Healing 2 The Nations International ~ Dr. Claudia R. Wintoch ~ Blog June 2010

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Monday, June 28, 2010

First Week Back Home

I arrived home in Mali on Tuesday night. I had slept extremely little on this long trip, and so my first two nights in Mali I slept 12 hours each - definitely a record, but I sure needed it!

The kids were all asleep Tue night, but Wed morning the little ones welcomed me warmly. Bakary (6) even had tears in his eyes. The older ones had to be told to come over and greet me.

It was sad not to see Eva at the airport, since she was spending her second night at the hospital. To this day we don't know what was wrong with her, and we keep passing by to try to pick up a written diagnosis that Eva needs for her insurance. On Wednesday, I was happy to go there to pick her up. She's been getting better every day, and is fine now.

I bought this waterslide in the US, and on Thursday we set it up for the first time. The kids loved it.

We also had two birthdays to celebrate that were overdue - Jonathan turned 2, and Hama 9. Hama is handicapped, can't walk, and is still on the level of a 3-4 year old mentally. So I baked a cake on Thursday, and we had a little party.

Jonathan didn't really know what was going on, but Hama had been asking when was his birthday for months, and he was very excited.

Hama was overjoyed over his new Malian clothes that he proudly wore for the service today.

Jonathan also liked his gifts.

Aren't they cute?

Two months ago we purchased quite a few pieces of furniture from a leaving missionary, and picked them up just a few days before my return. Also on Thursday, we put the pieces for the boys' living room in their places - and it looks great, so much better!

On Friday Kossi installed the kitchen cabinets that we had also purchased; they are in my current kitchen which is going to be the kitchen where they'll cook for everyone once everything's built.

Unfortunately I only took the picture after I had emptied out the shelves. These open shelves were all I had - the white one is actually a broken shelf on its head. On the right you can see that my kitchenware is now protected from the dust, and it looks so much neater. Yeah!

Paul preached on Saturday, and he did a good job as far as I've been told. He went to the village where he is the pastor on Sunday, but the people there had expected him on Saturday and were out on their fields to plant their crops.

The muezzin who got saved in May is not in town; he's planting crops in his village of origin. Paul has talked to him on the phone, and found out that he's attending a church there.

I'm looking forward to Christian's arrival in just a week. The children definitely have too much time on their hand, now that it's summer holiday, and I believe he has some great ideas for keeping them busy.

I've had so much work waiting for me after my return, and so I've been working hard on reducing the mountain of stuff to do, and have made good progress, thank God. I have also had some good moments with my children.

Paul's father was taken to hospital today, but the doctors can't do anything for him any more. He wants to go home and die there. Thankfully he gave his life to the Lord a few months ago. Please pray for Paul (son), Elisabeth (wife), and his whole family.

Pray also for me. I don't like being in this burned-out state. I've never before come back from a trip to the US the same way I left.

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Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Eva Still In Hospital

Eva started having pain on Saturday. On Monday afternoon she finally decided to go to the hospital when the pain became too much and affected her breathing. Paul told me that they did some tests, but couldn't find anything. They decided to keep her over night.

During the night the pain increased again, and moved from her right side to the area of her heart. Sounds like this could be spiritual. They are now keeping her for longer, and we don't know for how long. I'm glad that the founder of the clinic himself is taking care of Eva, since he was formed in the West and knows what he is doing (an exception).

Please pray for Eva! I hope I'll be up to visiting her in the hospital tomorrow.

Sleepless Trip

I first had a 3-hour flight from Denver to Atlanta. I'd had to get up very early after a short night. The lady who took me to the airport unfortunately got a speeding ticket on the way; she was 60 and it was the first one of her life!

In Atlanta I had quite a few hours of waiting in the lounge. My plane finally left there at 9 pm.

The plane was full, and I had a big man next to me. He soon feel asleep, and I had to deal with not only his arm, but his leg being on my side and touching me very unpleasantly. That went on forever. When he woke up at one point, I made him aware of that, and it was better the rest of the trip. In any case, I didn't sleep but watched 3 and a half movies. We arrived in Paris at 3:30 am Denver time.

I had 5 hours to wait in Paris. I went to the lounge and headed straight to the "quiet" room where there are 4 beds. I was happy to see a free one. The happiness didn't last long. There were two Malians in the room, and they were talking loudly with each other. I finally had enough and made them aware that speaking was not allowed there. They didn't care, and kept talking. So I left the room. No sleep for now!

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Monday, June 21, 2010

Really Time To Go Home!

After one month away it's really time for me to go home. I feel like I've been gone forever.

I've had an amazing last week in Colorado Springs, some of which is reflected in part of my latest email update you can read here. I'm also going to write more about it in an upcoming blog. For now, a few pictures from this week below.

I'm leaving from Denver airport today to start my long trip back home to Mali, where I arrive Tuesday night. Please pray for a safe trip, favor, all luggage to arrive, and no problems at customs. Pray also for grace to face what is awaiting me, and a quick transition. I need your prayers!

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Sunday, June 20, 2010

Surprise Week Colorado Springs

What a week it's been! Even weeks before I left for the US, when I was planning my trip, I felt that there was a fourth week somewhere, but couldn't figure out where God wanted me to go. So I dropped it.

During my second week - in Pasadena, CA - the thought that He wanted me in Colorado Springs came up, and was confirmed by the CO pastor. I knew that was it, and sacrificially changed my plane ticket and added one. I thought it would be one week of real rest before heading back to Mali, as this whole trip has been crazily busy, and I was getting even more tired than I had already been coming from Mali. Well, maybe the saying is true: There'll be plenty of time to rest in heaven. Still, I don't want to get there earlier than planned.

The Lord surely had a plan for my week in CO - and He blew me away, as He directed my steps and made a dream come true, a deep desire of my heart (see my email update here). Amazing!

Not only did He give me my dream kitchen, and sent us a professional to come over to Mali to help with some facets of construction. He also connected me with a beautiful, missions-minded, loving, church that is truly a family.

A short overview:

I spent the first three nights in the hotel, which actually turned out to be rather depressing while alone in the hotel. I guess I'd had enough of hotels, and there were some issues in Mali that seemed to zap the life out of me even more. I was glad when I moved to my friend's house on Thursday.

I did enjoy the little swimming pool and whirlpool in the hotel; unfortunately there was no fitness room.

I was happy when I was picked up on the evening of my first full day to be taken to Covenant of Faith church - whose fault it was that I was in Colorado Springs ;-). The church had gathered to celebrate the pastor's 30 years in ministry, and his wife's birthday.

The pastor said a few words, and surprised me by introducing me to the congregation. I was embarrassed by his words, and when he had me stand up and wouldn't let me sit down. Even more when quite a few people stood up giving me a standing ovation; I didn't deserve that.

I had a divine appointment that night with a young lady who is going to Africa on her own, more or less, and I was able to give her some insight and advice. On Wednesday she took me to a ladies' evening with her, a Greek-themed night with some ladies, where we had a great time.

I was also very happy that the pastor got me into the Y so I could work out in the fitness center there. Even more, we had lunch together, which was a great time to get to know each other more.

On Tuesday I received an email that a container going to Mali was only half-full, and they were asking who would have anything to put into it. I immediately thought of the kitchen I had been dreaming about. I emailed them back, but didn't hear anything.

When my friend Carolyn picked me up on Thursday, we thought we'd just check at Home Depot for kitchens, just in case. It was a long shot for sure. We didn't have much luck there, but went to Lowe's next. Bingo! A nice lady there put the kitchen together on paper, and told us there was only one store that had the kitchen in stock that I liked. They were not manufacturing it any more.

On our way home we got together with someone Carolyn knows; a builder with his own business who has a heart for missions. He immediately said he would come do all the wiring and plumbing in Mali! Wow! He also gave advice on the kitchen.

