailand version of the golden triangle (Laos/Mynamar border), rode elephants, rafted a river with a bamboo and regular raft. However, the best part was getting to know Nan, Op, and Kno. The girls who ran the hostel we stayed at.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Week 17
September 16-21: India
The Golden Triangle in India consists of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. These were the places we visited on our time here. The safest and easiest way to accomplish this was to travel by hiring a driver, which we arranged through our hotel.
Our first destination was Jaipur where we rode an elephant to the Amber Fort and outside were greeted by a snake charmer complete with a flute. The road to Jaipur was an adventure in itself, as would be the other travel days. Similar to Nepal, the rules of the road seem to be left to ones personal conviction. In addition to sights in Nepal we added seeing herds of camels and elephants.
Agra was a much anticipated destination, not just because of the Taj Mahal, we were able to meet up with my friend Brittany and met her friend Martha. We had an incredible visit and were able to hang out for the majority of the day, visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and ended with a cup of coffee. We had lots of questions for them about the culture and their experiences over the past nine months. We were fortunate to meet back up with Brittany and met Julie once we returned to Delhi. It was Julie who convinced us to take our first motorized rickshaw ride. Our last day in Delhi we saw the India gate, Lotus temple, and the Red Fort.
The Golden Triangle in India consists of Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra. These were the places we visited on our time here. The safest and easiest way to accomplish this was to travel by hiring a driver, which we arranged through our hotel.
Our first destination was Jaipur where we rode an elephant to the Amber Fort and outside were greeted by a snake charmer complete with a flute. The road to Jaipur was an adventure in itself, as would be the other travel days. Similar to Nepal, the rules of the road seem to be left to ones personal conviction. In addition to sights in Nepal we added seeing herds of camels and elephants.
Agra was a much anticipated destination, not just because of the Taj Mahal, we were able to meet up with my friend Brittany and met her friend Martha. We had an incredible visit and were able to hang out for the majority of the day, visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, and ended with a cup of coffee. We had lots of questions for them about the culture and their experiences over the past nine months. We were fortunate to meet back up with Brittany and met Julie once we returned to Delhi. It was Julie who convinced us to take our first motorized rickshaw ride. Our last day in Delhi we saw the India gate, Lotus temple, and the Red Fort.
Monday, September 21, 2009
Week 16
September 9-15: Kathmandu, Nepal
As we arrived in Nepal, after layovers in Belgium and Dubai, we were greeted by Dipak, one of the staff from Hotel Ganesh Himal. The car ride to the hotel was interesting in more ways than one. We were suddenly amidst a crowd of cars, bikes, people, buses, cows, and etc., all fighting for ownership of the road. As I was processing all this, we realized Dipak and I were in Japan at the same time. He proceeded to talk to me in Japanese, meanwhile, Lisa was taking pictures of all that was taking place around us. Before we arrived at the hotel we already had most of our week planned, thanks to the help of a lady from Baltimore who shared the ride with us.
The next day we took a walk through Thamel to purchase last minute items needed for our trek to Namche, on the Everest Base Camp trail. We managed to get all our gear for less than one pair of trekking poles at home. Later we meet Dipak for supper at a Japanese restaurant.
Friday we were ready to take the early morning flight to Lukla to begin our trek. However, the weather was not cooperating. We spent half the day waiting with delays.
During our wait we continually were confused by the boarding system, which consisted of a guy walking through the room yelling out flight numbers. We also got to meet the other Lukla passengers, one of whom was a mountaineering guide in Alaska. He had been away from home for a few months spending time as a guide in Africa.
Finally, we were told there would be no flight that day. Due to a limited amount of time and the unpredictable weather in Lukla, we called Dipak and arranged to have our flight changed to the Annapurna region of the Himalayas, another popular trekking site with a more accessible airport.
We arrived later that afternoon in Pokhara. This lake side city is famous for its mountain views. After checking into the hotel, we went for a walk around the lake and got something to eat. The views from the street of the mountain peaks were amazing.
Saturday we began with an hour and a half car ride to the trailhead in Nayapol. The first obstacle of the day was a pack of donkeys that were covering the entire path. The second was a river running over the path and the worry of whether this was indeed the right trail. Luckily, four boys were enjoying a swim and assured us we were on the right track. The first few hours weren't too bad, lots of great views and not too steep. We quickly learned to share the road with the various groups of donkeys that carried loads of goods on their back. I became particularly fond of one who was not only last in his group, but also, rather far behind. He would stand at the bottom of a long uphill portion and take three deep breaths before moving along. We caught up with this same pack in the next village taking a rest and noticed him right away. As they took his load off he seemed relieved and fell to the ground rolling around like a dog, maybe I liked him so much because I felt the same way once we made it to Ulleri, our destination for the day. In all we hiked for around 7 hours. The last two being the worst. However, this is where the views of the mountains were incredible.
We spent the night in tea houses ran by locals. The food was great and the families that ran the places were very helpful.
Our second day was the hardest. We started out around 5:30am and finished around 5:30pm. The goal was Poon Hill, via Ghorepani Village. We stopped there for breakfast at Hotel Sakura and were quickly convinced to return for lunch when the owner offered to keep our bags while we hiked the rest of the way up. Once reaching the destination of Poon Hill, known for its panoramic views of the mountains, we took a break to take it all in. It's hard to describe beauty, so I won't attempt to do so.
The clouds eventually moved in and blocked our view. We decided to begin our journey back. You would think going down hill would be a breeze but it was still hard work. That night we returned to the same teahouse in Ulleri.
Our final trekking day was probably the lightest day, but not an easy one. We returned to Nayapol and on to Pokhara. We shopped a little after returning but found it difficult to do too much as we were having trouble walking.
Finally, we returned to Kathmandu and toured the highlights of the city. The monkey temple was properly named as it was covered with them even on the roadsides.
