Early this year, I was incredibly blessed to have been given the chance to go with a friend, Truly, to visit some friends of hers in a little community in the northwestern corner of Tasmania. We landed on January 1st, and the next two weeks were some of the most stretching, yet most enjoyable weeks I’ve had in a while!
Leaving New Zealand—the Southern Alps in all their glory!
It’s a different feeling to know you’re walking into a situation where you’ll have to get to know a bunch of new people all at once…and then proceed to live with them for the next few weeks! For me, an introverted homebody that loves to have plenty of “me” time with little other interaction, the idea was a bit stressful. (Please tell me I’m not the only one!)
A glacier in the Southern Alps. So beautiful!
But as soon as I got there, I started to feel at home.
First glimpse of mainland Australia—the beaches were gorgeous! I believe this is Mann Beach, if I matched up our place on the map properly while we were flying over.
They did an excellent job inviting us into their lives, treating us as one of their own, and sharing their joys and sorrows as we went about working and hanging out together.
I loved the golden sand on Tasmania’s beaches!
Their love was one thing that struck me the most—often, it seems like when you visit conservative Christian circles, there’s a certain amount of “us” and “you” distance automatically placed on the relationship. And as much as I hate to admit it, I know I’ve done that before, all too often, when I’m relating with people. I didn’t sense that distance when I was at Detention River, though. We were able to have meaningful fellowship, and spiritually I came away feeling very refreshed.
Poppy fields—we passed quite a few of them on our way back from Devonport, where I landed. The poppies were to be used for morphine, I believe.
One day, we went to a beach about 15 minutes away—Boat Harbour beach. There were quite a few people there, but we found a beautiful spot to ourselves! The sand was so white, and the water warm, but still cool enough to feel really good!
I don’t generally go swimming, so I enjoyed wading for a while, then went to explore the tide pools.
Miniature mussels, only about 10mm tall at the most
There were lots of beautiful sea anemones, slightly bigger, I think, than the ones we get in New Zealand.
I love exploring beaches different places in the world, so I was thankful to have gotten the chance to take my time here! I wanted to explore this set of tide pools (below), but everyone else was ready to go by then. Perhaps another time! This is looking north-west from Boat Harbour. Just at the base of the trees on the left (you may be able to make it out) is the tip of Rocky Cape, just a few minutes’ drive away from the community. We went there another day; pictures to follow!
Although I didn’t know I’d be going to Tasmania until early December, it ended up being a very enriching time for me. I’m looking forward to sharing more pictures with you in the coming weeks, as time permits!
For now, I’ve got a question—how has the Lord answered unasked prayers for you in your life, especially your more recent past? For me, being at the community was a huge blessing, but I had never thought to ask for that. Have you had anything similar happen lately?
Wow, that sounds awesome, Esther! I can certainly relate with having an experience like that one:) And yes, you’re not the only one who struggles with having little “me-time” lol. My stay in Guate, particularly our trip to the mountains, has stretched me in that regard. A good learning experience, and have certainly enjoyed spending time with the people here:)
Haha, introverts unite! 🙂 I’m so glad things are going well there for you! And yes, isn’t it interesting that we are often called to the places we wouldn’t necessarily choose for ourselves? But then they turn out being the best for us because we learn so much through the struggles. And I’m sure you’re making lots of lifetime memories and friends to treasure along the way too. Can’t wait to hear about it when you get back!
Yes, I never imagined I’d end up in Guate! Certainly not a couple of years ago. Peru had always been on my mind. But then God’s plans always overrule, and that’s the best way:) I’ve made heaps of friends here and hope I can return some time in the future, Lord willing. Looking forward to catching up with you on my return!
Amen! Yes, looking forward to seeing you!