Thoughts from a Texan and Kiwi

New Website, New Blogsite.

2009-08-17T03:11:00.000-07:00

Hey all you faithful readers out there, we wanted you all to know that are website is now launched. Our blog will now be hosted on our website. www.joshandmisty.com. From here, you can now subscribe to our blog and receive notice of updates. Have a look around, enjoy, and keep up with us on our new website. Love you lots!

100% Pure New Zealand.

2009-08-14T15:21:00.000-07:00

This is a CALL to New Zealand. Watch this video.

Back Down Under

2009-08-10T22:11:00.000-07:00

Josh and I have been back in New Zealand for just under two weeks now. It's been great to catch up with friends and family, and see all the new babies floating around the Tauranga House of Prayer. They are all so precious. The first week we were back, it looked like Spring had sprung. However, the last few days and the whole upcoming weekend are full of cold and rain. Bummer! I was hoping to plant my spring vegetable garden this weekend.

This week work has been awesome! Half of our staff for the upcoming DTS have arrived, and things are really starting to move ahead full steam. Having such a great team is just awesome! I'm excited to have Jordan (one of our DTS students from the last school) joining us on staff. I think this school is going to be an incredible journey for both the students and Josh and I as we oversee it. Our Call2All/YWAM Jubilee team is beginning to take shape too. We have some quality people that have put their hand up to help us, and we are excited to get things moving for January 2010. It going to be awesome! I think from here on out, the train is rolling - get on board.

Call2All The Next Generation

2009-08-01T14:39:00.000-07:00

We just wanted to give you a glimpse of something that we will both be helping to coordinate. Coming to Tauranga NZ in January 2010 - Call2All Next Generation....Watch the vid and put it in your calendar.

Where did the two months in America go?

2009-07-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

Wow - As I sit here waiting to board our plane back to New Zealand, all I can say is, "Where did the time go?" The last 8 weeks have just flown by. We have been all around the South and Mid-West, spoken in 4 different churches, and hung out with some of our most beloved friends. Josh had speaking engagements 6 out of the last 8 days, and as we wait for plane - I can say we feel like we have finished well. Hanging out with my parents and family was incredible, and I have to be honest and say that it is SO HARD to leave Austin. Austin, we love you! However, I am so convinced that God has amazing things in store for us this next year, and I am determined to not dwell on leaving....but to look forward and press on into what God has in store for us.

Josh and I

My parents and I - one final picture

Old Friends make me smile

2009-07-17T15:48:00.000-07:00

Sometimes old friends are simply the best. They are the ones you can really relax with, the one's you don't have to entertain, the one's you can just share your heart with. They make your heart happy. That is one of the best things about coming back to Texas for me. Connecting with people! This time here is just about that.

One of my beautiful bridesmaids decided to come surprise Josh and I with a visit in Austin. She brought with her, her new husband Chris, and her even newer baby, Madeline. All I can say, is these guys are just awesome. They have embraced life with such joy and passion it is amazing. Even more amazing is seeing the out workings of becoming parents. They do it so well! Chris, Cristina, and Madeline, thanks for spending time with us.

Hong Kong and Call2All

2009-07-14T16:42:00.000-07:00

As you know, Josh was in Hong Kong in June with over 3,000 leaders from around the world. Watch this quick video below to get an overview of what happened, and some insight into what's taking place within the Call2All movement.

Family Vacation

2009-07-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

It seems like I have been away from Internet for weeks. We have been many places and seen many faces. Many things have happened and there is simply now way to blog it all. A major highlight was family vacation down at Port Aransas, off the Gulf of Mexico.

A family tradition, little one's watching Grandpa make bisquits.

Port Aransas Beach

Josh in the cockpit

Us at the USS Lexington

The USS Lexington

We have had a great few days down at the beach with my family. Josh and I, Mom and Dad, Chris and Pam, and of course little Abby enjoyed the time immensely. Without question the actual beach was not Mount Maunganui, but the time was awesome. Thanks for the holiday Mom and Dad.

On the Road

2009-06-23T22:03:00.000-07:00

We have been traveling for 5 days now and we are loving it. We had a fantastic time experiencing East Texas hospitality over the weekend. I seriously can't say enough about it. There is something fantastic, about small town Texas that just can't be beat. Maybe it is the pace of life, our wonderful friends, the ranch land, or the emphasis on the important things in life (like God and family). Everyone should visit at least once in their life - for real!

Presently we are in Kansas City and we are loving it here too. We have had so many awesome opportunities (some planned and many unexpected) to connect with our friends and co-workers from around the world. KC really is an international hub. Tonight's highlight...hanging with the Batz family and meeting precious baby Madeline. What a joy to see good friends fully embracing life. Tomorrow, my little niece turns 2 - hopefully I will remember to bring my camera. She is unashamedly my favorite niece.

USA Adventures so far....

2009-06-11T11:33:00.000-07:00

I've been in the USA for 9 days now - and wow has it flown by. In a few hours my family will load up and head to the airport to pick up Josh. Yippee! That being said, I have had a great time seeing old friends (like one of my best friends from High school and her husband and two kids) and getting to meet some new ones (like my friend Liz's fiancee of right before I arrived).Here are some pics.

The newly engaged couple!

Ally, Jeffery and the Famous Cheese Dip - Yum!

Look at the Purple House near the Santa Monica Pier.

California Pacific Ocean Sunset.

We Are Alive....

2009-06-09T16:06:00.000-07:00

Even though jet lag has seriously affected my blogging abilities, we are both alive and well. Josh will board a plane to the USA tomorrow evening and my little family over here is stoked to have him join us. It has been so good to be with my parents the last week, even though I confess I am reeling with culture shock. The week has been full of "normal" activities of life, lots of Tex Mex, seeing old friends, and running lots of errands. My highlight for the day, buying a years supply of mascara for 1/4 the price it cost in NZ. It's great to be in the USA!

Oxford

2009-05-29T13:40:00.001-07:00

We have arrived in "thriving Oxford," as the locals call it. It is wonderful little town, that reminds me a bit of where my grandmother and grandfather used to live. Josh and I are being hosted by a lovely couple out on a farm. We are getting the royal treatment that is for sure....fresh baking every night and escorts to and from our meetings. It is a real experience being here.

Hopefully I can get some more pictures today....maybe even of the famous Seagar's Cafe and Cook school.

So....the chickens

2009-05-29T13:29:00.000-07:00

As promised a couple of shots of our new pets! The chicken coop is pretty nice, thanks to Grampa Peter's handiwork a few months back. We look forward to feeding everyone free range eggs when you come to visit.

Travels.....

2009-05-25T23:27:00.001-07:00

"On the road the again, G'oing places that I've never been, See'in things that I may never see again, And I can't wait to get on the road again"

Tonight that good old Willy Nelson song is in my head, maybe because I am currently writing from the southern city of Christchurch and I am dreaming of Willy's favorite Texas tamales! Yep, we have begun our travels. I must say the weather is much nicer and warmer than I expected, and I am excited for the week of meetings.

Keep watching this space, photo's more news to come!

A New Pet....

2009-05-19T16:36:00.000-07:00

It seems like crazy timing with Josh and I leaving the country for two months, but we couldn't help it. Our first family pets, have joined our ranks. No, they are not dogs, or cats, of even fish.... our first three pets are CHICKENS! Yes, Josh and I are the proud owners of 3 chickens. We couldn't resist the deal, 3 chickens for 24 bucks. You can't even buy ready to eat chicken at the store for that cheap! I don't have pictures of them yet, as they are living with the rest of the family chickens "out in the boonies" at Dave and Sue's. Pictures coming soon.

It looks like I've gone country, back to my Texas roots.

Lisa's Graduation

2009-05-15T00:59:00.000-07:00

We had a great family day celebrating Lisa's Graduation from Mercy. She looked radiant and we are so proud of her. Here are some pics.

Family Pic

Lisa on Piano

Jules, Myself, Alana, and Auntie Rosie

Me and Lisa

Random Storms in the Bay of Plenty

2009-05-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

So today in the Bay of Plenty, we had some really freakish weather. Apparently up to ten centimetres of hail fell in places, blocking drains and flooding several streets and houses. Crazy huh? Here are some pictures.

That is hail on the beach not sand.

More hail, covering the grass.

Now I know that Josh and I are winter wimps....but this is some serious weather. Several offshore twisters were spoted, and the local mall had to be evacuated due to flooding and a couple of callapsing roof panels. Josh and I only experienced a little bit of rain and some beautiful thunder and lightening. However, the funniest report on the news was definatly the 4 dead cows that have now been assesed by the insurance company. The anaylis, death due to lighting strikes. What a day in the Bay!

A Day for Celebrating

2009-05-07T15:28:00.000-07:00

Tonight is the graduation 1st Internship of 2009 for the Tauranga House of Prayer. There will two others this year, but this seems to be a significant graduation as 100% of the interns are planning on transitioning onto staff for the next season of their life. So tonight is the celebration! It’s a formal event, which caused a bit of stirring in our house last night as we attempted to figure out what would be appropriate to wear. The fact it is cold outside made it a bit of a challenge, but never the less tonight is a formal night out.

Another great thing about today is that it is Josh’s youngest sister's Birthday today. Debs, HAPPY BIRTHDAY from us! You are a delight. We are so glad to have you in our family.

Looking forward to the next few weeks!