As we arrived in Nepal, after layovers in Belgium and Dubai, we were greeted by Dipak, one of the staff from Hotel Ganesh Himal. The car ride to the hotel was interesting in more ways than one. We were suddenly amidst a crowd of cars, bikes, people, buses, cows, and etc., all fighting for ownership of the road. As I was processing all this, we realized Dipak and I were in Japan at the same time. He proceeded to talk to me in Japanese, meanwhile, Lisa was taking pictures of all that was taking place around us. Before we arrived at the hotel we already had most of our week planned, thanks to the help of a lady from Baltimore who shared the ride with us.
The next day we took a walk through Thamel to purchase last minute items needed for our trek to Namche, on the Everest Base Camp trail. We managed to get all our gear for less than one pair of trekking poles at home. Later we meet Dipak for supper at a Japanese restaurant.
Friday we were ready to take the early morning flight to Lukla to begin our trek. However, the weather was not cooperating. We spent half the day waiting with delays.
During our wait we continually were confused by the boarding system, which consisted of a guy walking through the room yelling out flight numbers. We also got to meet the other Lukla passengers, one of whom was a mountaineering guide in Alaska. He had been away from home for a few months spending time as a guide in Africa.
Finally, we were told there would be no flight that day. Due to a limited amount of time and the unpredictable weather in Lukla, we called Dipak and arranged to have our flight changed to the Annapurna region of the Himalayas, another popular trekking site with a more accessible airport.
We arrived later that afternoon in Pokhara. This lake side city is famous for its mountain views. After checking into the hotel, we went for a walk around the lake and got something to eat. The views from the street of the mountain peaks were amazing.
Saturday we began with an hour and a half car ride to the trailhead in Nayapol. The first obstacle of the day was a pack of donkeys that were covering the entire path. The second was a river running over the path and the worry of whether this was indeed the right trail. Luckily, four boys were enjoying a swim and assured us we were on the right track. The first few hours weren't too bad, lots of great views and not too steep. We quickly learned to share the road with the various groups of donkeys that carried loads of goods on their back. I became particularly fond of one who was not only last in his group, but also, rather far behind. He would stand at the bottom of a long uphill portion and take three deep breaths before moving along. We caught up with this same pack in the next village taking a rest and noticed him right away. As they took his load off he seemed relieved and fell to the ground rolling around like a dog, maybe I liked him so much because I felt the same way once we made it to Ulleri, our destination for the day. In all we hiked for around 7 hours. The last two being the worst. However, this is where the views of the mountains were incredible.
We spent the night in tea houses ran by locals. The food was great and the families that ran the places were very helpful.
Our second day was the hardest. We started out around 5:30am and finished around 5:30pm. The goal was Poon Hill, via Ghorepani Village. We stopped there for breakfast at Hotel Sakura and were quickly convinced to return for lunch when the owner offered to keep our bags while we hiked the rest of the way up. Once reaching the destination of Poon Hill, known for its panoramic views of the mountains, we took a break to take it all in. It's hard to describe beauty, so I won't attempt to do so.
The clouds eventually moved in and blocked our view. We decided to begin our journey back. You would think going down hill would be a breeze but it was still hard work. That night we returned to the same teahouse in Ulleri.
Our final trekking day was probably the lightest day, but not an easy one. We returned to Nayapol and on to Pokhara. We shopped a little after returning but found it difficult to do too much as we were having trouble walking.
Finally, we returned to Kathmandu and toured the highlights of the city. The monkey temple was properly named as it was covered with them even on the roadsides.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Week 15
August 31-September 8: Norway
A note from Lisa:
I find myself on a plane headed for Abu Dhabi and came to the realization that my time in Norway has sadly come to an end too soon. I have been in quite a few places these last few months, but as I look back to compare them all, each one pales in comparison with Norway. Was it so special because my Granny made elaborate dinners (while insisting it was nothing fancy) or cause my other grandmother had homemade tea ready for us night and day? I'm sure that helped :) along with all the other ways my family has spoiled us. Not only have we been berry picking with Matias and his roommates in Trondheim, but we have also had dinner and a movie with Fredrick, Anne-stine, Tone and Granny. I had the opportunity to be part of Linda's beautiful Norwegian wedding while hanging out with Catherine the amazing toast-master, got to watch Alexander play soccer, hung out with Christian and his dog Simba, enjoyed dinner and coffee with friends from Nordfjørd Folkehøgskule, hot chocolate and movie nights with Nina, and went to church with Annie. We have enjoyed various foods and had time to catch up with almost all my aunts and uncles, along with so much more. We have been showered with love and affection that is more than enough for a whole city. I almost felt selfish taking it all in. This trip has definately confirmed my thoughts that my home in Norway is just as much home to me as anywhere else in the world. Thanks to all my family and friends from both Denise and I. We are so grateful for you all.
A note from Lisa:
I find myself on a plane headed for Abu Dhabi and came to the realization that my time in Norway has sadly come to an end too soon. I have been in quite a few places these last few months, but as I look back to compare them all, each one pales in comparison with Norway. Was it so special because my Granny made elaborate dinners (while insisting it was nothing fancy) or cause my other grandmother had homemade tea ready for us night and day? I'm sure that helped :) along with all the other ways my family has spoiled us. Not only have we been berry picking with Matias and his roommates in Trondheim, but we have also had dinner and a movie with Fredrick, Anne-stine, Tone and Granny. I had the opportunity to be part of Linda's beautiful Norwegian wedding while hanging out with Catherine the amazing toast-master, got to watch Alexander play soccer, hung out with Christian and his dog Simba, enjoyed dinner and coffee with friends from Nordfjørd Folkehøgskule, hot chocolate and movie nights with Nina, and went to church with Annie. We have enjoyed various foods and had time to catch up with almost all my aunts and uncles, along with so much more. We have been showered with love and affection that is more than enough for a whole city. I almost felt selfish taking it all in. This trip has definately confirmed my thoughts that my home in Norway is just as much home to me as anywhere else in the world. Thanks to all my family and friends from both Denise and I. We are so grateful for you all.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Monday, August 31, 2009
Week 13 & 14
August 17-30, Norway:
We are having a great time in Norway, enjoying the extended stay to visit with Lisa's family. I will try and get her to share thoughts on the blog before we head on to Asia.