On Friday we went to the other Lowe's store, and it was a miracle that they had all pieces for my kitchen! It looked like one was missing, but in the end they had exactly one left. The builder - Tom - had a canceled appointment and could come as well, and we realized we couldn't have done it without him. He knew exactly what was needed.

So we got everything together, adding a bathtub, bathroom sinks and mirrors. I was getting a little concerned about the cost. The store employee was extremely nice, and thanks to her, the manager gave me 10% off. Thanks to the church here in CO, I didn't have to pay sales tax. I saved $1000 thanks to this fact.

I actually paid for everything right there and then. It had been a whirlwind! Tom said he'd pick up everything the following day. And on Wednesday he's starting his drive to Charlotte, NC, where the container leaves from. God had told him two weeks ago that he was going to Charlotte - now he knew why. Awesome!

Before going home, we went to an IMAX 3D theater and watched TOY STORY 3. It was cool. By the time we got home late, I was totally exhausted and felt like the day had lasted 50 hours.

On Saturday I was glad I had the morning off, which gave me an opportunity to send out my email update. At 2:30 pm the pastor and his family picked me up at my friend's house. We went out to eat, and then to the church office. We had a wonderful time together, just talking, fellowshipping. I was totally blown away at how much time they were giving me - pastor, wife, and son. What an amazing family, and an amazing church!

It looks like God has called this church to stand with me, support me, pray for me, send helpers to Mali. Thank You, Lord!

They took me home in the evening, after a wonderful afternoon together.

On Sunday it was time for the service. Saturday night I had found out how much I had to pay for the kitchen appliances and transport of everything to NC, and I played through all the options in my mind, not able to fall asleep for the longest time. In addition, I had to get up early for church. So I ended up being really exhausted Sunday morning, and not very functional.

We arrived at church early, and I gave the tech guy my video presentation. My friend and I sat down in the second row; it was pretty cold there, the airconditioning blowing on me. I didn't get a chance to say hello to the pastor. I was so tired, I was wondering how I'd make it through the service, and even more so, share a few minutes.

The pastor was leading worship this morning. It was definitely a somewhat different style of worship. I was trying to enter in, and stay awake.

Then they started singing a song, offering ourselves completely to the Lord to be used for His kingdom. When we started singing that, it reminded me of my early years, how often I had prayed these kind of prayers, and I was convicted. God convicted me of selfishness - discouragement, disappointments, frustrations.... it's really all about ME. The songs - the songs following stayed with the theme - reminded me how I used to care only about what GOD wanted. It was really all about HIM, and HIS kingdom in Mali. I'm totally insignificant in the picture.

I wept before Him, asking His forgiveness, and His peace filled me. I was lying outstretched on the floor. I was sad when worship time was over, and surprised an hour had passed. I slowly made myself sit down on my chair.

After some other stuff it was my turn. The pastor introduced me, and then the video was shown. Then I came up to speak, and I shared how I ended up in Mali. In the end I testified to what God had just done, feeling prompted to do so, though it was pretty humbling in front of a church I was in front of for the first time.

The pastor came back up, said a few words, and then prayed for me. I was very blessed.

Before the pastor started preaching, there was a time of saying hello to people, and several people came up to me. Everyone was really nice.

Then I was looking forward to hearing the pastor preach for the first time. It was good, and God spoke to me more. After the service, I spoke with a lot of people. I was glad to see that all my remaining folders and DVDs were gone.

Finally it was time to say good-bye to the pastor and his wife. I was amazed to realize how much I had come to love these people here during my short time, as it was extremely hard to say good-bye. Constant good-byes to people I love are my life! I left with a heavy heart.

The afternoon was spent with my hosts' family who came to celebrate Father's Day. We had steak, and other good food, and fellowship. Later in the afternoon Carolyn showed them my video presentation. After the family was gone, I still watched the documentary FURIOUS LOVE.

It was late when I started packing. I enjoyed high speed internet for the last time as well. Finally I went to sleep at my usual time. In the morning it was time to leave for the airport to return home to Mali.

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Saturday, June 19, 2010

Construction Update

The picture on the left is from June 13, the picture on the right from today. You can tell they've just poured the concrete on the roof.

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Monday, June 14, 2010

Parting

Paul's hosts brought Paul over to my hotel, and we loaded our many bags into the rental car. At noon we left on the 2.5 hour drive to Atlanta. We returned the car, and it was a huge challenge moving our 4 suitcases and 4 carry-ons without a car - to the train, to the terminal, to the check-in counter. At least the guy there was very nice.

We had a good number of hours left to wait. I accompanied Paul to his gate and left him there when I had to go to my own gate. I later learned that his flight to Paris was overbooked by 5 people, and he was chosen to be kicked off. Thankfully he was able to convince them to let him stay on the plane. Paul arrived in Mali Tuesday night - but his suitcase didn't.

My flight to Denver was about 3 hours. In GA I had needed air condition, in CO I needed heating! It was very cold. My friend picked me up. It looked like my suitcase hadn't made it to CO, but we later found it among the oversized baggage.

We had about one hour to drive to my hotel, and I greatly enjoyed talking to her. On Thursday I'm moving in with her; it wasn't possible for the first three nights.

I have decided not to write a daily blog this week. I'll write a summary with pictures at the end of the week.

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Sunday, June 13, 2010

Overcomers Church & Gathering

It was tough getting up the earliest of all week. I did have some time after breakfast, and continued updating the maps of my GPS which I had started last night. It took so long however that I aborted the process.

I left to pick up Paul and then go to church. When I turned on my GPS for directions, all the US maps were gone. I was shocked. Since I had not finished the update, it had obviously removed the old maps and not yet put the new maps. Great!

I called Paul's hosts to ask them to take Paul to church, and returned to my room to finish the update. Well, it was taking forever, and the clock was ticking. I finally realized I would have to abandon this and make my way to church without it. I was glad to discover that the church was not far and easy to find.

So I arrived at church just in time and set up my flyers and DVDs, and gave one DVD to the tech guys. I greeted the pastor and a few other people, and the service started.

After an hour of worship, announcements, and offering, it was our turn. I first showed the DVD and then gave an update. Then I introduced Paul, and he came up to preach. He wanted me to pray for him before he started.

Paul then had about 40 minutes to preach. He preached on peace - the one Jesus gives versus the one the world seeks. He did a good job. People were edified and blessed.

At the end he prayed for a few people. Then the service was over.

We said our good-byes, and left to go have lunch at the mall's foodcourt. We had a nice time with our friends. I then returned to the hotel, and put the US maps back on the GPS; unfortunately at the expense of the Europe maps for some reason.

At 4 pm I had to be at Paul's hosts' house since one family could only come then and had to leave at 5. We visited with them, and then talked to Eva and the kids in Mali. At 7 pm the visitors showed up for the informal time we had announced for people to come meet with us. I showed pictures from Mali, we shared, and then everyone prayed for us. I got back to the hotel around 10 pm. And then it was time to pack! Once again, it was really late before I finally went to bed.

Back in Mali, our driver has left our center since school is gone, and his days were numbered. It was hard on the kids; he was with us for half a year.

And Eva finally had her hair braided; it was finally long enough to do it, adding artificial hair. It's very painful, and she wasn't able to sleep the first few nights. We feel for you, but it was your choice! ;-)

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Saturday, June 12, 2010

Paul At The Zoo

I was very tired when the alarm woke me at 9:15; once again I had gone to bed too late. I went to have breakfast, and then waited for my friends to show up to take us to the zoo.

We left town around 1 pm to drive for one hour to Columbia, South Caroline, where the zoo ist located. It's been one of Paul's dreams to see real elephants, but so far it had not worked out. So maybe today?