2009-05-04T22:27:00.000-07:00

It is May and I am so excited because at the end of this month Josh and I are going to be traveling once again. Did I mention that I love traveling with Josh! I have not left Tauranga in months, so the thought of getting out and seeing some new places makes me really excited. Our first stop will be the village of Oxford in the South Island of New Zealand. The national staff gathering is being held there, so I am excited for our time there. From what I know, the village is really tiny but there is a famous restaurant and cooking school located there. Click here to learn more about where I am hoping to visit, and at least get one of their famous hot chocolates.

Literally hours after we return to the North Island; I get to board a plane and journey back across the Pacific Ocean to the USA. Josh will join me a couple weeks later after he spends some time in Asia. I am so thankful to have a husband who understands I need some time with my family, and lets me have it when I would otherwise be left alone in the cold winter of New Zealand. I am starting to make my list of “things I must do”…..and am getting really excited. I’m sure none of you reading this will be surprised that most of them revolve around food. I hope I get to see you all.

World We are Back!

2009-04-30T20:26:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update to let you know that both Josh and I are now feeling better. I emerged from the house this morning and thoroughly enjoyed rejoining the human race. No more coughing or sneezing for me. I was getting quite lonely at home with just my computer for company. Administration is much more fun when you can do it in the Prayer Room! Yea for being well.

My turn....

2009-04-27T20:09:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately for this little Cole family, the day Josh started recovering I caught the bug. It must have been all those gigantic sneezes I was around. After two days of trying to rest as much as possible, I gave in. This morning I booked myself in to see the doctor. The result, a prescription to kill a contagious virus with a sinus infection on top. The doctor told me, "You would have had to be wearing an astronauts suit to not catch the sickness from Josh". How funny is that...but at the same time, how seriously no fun!

So...as much as I would love to see you all, until I stop sneezing, keep your distance. I won't emerge until I know I am safe. I must admit I am relieved to know it is not the swine flu. That would be ten times worse.

The weekend flu....

2009-04-25T01:53:00.001-07:00

Well Josh has the flu this weekend, and is absolutely miserable. So you can guess what our weekend is looking like. Lots of rest and relaxing, trying to recuperate before the week kicks off again.

So...I'm getting to put my nurse hat on and figure out how to take care of a sick husband. I just made my first batch homemade chicken soup ever, which Josh declared was the best soup I have ever made. I must admit I am pretty proud of myself, as even I went back for seconds of this soup. If you want to give it a try here is the recipe. It is perfect for the cold rainy weather we are experiencing in Tauranga too.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Ingredients
500 grams (just over a pound) of chicken
500 grams spaghetti noodles
1 can of cream of mushroom soup
1 can of cream of chicken soup
5 cloves of garlic
½ a large onion chopped
vegetables on hand (bean, mushrooms, zucchini, carrot, celery – whatever)
10 cups of water
garlic salt to taste
salt and pepper to taste
herbs (fresh is best, but dried mixed herbs works too)

Cooking Instructions
Pre chop garlic, onion, chicken, and your choice of veggies. Sautee garlic and onions. Throw everything but spaghetti noodles into a pot and bring to a boil. Add the spaghetti noodles to the pot, breaking them into about 1 inch pieces. Reduce heat to medium and let simmer for 35-45 min. Taste and adjust levels of salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking. Eat and Enjoy!

I still can't believe this....

2009-04-23T22:35:00.000-07:00

To think that I live in a place where these things are common still blows my mind.

Now these are avocados...it's the size of an ostrich egg.

A porcupine I almost stepped on when I went out to the car.

Musings

2009-04-23T01:43:00.000-07:00

It been few day since my last post. And to be assured each day has been full of thoughts and activities. Hopefully each one has been chronicled in my memory somewhere. I know we have had a few guests, said "good bye for now" to some friends, and made considerable progress in the planning for the next DTS. In the midst of all this activity however, I have turned a bit contemplative this week. I'm diving back onto the rich texts of A.W. Tozer. His book, Knowledge of the Holy is holding me captive at present and helping me look upward.

For all of you reading this that are classic hymn lovers (I'm thinking of you Daddy)this is for you. You will notice that this old hymn has a new chorus, created by a friends of mine. It has been a joy for me to be able to sing it recently.

BE THOU MY VISION
"Be Thou my vision, O Lord of my heart; Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art
Thou my best thought, by day or by night, Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

I will set my gaze upon, The brightness of Heav'ns Son, Satisfier of my one desire
To behold eternal light, In the face of Jesus Christ, Holy radiance of the glory of God

Riches I heed not, nor man's empty praise, Thou mine inheritance, now and always
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art."

That's it from here, I'm off to read a bit more before calling the day done.

Easter Weekend and the Dentist

2009-04-16T15:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Easter has already come and gone already. It was a great long weekend full of family gatherings, a trip to Taupo to visit some friends and a lot of avoiding Easter eggs and other sweets. After three years of hearing about it, Josh and I finally made it to "The Easter Journey", which is a walk through the Bible from Creation to the Resurrection. It was great! The local church that puts it on really does a good job and I recommend to everyone who has not yet gone through the journey.

Outside of work, this week has been full of dinners and desserts with visiting friends, fundraising banquets, and bits of car maintenance. Now it's time for us both to see the dentist before another week goes by. Here is to hoping the avoidance of Easter eggs paid off. PLEASE NO CAVITIES!

Ula's Baby Shower

2009-04-06T23:42:00.000-07:00

A friend and I had the privilege of throwing a Baby shower for our friend Ula this weekend. It was a great time to celebrate her and the little girl that we will be meeting soon. I had a great time planning, cooking, and scheming ways to bless her. Here are some pis from the event. Thanks Mama Sue for letting us invade your home.

A time of blessing

Have you ever seen anything like this diaper cake?

It is not a party without food.

The Mom to be.

Got to love these days.

2009-03-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

Emerging after the Unrelenting Conference (which was a great success - let us know if you want to hear more about it), Josh and I took a very well deserved day off. Nothing is better than a day off, especially when you really need it. After a late start and breakfast over our favorite TV show "Iron Chef America", we headed to the beach. The weather has been glorious the last few days and we are attempting to squeeze as much outdoor time before the time change on Sunday.

After hanging out there for awhile, Josh met up with some friends armed with fishing poles and kayaks. You can probably guess what happened next. The boys went out around the Mount and I went up it. It was beautiful, and I could actually watch the guys kayaking while I was climbing. When we met back up a couple hours later, Josh had big fish to show for his efforts! I love that we live in a place where you can catch your own dinner! What a blessing!

Then it was off to a some friends place for an evening of pancakes and fun. Chocolate chip pancakes, blueberry pancakes, chunky monkey pancakes, and of course buttermilk pancakes...we ate them all. We came home feeling full and so loved by our friends. It is amazing what gathering together and laughing can do to lift your spirits. All in all I've got to say it. I love our friends and I loved our day off.

3 years of Marriage

2009-03-24T11:38:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrate our 3rd anniversary. We're absolutely amazed at how God brought us together outside a coffee shop in Kansas City on a cold winters day 4 and 1/2 years ago. Who would have thought that God would have taken a Kiwi, missionary kid, born in invercargill, who grew up mostly in Singapore, and caused his path to cross with a gorgeous Texan girl in the middle of the USA in a place called Kansas City on a particular day. As we spent some time looking back over the past few years, we're just utterly blown away at God's kindness towards us, His provision, the way he's led us even at times when we've needed a knock over the head! We've had a lot of fun together, we've travelled many miles, and been a part of things that we could have only dreamed of years ago. With much gratitude in our hearts, we look toward the horizon of the future in anticipation. For now, however, we'll just enjoy today, enjoy each other, and soak in the celebration of marriage.

Here's a promise that we lean into as we forge our way into the future.

Zephaniah 3:17 The LORD your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing.

The Conference is Coming

2009-03-23T21:36:00.000-07:00

The Unrelenting Conference is upon us. This Thursday, the first THOP Conference begins. It is shaping up to be a very busy long weekend. Besides all the general good things that happens at conferences, we have several friends from around the country that are coming for the weekend. Tomorrow we will make our first run to the airport to pick one up. Should be a great time!

A Bit of DTS

2009-03-15T19:47:00.001-07:00

Home Sweet Home

2009-03-13T18:41:00.000-07:00

Wow what a week, full of lots of meetings and lots of driving. The Ministry Leaders Meetings in Matamata were some of the best meetings I have been a part of in YWAM NZ. The campus there had great hospitality, and it was awesome to be there with Josh as he stepped into a new role. The guest speaker from the DTS center was really informative, and the information very pertanent to helping us pastor students through difficult things that are unfortunalty quite common.

All that being said, we are so glad it is Saturday and we have a few hours of down time before heading out to a couple of gatherings.

It's March again - what's going to change this time?

2009-03-09T15:02:00.000-07:00

Well since my last post, Josh has come and gone again. I must admit when I have him home, I want him all to myself...and that is exactly what I got these last two weeks. Yea for me, and sorry to all those who wanted to catch up with him, not even fishing could draw him away from home!

His trip to Korea was very successful. The IWT preparations in Korea are moving on schedule and his teaching with the coordinators was well received. He came home jet lagged, and tired...which is always a sign of a good trip. Now he is off in Auckland for his first National Leadership Team meetings. On Wednesday we will both head to a city called Matamata for some Ministry Leaders Meetings for the rest of the week.

As usual, March has arrived and change has hit our little family. This time it is my part time job that has disappeared. Unfortunately recession has hit New Zealand and the company I worked for has gone into liquidation. Please pray for "my old bosses", they are great people who love the Lord, may the Lord lead and guide them and all of us who worked for the company gently. Stay tuned for what the Lord opens up next. We are all ears at the moment.

