Drinks With Umbrellas

Why did I title my entry in such a way? Because this weekend will not be complete until I have some sort of drink that has a tiny umbrella in it. It is the epitome of relaxation and beachlife-- fruit punch is refreshing, but if you stick that little umbrella in there it immediately results in a change of lifestyle. If you are sitting up straight, you will immediately slouch back into your chair. If you are lying down, this peace comes over you and you could instantly take a nap if you wanted to. The power of the tiny umbrella.

We are leaving at 6:30 in the morning. DiMy (Mrs. Myhan) is taking us to the metro, where we will then go catch a bus. Throw a ferry in there and we are on our way to island bliss! I really hope this weekend turns out like we want it too, but if not-- it is still good to get away. I'm done with all my tests-- some I did good on-- some not so much-- but I am going to clear my head of all disappointments.


Tonight, after class was over, I felt like a bird that had just been let out of its cage. We all did. Card games started, movies began and I went out and played basketball against Ben. It is so beautiful outside and the weather is nice-- such a blessing! It was kind of cool, but I still continued to sweat profusely after playing Michael Jordan. He doesn't take it easy on me because I'm a girl, which is flattering and frustrating at the same time. Haha.

We have good talks while we're shooting around-- we talked about today's chapel some tonight. Dr. Hopper talked and once I got passed his dry, gruff humor I really understood what he was talking about. Dr. Hopper is one of those people that is hard to decipher-- he says things that are totally "non-old-person-like" which is unexpected and funny at the same time. He was talking about how it is okay to question God-- and that when we have questions who is better to go to then our maker? I feel like at Harding sometimes people put up these fronts of strength and I end up feeling like such a weakling. It was nice to hear David pour out his soul in Psalm 13 about his fears and frustrations with God. I have asked some of those same questions. I think that until we acknowledge our weakness, we will never appreciate the strength when we receive it. I think instead of giving people cookie cutter answers-- we should be real with them and let them see insecurity. Just some thoughts from my heart.

You know when you find out someone is super talented and you didn't know it-- that this light just glows around them from now on. That happened the other day. Dr. Hopper started playing the piano beautifully (he's amazing at it!) and then good 'ol Mr. Griff started singing this song. Oh my goodness. He is so so so good! I've heard him lead singing in chapel, but that just doesn't do much for displaying the extent of his skill. I was trying to study Greek with Jake, but he would get frustrated because I would venture off into a daze-- listening to the two of them create this wonderful collaboration of instrument and voice. I asked Kiwi (Mrs. Griff) if that is what made her fall in love with him and she just kind of turned pink, stuttered and avoided it altogether. I think that's a yes. Haha.

To close off this random collection of ideas, we might have internet at the hotel we stay at so I will try to keep in touch if possible. If not, I'll update you when I get back. Just pray for our safety! I am looking forward to this and I hope it exceeds my expectations! God Bless You!