It was a hot day, and there were lots of people at the zoo. We had our hosts' 2-year-old grandson with us as well.

We headed right to the elephants, and Paul's dream was fulfilled. He was excited at the sight of the 4 elephants.

We saw many other animals as well. Like a very impressive gorilla.

Then there were giraffes, and birds, lions, and cows and turkeys. We also got to watch the feeding of penguins, which was cool. Paul was impressed by the penguins. The zoo wasn't really big, but it was really very nice.

After two and a half hours of walking around we got back into the car to drive back home. It had been a nice time.

At first I took advantage of having some time with Paul to talk about different things. But soon I just closed my eyes and dozed off. I really needed that.

At 6:30 pm I was dropped off at my hotel, and I was really glad to have a quiet evening off in my room. I had a nice evening of watching TV and being online, and decided I needed to go to bed earlier since I had to get up the earliest yet tomorrow morning. Paul is preaching at a local church.

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Friday, June 11, 2010

Errands & Steak

Last night I had finally gotten to bed earlier, and I set my alarm for this morning for 9:15 am. It was very hard to get up, but I forced myself. And so, after three mornings of missing breakfast, I finally had breakfast at the hotel for the first time this morning. It was really good.

Eva was not online this morning, plus there was no email or activity of hers on Facebook, so I was a little concerned. I had to wait until 4 pm before I had contact with her.

I left home befoer 11 am to start my errands. From the bank, to the gas station, and then to where Paul was staying. I picked him up, and off we went. I still had half my list from Mali to take care off.

We started with the fabric store where I wanted to buy specific fabric for flags for our kids to use in worship. They only had the colors gold and silver; better than nothing. Paul was amazed.

We then went to a health food store; it was a strange world for Paul.

Next came Best Buy and Office Depot. Between the two stores was a bridal store, and I was excited to take Paul inside. Paul was totally blown away! He loved it! He said the prices in Mali are the same. I saw one dress I loved myself! Maybe I should have bought it in advance ;-). Paul told me he'd have me buy the dress for his fiancée, after taking her measures.

Next came Home Depot; I knew it would be totally mind-blowing to Paul, and it was. He was amazed at how big and high everything was. We walked through all the aisles. I saw beautiful kitchens I wished I could buy for my house. Also showers, stoves, sinks, lamps, etc etc. It was cool.

After we were done with our errands we returned to the hotel to carry all the bags up. Thankfully I had packed a lot last night already, so it had given me an idea how much room was left. It was 3 pm. I had a bite to eat, and Paul turned on the TV to watch the soccer World Cup that had just started. I can tell he's passionate about soccer!

By 4 pm we arrived at Paul's hosts' house; they were not home. I turned on my computer, and finally talked to Eva. This is the first trip that I've had video both ways, and that's been wonderful.

Our hosts finally returned; I needed to work on the blueprints for our (work)shop corner of our base with the architect. Time was very short, but we got a little done. Really, most is done.

At 7 pm we left to go to a steakhouse that our hosts wanted to invite us to. It was pretty cool; free peanuts everywhere, and great steak to look at as you can see in the picture. Paul was very excited!

My friend Christy and her family came as well. So we had a great time with good food and fellowship. At 9 pm we said our good-byes. I returned to their house with them, and got into my rental car to return to the hotel. I was tired, and looking foward to a few quiet hours at home. Planning to go to bed "early" again. Tomorrow we're hitting the zoo; hopefully Paul gets to see his beloved elephants tomorrow. As the architect said - an African who has to come to the US to see his own animals! Pretty funny!

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Thursday, June 10, 2010

Thrift Store & Pool

Today I got up at 11 am again after 8 hours of sleep. I left home at 1:30 pm to go pick up Paul. Paul's host needed a ride, so I waited for her to get ready, and Paul to get ready, and then we finally left.

After dropping her off, we continued on to the Thrift store that Paul had so been looking forward to. He wanted to buy clothes for himself and for his family. He was eagerly looking everywhere. In the picture, he's put on a lady's hat. He was pretty successful, spending most of his money.

It was already 4 pm, and we went straight to the Y to go swimming. Paul loves swimming, and we learned that there was a waterslide there. Thanks to our friends, we were able to get in for free. They had lots of water fun for children, and Paul loved it.

He also got on the slide, and slid down quite a few times. He obviously had fun!

We also went inside to the big swimming pool where I swam a few laps, and Paul practiced swimming. He's doing pretty good already!

At 6 pm we left, and I took Paul home. I was looking forward to a quiet evening in the hotel room. I'm planning on going to bed earlier tonight.

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Wednesday, June 9, 2010

At The Lake

I woke up at 11 am this morning - an hour earlier than yesterday - and after 8 hours of sleep. I had missed breakfast again. I had to leave the hotel at 12:15 to go pick up Paul. He was pretty much ready, and we left; I hadn't realized that we had 38 minutes of driving ahead of us.

So we arrived a few minutes after 1 pm at our friends' house for lunch. Paul was excited to find out that they were grilling steaks. We had a nice dinner with steak and salad and dessert.

I was ready for a nap, but instead we went down to the lake for a boat ride. Their dog was coming along too - another dog for Paul to love on.

Our friends have their own boat, and Paul was very excited to go on a FAST boat; it's only his third boat ride ever. He got to steer the boat for quite a bit, and he went really fast! He loved it. And I loved it too, standing on the boat, with the wind brushing by your face, and the water and forests around you!

We stopped by a gas station to fill up the boat - that was a first for both of us. After quite some time on the boat, we returned home, and docked the boat. Our friends suggested they'd pray for us right there on the boat before going back to the house. We agreed. While they were praying, my phone rang. I looked and saw that it was a call from Mali, so I picked up. It was Eva, asking me when I could be online to talk since there was a crisis. I told her we could be on in an hour. What was going on now???

So we said our good-byes and got into our car to return to the hotel. We would have left a half hour later anyway. None of us spoke, wondering what was going on in Mali.

We got there at 5:30 pm, and Eva was already waiting for us to come on. So we started talking, and talked the whole 45 minutes we had before having to leave for church.

I was ready for the worst - which helped, since that way the situation didn't seem AS big as I had feared. Still, it was bad enough and very disappointing.

The Sanctuary

I had changed in the midst of our talking, and Paul as well. We left before 6:30 pm to drive to church where we'd share. It was the first time I saw their new building. It looked great. I was disappointed the pastor and his wife were out of town.

I set up our stuff in the foyer, and someone gave us a tour of the facility. At 7 pm the one-hour mid-week service started. The youth group was leading worship, and it was wonderful. Then they showed my 10-min video presentation, and then I came up to share. After some minutes of sharing, I asked Paul to come up and talk to the people. He did a great job. I then finished up.

The young pastor who was there closed the meeting by praying for us, then the meeting was over.

It was Paul's host's birthday, and so we all went to Dairy Queen together. It was great to see my friend Christy again, as well as her two boys. Paul and I got something to eat that was not ice-cream since we had not had dinner. We had a nice time with the people there.

It was going on 10 pm when we all left to go home. I was sure ready! I was hoping to get to bed before 3 am tonight, but right now it doesn't look like I will.

Building Progress

Starting work on the roof:
June 4 - June 6 - June 9

Different perspectives - June 9:

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Tuesday, June 8, 2010

Slow Day With Errands

I woke up at 10 am after 8 hours of sleep, but was still tired, and stayed another 2 hours. 10 hours in bed! Wow, it's been a while! I was really thankful I had no appointments this morning and nowhere to be. I didn't care that I missed breakfast; sleep was a priority.

I took it easy, took a wonderful bath, and at 3 pm I finally left the hotel. I was really getting hungry! Thankfully there are lots of fast food restaurants in this area, and so I picked up my favorite salad from McDonald's, and then continued on my way to our friends' house where Paul is staying.