Love you all! M

Culture is always interesting.

2009-02-21T02:40:00.000-08:00

Josh is halfway through his teaching trip in Korea...and things have been busy here on the home front. Rahel, a Japanese/Swiss friend of ours from our time in Korea is visiting New Zealand, and we have been keeping busy. In the course of 24 hours, I experienced 2 different cultures....thanks for hanging out Rahel.

It went a little like this. After singing at THOP on Thursday morning, Rahel taught Ula (my Polish friend - yes we are a mix of cultures) and I how to make "real" sushi...this was of course after visiting the Asian supermarket here in Tauranga. We learned how to "flavor" the rice and make the rolls using a sushi mat. It was pretty easy...and really yummy. I think I see more home made sushi in my future.

After our "cooking class" we piled in the car and went to the Bi-Annual "Kapa Huka" festival. It was the first time for it to be held in Tauranga and was very eye opening. Act after act came on stage, and preformed their routines. I must admit we were pretty confused as all the commentary was spoken in Maori, but then our friends Ray an Shanene found us. They were able to explain everything which made the experience much more enjoyable. We then went to watch Ray's friend get his face tattooed (this is called getting a Moku) which looked very painful - but beautiful at the same time.

Culture is definatly always interesting.

Orama's Lamb Curry!

2009-02-17T00:36:00.000-08:00

This is not my typical blog entree - but so many people have been asking for it, I thought this was the best way to handle the requests. Disclaimer. I have not yet made this recipe....I just grabbed it from the cook at Orama....it was good when she made it!

1) Brown Lamb Chops in pan and remove from pan

2) Cook 1 chopped onion and 6 large crushed cloves of garlic and add lamb back into pan

3) Add the following and let simmer for 20 minutes
- 3 Tbsp coriander (fresh)
- 3 Tbs tomato paste
- 2 tsp cummin
- 2tsp paprika
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 2 tsp honey
- 3/4 cup beef stock
- sliced carrots and chickpeas

4) while lamb is simmering make couscous - as much as needed for your family at the ratio of 1 to 1 couscous to water

Asia

2009-02-15T01:47:00.002-08:00

After couple of busy days getting ready and about 20 hours of travelling....Josh has landed safely in Asia. Apparently he had a whole row to himself on the plane and was able to sleep. He went straight into meeting, so I am sure the sleep was needed. He will be teaching in the IWT coordinator school in the seaside city of Bouson, South Korea. Hopefully the times goes quickly....babe you are missed already!

NZ Family Pic from our time at Orama.

DTS Slide Show!

2009-02-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

Hey, want to see a few picsand highlights of the DTS?

Check it out here.

More Pictures from Orama

2009-02-10T16:03:00.000-08:00

You might have been wondering why there where no pictures of Josh and I on the last post. Of course it was because we didn't take pictures of ourselves...so thanks to Kelly we now have a couple. Enjoy!

Alana Cole and Misty Cole at the lookout point.

What a huge tree.

Auckland City at sunset - pretty:> The space needle is where Josh proposed to me.

Josh and I on the 5 hour long boat trip back to Auckland from Great Barrier.

This is just an example of the quality of food we ate at Orama. It was seriously good food. I came home with two recipes.

Better late than Never :>

2009-02-09T20:58:00.001-08:00

So I promised pictures of our time at Orama. Hopefully this will give you an idea of what a great week we had debriefing the DTS. We've booked in for next year - so obviously it was awesome!Here is a bit of a play by play.

The far point is where Josh went swimming with a shark. Spear fishing is no longer allowed in this household.

The view from the lookout point. What a great hike to get there.

This is Orama - our fantastic host for the week. A seriously good place to get away from it all.It helps it is on an island.

Group shot on graduation night. What fun we had replaying the last 5.5 months.

This is the view from Orama! Beautiful!

The DTS is FINISHED

2009-02-02T00:14:00.000-08:00

The last five and a half months of the DTS have gone by so quickly, and now I can officially say that this season on life is finished. All of our students are on their way to their "next stop" on this journey called life, and so are Josh and I. Well, maybe after we do some clean up administration.

We just returned from debreifing week on Great Barrier Island, off the coast of Auckland. It was a great final week with the students, full of great times procecssing together, emotions, and a lot of fun as well. There are tonnes of stories I could tell - and lots of pictures to post. But that will have to come later.

It's bed time.

New Years

2009-01-05T15:35:00.000-08:00

After a very busy Christmas, we finally relaxed for a couple days over New Years. Josh and I headed down to Taupo to visit with Marty and Candice who are here on furlough after completing the 2nd phase of IWT Ohio. We had a great time getting caught up, seeing the beauty of Hukka Falls, and getting to know their twin boys. We just love these guys and are so glad we get to work with them around the world.

Of course hanging out, also means discussing IWT....so who knows where the two days will end up taking us. Here are some pics of our time away.

The Emmetts

Josh and I at Hukka Falls

Josiah and Malachi

Heading Out

2008-12-31T16:55:00.000-08:00

Josh and I are heading to Taupo (the city next to the lake Taupo, the largest crater lake in the world) in about an hour. We are looking forward to hanging out with Marty and Candice. They have been heading up the IWT project in Ohio, so there is lots to catch up on. We hope that you all have a wonderful first couple days of 2009.

Happenings around the world

2008-12-28T22:20:00.000-08:00

For all of those readers wondering what is happening with us....here is short account.

Our students in the Philippines
1. MJ is recovering well at the base in Manila. She is now regaining her strength.
2. Triston - has made it back to Australia after being released from the hospital on Christmas Eve. You can imagine attempting to rearrange airline tickets when all insurance, airlines, and everything else is shut down for Christmas.
3. Our team in the South are working with a kids camp for the week in an outer island.
4. Our team in the North is focusing on "Red Light District" ministry in the capital city.

Family Stuff
1. Alana Cole (Josh's 16 years old sister) is with Misty's family in Kansas City, USA for the Onething conference.
2. Misty wishes she was also with her family in Kansas City, attending the conference she used to help run.
3. The Greater Cole's are in Snell's Beach with Anna (Josh's other sister).
4. We have a few more days of work before hopefully taking a short break over new Years to see our co-workers and friends that are here from America.
5. We are off to go flea bomb the inlaws house while they are away. Apparently the dog has something to answer for besides killing all the turkeys.

That's about it from the peanut gallery. Hope everyone is well. Miss miss you guys!

Philippines in photographs

2008-12-23T17:39:00.000-08:00

Want a larger view? Just click on each picture.

Update on our sick students....

2008-12-20T01:00:00.000-08:00

I just talked with Josh who is now heading for the airport in Manilla. Some of you might have been praying for the situations at hand....and some of you may not know what is happening. Things alway get interesting on outreach.

MJ - MJ came down with pnemonuia and was in the hospital for 5 days. She is now back at the base and is slowly getting better. Her grand-daughter Kelly is staying with her while the rest of the team is out doing ministry.

Triston - Triston has been diagnosed with Dengue Fever and is in Hospital in Davao. His team has postponed traveling to the outer regions of the area till after Christmas. He’s feeling a lot better today, and his temperature has dropped dramatically. That also means his platelet level has also dropped a lot and he may have to have blood transfusion, which apparently will prevent internal bleeding. The doctors are monitoring him very closely and he has someone from the team by his side 24-7. They say that he should be out within 3 days, which is great news.

Misty - Back in New Zealand, I was hit in the eye by a flying champagne cork at work. I was lucky and it hit the "eyebrow bone" and not the eye. I think this is the last time I follow company policy of offering champage to our clients. It should be a bit black and blue by tomorrow. Perfect timing for Christmas pics :>

As you can see we need your prayers. Thanks for being involved in our little journey.

Davao

2008-12-16T00:19:00.000-08:00

Kia ora from Davao, Philippines! The people here have beautiful hearts, and the hospitality has been off the charts! If you like fresh mangos, papaya and pineapple, I’m telling you, this is the place to be! I have been here for the last 5 days with half of the DTS, the outreach team that has been focusing on the Mindinao Island. It has been great being here, seeing so much growth is each and every team member. The ministry opportunities have been so diverse, they have done everything from Prayer/Worship, street evangelism, physical labour, church services, youth services and ministering to sexually abused girls. The fruit has been awesome. The other night a couple of the team were sharing the gospel with a group of teenagers down town, and 8 guys and 2 girls gave their lives to Jesus! This morning as some of the girls were sharing the love of God with about 20 young girls who had been abused, there were many tears shed as these girls were told how beautiful they were, and how much God loves them. Awesome!

While being here I have also had the opportunity to connect with many of the leaders here which has been awesome.

Tomorrow I’ll be flying to Manila in the afternoon to spend the next 3 days with the outreach team there. I’m really looking forward to connecting with them all and hear testimonies of how God is working there in and through them.

Please be praying for MJ and Tristan, they are both sick and are out of action at the moment.

Christmas is Almost Here

2008-12-14T02:15:00.000-08:00

What do parades, cotton candy, brazilian dancers, caramel apples, Scottish bagpippers, people walking around in bathing suites, and giant crains have in common? Well....not much except that they all made an apperance at the Mount Maunganui Christmas festival today (that I happend to attend by default when I was at work). Yes, we totally celebrate Christmas differently in New Zealand than those in the Northern Hemisphere do....but I think that is due to the fact that it is simply really hot outside. If we drank hot chocolate we would litterally start sweating!