At this point I think we have managed to visit most of the Gjerde/Theisen family, participated in several family dinners/breakfasts, watched part of Alexander's soccer game, took a few bike rides, shopping, hung out with Annie & Nina (cousins), and attended church with both Grandmothers.
We also took a day trip to Hønefoss with Anne-stine(cousin) to visit Frederick (cousin) and Tone.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Week 11 continued & Week 12
Norway:
August 7-9:
Our first weekend in Norway Lisa was busy attending the wedding festivities of her cousin, Linda. Meanwhile, I was being educated on the local history of the logging industry at a museum in Fetsund. I also ate Norwegian waffles with Granny and Aunt Mona at the first house in Lillestrøm.
August 10-16:
We traveled to Oslo and took a walk by the ocean on a pier, Akerbrygge. Uncle Leif took us to see the new Harry Potter movie at the Colosseum, the largest cinema in Northern Europe and the largest equipped with THX in the world. He also took us on a tour of the university and some local sites including Vige-Land park.
Lisa's Uncle Paul & Aunt Mona took us to the mountains. The mountains here are beautiful and covered with reindeer moss.
On the way we came upon two Moose, rather Meese, in the road, they were huge! I was so excited to see them, after many trips to Maine and Canada without site of one.
We took a morning walk into the mountain to observe Paul training his dog, Aiko, whom Lisa and I have spoiled. He is such a sweet dog. We visited the town of Røros, which was once famous for its copper production. We walked around the downtown looking at traditional houses, shops, and various pieces of art. I was very excited to find a great deal on a Norwegian sweater and I tried another Norwegian tradition, rømme grøt(porridge). In fact, I have also eaten reindeer, moose, goat, and horse. I have heard of blood pudding but I'm trying to steer clear of it.
Our next adventure took us by train to Trondheim to visit Lisa's cousin, Matias. He and his roommates were very kind and cooked for us several times. We took in the local sites and Matias gave us a tour of the University where Lisa's parents met. He also took us to the mountains and I was introduced to yet another Norwegian tradition of wild berry picking. I think the final collection was around 8 liters of blueberries.
August 7-9:
Our first weekend in Norway Lisa was busy attending the wedding festivities of her cousin, Linda. Meanwhile, I was being educated on the local history of the logging industry at a museum in Fetsund. I also ate Norwegian waffles with Granny and Aunt Mona at the first house in Lillestrøm.
August 10-16:
We traveled to Oslo and took a walk by the ocean on a pier, Akerbrygge. Uncle Leif took us to see the new Harry Potter movie at the Colosseum, the largest cinema in Northern Europe and the largest equipped with THX in the world. He also took us on a tour of the university and some local sites including Vige-Land park.
Lisa's Uncle Paul & Aunt Mona took us to the mountains. The mountains here are beautiful and covered with reindeer moss.
On the way we came upon two Moose, rather Meese, in the road, they were huge! I was so excited to see them, after many trips to Maine and Canada without site of one.
We took a morning walk into the mountain to observe Paul training his dog, Aiko, whom Lisa and I have spoiled. He is such a sweet dog. We visited the town of Røros, which was once famous for its copper production. We walked around the downtown looking at traditional houses, shops, and various pieces of art. I was very excited to find a great deal on a Norwegian sweater and I tried another Norwegian tradition, rømme grøt(porridge). In fact, I have also eaten reindeer, moose, goat, and horse. I have heard of blood pudding but I'm trying to steer clear of it.
Our next adventure took us by train to Trondheim to visit Lisa's cousin, Matias. He and his roommates were very kind and cooked for us several times. We took in the local sites and Matias gave us a tour of the University where Lisa's parents met. He also took us to the mountains and I was introduced to yet another Norwegian tradition of wild berry picking. I think the final collection was around 8 liters of blueberries.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Week 11
August 3-6: Ireland
I was continually amazed at the beauty of Ireland.
Before I continue I should add that I am not a Japanese expert, nor fluent in the language, just an admirer.
There is a word in Japanese, wabisabi, which to the best of my understanding is defined as finding beauty in simplicity. This describes well my feeling about Ireland, nothing too majestic in the people or the land but a beauty in both that was inescapable.
August 7-9: Norway
I was continually amazed at the beauty of Ireland.
Before I continue I should add that I am not a Japanese expert, nor fluent in the language, just an admirer.
There is a word in Japanese, wabisabi, which to the best of my understanding is defined as finding beauty in simplicity. This describes well my feeling about Ireland, nothing too majestic in the people or the land but a beauty in both that was inescapable.
August 7-9: Norway
Sunday, August 2, 2009
July 26-August 2
Ireland:
The past week I have been around the west coast of Ireland. The people here are very talkative and willing to help. I have been to the Cliffs of Moher, Oughterard, Galway, Dingle Peninsula, Tralee, and Cork.
I am worried that I will not have great pictures. I didn't bring my camera and picked up a disposable, not sure it can do justice to what I have seen.
I also found the city from which my Grandmother's relatives might have come, I will have to do some research.
It has rained almost everday at some point but a nice change from the hot humid weather in the rest of Europe.
I continue to meet folks from around the world including Cleveland, TN. You just never know who you will run into. The last few days I got to spend time with some girls from France who were also traveling alone, they didn't know each other beforehand. We decided to hear some traditional Irish music and within a few minutes an Italian couple, a guy from NY, and a mother/daughter from London had joined us. It was entertaining to listen to everyone's story.
My last day in Tralee the hostel owner's family introduced me to Irish football, a mix between soccer, football, and rugby.
The past week I have been around the west coast of Ireland. The people here are very talkative and willing to help. I have been to the Cliffs of Moher, Oughterard, Galway, Dingle Peninsula, Tralee, and Cork.
I am worried that I will not have great pictures. I didn't bring my camera and picked up a disposable, not sure it can do justice to what I have seen.
I also found the city from which my Grandmother's relatives might have come, I will have to do some research.
It has rained almost everday at some point but a nice change from the hot humid weather in the rest of Europe.
I continue to meet folks from around the world including Cleveland, TN. You just never know who you will run into. The last few days I got to spend time with some girls from France who were also traveling alone, they didn't know each other beforehand. We decided to hear some traditional Irish music and within a few minutes an Italian couple, a guy from NY, and a mother/daughter from London had joined us. It was entertaining to listen to everyone's story.