I had my salad there, and Paul also had some food. We were talking with our host, and I mentioned that I would have liked for Paul to go to a dermatologist. So she got right on the phone, and was able to get an appointment 45 minutes later! Wow!

So at 3:45 pm we left the house to drive to the doctor's office. The picture shows Paul outside his office. We waited in the waiting room, and I had to fill out papers for Paul. Finally it was our turn.

The doctor looked at Paul's face, and felt around his face and head. It's not the black spots that are the problem, but the bumps he has that are pre-cancerous. The doctor decided to take care of those by freezing them. So he got this bottle out and started freezing spots all over Paul's face and ear. Paul said it was very painful. The doctor said the resulting blisters would heal in 2-3 weeks, and then nice skin would result. He also told Paul he needs to stay out of the sun totally, and always wear long sleeves and hats that cover everything. The doctor was really nice.

From the dermatologist we went to the dollar store to start our planned shopping tour. Paul had confused the dollar store with the thrift store, and I promised him we'd still do the thrift store later this week. We continued on to Walmart, where I got two cheap duffel bags to become our luggage #3 and #4 for all the stuff to go back to Mali, plus some other stuff and groceries. Time was going by so fast - it was already 7:30 pm when we left there.

We went to the hotel, and carried all our purchases to my room. Paul was amazed when he saw how big the room was; it's a suite. Then we left again so I could take Paul back to his hosts' house. I was getting pretty tired again. So I dropped Paul off, exchanged a few words with his host, and left to return to the hotel. It's 15 minutes away.

Back at the hotel, I was looking forward to a quiet, restful evening. It was exciting to get to watch "Losing It With Jillian Michael's" live on TV, instead of on the internet later, and I had some good food we had bought. The hours passed quickly until it turned 2 am, and so it's time to go to bed.

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Monday, June 7, 2010

From California To Georgia

After a few hours of sleep my alarm woke me at 7:30 am. My back was touching the ground as the air mattress didn't have enough air in it, and I was hurting a little. I packed up my stuff, got some tea, and at 8:15 am it was time to say good-bye and leave the house. Our host was so kind to drive us to somebody else's house who was also going to the airport. There we said good-bye to him too.

We arrived at the airport two hours before our flight - perfect. We checked in, went through security, and then to McDonald's for breakfast. Then we went to the gate, and asked to be seated next to each other on the plane, and they were able to make the change.

At noon we left Los Angeles. We had over 4 hours of flight ahead of us, and instead of live TV, they had movies on board. So both of us took advantage of that service.

It was after 7 pm when we arrived in Atlanta on time. This picture was taken at the airport there.

We went to the baggage claim area, and waited forever for our bags. Once we got them, we followed the signs to the rental car facility. Obviously, they had recently built a new facility and changed everything. We had to take a train to the rental facility.

In Kansas City I had been very happy with Hertz, but in Atlanta I was disappointed. I expected southern friendliness, but the guy was pretty unfriendly. We walked to our car in the huge rental facility with so many cars. This time we had a small and old-fashioned car with nothing automatic. Nothing like last time!

The guy at the barrier when we left the rental area was not friendly either. What happened to Georgian friendliness?

My GPS did not know yet that everything had changed, but eventually we found the highway and were on our way to Augusta. According to the GPS we had 2 hours 22 minutes ahead of us. At one point we stopped for some food, as we had not received anything but peanuts on the plane. Then we continued on our way. I talked to Paul's hosts on the phone. We were still on Californian time, and so it didn't feel that late, though I was VERY tired and felt like it was in the middle of the night. I hd to stop and get some ice-cream, hoping it would wake me up a little so I could keep driving.

It was 11:15 pm when we pulled up at our friends' house. We unloaded Paul's stuff, and I didn't stay long to talk, wanting to get to the hotel. It was 15 minutes away, and I got there around midnight. I had to unload the car by myself, and get the stuff up to the room. No easy feat, especially with the big door I had to get through.

When I entered the room, I was amazed at the size. It was actually a suite. When I had booked it online, I was given the option of getting the suite for the same price, so I took it. I was pleasantly surprised. A big living room, a kitchenette, big bathroom, and a bedroom. I started unpacking, and turned on my computer. It was time to book my plane ticket to Denver. I'm excited.

I worked until 2 pm. I was looking forward to sleeping in, without any appointments or places to be in the morning.

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Sunday, June 6, 2010

Last Conference Day

I worked late last night - until 3 am - which wasn't very wise, but I got stuff done. I woke up before my alarm rang, but got up when it did at 9:30 am. I was tired, made some tea, and started packing. I wanted to leave the hotel at 10:15 to get to church at 10:30 for the service, but there wasn't really enough time. I checked out, and left my bags at the hotel.

I walked over to church where I arrived at 10:45. The sanctuary was full, and Paul was there waiting for me, with worship in full swing. I joined him. After worship, and communion, the pastor came up to preach. I started interpreting for Paul again. We were sitting in the very back. Suddenly the main administrative guy came up to me, and asked us to leave the sanctuary because people were disturbed by me interpreting for Paul. I couldn't believe my ears. First we were sent to the back of the building, and now we were sent to the overflow room, to sit in front of a screen. We didn't need to come all the way here for that; could have watched it online in Mali!

Tears were flowing as I told Paul. At first he said it's okay, he didn't need the translation. But I know that even understanding over 50% is not good enough. I was glad when he agreed to go to the overflow room with me, so I could interpret for him. I was very disappointed, though.

So I sat in front of the screen and interpreted for Paul, and I was really glad that I did, because the sermon was important, and he needed to understand 100%.

After the service was over, the question was what to do, and how to get home. It seemed that everyone who was staying at the house we are staying at was going to lunch or somewhere else. So there was no ride. Our hosts then arranged for someone to drop us off. I was somewhat disappointed that there was no one to go have lunch with. But I was looking forward to a few hours off.

Thankfully I had some food left over that I had for lunch. Paul boiled himself some eggs; I was surprised he knew how to make the stove work.

And we talked with Mali; for over an hour. Talked with Eva, and we dealt with a few more situations with the boys that needed to be dealt with. Time went by fast.

Paul then went into the hot tub, and I got so tired, I stretched out on the couch, since there was no other place for that. Once again I lay there dead, like a stone, which showed me how exhausted I was. At 4:45 pm I had to get up and get ready. Paul was still in the hot tub, and I told him it was time. We were the only ones in the house.

Our hosts had been so kind to let us use their other nice car to get to church and back tonight. They had given me instructions where to find the key, etc. We went into the garage, and I wanted to start the car, but it wouldn't. Nothing worked. I couldn't reach our hosts on the phone, so I called a friend who's a mechanic. Thank God, he told me what to do, and it worked! I had thought we'd have to stay and miss the last meeting. That would have been quite a blow.

We arrived at church just in time for the meeting, and got our seats in the back. I was hoping there'd be fewer people, so that we could stay in the sanctuary. The worship was beautiful, but I didn't have the strength to stand for long and really enter in.

Cindy Jacobs was the speaker for the night, and were looking forward to hearing her. Thankfully, it wasn't all full, and so we could stay, even though I interpreted. Her preaching was powerful, and stirring, and Paul got really excited. I loved it too.

At the end of the meeting, Cindy was praying for healing, and many miracles happened. I went to the bathroom, and then sat down outside to listen to my voicemail. I didn't care to go back inside. Paul joined me on his way back from the bathroom. He was talking how much he'd like to talk to Cindy, and how disappointed he was when she didn't pray for us the other night. I was very discouraged myself. What a week this has been! I just wanted to leave and go home, but I didn't want to rob Paul of even the slightest chance of getting to talk to Cindy. So we went back inside, and waited until they were done. But Cindy stayed on the platform, and was unavailable. I told Paul I was sorry, and suggested we'd go home.