This week is already turning out to be a busy one. I have yet to talk with Josh, as the internet connection where he is has been cutting out....but I have gotten a couple of emails. For all those parents of our students, be reasured, everyone is in high spirits and are busy getting down to ministry, mostly with teenagers. In a couple days Josh will leave the south and go to rejoin the team in the capital city. Hopefully communication will be better from there.

Hong Kong

2008-12-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

Hong Kong is an incredible city of 7 Million lined with hundreds of skyscrapers everywhere you look, lights, shops, and people absolutely everywhere. Being here has really taken me back to my high school years growing up in Singapore. It’s been a real privilege to be here during this significant time to lay the ground work for what is coming in May/June 2009. We’re here alongside Mark Anderson, the International founder and director of the Impact World Tour, and also the director of the Call2All and the Global Pastors Network. The Call2All is a vision to gather all of the top leaders in the body of Christ to provoke them to focus outwards on accomplishing the great commission and adopting unreached people groups. It is a congress which is seen as a precursor to the IWT events to bring unity and vision for reaching those who don’t know Jesus. It’s believed that this can be completed within the next 10 years.

In the first week of June 2009, the first ever global Call2All congress will be taking place in Hong Kong alongside the global day of prayer and the global day of missions. We’re expecting 3,000 of the worlds top leaders in the Body of Christ to converge on Hong Kong for a week of seeking the Lord and strategizing to reach those who don’t know Jesus. The YWAM Asia/Pacific field leaders (300-500) will be also be gathering alongside this congress. We’ll also be looking to do some smaller scale IWT church based outreach events here around the same time with the view of eventually doing full blown campaigns down the line. This is a very strategic time as Hong Kong is the gateway into China, and also the financial hub for this part of the world.

We have been asked to help coordinate and facilitate these meetings/events next year. We’ve had an incredible time the last couple of days with many divine appointments and connections. Today we have a vision sharing meeting with Mark Anderson and about 100 leaders in Hong Kong including God TV leadership who will be involved next year. It’s exciting what is taking place.

Tomorrow morning I fly out to Davao, Philippines, to reconnect with the DTS outreach team. Both teams are doing well, and seeing God move in incredible ways. It’s great to be part of what God is doing in Asia. More to come….

2008-12-06T02:44:00.000-08:00

Zach and Josh

Hey guys! Josh has arrived safely in Manila and from the reports I have been hearing things are going very well. Everyone is in high spirits and full of faith, in the midst of learning to do new things. Here is a report from one of the students.

"Friday we went to a slum. We broke up into small groups and headed out to different sections of one of the poorest area's i have seen in my life. We all told testimonies and preached Jesus crucified and His resurrection to all in the streets! We even played basketball with a group of 12-15 year old. Others ministered to a church leadership! Wonderful things happen; inner healing and even a women with one deaf ear was healed as one of the team members prayed for her! But, the best part for me was all the beautiful children! at one point 3 of us gathered around 50-60 kids and told bible stories. It was cool."

This is the girls learning how to wash clothes without washing machines.

On the way....

2008-12-04T00:27:00.000-08:00

Today at noon Josh started his journey to the Philippines. He lands sometime tomorrow, hopefully after a few hours sleep on the plane. There will be lots more news from the team once he lands. Despite lots of trips over the last two years, it never seems to "normal" to have him gone. I guess now I will have some extra time to prepare for his Birthday, Christmas, and catch up with girl friends.

Oh well off to clean the house after the whirlwind of packing.

The Philippines.

2008-11-29T01:58:00.000-08:00

Part of a Journal entry by one of our DTS outreach team members in the Philippines. WOW.

Nov.29th, 2008

"As I write this I'm sitting rooftop Manilla. Since arriving I have been overwhelmed with the sights and sounds of this 18 million + city. In less than 48 hours I've experienced more desperation and poverty than I've seen in a lifetime. Most of me wants to get on a plane and head back to Tauranga; where embracing "normality" and going about my daily life is both easy and delightful. But as I look over this city with a headful of images from yesterday, I know I can't turn away from the people in this nation. I can't pretend I didn't see the beggar sitting outside the metro line, eyes guaged out and hands extended pleading for help. I can't ignore the precious children without parents, beggin for money with beautiful smiles on their faces. What of the 2 young boys who let me take their pictures, grinning from ear to ear, only to be violently dragged off by policemen less than 1o minutes later. Where were they taken? Who is their defender? I can't wipe from memory the young mother sitting on dirty steps nursing a baby with open wounds covering the better portion of her legs. I can't possibly forget the look in her eyes as we laid hands on her and asked Jesus to heal and provide for her. I see children lying in the middle of the streets, crying with no one there to help them. I see a young child with an emaciated body and bulging eyes lying in her mother's arms as multitudes pass by without even a second glance. I see thousands lined up outside a massive church, waiting with the hope of being healed by the local "faith healer," a black magic practitioner. There are tables upon tables of ways to "purchase" salvation and wholeness. The endless icons, thick incense, and darkness in the eyes of the people selling these are overwhelming. All I can think of is Jesus and the time He overturned the tables in the temple; outraged that His people had turned His house into a marketplace. My heart wrenches inside of me when I see vials of solution that effectively destroy infants in the 1st and 2nd months of pregnancy. It's an abortion in a bottle. Even if I could smash every one I saw it wouldn't be enough. How can I ignore a nation that has been built upon the blocks of free-masonry; that millions are living underneath this kind of demonic bondage... everything I see makes me want to fall on my knees and groan in my prayers to Jesus. If my heart feels this way, how does He feel? I have no words that are adequate, and nothing to offer but myself and the true God who lives within me. I won't forget these. I won't choose the easy path. I'll pray and contend for the reality of LIVING HOPE, that will bring these precious ones into an inheritance that will never spoil or fade."

They have landed...now what?

2008-11-27T17:06:00.000-08:00

We just got a call from our friend Curt in the Philippines. Everyone, including Rene (see the below story) has arrived in Manila. They have a few days of orrientation before digging in.

Josh and I had a good 10 hours of sleep before beginning to work on the administration side of the school. Now, just to prepare for the final week of the school and graduation. Once all that is done, we will turn our attentions back to preparing for IWT in this region of the world. Mark Anderson, the founder of IWT will be in the Philippines to connect with our students and Josh who will be there next Thursday.

There really is never a dull moment. Keep checking this space - it should be pretty intersting if yesterday was any indication.

And they are ALL off....well of course there is a story behind it.

2008-11-27T00:37:00.000-08:00

The morning started early yesterday. At 1am I dragged myself out of bed and got ready for the day ahead. By 3am Josh and I had arrived at Faith Bible College and were loading all the students, staff, and luggage into the vans. By 3:30 we were headed toward Auckland. After a brief stop at storage and flash light lit search for misplaced travel insurance we were really on our way. By 7:30am all last minute instructions, hugs, and prayers were said. Seventeen staff and students where waiting in the Quantas check in line to depart.

With to go coffee in hand Josh, Raph, and myself headed back to vans to make our rental deadline back in Tauranga. Halfway down the Auckland motorway (highway for the Americans reading this) we recieved a call. Our student Rene was being denied access onto the plane. Apparently the airline officials were determined that he could not board without a particular visa our travel agents told us he did not need for a layover in Australia. As you can imagine drama unfolded from there. Raph contiued on to Tauranga to return the rented van while Josh and I quickly got on the phone.

Our travel agents (who are friends of ours) answered their emergency contact phone number and went to work. About an hour and dead cell phone later, Josh and I returned to the airport to pick up Rene. Our amazing travel agents managed to get him on a later flight, as long as we could get him the visa. Off we went to the Australian Immigration office. The sign on the window said "Transit Visa's processed in 10 working days" - we had two hours. We filled out forms, waited, and eventually saw the immigration officer. He said it could take 10 minutes, 2 hours, or 10 days. Take a seat and see if it comes through in time. It is out of my hands"

Good thing it was out of his hands, and it was in Gods. Twenty minutes later he called us back to the counter stamped Rene's passport and sent us out the door. AMAZING! The visa had been processed accross the Tasman almost immediatly. We rushed back to the airport and saw Rene through to customs. So....yeah after all of that they are ALL on their way to the Phillipines.

Preparing for Outreach

2008-11-20T15:09:00.000-08:00

In 6 days, the DTS heads off to the Philippines. As you can imagine this week is full of preparations for the next couple of months. Dalton Lifsey has been speaking on the Cross and the Evangelism and we are ready to get out there. One thought that has really struck my heart this week is the following quote.

"What you believe about the cross determines your eternal destiny. When you think about the cross, do you believe it is foolish or wise?" - Dalton

How simple does that make salvation?

Bee's

2008-11-17T00:59:00.000-08:00

For those of you who thought we might be deserting our blog...think again. Life has been a bit busy recently and thus the lack of posts. Not to worry, we have so much in our heads to write about the problem is now "where to start?"

Tonight, Josh and I were given something we really are not fond of..you guessed it Bee's. Living on a orchard having bee's around is just part of process. However, tonight after comming home from a wonderful dinner with the Walsh's and Dawson's we found several hives blocking our driveway. We are not too excited about having them around because Josh is really allergic to them, but so it is in the kiwi fruit pollination season. So here comes another adventure. It is probally good that Josh will be traveling soon. Less chance of a sting.

Signing off for the night! Sleep tight!

A Weekend to Honor

2008-11-09T00:18:00.000-08:00

This weekend my Dad in Texas had a very special birthday. My Dad is awesome, and I don't know what I would do without him. So in honour of Dad - on cyberspace, I just wanted to say I love you and Happy Birthday! I can't wait to see you again.

