After a pleasant Christmas and New Years in Curacao, we are now in Aruba where we got off to an interesting start. Before arrival, we found out we would not be allowed to sell books on the ship while in this port. While we are a non-profit organisation, the sale of books is a big part of keeping the ship sailing financially and so a port without any book sales would be a challenge.

However, after arrival (and a couple of days of negotiations) we were able to come to an agreement to sell books on board. This was a big relief for us and many local people who were disappointed when they came aboard but couldn’t buy any books. We have been encouraged by the support of local churches and individuals and it’s been great to see the excellent attendance at some events we’ve held on board for kids, married couples and some ethnic groups represented in this diverse island community.

We’ve enjoyed a few opportunities to go ashore in this port. Yesterday we took the boys to a patch of grass near the waterfront and practiced tee ball and they had a lot of fun getting the hang of hitting a ball with a bat and fielding. We also enjoyed a visit to Baskin Robbins, one of many familiar fast food type places here in Aruba. It is very American here in that sense, catering to the thousands of cruise ship visitors each week. We actually had to move berth late last night for a couple of days to allow cruise ships to come in at the berth we’ve had previously.

The new year has kicked off with plenty to keep us busy as always. Two of Jon’s team have completed their commitment on board (they’re a married couple) and so Jon has had some extra things to cover with a new person in the graphic design role and part time help on the photography side until the new photographer arrives in February. It’s also been a busy port with the media which is thankfully being overseen by our journalist but has required some extra help along the way as well. Holly has continued to have opportunities to teach others how to share the Gospel and it seems like everyone who has the opportunity to go through her training comes away really excited about it and with a sense that they have the tools they need. It’s encouraging and exciting to see.

The boys are all doing well and keep busy with their friends on the ship. They continue to enjoy everything related to Star Wars and Bionicles. We recently received a couple of care packages from some friends and it’s always a blessing. Thanks to those who have left a note on our site or sent an e-mail, we love to hear how you’re doing.