Mermaid Pools

We went on a camping trip with a bunch of friends and ended up in Matapouri, New Zealand where there is a beach everywhere you look. It is really beautiful!
On our first full day, we went to Matapouri Bay.
(These pictures are brought to you by google. I ended up not taking any pictures... Just imagine lots and LOTS of people in all of these, and you get the full picture) : )

This Picture brought to you by google.

While enjoying the beach, a few people from our group went in search of a place called, "The Mermaid Pools". And on their return they convinced us to go back with them.
When they described the walk/hike to the pools they used the phrases: a little up, a little down, and: if you are in to that kind of thing.
So we started our journey.
Oieaua! Talk about a few ups and downs! It was all up! and All down! It was SO steep!!
The entire way up I was panicking. There was no way I was going to make it back down.
By the time I reached the top, my eyes were aching from holding back the tears. I convinced myself that the only way I was going to make it down was in a body bag. I sincerely thought I was going to die there.
I caught sight of the pools, and I was angry. That't it?! What were you thinking?!?! This isn't worth it!"

This picture brought to you by google (and Photoshop...probably)

(It might look pretty, but believe me it is nothing compared to Falls Creek.)

This picture brought to you by google.

I turned around and retraced a few of my steps, stopping once I realized what I was doing. I knew I couldn't make it down the mountain. I started bawling. I was more scared than I have ever been.

I started worrying about Kasia and how she would be left to take care of my body.
I started praying for her asking the Lord to help her get down the mountain even if she had to just throw my body over the rocks for the sharks.
I cried even more, thinking how hard it would be for her to lift my body.
I knew I wouldn't be able to leave her knowing what she would have to deal with, so there I was... Stuck, trying to decide what would be easiest for her.

I turned to look where I left her and instead saw her standing beside me.
My guardian angel.
She knew I was terrified.

She put her arm around me and she prayed. She prayed for peace and comfort, and asked the Lord for the strength and safety to make it back down the mountain.
I was surprised by her words, I couldn't believe the impossible request she was asking, and yet, I felt comforted. I knew that it wasn't going to be my last day.

Maybe it was my 11 kids, or the family I left in Idaho. Maybe it was something I haven't yet had the chance to learn. Maybe it was something I need to do. I'm not sure how or why, but we did make it down the mountain. (Without too much damage to our bodies.)
And we are both the better for it.

Nothing is impossible through Christ, who gives me strength.
Trust God, and believe that he is capable of miraculous things.

On our way down, we offered a hand to a group coming up and we overheard a woman say, "WORST. Experience. Ever.-- I could write a book about it!"
(Laugh Out Loud! I understood completely!) : )

Waiheke

Wai-the-Heke-not?

A few weeks ago, we got to spend the night in Waiheke with Brother and Sister Hilbourne. (They are two of Kasias friends, she met working in the Temple.)
And what wonderful People they are!

On the ferry!

The Hilbournes took us out sailing on their boat "Spasmodic" the day we arrived. Brother Hilbourne said, "Whether you end up liking it or not, at least you know you tried it."
Well now I can say I have been sailing. And I think I can also safely say I would be completely content if I  never sailed again : )

We were going to take down the sails when we realized we hadn't gotten any pictures, so they had us both stand and look like we were doing something : )

Sister Hilbourne took Kasia and I on a walk the next day. It was so Gorgeous! One day I want to take you all there!!

What fun!
What great company!!
Brother Hilbourne called me Jowj- cutest. man. ever.