YWAM NZ leadership gathering in TGA

2008-11-07T17:09:00.000-08:00

We've had a fantastic week this week. About 70 ministry leaders including the National Leadership Team for YWAM New Zealand all converged on Faith Bible College to spend time together seeking the Lord and connecting as a family. It's so great to rub shoulders with so many who carry a similar heart and passion. I had forgotten how much I love the YWAM family, and appreciate so many around the world who have given everything in order to "Know God and to make him known" in this world in these days!

We had a guy named Kel Steiner speaking on the DTS this week who had been in YWAM for 38 years pioneering YWAM bases in some of the hardest places and situations. He is an incredible man of God with much wisdom. Everyone of his many stories he told us was filled with hope, miracles, anointing, inspiration and grace, we all finished the week wishing he could go on and on. There are few people who have truly given up everything to GO into the nations, who knows what sacrifice is and Kel is one of them.

The DTS only has 2 and 1/2 weeks to go until outreach to the Philippines. Time has flown by. We're so privileged to journey with such a quality group of young people. We've seen incredible change in their lives over the last 10 weeks. It's not always easy, but VERY rewarding.

Weekend happenings with the Coles

2008-10-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

We have had huge progress towards our goal of raising finance for our Philippines outreach. On Friday I went and purchased all but 4 of the plane tickets we needed for outreach. Yea! That means we saw over $32K come in a week. God is great! On Friday, we were granted an extension on those final 4 plane tickets, but need to pay for them as soon as possible. So keep believing with us for God to come through for that final amount.

Saturday we got real practical and as a group had a fund raising car wash in the center of town. It was great fun, and helped raise about $700.00.

Yesterday Josh and I drove down to Whakatane to Josh's grandma's house as it was her birthday. All the family had gathered there for the day. We had a great time reconnecting with the cousins, the uncles and aunties and grandma. Fantastic. Ohope beach is lovely too!

Expecting a Miracle

2008-10-21T14:18:00.000-07:00

As a DTS we are gearing up for outreach to the Philipines. Outreach always brings lots of excitement and challenges to us all. This week we are facing a challenge, yet I am living in complete expectation that God is going to pull this one off. After all, "all things are possible with God".

Our airline tickets for outreach must be purchased by this Friday; and as you can imagine the finacial commitment is our challenge. We currently need to see about $30,000 come in 72 hours. We invite you to walk in faith with us, believing God to finish what he has started in these students lives. Check this space to hear how it all works out.

Comming to a Home Depot near you.

2008-10-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I was asked to act in an infomercial. A friend of mine invented an addition to toilets that remove the stink, (you guys know why it gets stinky:>) at the touch of a button. The product should be a huge success as American Standard Toilets have just picked up the product. All this being said, you will soon see me on late night TV, acting in an infomercial for the product. You will see me assembling the "odour remover" and adding it to a standard toilet. Pretty funny, huh?It was pretty cool experience. The film crew was part of Peter Jackson's crew (you know, Lord of the Rings) so I can now claim I know some Hollywood/New Zealand famous people!

For those of you who wish to purchase this "odour remover" you will be able to find it at Home Depot in a couple months. Wives of the world rejoice!

DTS Update

2008-10-04T00:17:00.000-07:00

This week was definitely a breakthrough week on DTS. Monday seems like 6 months ago, all though it was only 6 days ago, and what has happened between then and now is far too much too put into words. We saw God move in incredible power this week, and the change we've observed in our students is like day and night, it's hard to believe that we are only 5 weeks into it, and have another 4 months to go. I think what I realised this week is how valuable the context and framework of a YWAM discipleship training school is, and I've realised that a lot of what God is doing in the students lives is actually taking place outside of the classroom and House of Prayer, it's around the dinner table, on the weekends, hanging out together at night etc....awesome!

On Monday and Tuesday we talked about what it means to be baptised in the Spirit and also the meaning of water baptism. We then loaded up the vans and went up to a waterfall to baptise 7 students. It was an awesome time, and we were kissed with a double rainbow later that afternoon.

From Wednesday to Friday we had Frank Naea, who used to be president of Youth with a Mission, come and speak on the Father Heart of God. We had an amazing time with him, it was so rich, refreshing, and deep. On Friday the week culminated with an incredible time of ministry, AMAZING! I don't think there was one dry eye in the room for about 3 hours, as we all drank deeply from the love of the Father.

Looking forward to this week, Hank Overeem is coming to speak. Should be good.

How Great is our God

2008-09-28T01:50:00.000-07:00

So we just finished watching this DVD called "How Great is our God" from the passion conferance, and all I have to say is WOW, my mind has just been blown at how amazing God really is. To even try to describe what I felt while watching this video would just be utter nonsense compared to how abslutely phenominal and incomparable God really is.

Have you ever got to those points throughout the weeks, months and years where you just get into the grove and everything is comfortable and you think you have a pretty good handle on who God is and how he works. Everything is just "lovely", things may be hard at times, but generally God just comes through and all is well, and everything seems to revolve around how you feel moment by moment?

If you feel like that, get a hold of that video, and let your mind explode as you try to comprehend the vastness and just the plain massiveness yet intimate considerations and immense love of our God.

Grace and Peace to you.

update

2008-09-19T23:51:00.000-07:00

We had a great week this week with Dad speaking in the DTS on the whole area of true repentance, and Lordship. There are some very cool things happening in the DTS, and we are thoroughly enjoying being involved.

Josh has been down with the flu for the last 3 days which has been a bummer. He's on the way up though, and should be ok tomorrow.

Drug Arm

2008-09-13T14:02:00.000-07:00

Every Friday night we are sending out our DTS students into the city to minister to love on young adults through a ministry called Drug Arm. Here's a story from one of our students who went out on Friday night.

"DRUG ARM: A ministry that travels the city of Tauranga, New Zealand; they travel around in a van and hand out meat pies (similar to pot pies, but way better) and hot coffee or hot chocolate to the wasted youth. After enjoying a bit to eat and a hot drink they then receive the Gospel.

Drug Arm has graciously let us as a DTS come alongside of them on a weekly rotation; last night 4 of us tagged along. Before we went to the streets we all spent 2 hours at the, "Tauranga house of Prayer" interceding for the city of Tauranga. We all were fully amped up for the mission; there are to many stories to go in to, so i think i will just give one for tonight.

We drove down to the beach at around 11pm on Friday night. We came upon a group of youth that ranged from 15-17 years old; they told us that the first thing that came to mind when they thought of God was, "BORING". I felt the Spirit direct me to tell a bit about myself; I also felt that i must look into the eyes of one young man in particularly to preach to him the deep desires of God over his life. The Lord highlighted Psalm 16:11 and John 17:24. Also something worthy of note is that when we had began to talk about Jesus the young kiwi started to play some loud techno music from his cell phone; when i talked with him about the nature of God, and that Jesus desired that he be with Him where He is, and that the desire of God is to set him free from the non-satisfying addictions that ultimately leave him disappointed, and that the creator longed to establish a relationship with him; well this will speak for itself; the 16 year old boy turned off the music, turned to his friends and prompted them all to sit down because this was worthy of listening to. They had traveled an hour to escape the bored routine of life and found themselves coming to this new reality that had never been offered from the church they grew up in; i said to the young boy, "how does this make you feel", he simply replied that, "i feel cheated". We left them that night with the challenge of going to God in prayer; when no one can look or laugh at them, go to God in prayer and seek His truth for yourselves; alongside with the promise that we would pray for them.

From 11pm-4:30am we served and shared with close to 50 young adults; sadly the majority of these were between the age of 13-20 years of age. We watched one of them being arrested for underage drinking.

So please be with us in prayer for the city of Tauranga, New Zealand. Seeds are being planted and we are praying that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ would cause an arresting of the hearts of these weak broken kids who long for an acceptance and deliverance from life as they know it."

DTS Crew...

2008-09-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

Well, we thought it would time to introduce you to our crew that we'll be with for the next 4 and 1/2 months. They're an incredible bunch, and we're blessed that God would draw such quality young people from all over the earth to be trained and equipped here with us. As far as we are aware this is the first DTS that has been intentionally run alongside a House of Prayer. Lovin' it so far.

Spring ....well maybe :>

2008-09-10T02:51:00.000-07:00

Winter is still hanging around but more and more we are getting beautiful Spring days. These flours and fresh lemons straight from the trees are some of the signs that tell me that summer is on the way. What a great time to be in New Zealand. These trees are right in our line of site from the patio. They are absolutely gorgeous and so fragrant. I love that winter is almost really over, now if only those storm clouds that are building would get blown out to sea!

I LOVE THIS TREE

LOOK AT THE BLOSSOMS

A TIME TO PLANT SUMMER VEGETABLES - THEY TASTE BETTER FRESH!

LEMONS FROM THE TREE!

OUR KIWI FRUIT ORCHARD

into the groove

2008-09-08T01:32:00.001-07:00

Well we're into the 2nd week of the DTS here in Tauranga, and it's going great guns so far. Aaron Walsh, the director of Tauranga House of Prayer, is speaking this week, and allready after one session, our minds have been blown to bits as we've dived head first into the subject of "the Nature and Character of God" or in other words, "What is God like". Yeah it's a topic that will take the rest of our lives to search out, but we had a great time with Aaron today.

We have allready fallen in love who God has soveriegnly led to tauranga for this season. It will be a lifechanging experience for all involved, undoubtedly.

