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Hello to our readers. Another week in Maui and several new experiences to report.
Lou was asked to take over the pool maintenance tasks when the current volunteer leaves in just over a week. He's happy to do this because, as you all know, he enjoys the out of doors. Did we mention that its sunny, hot and beautiful here? (although boring for a weather person--always the same at 89 degrees)
Last Wednesday, August 20th, we travelled to Lahaina (about 35 minutes from Kihei), where we walked around a very historical coastal town. The town is particularly noted for art galleries, clothing shops, eating establishments, jewelry stores, general merchandise shops, water adventures such as parasailing & whale-watching. We had lunch at a seashore place that was truly incredible and featured hamburgers and beer.
We were both scheduled for on call duty on Saturday, the 23rd. It was a 15.5 hour coverage starting at 6:30am until 10pm. Actual time on task was 10 hours for the hard working Marilyn and 9 hours for the more relaxed Lou. Numerous new details were learned, starting with the arrival of 25 participants for a session that begins on Tuesday. Once again, the countries represented will be about 20. More on the participants in a future post.
Today, Sunday, we went to a Hawaiian church that was amazing. We came away with emotions and perspectives rather greatly affected. They state their focus to be "We believe that God wants us to be ohana for off-island visitors, the unchurched, and for those who may have left traditional and seeker-style churches. Therefore, we often put aside expectations and personal needs in our ministries to open the door for others who are different than ourselves." They also have a parish nurse. It was my privilege to meet her. We think we will return to this church. It will be good to hang out with Linda, the parish nurse, and follow what she is doing in the community. The church is obviously reaching out to homeless people on a weekly basis.
Together with other volunteer friends we enjoyed lunch at "The Plantation" where they grow flowering plants, mangoes, pineapple, papaya, avocados, coconuts, coffee. They roast coffee during the week. We may return to observe that.