We walked outside, and there was an old friend standing there. He greeted us and asked how we were. I can't say "fine" when I'm not. I started talking with him, and he tried to encourage me. He introduced his friend to us who came over, who was a guy from Uganda. He asked where we were from, and he's even been to Austria before. He told me someone in his church is called to Mali, and that he needed to get us in touch with him.

The Ugandan was very interested in hearing what we do, and seemed very sensitive and perceptive. We all walked towards the parking lot talking. Over there we stopped, and the Ugandan suddenly suggested they'd pray for me. I had shared transparently where I was at, and he was very understanding. So both of them started praying for me - and they were right on! The Ugandan broke off some things in the spirit, and the American prayed for God to fill me with joy. I couldn't help starting to smile. Their prayers made such a difference! I felt so much better!

When they stopped praying, my voice broke as I told them this was the first time someone prayed for me during the past few days here in Pasadena. I later realized it was actually the second. I was very thankful to them. I told them I was about to leave here totally discouraged, and thanks to them, that had been turned around. They believed it was a divine appointment, and I could not deny that it definitely was! Thank You, God, that You care!

We got into the car and drove home. I really felt better, and tried to encourage Paul and share some wisdom about how I deal with these situations.

At 9:45 pm we arrived at home, and got a little something to eat. I turned on my computer, and had a major issue with it for the second time. I hope it's not dying!

Slowly everyone started arriving. I was then told that they'd pray for me. And so they did. One of the Australian ladies was spot on with her prayer.

Then they went on praying for each other, and I returned to my computer. At midnight I grabbed my stuff and went to my room to continue working. I sure hope I won't stay up that late tonight, as we have to get up early to go to the airport.

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Saturday, June 5, 2010

God Has The Answer

I set my alarm for 9 am though I expected to wake up early as always. I had gone to bed at 1:30 am last night. I was surprised that I actually needed the alarm clock - and I hit the snooze button a few times. I felt so tired, wished I could sleep a few more hours. The bed at the hotel is really comfortable, and the curtains shut out all light. I finally got up but had a headache, and thought about taking some tylenol as I've had to do before these past few days. All I need is to catch up on sleep.

I left the hotel at 9:45 to walk over to church. The first meeting was at 10 am. The one advantage of sitting in the last row with Paul - no more coming early for a good seat!

I found Paul already there. And he had some interesting stuff to tell me.

Last night he soon fell asleep after he got home. But the Australians had promised to pray over him, so they woke him up at midnight, and prayed and prophesied over him. I had given Paul my voice recorder to have a recording, and I'll have to transcribe it for him. He said what they said was awesome.

During the night, he had three dreams that he all told me. He said one of the dreams really shocked him. In this dream God sent him a group of children to be in his care that were very difficult. He was very frustrated with them, and realized he could handle them only with prayer. He needed prayer for this to work out. So he started praying, and suddenly things calmed down with those difficult kids. And then God spoke to him, and He said, "You are like these difficult children." Paul was shocked. He said he had never seen himself as difficult before. Then Paul apologized to me for his behavior yesterday, and said he wanted to do a TPM session to take care of the root of this. Hallelujah! It comforted me to know that God sees the frustration and pain caused by Paul, and that He DOES have a way of dealing with it. I'm praying things will change now.

Jack Hayford taught the morning session. He talked about the three doors in Revelation, and us having a little strength, but God having a lot of strength. I was amazed that one of Paul's three dreams was also about doors. Paul saw himself standing on the top of a ladder, and several doors on the landing the ladder was leading to. He was scared, but God gave him a gentle push onto the landing. He walked to the first door to open it. I can't remember how it continued. I just remember that Paul said God told him he had started a new season.

The session ended at noon, and we had a lunch appointment with friends and fellow missionaries. We drove to an American restaurant, and had a great time talking. Paul got to share quite a bit.

Then my friends dropped me off at the hotel, and then they returned to church for a Bible School graduation ceremony. Paul went with them.

I was glad for a short break in my hotel room. Rather than going to the swimming pool, I enjoyed my first bath on this trip. It was awesome! I miss having a bathtub!

I also talked to Eva, and she told me she's had a wonderful two days in Mali. She also told me some not so good things.

At 4:30 pm I got a call from a pastor friend who we had an appointment with. He was supposed to bring Paul with him, but had been unable to find him at church. I later learned that someone had been talking with Paul who then forgot all about the appointment, and somehow the pastor didn't see him.

So I went to the Cheesecake Factory with this pastor friend who I hadn't seen in years, and in whose church in Hungary I've preached at before. He's a wonderful man of God, and I enjoyed the hour we had. I also had great food - a wonderful salad I'd love to eat every time.

Time went by fast. It was after 5:30 pm when I left the restaurant to walk back to church. At 6 pm I joined Paul in the sanctuary, having missed the first half hour of worship. My favorite worship leader was leading worship, and he was singing my favorite song. For the first time I entered into worship.

Jack Hayford was doing the evening meeting, and I interpreted for Paul who enjoyed it. The meeting ended at 8 pm already. Paul and I started talking seriously, when we were interrupted, and he had to leave.

Before I left, another HIM pastor came up to me, and asked me whether I felt better. Then he told me that God has shown him that I was lonely, and He wants me to know that I'm not alone, that He is with me. I thought, of course He is. That's obvious.

I had a 15-minute walk back to the hotel ahead of me, and I kept thinking of those words that actually made me angry. I'm tired of platitudes that are supposed to help me. I even felt mocked by God if He's the one to tell me this. We were created for human relationships; we need each other. Was He telling me to be happy without that? Here I was, walking home alone. Don't I have the right to have meaningful relationships?

I was glad when I arrived at the hotel. I had already decided on the way there that it was time to go to the fitness room and work off the frustration. I changed into my fitness clothes and went to the fitness room. I got onto the treadmill and enjoyed running and walking, followed by working out with weights. I had a wonderful hour in the fitness room! I felt so much better, I was actually amazed!

It was time to get some food and start writing and reading. This is my last night in the hotel, and I want to enjoy it as much as possible.

I feel like I've turned a corner and it's going up again. In any case, I'm very much aware that some sleep and rest would make a huge difference and put me back on my feet.

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Friday, June 4, 2010

Rollercoaster Day

After 5 and a half hours of sleep my alarm went off. At ten to seven I met with Charles in the lobby, and went to have breakfast and talk for an hour. I felt honored and blessed he would take that time before going to the airport. I had a great time talking to this great man of God who's been such a blessing to us.

I walked back to the hotel, and was glad that I had another hour before having to walk to church to get in before the crowds and get a good seat.

At 9 am I left the hotel and walked the 15 minutes over. Unfortunately, these shoes are not made for a lot of walking, and so I already have blisters on the soles of my feet! Oh well.

At 9:15 they opened the doors for HIM pastors, and I went in to get "my" seats. Then I went downstairs where they have comfy couches and lay down. I lay there like a stone, feeling like I can't move; that's how tired I was. A few minutes before the beginning of the meeting I went back into the auditorium. Paul was not there yet. At 10 the meeting started - still no Paul. I was frustrated for him, knowing how much he loves to worship, frustrated he came all the way from Africa and was now missing what he came for.

At 10:30 he arrived, having taken the second car leaving from the house he's staying at. At 10:45 worship was over.

While we were worshiping, one of the leading ushers came to me. She asked me whether I intended to interpret again, and I said yes. Then she told me that there had been complaints, and that we needed to move to the last row. I told her I hadn't come all the way from Africa to sit in the last row, but having no choice I'd comply.