On the weekend, I went fishing with Raph and Richard to Lake Rotarua and we ended up landing 7 good sized trout, 6 rainbows and a big brown that weighed between 9-10 lbs. Massive! Raph was stoked with that one. Great to find time for recreation and fun in the midst of business.

iDTS Has Started

2008-09-01T02:54:00.000-07:00

Well it is way to late to be writing a blog...but for all those parents who are wondering if their children have made it to Tauranga. All of our students have arrived safe and sound....and we are only missing one piece of luggage! Things got off to great start today, it looks like we are going to have a great time together. Today was a day for orientation and introductions, and tomorrow we are diving into more of the nuts and bolts of what can be expected out this next 5 months.

We love you all. More to come soon!

Getting Ready

2008-08-27T02:43:00.000-07:00

As I write this, I know there are a handful of people who running around doing last minute shopping and beginning to pack their bags for their journey to the ends of the earth. For some, in a few hours they will board planes and begin to head in our direction. It is crazy to think that in just a few days our students will arrive to their home for the next three months, the beautiful coastal city Tauranga.

All but one staff member has arrived and we have been in meetings all week long. The preparation, both spiritually and practically for a 1st time school is huge. Little by little it is getting done though. Excitement is in the air, and it is very evident that God is on the move. We look forward to sharing more with you soon.

By the way - seriously praise the Lord for "crock pots" we wouldn't be eating without them! There simply isn't time to cook.

House of Prayer

2008-08-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

We've spent the last 10 days or so just getting back in the grove of what's happening here in Tauranga. I have realised more than ever the importance of the House of Prayer. Being away in Korea for 6 weeks left me starving for an environment of corperate prayer and worship. Stepping back into the House of Prayer in Tauranga has been so refreashing, and has given the ability to rest and refocus, without having to have a "holiday". True rest comes from Jesus....being in His presance. I feel rested and ready to launch in this next phase. We have the DTS beginning in just 8 days from now which we are preparing vigorously for. There is a lot going on at the moment, but I have been encouraged just to keep the main thing the main thing, and lean into God and let Him do what He does so well.

Home Sweet Home

2008-08-12T17:13:00.000-07:00

Yeah, it's great to be home and in our own bed. We have spent the last two days recovering from lack of sleep, I can't remember the last time I slept 12 hours straight. After 29 hours worth of travel, it was such a good feeling to step into our own little cottage having finished well what we set out to do. I've learnt over the last 5 years or so that its most important to finish well.

We had a smooth trip back to NZ. No problems whatsoever. It just seemed to take forever. Thanks to a cancelled flight in Sydney we were able to depart two hours earlier than we originally thought which was nice.

Roast chicken was on the menu first night home, such a nice change after Kim Chee and rice. We're going to take it easy this week, before a 2 week onslaught before DTS starts. Looking forward to it.

On the way home....

2008-08-10T02:35:00.000-07:00

Well, here we are, 6 weeks after leaving NZ for Korea....sitting at the Internet lounge at Seoul Airport. An incredible last 6 weeks in Jeju, an amazing bunch of students, some great times with God, ministering to those around us, a steep learning curve, and many great korean meals! We've had a blast here in South Korea and have learnt so much. It will probably take a good week or two to process our time here, but we can say that we have finished well, and are leaving totally satisfied with what we have been able to accomplish. No regrets!

Thank you to all of you who have helped us make this time a success! Huge!

allright, over and out, time to have our last taste of korea before we hit NZ!

Take it easy.

Starting to Transition

2008-08-07T23:40:00.000-07:00

It looks like even our students kids know that transition is coming soon. These two little one's belong to JungMo and SungWan. This family might be joining Josh and I for the iDTS in Tauranga....I guess we will see if we need a Korean translator after they talk to their church.

Graduation and Celebration

2008-08-07T17:27:00.000-07:00

Today marks the end of the school term at the University of the Nations. Last night we had campus wide graduation for all of the students at the University, and the President of the university, Sun-Gun, addressed the student body. Each school leader had a chance to share a little bit about the school, and Josh seriously brought the house down. I don't know if it was because of what he said, or because they are just really excited to have an young English speaking school leader. Whatever the reason, it was a great night and we felt that the University of Nations was standing behind IWT and our students.

Tonight we have our final time with the students, which is actually quite sad. It is always hard to say goodbye when you have put your all into it. We are headed out to a Korean BBQ all you can eat buffet to enjoy what is referred to as a "Love Feast". It should be a good time of hanging out together and laughing through the Konglish (Korean English) conversations. I imagine some eating competitions might just be in order. That being said, I'm putting my money on Hoon!

This is Hoon! He ate two whole chickens the other day!

What's on the Menu.

2008-08-06T03:22:00.000-07:00

Tonight, Moses, Joanna, Josh, Aaron and myself went out from campus for dinner. Of course we let Moses pick the place, and he took us to "the very special place". We got out of the car at a place that had a cartoon character of a horse on the sign. There was also a type of corral to the side of the building. Josh and I didn't think much of it, until we sat down and started looking at the menu. You guessed it - they had horse on the menu. Apparently it is speciality and tastes great BBQ'ed. Ah! Now I am from Texas, and horses are our friends - they are not dinner. We ate beef and pork instead.
After some ice cream for dessert, we headed back to campus for our night class. We were met by Daniel, our translator. He asked if we had a good dinner? However, before we could answer, he announce "we had dog for dinner - it was good you were not here." Ah! Are you kidding me. I have nothing left to say - Koreans eat horse and dog. I guess you learn something new everyday, however some of those things you wish you didn't know.

Great Ministry Time

2008-08-04T19:36:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a great ministry time with Aaron. We were covering the topic of the Father Heart of God, and the topic of shame keeping you from knowing who you are in Christ and understanding your place in history. You could tell from the beginning of the lecture that it was hitting the "nail right on the head". It was one of those nights were God just wanted to come and touch people.

God wanted our students to feel His presence and they did. Josh and I were talking about it afterwards and both commented that we just love it when God decides to come and change mindset and bring refreshing. It makes our job really easy, we just pray and comfort when God starts moving.

Into the last week....

2008-08-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

We can't believe how fast the time has gone by since being here in Jeju. It's mind boggling to think that we only have one week left with these students in this phase of the IWT process. We've had an incredible time so far, and are looking forward to finishing well. I believe that the best is still to come this week. Graduation will be on Firday night at Korean BBQ!

We have Aaron Walsh from the House of Prayer here with us this week which is great. It's great to have a friend around who speaks english and knows who we are and what we're about.

Talented Students

2008-07-31T22:20:00.000-07:00

As I walked toward our classroom after lunch today, I could hear loud laughter coming from our room. As I opened the door, I instantly knew why everyone was laughing. Hoon, one of our funniest students was up at the front of the room drawing characters of Josh, myself, Moses (the IWT Korea leader, and Sun-Gun (the University President). Let's just say Hoon has talent - though I think he has made Josh look a bit more like superman than himself.

Chicken Soup...kind of

2008-07-29T20:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was the traditional 2nd hottest day of the year. In Korea, they celebrate this "hot day" like a holiday of sorts. In honor of this holiday, Koreans prepare a "wonderful dish". A chicken soup of sorts. Now when you think about it, eating soup on a hot day is not the smartest idea in the book - but then again Koreans eat some sort of soup everyday and in my experience it is hot almost everyday. Go figure.

So, at dinner time, the entire university body lined up outside the dinning hall early in anticipation of this "wonderful dish". Josh and I stood in the sun with the rest of our students, and began to get really excited about the chicken. Now, please note we have not eaten chicken since arriving in Korea (this is due to the threat of bird flue). When we got inside this is what was served.

Despite how it looks, it tasted just like Campbell's Chicken and Rice Soup out of can. We just had to pull the chicken off the bones! Can you believe over 400 people were served and entire chicken, not counting those that went back for seconds!

Back in South Korea

2008-07-27T18:18:00.000-07:00

After a very long couple of days of travel, I (Misty) have arrived back in Jeju Island. It is wonderful to be back together with Josh and great to be back on campus with our students. Our students have been so welcoming and keep commenting that Josh looks much happier now that I am back:> This morning we started the week with campus wide worship, and I have to say it was great to be with people that are totally different than you, yet have the same heart to worship THE KING.

Yesterday, Josh and I decided to try and fight jet lag and went on a little hiking excursion to Sunset Peak. Sunset Peak is a volcanic crater right by the sea. Of course by the time we got there it was the hottest time of the day with about 100% humidity. These two facts alone almost made me chicken out, until I saw a few Koreans hiking the crater with umbrella's held high to protect themselves from the sun (they take sun protection very seriously here - the lowest Sun Screen protection we could find was rated SPF 47). So after lathering up in sun screen, loading up with two large bottles of water, and caring our umbrella up we climbed the crater. I have to be honest and say I have not sweat that much in ages. Here are a few pics - it really was quite beautiful....

Us at pre-climbing Sunset Peak

The volcanic crater

The view from the top - supposedly you can see Japan from here...on a clear day.

The umbrella was a brilliant idea.

The Volcanic Landscape of Jeju

Update from Jeju

2008-07-25T01:21:00.000-07:00

Well we've hit the end of another week of the IWT school here in Jeju. It's been a long week and we have covered a lot of territory revolving around the IWT committee structure and set up, a lot of details. We also talked a lot about public speaking and gave the students and oppurtunity to practice a 15 minute pastors presentation in front of the whole class. I was astounded and the confidence and the way the students put their presentations together, it really showed they have been learning and retaining what has been taught. Every day they amaze me. We finished the week by visiting the stadium here in Jeju city, looking at how we would set it up for IWT. It was a good way to finish a lot of class hours. 2 more weeks to go....

