DAY 5

This felt like Day 1.  We woke at our usual time but there was no rush to get up and drive.  In our own little kitchenette, we made coffee and had a simple breakfast.  There was a chapel and coffee time at 10 am and we wandered over to meet some of the staff and volunteers.  Our only plan today was to settle in, find a cell phone company and take a walk.  No major driving. 

We found ourselves a couple blocks down the street at the Starbucks, enjoying WiFi and a cup of coffee.  We checked in with family and Walter gave his new cell number for contacting in case of emergency. (It was expedient for us to get a U.S. sim card so we could access our Facebook and e-mails - not for work!)

How delightful to soak in the sun’s rays and bask in the freedom of no schedule!  On our way back to the retreat centre, we stopped in at Wahlgreen’s  for a few items we needed.  We "vegged" in our cool suite after being in the hot sun and I gave in to the urge to nap.  That is what vacation is all about!

Supper plans were made with the director couple of the Southwest Indian Ministry Centre.  We picked them up at 6 pm and they suggested Dillon’s, a BBQ joint.  We were NOT disappointed!  Seated by a window that looked out on an enclosed bunny run, we enjoyed a wonderful evening of sharing about ministry and journeys.  The meal was delicious-pulled pork, riblets, smoked turkey, choice of sides!  It was uplifting to visit with LeRoy and Sandy and hopefully they felt mutually encouraged, as well.  We made it an early evening as Sandy had to leave at 5 am for a funeral on an Apache Reservation.  (Hopefully we will hear about that funeral.  We are always fascinated by the cultural facets of other peoples and tribes.)

And so ended our REAL Day 1.  It was with a good tiredness that we crawled into bed – you guessed it – by 10 pm!