From the Helm – Monday, June 28, 2010

4:30 AM – The Group arrived on schedule yesterday afternoon.  All are well.  All is good.

We have several last minute things to take care of this morning.  Phillip and Sidne are scheduled to arrive shortly after Noon.  We will set sail towards the Wai-Wai Nation as soon as all are boarded.

It’s been a good 24 hours.  I’ve been able to visit with everyone aboard.  Good to see them all.  The days ahead hold beautiful ventures yet to be revealed.  My spirit is ready to receive whatever may come.  I’m eager to live it all out as the days unfold.

Departure is set for around 4 this afternoon.  Just a few hours till we pull anchor and cruise.  What a privilege it all is for me.  I’m grateful, indeed…

10:00 PM – We were underway on schedule.  Good to have Phillip and Sidne aboard.  They’ve brought a bit of home to me.  I love having the Boys here.  This is the first year in many that they’ve all not made it for the season.  Just the way it’s worked out this time.

- The moon is full and high tonight.  It rose directly in front of us a couple hours ago.  The evening is bright.  No need for spots at all to safely navigate.  It is so very beautiful out tonight…

11:30 PM - River traffic returning from the Bull Festival in Parintins is heavy.  The Beatriz has been dealing with the waves since about the time we departed Manaus.  I’m glad we’ve avoided the whole party deal.  By the time we see Parintins in the morning, it will just be licking its wounds from the week of chaos.  It’s a lovely town to live, work and play in except for this one period each year that some half-million people descend upon her, rape her and then steal away as quickly as they came.  The money is good for a little town like her but, I feel the cost to her character and dignity far outweigh any benefit derived.  For me, it’s a sad thing to see… 

ETA in Parintins is set for mid-day, tomorrow.  We plan a brief stop for fueling.  Then, on to Cashoeira Porteira and beyond…

My heart is a bit heavy tonight.  Nothing to do directly with the work that lies ahead.  Just heavy and lonely.  God will nurture me as sleep slowly takes over the meanderings of the heart and mind…

From the Helm – Tuesday, June 29, 2010

7:30 AM – Rough night aboard the Beatriz.  So much traffic, hardly anyone was able to rest from the wash of the passing vessels.  All is calm now.  Our passengers will be able to catch up on rest during the day.  Energy will be needed for our ascent to Inaja tomorrow and the next day. 

Parintins isn’t far away.  We will take on gasoline and diesel.  Then, cruise onward.

- I was eventually able to rest last night. Even amidst the bouncing against the walls in my hammock.  My God ministered to me in a gentle, soothing way.  I knew He would do so.  The matters that are on my heart, are of Him – of His design.  Therefore, they are of a nature known fully only to Him.  Thank you, Lord, for what you are showing me.  Thank You for Your consideration of me in this way.  It is all part of your provision and caring with regard to my life.  Thank You for the glimpses of clarity You’ve provided in the night…

11:00 AM – Just about to depart from Parintins.  The stop has gone smoothly.  Luiza has stayed ashore to care for the return tickets of for the group and Pedro has come aboard for the remainder of the trip.  Cachoeira Porteira is about 23 hours away.  Time to settle in for the remainder of the cruise taking in the Trombetas River and the Mapueira.  All are well.  All baggage has been sorted for the climb through the falls and rapids.  All is good.

My next probably wont communication won’t be till arrival in Inaja on Thursday evening.  Lots of water and adventure between here and there.  I look forward to every step along the way.  From the Helm will pick up again as time and circumstance permits…