Tonight I'm heading back to the city to have dinner with a pastor from Jeju. He's taking a few of us out for dinner, so that should be the perfect way to end a busy week. Maybe some korean BBQ?

I'm greatly anticipating the return of my beautiful wife tomorrow night, 2 weeks is far too long. Will be excellent to have her back with me again!

Josh

Misty in America

2008-07-23T08:15:00.000-07:00

While Josh has been busily working in Korea, I have been visiting friends and family in the USA. In addition to that, I have been hanging out with my beautiful friend Cristina who tied the knot last Friday night. It has been a great time of connection for me with so many I love dearly. Some friends really are for life and some friendship can truly transcend all time and distance. Unfortunately in my attendance of the bride, my camera got left behind....however here are a few pics from my time in Texas.

Pre rehersal dinner gathering. I love these girls!

Some of the bridal party and I at the reception.

Mr. and Mrs. Chris Baatz

Friday....

2008-07-17T21:24:00.001-07:00

Well its that time of the week, time to wrap up, rest, and begin preparing for next week. We've had a great week together this week, with great input from Dad on leadership and some helpful principals that will sustain these guys throughout the preparation process of IWT.

It's been amazing weather, blue sky everyday and 28 deg celcious with a beautiful sea breeze. However, I just heard word that this weekend we're going to be having some large thunderstorms, and even as I write this I can see the sun going behind some clouds, some heavy clouds.

One of the things I have learnt about the Korean people this week is that they are a devoted people and they do things to the best of their ability. Also, they know sacrifice, in fact during the asian economic crisis, many koreans gave of their own jewelery and money to help bail the nation out. They're loyal, they're respectful, and they love to learn. I'm learning a lot from them.

Yum!

2008-07-15T03:15:00.000-07:00

This week in the IES Seminar in Jeju, we are covering "Leadership and campaign principles". Dad is doing a great job covering a lot of territory in such a short time. Again, you should know that we are trying to fit a 12 week course into 6 weeks. So far so good. The students are eating it up, and are so committed. It's really quite amazing.

For those of you who don't know this, Kimchi is the most famous Korean dish, and that was what was on the menu tonight. Kimchi, also spelled gimchi or kimchee, is a traditional Korean fermented dish made of vegetables with varied seasonings, most commonly referring to the spicy baechu variety. Kimchi is the most common Korean or side dish, eaten with rice along with other side dishes. Kimchi is also a common ingredient and cooked with other ingredients to make dishes such as kimchi stew (kimchi jjigae) and kimchi fried rice (kimchi bokkeumbap).

Yum....!

If you are Korean that is....

Yeah, it's not the best tasting food you can find.

The art of running a red light....

2008-07-13T00:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I have been to a lot of countries in my few years on planet earth. Thailand, Cambodia, Nepal, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, Korea....just to name a few. In all my visits, I have never seen so many people run red lights as I have in South Korea, especially Jeju Island. If traffic fines were $100 per red light, I think I would have seen about $10,000 worth of fines just in the last 4 hours. It's unbelievable.

I picked up my dad from the airport in Jeju this morning, he's here to speak on the IES. We were just laughing and shaking our heads in disbelief as we watched driver after driver after driver run red lights. I thought NZer's were fairly aggresive drivers, but they have nothing on these South Koreans. Pray for me!

We had a few hours off this afternoon and after a good lunch, we ventured into one of the largest volcanic lava caves in all of the world. You walk down many stairs in this spike, and it goes for about 8 miles into the earth. The Manjung Lava Tubes. It's quite an amazing site really, and very cold. It was great to get off campus and have a breath of fresh air and do somthing different. A great walk, and highly recomendable to anyone visiting these parts.

Here's to a new week! Looking forward to it!

Josh

An unbelievable crew to work with!

2008-07-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

Well it's the end of another week here in Jeju. Things are going so well. We've had a HUGE week this week with Mark being here. Things have opened up for IWT considerable. We've had pastors presentation meetings, Church launches, YWAM launches, IWT Lectures, Strategy meetings, and much more. It's been full and exhausting yet oh so rewarding. We're so excited about where things are at and where things are going.

Again....we have the best group of Korean students ever! They are so fast to catch on, incredibly smart, soft hearted, techno savvy, fun, and just into it!

Here's a shot of them!

Class Report....

2008-07-08T23:35:00.000-07:00

Class Days 2 and 3 with Mark Anderson have been fantastic. Mark has such a wealth of knowledge and solid theological understanding that even the tangents are fascinating. The students minds have been really challenged as they have attempted to understand such topics as heaven, hell, life after death, the gospel, eschatology, lordship, fundraising, public speaking, and the structure of IWT. It has been great.

Today we took our first trip to the airport, where we dropped of Mark and Moses. Tonight they have meetings in Busan - a city of 3.7 million people located on the southern point of the mainland. Mark will be speaking in a large church which has 10,000 members. So....tomorrow morning we get to try and find our way back to the airport on our own, to pick them up. Good thing they drive on the right hand side of the road. It makes me (Misty) feel much more comfortable.

Its been a jam packed week so far, things are moving forward. We're excited, and are looking forward with anticipation what will hapen in the next few days.

Day 1 with Mark

2008-07-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

Today has been very full and it is only half way over. This morning we had a pastor's meetings in the main campus auditorium. Mark gave an excellent message and it seems as though we now have a group of pastors on board with IWT here in Korea.

This afternoon and evening Mark is addressing our class. It is great having him here as he is already addressing many of the traditional mindsets that need to be broken if IWT is to be successful. Here are some pics of the day so far.....

Mark speaking at the Pastors meeting this morning.
Mark addressing our class this afternoon.

Life off campus

2008-07-05T06:28:00.000-07:00

The weekend is over and it is time to plunge ahead into another week. Mark Anderson, the founder of IWT is with us this week - so it is sure to be an interesting time. I know things will move forward in monumental ways this week. It always does when Mark is in town.

Saturday was our day for exploring Jeju. Josh and I spent the morning walking around the main city - getting a feel for life here. We found an awesome coffee shop that made fantastic Caramel Macciato's and then met up with rest of our staff. Then we went to a 4 story shopping complex where we walked around trying food samples and putting what we liked into the cart. The power marketing with samples is amazing! Here are a few pics from the day.

Misty with Rahel and Ji Young outside a multi level shopping center.

A typical city street

The rose bushes on campus - as mentioned before

An arrangement made from the roses grown on campus.

First week finished....

2008-07-04T16:52:00.000-07:00

Well, we're one week down having finished the teaching for the first week. It's been an extremely full schedule, but we've had a great time bonding with our students. We have fallen in love with them. They're GREAT! Josh and I are in amazement at how quickly they have caught on to the vision Impact World Tour. A lot of paradigms have shifted and God has really been moving in their hearts and challanging each one of them in various areas. There is a real excitement and buzz in the classroom which makes things easy.

Moses and Joanna, the Directors of IWT Korea, are precious people, they really carry Gods heart for this nation, and are doing a great job spearheading the "new thing" that is hapening.

Looking forward to a day of rest. Next week will be even more intense with Mark Anderson coming in.

A Glimpse of Life in Korea

2008-07-04T01:18:00.000-07:00

We wanted to give you a glimpse of our life in Korea. Below are some pictures of our life here.

This is the two bedroom house we are living in. It is a 5 minute walk to our office and class room. Rahel (our other staff member) is living with us.

The building on the UofN Campus where our classroom and office is. There are pretty roses all along the path...but I have failed to photograph them as of yet.

Josh and Moses (the IWT director for Korea) teaching at class. translation is always fun.

An all staff prayer and fasting meeting. Koreans love to pray. Hillsong has made it to Korea too....

Us with two other IES staff having dinner. This is real Korean BBQ!

What's Happening!

2008-07-02T20:18:00.001-07:00

We are into day three of the Impact Evangelism School here in Korea. We have 13 awesome students who are really switched on and five staff who are also amazing. They know they have been called to bring IWT in to their nation, and it seams to me that each one possesses a steady confidence that is visible. With their families and our staff members, our IWT presence is sitting at 25 people on the University of the Nations campus. Out of 300 staff members, Josh, myself and Rohal, (Rachel in Japanese) are the foreigners. We stick out like sore thumbs. However, we are picking up a little bit of Korean here and there. Our days here have been really full. We start at 8:00 am and have returned home around 9:00pm. Josh has been teaching everyday, so on top of the jet lag, he is exhausted….but doing a great job. We are seeing the Holy Spirit move in power amongst the staff and students It’s so awesome to see the hunger. We are teaching through an interpreter which I am learning is a real talent. I shared this morning and I found it really challenging – so go Josh!

On the fun side of things, last night we went to a Korean BBQ restaurant. We sat with two of our Korean staff members, Chris and Sun Yung and they taught us what to do. We grabbed plates full of marinated Australian beef (yes South Korea is still banning US beef, and the bird flue has eliminated chicken from the menu), pork and vegetables. Then we turned on the BBQ hot plate that sits into the table. After a lot of sizzling, the meat came off the pit. Then we wrapped it and the vegetables in lettuce. It was delicious. For the Americans reading this, think the lettuce wraps at Chili’s and PF Changs, but with more variety. Besides the food, getting to know our staff and gaining insight into Korean culture was awesome. We’re really enjoying it here, and we know God has us here for a purpose.

