Double Reef

Some new and awesome friends took Sarah, who is also a new and awesome friend, and me to Double Reef on the northern Navy base on the island for an afternoon of hiking and swimming. We explored a cave, found deer remains (my first deer on Guam...even though there's apparently many), saw two monitor lizards, found ancient pottery, and got to experience part of the paradise that is our island. I had an amazing time, especially since this was my third new hike in five days. I'm considering myself blessed to have such an amazing summer already. Check out some of the pics:

Saturday afternoon, all of the students on campus, plus Rob, Stephanie, and myself (and Luzzy) went to Shark's Hole. It's kind of a hike, it's kind of a stroll on the beach, and there really isn't a "hole" but a spot in the ocean that people like to swim to when the current isn't horrible, but, it is always an amazing walk. Here's a pic of Steph and myself as we were halfway through. I wear the same thing every time I go to that place...apparently (really, check my facebook pictures. If I am in that shirt, I am somewhere around Shark's Hole). The current was almost non existent and all of the girls swam out to the coral in the hole and had a great time checking it out while the guys stayed close to the beach. It was a really great day.

This morning, we paddled out past Shark's Hole, and en route saw many manta rays, a sea turtle, a rainbow (that we canoed under) and a small pod of dolphins. It was definitely worth getting up early. Actually, most things on Guam are worth getting up early for if you want to do them right- otherwise, without the grace of clouds and shade, we'd all bake. I am really thankful for the opportunities to experience Guam like this- it's such a beautiful island.

Who does that?

Me...why would I make a birthday wish list? I want peace, love, happiness, and all the good things God intended for us (and a good Bible) SEE I did it again. I think I'm working out ways to be looking forward to my summer months spent here. Hmmm....it will all work out, but, when it comes down to it- I've been here 2/3 of an entire YEAR already and I'm trying to process that. Wow. Pretty cool- but really, where did my Bibles go?

Pagat Cave

This past Saturday, my community group took a hike to Pagat Cave. (If you're on facebook, you've seen many pictures of rocky cliffs with gorgeous blue swirling water below and a dark cave lit by candlelight. You've probably seen them from the last two, amazing times I've gone.)

This time, a few people from group 2 and other friends from PIU hit the trail for a 3.5 hour hike that consisted of about an hour spent in awe of the ocean, and almost an hour spent inside the cave swimming around and goofing off. We had an incredible time in fellowship, joking around and laughing with each other (or, laughing at each other, depending on who tripped on what or scared who out of the bushes). Only Leeman and I have been there before, so we took turns leading, though some adventurous girls like Sophia and S-me took over once they figured out the trail. I can't wait to go back and do it again. This hike is not only breathtaking, it just so happens to be close by and obviously, free. I couldn't think of a better way for a group of college students and missionaries to spend a Saturday. For all of you off Guam who love getting outside, I truly wish you were here.

Dangerous animals on Guam

When I first got here, I was terrified of the island's dangerous animal population. It's not enough that I've swam amongst sea urchins, laid down in the road with brown tree snakes, and have been bitten by a boonie bee, I have to watch out for these things on a daily basis. Take precaution when coming to Guam.



This is the jungle crab aka hermit crab. Very dangerous; could take your finger off with one swipe of the claw.







This is the monitor lizard. It can grow up to the size of a small vehicle. Has been known for running off with small children in it's claws.
















These are our ocean's equivalent to piranhas. Don't wear your shiny snorkel or smell like bbq.




These are our starfish- once they latch on, they won't let go until they have eaten your hair, finger, or whatever body part you put them on.








This is the most ferocious of the island's animals. One must take all precautions when encountering these. Don't let them smell your fear.