Hey Folks!
Whew....our last full day in Penang, well, to be more specific, Batu Ferrenghi, a beautiful beach-town sector of Penang. My days are full of.....adventure! I DID end up doing the fish exfoliation therapy done, it was awesome, VERY ticklish, although I didn't really notice that much of a difference to my feet. I went parasailing! Could there be a more stunning, awe-inspiring thing in the world? I could only close my eyes and sing out my praises to God as I flew through the air with my arms raised in exultation! What joy! Beautiful doesn't begin to describe it. My days are spent exploring and chatting with a friendly German fellow who has become a regular companion and part of my day. I think I will be a bit lonely when he takes off to the Philippines....but India awaits! Today was full of surprises and blessings....we attended the international church of Penang, and go figure....I found myself walking up to Bob Pagee and his family, who are missionaries from my home church of Beulah Alliance and know my parents. At a time when I felt as though God was a little bit far away, and I was lonely here in Asia, He surprises me with the finding of a familiar face, and a service filled with righteous teaching and singing. My heart was lifted.

The afternoon was filled with exploring Georgetown, the colonial area of Penang, taking a tour of a mosque, and talking with a gentleman there, and attempting to search out a chocolate factory where they gave out free samples. Alas....it remains a mystery, as the heat and promise of a cool pool at our hotel tempted us away from the treasure hunt. After a quick dip I decided to update this, and on my way, walking down the bustling street, past street stalls and little mini-marts, not able to resist a chocolate ice cream on my way (1.50 RM, the equivalent of about 46 cents Canadian...). The melting heat made me lose some of the chocolate on the way, but I suppose my stained dress, (and my waist-line) will survive the loss. The Thai food we ate today was scrumptious, and I am once again tempted to get some blended mango drink at the market tonight.....so many choices, it is impossible to choose what food you'd like, but all of them are greasy and rich, and I find myself, in the midst of such abundance, wishing for one of mom's refreshing, delicious, salads. :)

Although I feel like this part of the trip isn't exactly what I signed up for, I am utterly grateful for the easing of this transition, into a different country, a different culture, a different world.

I wish you all could be here...