Arrived at Incheon

2008-06-30T17:29:00.000-07:00

After 13 and 1/2 hours in the air, a quick stop in Sydney, and some really great service on Asiana airlines, we have made it to South Korea. We were excited to sit next to South Korean missionaries on their way from Auckland to Beijing for a missions trip. They were encouraging and gave us a bit of a run down on culture etc...So, This place is amazing. It's so high tech, and organised. I was excited to see there was a good variety of American restaurants in the airport that they don't have in NZ. We've been greeted all ready by many neon crosses scattered all over the place marking the thousands of churches in this country.

We quickly discovered that language is a real barrier, and we're having to be very careful with our choice of words, keeping English very simple. No room for slang.

In a few minutes, we're headed back to the airport, on to a train, and then onto our domestic flight to Jeju Island. We feel good to be here.

Bound for South Korea....

2008-06-24T03:26:00.000-07:00

Well....this time next week we will be in Cheju Island, South Korea. Yep it's been a crazy week at the Coles place which has tested every ounce of faith and strength in us. However, we have held our course, and God has come through in the 11th hour, or I should really say "1 minute to midnight". Neither of us have been to Korea, and Misty has never stepped foot into Asia, so it will be a first for both of us. I'm just glad I have spent 7 years in Singapore, and know the Asian culture relatively well, all though I'm sure Korea has some major differences.

We feel it's going to be a significant time as we pioneer a major evangelistic thrust through the nation, which we pray will awaken the youth (not exlusively of course) to the reality of life with God, knowing him as He really is.

It's going to be a jam packed. We arrive on the 1st of July and the course begins that evening. Josh is teaching the first of the 6 weeks, so it will be hitting the ground running and then some. We have 13 students for the IES, all Korean.

A wild ride is no doubt in store; Interesting tastes, smells, sights, and experiences as well. Keep posted for more thoughts, photos and stories from the "Honeymoon Island". However....this is garunteed to be no "honeymoon".

Hakani

2008-06-15T02:39:00.000-07:00

Hey Folks,

We don't normally do this sort of thing on our blog, and it's certainly not the purpose of our blog, but I just wanted to bring to your attention an issue that has really gripped my heart recently, the issue of Infanticide. The murder of innocent children, which is rampant in some of the tribal areas in Brazil. As I write this, kids are being killed in the Amazon Rain Forest, and tragically the government does not even lift a finger. This month the government is being presented with a law, Muwaji's Law, that could protect these children and make it illegal for the needless deaths. Please check out the website, and read the amazing story below.

Hakani Website

In 1995, a woman from the Suruwaha gave birth to Hakani. Hakani means smile and she was a little girl full of bright smiles and laughter. During the first two years of her life, however, she did not develop the ability to speak or walk causing her tribe to put pressure on her parents to kill her. Hakani’s parents chose to escape this pressure and killed themselves leaving behind Hakani and four other orphaned children.

The responsibility to kill Hakani now fell to her oldest brother. He took his sister a short distance from the communal hut and buried her, still alive, in a shallow grave. Hakani’s muffled cries continued as she lay buried in the makeshift grave.

Many children’s cries continue for hours until a deep silence descends but for Hakani the deep silence never came. Someone heard her crying, saved her from her shallow grave and placed her into the hands of her grandfather, who took her into his hammock. As the oldest member of the family, however, he knew what traditional practice demanded he do.

Hakani’s grandfather took his bow and arrow and shot Hakani. His arrow missed her heart piercing her shoulder. Immediately guilt overcame him and he ate the poison root in an attempt to take his own life. For Hakani the deep silence had still not descended she had survived yet again.

From that day on, at two and a half years of age, Hakani lived as an outcast. For three years she survived on rain water, bark, leaves, and insects and occasionally scraps of food one of her brothers smuggled to her. Along with this gross neglect she was physically and emotionally abused. Children burned her legs because she could not walk, and laughed when she cried. When others walked by they shouted “Why are you still alive?” “You have no soul!” “Why don’t you just die?”

Over time Hakani lost her bright smile and all other facial expression. Her situation grew increasingly worse and yet for Hakani the deep silence did not descend. Eventually her brother, Bibi, rescued her carrying her to the home of a YWAM missionary couple who had been working for 20 years with the Suruwaha Indians in the Amazon Basin.

The missionaries knew Hakani was weak and very ill. At five and a half years of age; she weighed 15 pounds (7kg) and was 27 inches long (69cm). The couple began to care for Hakani as if she was their own child, but it was hard. She responded to nothing, had no facial expressions, no emotion, and would scream and cry when touched because she had gone for so long without physical contact.

The missionaries cared for Hakani in the Amazon Basin, but they knew if they did not get medical treatment she would die. In time they received permission to take Hakani out of the jungle. Within six months of receiving love, care and medical attention Hakani had begun to walk, started to talk, and her bright smile returned to her face. After a year she was double her weight and size. Today Hakani is twelve years old and with a bright laughing smile she dances, sings and loves art. Her voice today is a voice for life.

A Day for Goodbye's

2008-06-14T01:54:00.000-07:00

Today, Josh and I headed over to another Kiwi/American couple home for a goodbye morning tea. Steve (the Kiwi) and Trena (the American), are moving to America next weekend...and I must admit I am a bit sad. They have been friends of Josh's for ages, and were here to welcome me onto the scene when I first set foot on New Zealand soil. It was Steve, Trena, and Josh that made me ridiculous video's showing me what life was like in New Zealand, before I got here. Wow, time sure does pass by quickly.

Anyway, in the midst of boxes and babies, we had one last hang out. We are going to miss them...and I guess next time we see them, we will be on the soil of the USA. Another change in life is dually noted.

2008-06-10T23:17:00.000-07:00

You watch the news these days and it just seems as though everything is escalating. Everything you hear about is earthquakes, tornadoes, flooding, and war. It reminds me so much of the passage of scripture found in Luke 21, where Jesus is describing the way the earth will be before His return.

Now I have to be honest and say that I am not really excited about things getting bad before they get better. I would much rather have been living in the 1950's getting excited about owning a vacuum cleaner, and maybe even the first washing machine on the block. I mean the days of watching the first astronaut walk on the moon were pretty exciting. However, that beautiful period of time that I am sure I romanticise about, is not the reality I live. So here I am, in the midst of world that is being shaken and these are the words I am meditating on.

Like 21:34&36 "Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life......but keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.

In saying all this, I know that we live in the days when the church will shine like never before and see Jesus in ways never seen before. That I am excited about.

Thank You Denmark

2008-06-10T01:58:00.000-07:00

Misty had been a little under the weather over the weekend, on Saturday with a severe migraine and then Sunday night a bit sick. Thankfully she's feeling a lot better today, and back to her normal self. I decided to take her out for dessert tonight for a bit of a date. When we got to the Bethlehem round about, countdown was a lot closer, and lets face it, a lot cheaper....a pretty wise move if you ask me. So it was in to the supermarket we went, and after a few minutes we walked out with hokey pokey ice cream, and a danish custard pastry. Within about 10 mins we were back at home, the pastry was in the oven, the latte machine was on, and we were warm and cosy in our little cottage.

Our date out, was quickly turned into a date in.

We both decided the Danish custard pastry was definitely the way to go, and one of the best tasting desserts out....wisdom was justified. The Danes sure know how to do pastry's. And "Big Train" vanilla chai latte powder sure makes a lovely hot drink too, especially when you've been taught how to froth the milk properly and it's freezing cold outside.

We had a great date. and saved a bit of $.

The boys....again.

2008-06-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

Well a couple of posts ago, you read about how we went to Snells Beach, to visit Anna and her two precious boys. Well much too our surprise they came down this week and visited the wider Cole family. Anna and Nika had a wedding on the Saturday in Rotorua, and so Anna spent Wednesday-Friday with us in Tauranga. On Thursday I finished my temporary job at PowerCo. Thanks to the PowerCo the two boys received "bob the builder" helmets. They absolutely loved it and thought it was the best thing ever. They were going to the building site on the way to Rotorua to see the "Machines".

We've had a great time bonding with Anna and her two boys over the last week or so.

How cute are these two?

Website News!

2008-06-05T02:40:00.000-07:00

After lots of late nights, the new IWT website is up and running. Even as I write this, Josh is sitting in the living room editing it yet again.....but none the less the website is live and much improved. It is still pretty basic, but we know it will improve in time.

Check it out at www.iwt.co.nz

Queen's Birthday Weekend

2008-06-03T03:22:00.000-07:00

While all my American friends were celebrating Memorial Day - we over here in New Zealand were working hard. But the following weekend, a holiday honoring the Queen took over down under. I guess it all evens out. Queens Birthday Weekend.

Josh and I decided to visit Anna (Josh's sister) and her kids for the weekend - Nikka was away at a business conference and the YWAM Staff gathering was taking place only 45 mins from Anna's house. It seemed like a no-brainer to us, so off we went.

We had such a great time with Anna and her two adorable boys, Nathan and Ben. We both fell in love with them, and decided they are potentially the cutest kids in the world. We discovered very quickly that they are both very much into machines, drains, dirt, trucks, and especially "Diggers". As we would drive down the road, they would both start shouting "digga, digga, digga", and we'd be looking around for it everywhere and there on the horizon, hardly viewable to the eye would be a digger. It was rather funny.

One morning, Josh got a nail in his front tyre, so we thought it would be a good outing for the boys. So we all went down to the Tyre shop, and it was up there with one of the greatest moments in their day as they watched the man take the tyre off and use big machines, jacks, etc to fix it. They were totally captivated for every second we were there.

Good times.

Josh went to the YWAM Staff gathering on the Sunday. It was great for him to be able to connect with friends working in the ministry from around the nation.