My last day in Tralee the hostel owner's family introduced me to Irish football, a mix between soccer, football, and rugby.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Week 9
July 19- July 25: Croatia/Ireland(and the USA)
Zagreb, Croatia:
I think we were both pleasantly surprised by the city. We took a few days and saw most of the sites. Great pictures are now up on facebook. I think we were both exhausted at this point. We hadn't had much sleep between the long ferry ride, an all day wait in Venice for an over night train ride to Croatia through Slovenia. Just a day later and an all night wait in the airport for our trips to the U.S. and Ireland. Lisa went back for Rachel's wedding and I headed out to Ireland.
Ireland:
My initial experience in Dublin was interesting. Long story short: three bus drivers and two and a half hours later I made it to my hostel. However, the bus drivers were extremely friendly, they just kept forgetting to tell me where my stop was located.
Dublin itself is a fun city. I wondered around for the greater part of the day. I met an Auburn grad who gave me an Ireland tour book, which has already come in handy.
I made my way down to Lisdoonvarna. I have already taken a long walk through the countryside, 5 hours long, roadsigns aren't fantastic. The staff at the hostel have now set me up with some great walking maps.
The walk was relaxing. I only saw one person for the first two hours. Everywhere you look there are rockwall fences. I have already discovered they have excellent seafood chowder. My goal is to find out which local restaurant has the best.
Being in a hostel is a change from camping. I took a shower without shower shoes, it is more like a hotel, free internet, and even TV.
I will have to get Lisa to fill you all in on the goings on in the states. She is with her family and has a week of wedding festivities. Congrats to Rachel and Kip!
Zagreb, Croatia:
I think we were both pleasantly surprised by the city. We took a few days and saw most of the sites. Great pictures are now up on facebook. I think we were both exhausted at this point. We hadn't had much sleep between the long ferry ride, an all day wait in Venice for an over night train ride to Croatia through Slovenia. Just a day later and an all night wait in the airport for our trips to the U.S. and Ireland. Lisa went back for Rachel's wedding and I headed out to Ireland.
Ireland:
My initial experience in Dublin was interesting. Long story short: three bus drivers and two and a half hours later I made it to my hostel. However, the bus drivers were extremely friendly, they just kept forgetting to tell me where my stop was located.
Dublin itself is a fun city. I wondered around for the greater part of the day. I met an Auburn grad who gave me an Ireland tour book, which has already come in handy.
I made my way down to Lisdoonvarna. I have already taken a long walk through the countryside, 5 hours long, roadsigns aren't fantastic. The staff at the hostel have now set me up with some great walking maps.
The walk was relaxing. I only saw one person for the first two hours. Everywhere you look there are rockwall fences. I have already discovered they have excellent seafood chowder. My goal is to find out which local restaurant has the best.
Being in a hostel is a change from camping. I took a shower without shower shoes, it is more like a hotel, free internet, and even TV.
I will have to get Lisa to fill you all in on the goings on in the states. She is with her family and has a week of wedding festivities. Congrats to Rachel and Kip!
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
2 months
July 18:
It has been exactly two months since we left on our adventure. Today we were to have a long wait for our ferry departure, but as I referred to in our last post, God is good, we met some new friends. We actually met them on the bus to a campsite the day before and somehow we were on the same bus again.
They showed us around Patras and we had an incredible last day in Greece as a result. Thanks Carin and family!
We've been in 10 countries in two months.
It has been exactly two months since we left on our adventure. Today we were to have a long wait for our ferry departure, but as I referred to in our last post, God is good, we met some new friends. We actually met them on the bus to a campsite the day before and somehow we were on the same bus again.
They showed us around Patras and we had an incredible last day in Greece as a result. Thanks Carin and family!
We've been in 10 countries in two months.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Week 8
July 9- July 17 Greece
This has been the craziest week of travel.
First, we took a 36 hour ferry ride from Venice to Patras, Greece. We slept under the stars on the deck of the boat and saw the most incredible sunrise.
Once arriving at Patras we made our way to a campsite that is possibly the most scenic yet! We decided to stay an extra night as a result.
Then, it was off to Athens, or rather Rafina, in route to the island of Mykonos. The campsite there also had a great view but getting there was a small adventure in itself, let's just say 90 degree weather, two backpacks, two tired American girls, and one really big hill!
Mykonos is an incredibly beautiful place. We took a day to wonder around in the small town center. I've never seen so much white before and streets that made you feel caught in a maze. We met some folks from all over the world ...Ireland, Rio, Spain, Australia, and Georgia.
One day we tried to locate a lighthouse that was on our map. We had a nice stroll around some rocky beach fronts but weren't succesful in finding what we were in search of.
Took a ferry back to Rafina and a day to explore Athens. Then, a travel day back to Patras to catch the return ferry to Italy.
Reflections:
This week was full of small setbacks with travel and difficulty in getting correct information but it's funny how God at each time sent us some small blessing along the way.
For example, on our travel day from Mykonos back to Rafina we were talking about how we hadn't gotten to talk in depth with many people. I was in the middle of my explanation when a girl from Australia walked up and sat beside us and just started talking.
Later, at the Port I got yelled at by a grumpy store owner, again just when I was about to lose my cool I hear a Georgia accent ask if I went to school at Auburn. It was a mother, friend, and daughter. The daughter studying on a summer at sea.
Finally, the same long day...no bus to a campsite, another exhausting walk and I found a bakery on the way with one of my favorites. Upon arriving at the campsite and settling in I was ready to eat. We sat by a view of the ocean and I discovered the wrong pastry. I was just about to throw something when two guys walk up and gave us a watermelon.
Lisa and I both just laughed. I guess we have bad days even in the midst of seeing beautiful places and living out dreams.
I know this is becoming a long post. One last story. Today on our way back to Patras we encountered a train strike, these happen often in France and Greece, this lead to an almost 12 hour travel day that should have been about 5. However, again in the middle of the chaos we experienced part of the craziness with about a dozen others also traveling Europe.