With tears in my eyes I moved to the last row. I could have slept an additional 45 minutes this morning; sacrificed sleep for nothing. And now we'd spend the rest of the conference in the last row. Wonderful.

Paul is always worshiping in the front; I'm glad he gets to do that. After worship, Peter Wagner came to speak. I interpreted everything for Paul. It was about our mental adjustments we have to make as leaders in this season. It was good, and Paul greatly enjoyed it.

After the meeting was over, I wondered whether it would work out to go have lunch with someone. I was looking for one couple, found them, but they already had plans. There was another couple, but I couldn't find them. So it was just Paul and me. I decided we could go to the Cheesecake Factory for lunch. I love going there.

We walked over there, and while we waited, Paul admired the cakes, and picked one out that he really wanted. We sat down, and suddenly he didn't want the cake any more. I suggested something little plus the cake. He wanted rice, but they hardly had anything with rice, plus it was expensive. I suggested he'd order an appetizer, like I was doing. Suddenly he said he won't eat anything at all. I couldn't convince him otherwise, which upset me. Paul only drank his water, and ate the complimentary bread.

Paul was upset, and I was also very much hurt. After the meeting, the pastor's wife had invited me to join her and some ladies for lunch, and I had turned her down because of Paul. And now this. I felt like making so many sacrifices, and getting nothing back, just slaps in the face.

Well, Paul and I stopped talking, and I kept wiping away tears from my eyes. Once again I realized why I was so fed up with everything, and that frustration and discouragement came out full force again. I finished eating, paid, and we left the restaurant. It was close to my hotel, and there was still time, so I walked that direction, and Paul followed behind me. At the hotel he said he'd wait in the lobby, and I went up into my room. I only had half an hour there, before I had to come back down.

The afternoon session was to start at 2 pm. Paul followed behind me again, back to church, without a word. We got to church just as it started, and sat back in the last row again, in our exile. I was glad to see Paul sat next to me again.

I took my phone and went outside, wanting to call someone, trying to hold back my tears, but to no avail. As I was about to leave the building, I ran into a pastors' couple I had tried to find since the beginning of the conference. At first I thought it wasn't good timing. They stopped me and started talking to me. They realized something wasn't right, and started saying wonderful, encouraging things, and then prayed for me. It was like healing balm to my soul, and caused more tears. They kind of made promises of how they'd support us, and I so wanted to believe them. I've learned not to believe what people tell me when I travel, since 90% of the time people don't do what they say.

When I heard them start talking inside, I knew I had to get back in to interpret for Paul. So I said good-bye, and we made an appointment for later to sit down and talk, which is what we had wanted to do.

Peter Wagner started teaching, and I interpreted for Paul. I was so tired I had a hard time, but the interpreting kept me awake. It was great teaching on the necessity of leaders having intercessors, and it underlined once again that we don't have the intercessors we need. I want to get the CD.

After the meeting I told Paul I'd go to the hotel to rest, and asked him what he wanted to do. He said he'd stay here, outside the building where they have benches and a beautiful fountain. It reminded me of what I always did - sit around outside the building between meetings, all alone, waiting for the next meeting. I reminded Paul that we had a 6 pm appointment with the pastor.

I walked over to the hotel, and was very glad for this short break of 90 minutes. Time went by fast, doing stuff online. At 6 pm I was downstairs to be picked up. After 20 minutes the pastor came - he had been held up - and he already had Paul with him.

We drove to the church and went to the supermarket by the church where they have a little coffee shop. So the pastor, Paul and I sat down to talk. His wife was somewhere else.

During breaktime at the hotel I had wondered whether I should go to Colorado for a week before returning to Mali. I had felt for weeks I should add a week, and a visit to this pastor's church had been planned for later this year. I had been asking where God would want me to go if He wants me to add a week, and now I wondered whether Colorado was the answer. I mentioned that to the pastor, and the more he thought about it, and listened to me, the more he got convinced it was the right thing to do. I also got more and more convinced.

We returned to the church for the evening meeting. The way this pastor treated me - with such honor and respect - was so unknown to me. His words, his simple actions, they were like healing balm on a broken warrior. Most of you would not be able to understand this without having been in my shoes. It meant so much because of the last few weeks, and especially because of Paul's behavior even just today. The pastor offered to give me a ride to the hotel after the meeting, as my feet were in much pain with the blisters, and some weird pain in one foot. Because of that, I told him I would love that if it was convenient for them, and he said, even if it's not convenient, he'll do it. His reply makes me cry even as I write this a day later.

The last few months I've been very disillusioned with people - forgotten, pushed aside, beaten, by those close to me and those who don't know me, by people in Mali and people in the Western world. Demands, criticism, being pushed down and over again and again, and no one there at all to even tell this, let alone help me, protect me, or speak the truth to me.

Worship of the evening meeting started. Paul and I were speaking again, but only what was necessary. I was so very tired, I sat during worship, trying to get some rest. I then saw myself as a beaten warrior, covered in bruises, with wounds, in pretty bad shape. I then saw that I was the person in Jesus' parable of the Good Samaritan. I was lying on the road, and all these people walked by. Some told me something that was supposed to help, and continued on walking. Others kicked me with their feet or slapped me. And they were all believers. No one cared enough to truly help. It was a very lonely place. In some ways, this pastor from Colorado COULD have been the Good Samaritan who was ready to pick me up, put me on his donkey, and take care of this bruised warrior. His words for sure made it sound that way, and somehow I wanted to believe it.

After worship, Cindy Jacobs took an offering, and then she started preaching. I interpreted for Paul. People would sit down in front of us, and near us, and move away again a few minutes later because of the interpretation. It somehow made me sad. In Kansas City no one had ever been bothered by it! Strange.

At the end of the meeting, Cindy gave an altar call for those who have a heart to see the revival that's gonna start with children. Some wording she used made Paul not respond, and I was too tired to care to move. She started praying for people, and pulling them out to pray for them. Then she made a call for all those from other nations. So I grabbed Paul and we went up to the stage with the many other people. Did I dare to hope she would actually pray/prophesy over me for the first time? She moved the other direction, and were at the end of the line. Paul was so excited, and couldn't wait for her to get to him. I told Paul not to get his hopes up, as she would probably stop praying before she'd get to us, since there were a lot of people. I've seen it so many times. The curse of being invisible seems to be on me. With Paul being clearly African, I've hoped that he would at least not be overlooked, and on the whole that's been true. It still amazes me how Jill seemed to be the only one to see me, and she saw me with God's eyes. She was the only one who always picked me out of a crowd and prophesied over me. She was the first one who prophesied publicly over me that I was an apostle. Oh well.

Cindy took her time, always asking where someone was from before praying for them. She even prayed for quite a few people who WERE from other countries, but lived in the US.

She was just gonna pray for us next, when an usher came up to her and pulled her away. I had been right. Oh how wished I had been wrong! I could feel Paul's heart plummet, his disappointment being so great, and mine was as well. But after all, I had not really gotten my hopes up all that way that finally Cindy would pray/prophesy over me for the first time. For those of you who don't know her, she has way up there as a prophet of the Lord, prophesying to presidents and nations, and her words have much authority to change things and toput things in place. Paul and I returned to our seats dejected. The way this day had been, this was another heavy blow to this warrior. I HAD hoped for a timely word in this season of great need for a word. I know it would have made a big difference.

Paul told me that the "Australian apostles" staying where he is staying and the hosts would all pray for him at home tonight. I was glad he was getting great prayer and prophetic input, and gave him my recorder to take with him.

I soon found the pastor from Colorado who had promised me a ride to the hotel, and they were so kind to take me with them. I said my good-byes to them, and told them I'd check out flights. I was shocked to find that in total (change plus another flight) it would cost $800, and so I'm hesitating now. Can I justify paying $800 for a week of rest???

