Swimming, Eating, and More Swimming! (Day 5)

Wake up call arrived at 8 A.M. and all youth excitedly jumped up to get ready for the beach. Even breakfast was a special treat as the food crew prepared delicious pancakes that were instantly devoured. Swimsuits were donned and sunscreen was lathered on before heading out to the busses. My family even received our own inner tubes and goggles to take with us.

It was about 45 minutes later that we arrived at Honeymoon Island, but it was another 10 minutes before we could reach our picnic destination. The busses performed an amazing feat as they swerved around the maze-like roads on a wild goose chase to find our reserved spot. After finally reaching the picnic area, kids ran off the busses--towels in tow as the anxiously awaited the site of the beach. To most, the beach was not the typical marine scene that was expected; yes, the sand was full of hard shells, and there were many sharp rocks at the bottom of the ocean, but in the end, everyone thoroughly enjoyed the beach. Even the overcast weather, not typical beach-associated weather, did not hinder the youth from having fun at the beach. Some walked along the shore and collected various sizes and shapes of shells; some played frisbee on the playground site, and some just enjoyed floating along with the current. Whatever the activity, the youth took advantage of the opportunity to have fun.


At 12:30 P.M. all swimmers straggled out of the ocean and dried off for another delicious meal prepared by the food crew. The grill was fired up as the wonderful Captain Morgan, Ron Arrison, and David McDonald tag-teamed to make yummy hamburgers and hot dogs. Along with that, there were animal crackers and potato salad--all of which was devoured in minutes.


After lunch some went back to the ocean for another round of floating; some went back to playing frisbee and volleyball; some grabbed their change of clothes and attempted showering in the outdoor shower. Whatever the case, all finally met back together at 2:30 P.M. for the trip back to LMUMC. The bus ride was very silent as tuckered-out youth took the opportunity to grab a quick nap on the way home. Some must have gotten a second wind, however, when the kind minister of LMUMC invited the youth over to swim in his pool once we returned to the church! Many happily skipped across the street to jump in while others remained at the church to take a short nap prior to the concert.

After the swimmers returned, all gathered for a scrumptious meal graciously prepared by the people of LMUMC. The menu just so happened to be my favorite meal ever: spaghetti, garlic bread, and salad complete with a homemade dessert bar. Needless to say, the youth were very gracious for the meal. With full bellies, they performed the last official performance of the tour, which was received wonderfully. And afterwards, the church members provided an ice cream bar for the singers! I tell you, it was a very great day meal-wise.
Later, there was time to relax as youth took part in the tradition of decorating quilt squares. There was fabric paint for miles! All the squares turned out beautifully as each youth added his or her own personal touch for his or her memory of the trip. At 9 P.M. was Bible study in which we discussed the story of the Pharisee and the tax collector in Luke 18:9-14. We discussed to whom we related better and whether our prayers ever feel selfish or "for show." Later Chicken John and Ron returned for another rousing round of awards. And finally, after a long day full of sun, sand, swimming, good food, and an even better Bible study, everyone collapsed for another night of rest.