Our verse for this month was Psalm 17:15
We continue to realize that only when we seek God first are we truly satisfied. In spite of crazy days in travel or everyday life, God is there making Himself known in big and small ways.
This has been the craziest week of travel.
First, we took a 36 hour ferry ride from Venice to Patras, Greece. We slept under the stars on the deck of the boat and saw the most incredible sunrise.
Once arriving at Patras we made our way to a campsite that is possibly the most scenic yet! We decided to stay an extra night as a result.
Then, it was off to Athens, or rather Rafina, in route to the island of Mykonos. The campsite there also had a great view but getting there was a small adventure in itself, let's just say 90 degree weather, two backpacks, two tired American girls, and one really big hill!
Mykonos is an incredibly beautiful place. We took a day to wonder around in the small town center. I've never seen so much white before and streets that made you feel caught in a maze. We met some folks from all over the world ...Ireland, Rio, Spain, Australia, and Georgia.
One day we tried to locate a lighthouse that was on our map. We had a nice stroll around some rocky beach fronts but weren't succesful in finding what we were in search of.
Took a ferry back to Rafina and a day to explore Athens. Then, a travel day back to Patras to catch the return ferry to Italy.
Reflections:
This week was full of small setbacks with travel and difficulty in getting correct information but it's funny how God at each time sent us some small blessing along the way.
For example, on our travel day from Mykonos back to Rafina we were talking about how we hadn't gotten to talk in depth with many people. I was in the middle of my explanation when a girl from Australia walked up and sat beside us and just started talking.
Later, at the Port I got yelled at by a grumpy store owner, again just when I was about to lose my cool I hear a Georgia accent ask if I went to school at Auburn. It was a mother, friend, and daughter. The daughter studying on a summer at sea.
Finally, the same long day...no bus to a campsite, another exhausting walk and I found a bakery on the way with one of my favorites. Upon arriving at the campsite and settling in I was ready to eat. We sat by a view of the ocean and I discovered the wrong pastry. I was just about to throw something when two guys walk up and gave us a watermelon.
Lisa and I both just laughed. I guess we have bad days even in the midst of seeing beautiful places and living out dreams.
I know this is becoming a long post. One last story. Today on our way back to Patras we encountered a train strike, these happen often in France and Greece, this lead to an almost 12 hour travel day that should have been about 5. However, again in the middle of the chaos we experienced part of the craziness with about a dozen others also traveling Europe.
Our verse for this month was Psalm 17:15
We continue to realize that only when we seek God first are we truly satisfied. In spite of crazy days in travel or everyday life, God is there making Himself known in big and small ways.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Week 7
June 30- July 3: Chartres, France
Our last night in Bern was dinner with a family from Bern International Church, it was refreshing to be in a house and have a good meal. Thanks Patty and family!
We made our way back to France to see my friends, Lois and Jean-Eyves, both of whom I meet in Japan. It was so much fun to catch up with them and meet their daughter and JE's family. We were treated to multiple courses at each meal and might have gained a few pounds. We took a tour of Chartres and went inside a famous cathedral. We ended our time there with a BBQ, swimming, and left with clean clothes. Thanks to Lois, JE, and family!
July 4:
In order to get to Italy we had to make our way through Paris. Due to some train scheduling, we spent a little more time at the station than usual and spent the fourth by the river. We met some new friends and had an international circle, a Canadian, Taiwanese, French, and the two of us. This made our wait much more pleasant.
July 5- July 8: Venice, Italy
Venice is by far our favorite place we have visited. The canals run throughout the city making it hard to navigate, we got lost in a thunderstorm and found shelter with about a dozen others. We took a boat ride to Murano and spent most of our time just taking it all in.
We will have pictures up eventually. We will have a limited amount on the blog, the majority will be on facebook.
Our last night in Bern was dinner with a family from Bern International Church, it was refreshing to be in a house and have a good meal. Thanks Patty and family!
We made our way back to France to see my friends, Lois and Jean-Eyves, both of whom I meet in Japan. It was so much fun to catch up with them and meet their daughter and JE's family. We were treated to multiple courses at each meal and might have gained a few pounds. We took a tour of Chartres and went inside a famous cathedral. We ended our time there with a BBQ, swimming, and left with clean clothes. Thanks to Lois, JE, and family!
July 4:
In order to get to Italy we had to make our way through Paris. Due to some train scheduling, we spent a little more time at the station than usual and spent the fourth by the river. We met some new friends and had an international circle, a Canadian, Taiwanese, French, and the two of us. This made our wait much more pleasant.
July 5- July 8: Venice, Italy
Venice is by far our favorite place we have visited. The canals run throughout the city making it hard to navigate, we got lost in a thunderstorm and found shelter with about a dozen others. We took a boat ride to Murano and spent most of our time just taking it all in.
We will have pictures up eventually. We will have a limited amount on the blog, the majority will be on facebook.
Monday, June 29, 2009
Week 6
June 23-29
Bern, Switzerland:
The train ride to Switzerland was one of the best yet. My first impression of Switzerland was how clean it is...then we walked in a store and were overwhelmed by a chocolate smell. It's been hard to resist, although we have given in a time or two.
We meet some folks from Tennessee, two girls, one had just graduated from Austin Peay.
They were making a similar trip around Europe.
Our favorite spot here was at a rose garden that overlooked the whole city. It was beautiful. We spent some time there reading.
We continue to do lots of walking on footpaths.
We've walked along the river to some smaller townships and the path into Bern from our campsite is a massive wooded park.
We were excited to find an international church in Bern. There was a potluck afterwards and we made some new friends and we were invited to diner the following night.
Bern, Switzerland:
The train ride to Switzerland was one of the best yet. My first impression of Switzerland was how clean it is...then we walked in a store and were overwhelmed by a chocolate smell. It's been hard to resist, although we have given in a time or two.
We meet some folks from Tennessee, two girls, one had just graduated from Austin Peay.
They were making a similar trip around Europe.
Our favorite spot here was at a rose garden that overlooked the whole city. It was beautiful. We spent some time there reading.
We continue to do lots of walking on footpaths.
We've walked along the river to some smaller townships and the path into Bern from our campsite is a massive wooded park.