At 10:30 I entered my hotel room. I could feel the strain of a long day that had felt like an emotional rollercoaster. It felt like I had been beaten up. I tried to do some stuff online, but was unable to finish my blog. At 1:30 am I went to bed.

Now, if you've read all about today, you need to read about tomorrow, because there'll be good news concerning Paul!

Today I've shared with you very openly and transparently. I can only hope it has been an encouragement to you, rather than attracting more criticism that I don't need right now.

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Thursday, June 3, 2010

More Adventures

I had gone to bed just before 2 am, glad to be able to catch up on reports, but rightfully concerned about another short night. I got back up around 7:30 am. I was very tired - and cold. I packed up my stuff and got a cup of tea, functioning on auto-pilot. Our host was so kind to cook us breakfast - eggs, bacon, toast - wonderful!

Paul had had a wonderful, long night sleeping in the prayer room, and sleeping really well there. He was ready for the day, and ready to talk to everyone in Mali. He had made sure that his girlfriend would be there this morning. So while I had breakfast, Paul talked to the kids and her, and greatly enjoyed it. While he was eating, I talked with Eva.

I wanted to leave the house just after 8:30 for a nice ride back to LA, and straight to my hotel. So we loaded up the car, and said our good-byes. Paul was surprised that he couldn't open his door with the sidewalk blockig him. So I pulled away, and that's when we noticed it: a flat tire. I couldn't believe it!

My friend said that both front tires looked pretty bad and should be changed. I was so thankful that we've made it safely all those hours of driving the last two days. Obviously some angels held those tires together! And I'm glad this flat tire happened while we were still at my friend's house. Imagine if we had found this at the end of the long day in Disneyland!

I was physically so tired and exhausted, I simply could not deal with it. I let the guys handle it. So the guy in the picture and Paul drove to a store where they were selling tires and where they would put them on. I went into the house and sat down at the table. The exhaustion overcame me, and I could not help it but put my head ont he table, about ready to fall asleep. My friend encouraged me to lie down on the couch, and so I did. I lay there for quite some time, and honestly, I really needed it! Maybe God wanted me to have that extra rest before driving for 3 hours. I sure was glad.

When the guys came back, it was time to really leave. Our plans had changed, in any case; we were now going straight to the HIM pastors' meeting. So Paul and I both changed into nicer clothes before leaving. It was going on 10 am when we finally left Lompoc.

I felt better as we drove those long 3 hours. Today Paul was also excited at seeing the sea, not just me. There was a lot of fog, though.

We stopped one time to get more gas, use the restroom, and buy a sandwich for lunch. I thank God for the invention of GPS; it was so convenient to simply follow the instructions!

H Rock Church

Traffic flowed pretty nicely on the whole, and we pulled into the parking lot at the church at 1:15 pm; the meeting started at 2 pm. It was so great to be back! We unloaded the car, taking all our luggage into the church building. Few people were there yet, but I started introducing Paul.

We went outside for a few minutes, to walk around a little, and talked to more people, before returning inside since it was time for the meeting.

It started with a time of singing to God. As we were worshiping, more and more people arrived, including Charles who had come to Mali last year in November. It was great to see him again.

After worship, the rest of the meeting was testimonies from different people. I interpreted for Paul, and he loved to hear all that God is doing.

Then they moved on to a time of ministry for people. A couple of prophetic people came to the front to minister. First, James Goll gave a word for everyone. Then they went into personal words.

To my greatest surprise, I was the first one picked among the 100 or so people in the room to receive a prophetic word. It came totally out of the blue. I had expected Paul to get a word, not me. I personally have been so disillusioned with everything, including prophecies, I didn't even care for one.

I sat there with my eyes closed, listening to the prophecy given to me, and the tears started rolling. It was a word of encouragement, of great things just ahead. Things that are the desires of my heart. At that moment I dared to believe these things might really come true.

Even after he was done prophesying and went on to others, I was really affected. I had been asking God for weeks to release me from my calling to Mali, and here He was, telling me he'd be doing great things through me. I had not expected this. And then, when Charles took the mic, he also gave me a prophetic word that brought more tears. Incredible! When you expect it the least, and need it the most! Can't wait to transcribe the word, since I remember very little of it.

The meeting was over just after 4 pm, and Charles was so kind to agree to take me with him to the hotel. We were both staying at the same hotel, and I needed a ride with all my luggage. They had an informal dinner for all the HIM pastors somewhere before the evening meeting, and I paid for Paul to go there during the break. That was obviously a good decision, as he loved it, and had good conversations, and gave away all our flyers and DVDs!

I personally was so glad once I walked into my hotel room. I only had just over an hour there, to my dismay. I unpacked, and went on to doing other things that needed to get done. Time went by fast. At 6 pm I left the hotel, and walked the 15 minutes to the church.

The doors for the HIM pastors were already open, and I got a good seat for Paul and myself. I then went to the nearby supermarket to buy some groceries to take to the hotel with me.

At 7 pm the meeting started, and Paul was still not there. I heard from someone else that the food was late, and Paul would come later with another person. 15 minutes later he showed up.

Paul greatly enjoyed the worship time, all the way in the front. Then they commissioned a few apostles, which was interesting to Paul. Then the founder and leader Che Ahn preached, and I interpreted for Paul. I was SO tired, I closed my eyes and interpreted eyes closed. Then there was a tap on my arm from the person in front of me who did not appreciate me interpreting and wanted to send me to the back. So I lowered my voice as much as possible with Paul still able to hear. The meeting was nearly over, in any case.

They announced a fire tunnel, but I was too tired. I was so glad that for once I had the liberty to simply leave and go home! I left Paul there for the tunnel (his first), knowing he'll enjoy it, and to be taken home with the others, while I started walking towards the hotel - a 15 minute walk. I was so glad when I arrived at my room at 9:40 pm.

I have a very early breakfast appointment tomorrow morning, and it's midnight now, but I'm glad I got my report done. I'm enjoying my beautiful hotel room, just wished I had more time to enjoy it!

One last thing to mention about today? I constantly think of my spiritual Mom Jill when I'm here in Pasadena. It's as if she's gonna walk in as always any moment. Today it was painful thinking of her, and the things that never were because of her premature death.

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Wednesday, June 2, 2010

Santa Barbara & Lompoc, CA

The bed I was sleeping in was heavenly... I was wishing I could sleep in there for longer. I woke up before the time I had set on my alarm. We had told Eva we could talk this morning.

At 8 am Paul and I went to have some breakfast, and our host had a few minutes to join us. He asked Paul about Disneyland. Later he also prayed for Paul for a short while. We then had to talk to Eva; we figured out that we can't really resolve the money situation until we get back in 10 days. We couldn't talk for long, as we had to get moving.

We packed up the car - with my stuff since Paul will stay here again. I set up the GPS, typed in our destination, and off we went. I talked with my friend in Lompoc who was our destination - and missed the entrance to the freeway. A few minutes later we got on.

It was a lovely ride from LA to Santa Barbara - especially once we got to the coast and drove along the coast. I kept repeating myself, how beautiful it was. I resembled Paul in Disneyland who kept saying how amazing it is. I love the sea, and a house by the sea would be a dream come true.

We stopped for gas, and I finally showed Paul how to put gas into the car; in Mali there is no such thing as self-service. He also cleaned the windows - after I showed him how it works.

We continued on our way and arrived in Santa Barbara just before noon. We parked on the pier - something that amazed Paul. We got out and walked to the end of the pier. Paul was amazed! It was too bad it was cloudy and foggy - a little sun would have been nice.

