rockin'

We are 5 days into our approximately 10-day sail.

We are very happy and relieved to share that it has been a very smooth sail so far. Not to say we haven't had our share of rocking though :) Some days are worse than others. But, we are pleased to say neither of us have had to rely on drugs so far, praise the Lord! :)

This is our second sail, and we both would say that it is one of our favorite times. Excluding our amazing engineers and deck hands, it is a less demanding time for most of the crew. A time of rest per say. There is a more relaxed feel to work and every-day life on board. I think the sea air has that effect :) Nobody can go anywhere, so people are more out and about and social with one another. The holiday festivities begin on the sail too. Who doesn't like the Christmas season? And I mustn't forget "pirate watch." Because of our sailing route along the west coastline of Africa, we are more vulnerable to pirate activity. Crew take turns manning the ship overnight. This being up Tim's alley, he jumped at the chance and did a few hour-long slots, watching for suspicious activity. No worries, we've had no troubles so far.

Completely. surrounded. by. water.

There is something so peaceful and serene about being in the middle of the ocean, surrounded only by the expanse of sky and sea. God's majesty is proclaimed. His creation speaks of His glory. In a way, I feel closer to Him at sea.

Mornings are spent on the bow for ward devotions. Afternoons are spent working on our admin tasks, sneaking time outside when we can. Evenings are spent eating dinner out on Deck 7 or 8, or just looking out for marine life, basking in the fresh air and the sound of splashing waves. So far we've seen an unusual water spout (tornado-like sighting on the water) and cute little dolphins jumping alongside the ship. And I must say the water is a magnificent BLUE!! After spending ten months docked in brown filthy water, I am loving the gorgeous color. The sunsets are just beautiful (I can't account for the sunrises, because I have yet to see one :) ). And the starry nights are simply breathtaking!

And amidst all the physical rocking, God is rocking our world as He continues to give us new insight into ourselves and each other, and challenging age-old thoughts, ideas, and perspectives, while growing in us a heart for the nations.

I just want to share that God is so GOOD. And I am so thankful to just "be." To be and do what we are doing. To serve Him in this capacity. To grow together in this unique time in our lives. Along that line, one of things I have found great delight in over this last year, is seeing my husband serve God and others in new ways...with such joy.

Talk about rocking, THAT man rocks my world!!


And of course, I must leave you with photos :)