We were excited to find an international church in Bern. There was a potluck afterwards and we made some new friends and we were invited to diner the following night.
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Week 5
June 14-22:
Our last day in Austria we hiked up the mountain in front of our campsite, a much bigger mountain. I was very excited to see a little restaurant appear out of nowhere about halfway up.
Austria Favorite:
Lisa: swimming in the river, hiking the mountains
Denise: the restaurant half way up the mountain
The next week we spent in Ventimiglia, Italy, on the Riviera, the coast of Italy bordering France.
We were there just in time for a festival of flowers and watched the 42nd annual parade. The floats were all made of flowers.
One day we visited small nearby villages of Dolceaqua, Isolabona, and Apricale. The cities were built on hillsides and the streets all cobblestone.
It was nice to be near the beach and relax, our campsite was just a small walk away. We also met a sweet old man named Lucky. He was staying at the campgrounds for the summer, as best we could tell he was a retired librarian, his English wasn't great and our Italian worse. He always seemed to be helping someone or feeding them. We were the recipients of ice cream, supper, and various other forms of food. He didn't like being told thanks because "friends don't have to say thanks", although I don't neccesarily agree it was nice to know he considered us friends.
Our last day in Austria we hiked up the mountain in front of our campsite, a much bigger mountain. I was very excited to see a little restaurant appear out of nowhere about halfway up.
Austria Favorite:
Lisa: swimming in the river, hiking the mountains
Denise: the restaurant half way up the mountain
The next week we spent in Ventimiglia, Italy, on the Riviera, the coast of Italy bordering France.
We were there just in time for a festival of flowers and watched the 42nd annual parade. The floats were all made of flowers.
One day we visited small nearby villages of Dolceaqua, Isolabona, and Apricale. The cities were built on hillsides and the streets all cobblestone.
It was nice to be near the beach and relax, our campsite was just a small walk away. We also met a sweet old man named Lucky. He was staying at the campgrounds for the summer, as best we could tell he was a retired librarian, his English wasn't great and our Italian worse. He always seemed to be helping someone or feeding them. We were the recipients of ice cream, supper, and various other forms of food. He didn't like being told thanks because "friends don't have to say thanks", although I don't neccesarily agree it was nice to know he considered us friends.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Week 4
June 7:
Went to a Catholic church in Waltenhofen. The church bells began ringing about thirty minutes before service. People inside were already gathering to pray. The inside of the church was beautiful.
After walking back to camp and having lunch by the lake we decided to take a walk. After about thirty minutes, we noticed some nasty clouds and headed back. We made it in the tent just in time. The thunderstorm was fairly heavy and eventually we noticed it had turned into a hail storm. We, and the tent, survived.
June 8:
Travel to Prague.
Germany Favorite:
Lisa: morning quiet time reading through Romans
Denise: the campsite near the lake with the mountainview
June 9:
Explored Prague including Prague Castle. The city was magnificent with unique architecture and winding cobblestone streets.
June 10:
Our campsite in Prague was quaint, basically the backyard of a sweet couple.
Today we went back into town to a bookstore and had coffee while catching up on the internet. It has cost money most places and sometimes hard to find.
June 11:
Travel to Innsbruck, Austria via Salzburg.
Met someone from Alabama on the train. They noticed the Auburn sweatshirt.
Setttled in at our campsite in a small township called Vols, not a great sign for me, but it turned out okay. The campsite is also a Pizzeria. :)
FYI: for non sports fans, Vols, is the nickname of a college sports team... but not my team.
June 12:
Went into Innsbruck. The town reminded me of San Fransico minus all the hills but with an incredible view of the Alps.
Ended the day with a cup of coffee at the campsite, did I mention the mountainview from the tent? Guess I was still excited about the pizza.
June13:
Hiked up the mountain behind our campsite, then relaxed by the glacier water river.
Returned back to camp to have pizza.
Went to a Catholic church in Waltenhofen. The church bells began ringing about thirty minutes before service. People inside were already gathering to pray. The inside of the church was beautiful.
After walking back to camp and having lunch by the lake we decided to take a walk. After about thirty minutes, we noticed some nasty clouds and headed back. We made it in the tent just in time. The thunderstorm was fairly heavy and eventually we noticed it had turned into a hail storm. We, and the tent, survived.
June 8:
Travel to Prague.
Germany Favorite:
Lisa: morning quiet time reading through Romans
Denise: the campsite near the lake with the mountainview
June 9:
Explored Prague including Prague Castle. The city was magnificent with unique architecture and winding cobblestone streets.
June 10:
Our campsite in Prague was quaint, basically the backyard of a sweet couple.
Today we went back into town to a bookstore and had coffee while catching up on the internet. It has cost money most places and sometimes hard to find.
June 11:
Travel to Innsbruck, Austria via Salzburg.
Met someone from Alabama on the train. They noticed the Auburn sweatshirt.
Setttled in at our campsite in a small township called Vols, not a great sign for me, but it turned out okay. The campsite is also a Pizzeria. :)
FYI: for non sports fans, Vols, is the nickname of a college sports team... but not my team.
June 12:
Went into Innsbruck. The town reminded me of San Fransico minus all the hills but with an incredible view of the Alps.
Ended the day with a cup of coffee at the campsite, did I mention the mountainview from the tent? Guess I was still excited about the pizza.
June13:
Hiked up the mountain behind our campsite, then relaxed by the glacier water river.
Returned back to camp to have pizza.
Sunday, June 7, 2009
Week 3
Sunday, May 31:
Went into Amsterdam. The city has an interesting mix of culture and rivers that flow throughout the city. We walked to the Anne Frank house and visited the Van Gogh museum.
Netherlands Favorite:
Lisa: rivers running through the city
Denise: the boat captain of "Out of the Blue"
June 1:
Travel to Germany on a holiday. Took some extra time but we made it.
June 2::
Visited Sachsenhausen Camp. One of the first concentration camps. As one of the tour guides explained to her group, it was her hope that visitors there would not let such a thing take place again, I couldn't help but wonder what was going through the minds of people at the time. I was also challenged and reminded of the verses in Philipians to always consider the needs of others above our own.