We walked back and went into the sea center that my friend had recommended. They had all kinds of sea creatures there - and Paul was amazed. And then they actually let Paul touch a shark! Wow! (see picture)

We still had some time before our free 90 minutes of parking ran out, and walked to the beach. I love the beach! I love the sea! I wished I could live here, and do my daily early morning run along the water.... we ran on the beach during the fitness camp last summer, and I loved it.

Time went by fast, and we returned to our car to continue our trip. We had been given coupons for "Jack in the Box", and so we asked the GPS to take us to the closest one, which was not far at all. We went inside to order and eat our lunch. Another cultural experience for Paul.

It was 2 pm when we finally returned to the freeway to drive the remaining hour to Lompoc. We left the coast and drove into the mountains - another thing that amazed Paul, all those rolling hills. At 3 pm we pulled up at my friend's house. It was so great to see her again!!!

I was totally exhausted, and after some time of small talk, I finally decided to lie down for a few minutes. I actually fell asleep, and woke up just at the right time, just before I was going into the deepest sleep phase. I would probably have slept through 12 hours, as tired as I was! I was pretty disoriented when I woke up - but thankful I had had that nap.

I got ready to meet old friends again and went outside. They slowly started arriving, and it was great to see them again. We started talking and talking while they were cooking. They were cooking Paul's favorite food: steak, mashed potatoes and corn. As you can see - LOTS of corn. Paul ended up eating 3 cobs! He was in heaven!

We had a great time talking, and everyone just loved Paul, listening to him and watching him. They really succeeded in stuffing him - he even had cake in the end!

One of the ladies took Paul with her to her house, to show it to him. Later the other lady took both of us with her to her house, so Paul could see all her animals. She has a ferret, a cat, and two tiny dogs. Paul could not believe his eyes when he saw those dogs (picture). He was even more amazed when the cat was twice the dog's size! What's wrong with that picture?

We went into the garden, where they had a trampoline. Paul has never seen a trampoline in his life, so we told him to get on. He did - and had the time of his life jumping around! I wished we could take one to Mali!

We then went to a pet store to buy something specific. They had quite a few cats in cages; my heart went out to them. I just wanted to liberate them!

And then I saw something that was not just new for Paul, but for me as well. I was amazed! A food bar for dogs! You could say, a buffet for dogs! Wow!

We went to another store, where we got corn seeds to plant in Mali - finally good, sweet corn in Mali! I'm curious whether it's gonna work.

My friend's dog was calmly lying on her lap while she was driving. Quite a sight!

It was already 9 pm when we got back home. We did a little more talking, and watched my video presentation. Then the ladies took a few minutes to pray for both Paul and me. I was extremely tired, and Paul was also already falling asleep. We said our good-byes, and Paul went straight to bed. I talked with my friend - our host - a little longer, until she went to bed, and I went to work to check/write emails as well as this blog. Hope to make it to bed now as it's already 1 am, and another short night ahead.

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Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Disneyland

I got at up 6:30 am, we had a bagel each, and at 7 am we were ready to leave. We walked up to the car that our hosts so graciously let us use for our ride to Disneyland. After having just used a totally new car from the rental agency in Kansas City, it was quite a change to use this old car. I had to get familiar with everything and set up the GPS, which all took some time. We were on our way later than planned.

I decided that now was a good time to get gas as the needle was relatively low, and we had lots of driving ahead of us. I stopped at a little station - one that was very crowded, and frustrated me as I had all those challenges to even get to the pump. We finally succeeded - and then I could not use my card to pay outside. I had to go inside, and tell them in advance how much I wanted to put in. Weird system. The guy then told me that he had lived in Austria for a short time, when he saw my Austrian credit card.

We finally got going and got on the freeway. Just when I should leave the freeway, the GPS fell down and distracted me enough so I missed my exit. Great! We ended up in a traffic jam on the infamous I-5. I took the next exit and turned around, as the other way was the faster during peak traffic hour.

We were fine from then on, moving quickly most of the time. It's amazing how many lanes they have in California, and how tricky it is at times when lots of lanes criss-cross. But no more mistakes were made and at 9 am we arrived at Disneyland. I saw the sign for parking at the last second before making a wrong turn.

We approached the parking garage, and I was amazed at the many cars in line, waiting to get in and park. It was only 9 am, the time the park opens! We parked on the "Mickey" floor and memorized what pillar we were at so we would find the car again. Paul was extremely excited!

We left the parking garage and followed the crowd to the tram stop. We had to take a "tram" that would take us to the entrance of Disneyland. We waited forever before we finally left there.

We reached the entrance, and I paid our tickets. And in we were! Disneyland! My second time, Paul's first! Paul was smiling all over and wanted pictures of everything! He was blown away from the very beginning - something that never changed all day!

We went straight to Indiana Jones, my favorite ride, only to find it closed. I was very disappointed; for the rest of the day when Paul would say how amazing it was, I would say, "yes, but...". It became a running joke.

"Pirates of the Carribean" became our first ride instead. Paul could not imagine what it would be like, and I wished all of you could have been with us. Paul kept shouting out of amazement, not being able to help himself. He loved it! He soon realized these were NOT real people, and wondered how they put all this into a simple building.

That was the beginning of a long, wonderful day! We went on ride, after ride, after ride, usually waiting about 30 minutes. Paul loved the carousel, and "Peter Pan" was his favorite. I love that one too!

He spun in tea cups, and he saw Pinocchio. He went through the haunted house, and up Tarzan's house. We then moved on to Toontown - what an amazing place!

We went on Roger Rabbit's ride, and went from house to house of those cartoon buildings that have become reality. We also went to Mickey's house, and stood in line to shake his hand and have this picture taken. Paul was like a little boy, so excited!

We moved on to Tomorrowland - future stuff - and went into the Invention center, and 3-D theater, did Toy Story and Star Wars. Paul drove a car in Autopia.

We also had food in the course of the day. The most amazing to Paul was the huge turkey leg that tasted like ham!

Time was going by so fast! We had to watch the time, since we'd been told that the fireworks were at 9:30 pm. I thought we'd be toast earlier already, with hurting feet, but that wasn't the case at all. However, I was not feeling well at all. From when we left the house, I had felt the tiredness quite a bit, and I had a headache. Around 2 pm everything got worse, and I was concerned whether I'd make it. However, I was determined to keep going however bad I felt, for Paul's sake. Around 7 pm I suddenly started feeling better and by the end of the day, I was feeling totally well, and wasn't tired any more at all! At least not like that.

Just before 9 pm we started moving towards the lake area, since that is where I had watched the fireworks from my first time in Disneyland, I thought. I was shocked at how many people there were already. We slipped inside the barriers at one point, and ended up having good spots for the show after all. I was surprised when the "Fantasmo" show started at 9 pm. Good thing we had gotten there when we did!

If blown away was the term to describe Paul with all day, I don't know how to use a bigger term for the show and Paul's reaction to it. Fireworks, Mickey and other figures, boats, lights, dancing, acrobatics, video projection onto a water screen... Paul could not stop screaming - to the dismay of the Japanese tourists around us. After the 25 minute show, we moved towards main street where the fireworks started a few minutes later. It was Paul's first fireworks and he was amazed!

After they were over, we went to do one last ride that we hadn't fit in earlier. Then we headed towards the exit. Paul had been thanking me over and over all day long, and he did so again. He said he had had no idea what it would be like, and he had no idea how to describe Disneyland to the kids. I agree - it's indiscribable.

We went to the tram station, and did a lot of walking to get to our car. It was after 10:30 pm. I turned the GPS on, and followed the directions back home which took about an hour. Thankfully the freeway was clear at night; the only challenge was that there were no lights inside the car, on the dashboard. And Paul was falling asleep again, while I was very tired myself. It was nearly midnight when we pulled up at the hosue. Paul went straight to bed, and I turned my computer on for a little while, before I also fell into my awesome bed for a far too short night.