Our next stops were all parts of the history of the Berlin Wall. I think today made us both want to watch the History Channel. There are so many things I've forgotten from my history classes.
June 3:
Travel to Fussen, Germany, then on to Camp Brunnen, our favorite camping spot thus far.
Camping in the different cities has been a great way to meet people and see things we wouldn't normally encounter. Here we have had the pleasure of making friends with Katarina, who works in the campstore, and Bonnie, the beagle, whose family is always gracious in letting us pet their puppy.
The campsite is located between Schwangau and Fussen beside Lake Forggensee with a view of the Castles Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein.
Happy Birthday Patricia!
June 4:
Visited the town of Schwangau and bought groceries. We've been eating lots of sandwiches and oatmeal while traveling on a budget. I've learned to be careful when sending Lisa for snacks, she might show up with ricecakes. No worries, we have eaten well. We have a jetboil that boils water within a minute. We have had coffee, tea, made spaghetti with veggies, and boiled eggs.
June 5:
Visited the Castles. Both were very extravagent but we liked Hohenschwangau the best.
Happy Birthday Dale!
June 6:
Walked the footpath to Fussen. Took the rest of the day to relax.
Reflections: Our verse for the first month of travel is Philippians 1:6 "He who has begun a good work in you will continue it until the day of Christ" This seemed appropriate as Lisa and I are both in transition from one stage of life to another. She from college and searching for what is next. Myself from nine years of ministry in Cleveland and moving to Maine. God has proven faithful in the past and we are both confident of His guidance in the future.
For me the past month has been a whirlwind of emotion. Saying goodbye to nine years and looking forward to an incredible adventure. Seeing God answer the prayers of a family when Dennis and Patricia received their referral from China. However, at the same time two people very dear to me, Gary(campus minister) and Sheila (my mentor), lost their children, Megan and Samuel, to cancer. Two seperate familes which suffered an incredible loss but both families still trusting that God loves them and is continuing His work in them even throughout tragedy.
Went into Amsterdam. The city has an interesting mix of culture and rivers that flow throughout the city. We walked to the Anne Frank house and visited the Van Gogh museum.
Netherlands Favorite:
Lisa: rivers running through the city
Denise: the boat captain of "Out of the Blue"
June 1:
Travel to Germany on a holiday. Took some extra time but we made it.
June 2::
Visited Sachsenhausen Camp. One of the first concentration camps. As one of the tour guides explained to her group, it was her hope that visitors there would not let such a thing take place again, I couldn't help but wonder what was going through the minds of people at the time. I was also challenged and reminded of the verses in Philipians to always consider the needs of others above our own.
Our next stops were all parts of the history of the Berlin Wall. I think today made us both want to watch the History Channel. There are so many things I've forgotten from my history classes.
June 3:
Travel to Fussen, Germany, then on to Camp Brunnen, our favorite camping spot thus far.
Camping in the different cities has been a great way to meet people and see things we wouldn't normally encounter. Here we have had the pleasure of making friends with Katarina, who works in the campstore, and Bonnie, the beagle, whose family is always gracious in letting us pet their puppy.
The campsite is located between Schwangau and Fussen beside Lake Forggensee with a view of the Castles Hohenschwangau and Neuschwanstein.
Happy Birthday Patricia!
June 4:
Visited the town of Schwangau and bought groceries. We've been eating lots of sandwiches and oatmeal while traveling on a budget. I've learned to be careful when sending Lisa for snacks, she might show up with ricecakes. No worries, we have eaten well. We have a jetboil that boils water within a minute. We have had coffee, tea, made spaghetti with veggies, and boiled eggs.
June 5:
Visited the Castles. Both were very extravagent but we liked Hohenschwangau the best.
Happy Birthday Dale!
June 6:
Walked the footpath to Fussen. Took the rest of the day to relax.
Reflections: Our verse for the first month of travel is Philippians 1:6 "He who has begun a good work in you will continue it until the day of Christ" This seemed appropriate as Lisa and I are both in transition from one stage of life to another. She from college and searching for what is next. Myself from nine years of ministry in Cleveland and moving to Maine. God has proven faithful in the past and we are both confident of His guidance in the future.
For me the past month has been a whirlwind of emotion. Saying goodbye to nine years and looking forward to an incredible adventure. Seeing God answer the prayers of a family when Dennis and Patricia received their referral from China. However, at the same time two people very dear to me, Gary(campus minister) and Sheila (my mentor), lost their children, Megan and Samuel, to cancer. Two seperate familes which suffered an incredible loss but both families still trusting that God loves them and is continuing His work in them even throughout tragedy.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Week 2 cont.
May 24:
Played tennis with Heather, Sharon, and Anna near a quaint village near Jerome and Sharon's house.
Then took a footpath to another village where we rested and ate crisps while watching what appeared to be a classic tractor show.
We had dinner with Jon and Heather and afterwards watched Britain's Got Talent with Ellie, Alexandra, and Katie.
May 25:
Spent the day in London. Went to the National Gallery, Tate Modern, Covent Gardens, and visited fairy tale festival. .
We got back just in time to eat a great meal with the family, plus a few. Heather seems to always have a full house. Thanks to all of Lisa's family for treating us so well. We enjoyed being with you all.
England Favorite:
Lisa: playing tennis
Denise: the footpaths
May 26: travel to France
Made our way to Dover, England where we took a ferry to Calais, France. Walked to our campsite near the sea. Explored Calais, got fresh bread, and watched Lisa run for about an hour.
May 27:
Took a train to Paris. Took an hour walk to our campsite, with backpacks on.
May 28:
Went into Paris to see about our chances of getting into Roland Garros, the French Open. As luck would have it, we found the correct line and caught two night matches. Our favorite was Ferrero vs Kohlschreiber.
May 29:
Spent the day touring, or shall I say walking, Paris. We figured it up to about 13 miles or so. We will get pictures up as soon as possible.
We continue to be amazed at how God has blessed us, even in small ways of allowing us to meet some interesting people in the ticket line and the street vendor near Notre Dame Cathedral.
France Favorite:
Lisa: the French Open
Denise: the beach at Calais
May 30: travel to Netherlands
Played tennis with Heather, Sharon, and Anna near a quaint village near Jerome and Sharon's house.
Then took a footpath to another village where we rested and ate crisps while watching what appeared to be a classic tractor show.
We had dinner with Jon and Heather and afterwards watched Britain's Got Talent with Ellie, Alexandra, and Katie.
May 25:
Spent the day in London. Went to the National Gallery, Tate Modern, Covent Gardens, and visited fairy tale festival. .
We got back just in time to eat a great meal with the family, plus a few. Heather seems to always have a full house. Thanks to all of Lisa's family for treating us so well. We enjoyed being with you all.
England Favorite:
Lisa: playing tennis
Denise: the footpaths
May 26: travel to France
Made our way to Dover, England where we took a ferry to Calais, France. Walked to our campsite near the sea. Explored Calais, got fresh bread, and watched Lisa run for about an hour.
May 27:
Took a train to Paris. Took an hour walk to our campsite, with backpacks on.
May 28:
Went into Paris to see about our chances of getting into Roland Garros, the French Open. As luck would have it, we found the correct line and caught two night matches. Our favorite was Ferrero vs Kohlschreiber.
May 29:
Spent the day touring, or shall I say walking, Paris. We figured it up to about 13 miles or so. We will get pictures up as soon as possible.
We continue to be amazed at how God has blessed us, even in small ways of allowing us to meet some interesting people in the ticket line and the street vendor near Notre Dame Cathedral.
France Favorite:
Lisa: the French Open
Denise: the beach at Calais
May 30: travel to Netherlands
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Week 2
May 22:
Hung out in the commons. Ate dinner with Carolyn and Richard at a bangeledeshi restaurant.
May 23:
Had an incredible breakfast. Thanks Richard!
Went to Hazelmere to meet Lisa's family. The next few days we stayed with Heather.
In the afternoon we took a walk along the Thames from Henley to Marlow. The walk was about 6 miles of beautiful countryside. Mary came to pick us up after we wondered around Marlow for a while.
We settled in for the night while watching TV with Lisa's cousins.
Hung out in the commons. Ate dinner with Carolyn and Richard at a bangeledeshi restaurant.
May 23:
Had an incredible breakfast. Thanks Richard!
Went to Hazelmere to meet Lisa's family. The next few days we stayed with Heather.
In the afternoon we took a walk along the Thames from Henley to Marlow. The walk was about 6 miles of beautiful countryside. Mary came to pick us up after we wondered around Marlow for a while.
We settled in for the night while watching TV with Lisa's cousins.
Friday, May 22, 2009
White Rain
Some of you may be wondering about the name of our blog, White Rain. We came up with it based on the fact that white is a combination of all colors in the visible spectrum of light and represents purity. As God's love is reflected to all people everywhere, it is our prayer that throughout this trip we will be a reflection of His pure love to all whom we encounter.
Week 1
Day 1:
It's hard to believe we are on day 5, so much has already happened. We arrived safely in London on Tuesday morning. We were greeted by Carolyn, a friend of mine from Japan days. She and her husband have been incredible. They have spoiled us since we arrived.
Our first day we took a walk around the village, Chalfont St Peter, and took a footpath to neighboring Chalfont St Giles. On our way the path took us through several pastures, as this is not customary in the US I took the time to call Carolyn to make sure we were headed in the right direction. We encountered some folks making a similar journey, as well as some sheep and horses, and had to cross a small stream along the way. Upon our arrival we explored to find Milton's Cottage.
We managed to stay awake to accompany Carolyn to her house group from church, although Lisa did fall asleep almost falling out of her chair at one point. They spoke on fasting and the importance of incorporating the discipline in our lives.
Day 2:
Wednesday we took a bus and train into Windsor, home of Windsor Castle, strolled along the Thames River, crossed the foot bridge into Eton, relaxed at a coffee shop, meet up with Carolyn for dinner and dancing.
Yes, dancing, Ceroc to be more exact. Luckily, they teach you four basic moves before general dancing. I think we both caught on rather well.
Day 3:
Took most of the day to relax and catch up on some travel plans.
Finished the day with an incredible home cooked meal complete with roast, veggies, parsnips, and Yorkshire pudding.
Thanks Carolyn!
As I was headed to bed I checked my email to find that I'm an Aunt. My brother, Dennis and his wife got a referral from China including a picture of their long awaited child.
Day 4:
We headed back to wonder around the village. Just a few days into our journey it is apparent that this is for sure a trip of a lifetime!
It's hard to believe we are on day 5, so much has already happened. We arrived safely in London on Tuesday morning. We were greeted by Carolyn, a friend of mine from Japan days. She and her husband have been incredible. They have spoiled us since we arrived.
Our first day we took a walk around the village, Chalfont St Peter, and took a footpath to neighboring Chalfont St Giles. On our way the path took us through several pastures, as this is not customary in the US I took the time to call Carolyn to make sure we were headed in the right direction. We encountered some folks making a similar journey, as well as some sheep and horses, and had to cross a small stream along the way. Upon our arrival we explored to find Milton's Cottage.
We managed to stay awake to accompany Carolyn to her house group from church, although Lisa did fall asleep almost falling out of her chair at one point. They spoke on fasting and the importance of incorporating the discipline in our lives.
Day 2:
Wednesday we took a bus and train into Windsor, home of Windsor Castle, strolled along the Thames River, crossed the foot bridge into Eton, relaxed at a coffee shop, meet up with Carolyn for dinner and dancing.
Yes, dancing, Ceroc to be more exact. Luckily, they teach you four basic moves before general dancing. I think we both caught on rather well.
Day 3:
Took most of the day to relax and catch up on some travel plans.
Finished the day with an incredible home cooked meal complete with roast, veggies, parsnips, and Yorkshire pudding.
Thanks Carolyn!
As I was headed to bed I checked my email to find that I'm an Aunt. My brother, Dennis and his wife got a referral from China including a picture of their long awaited child.
Day 4:
We headed back to wonder around the village. Just a few days into our journey it is apparent that this is for sure a trip of a lifetime!
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