Cairns- sunset of gold

As indicated in the past post, nothing worked out as planned. But everything worked out wonderfully. Just proof that no matter what we plan, God has better plans and Tuesday was a clear example. I had originally planned to do the Reef trip this day (tuesday) and leave on Wednesday for Malanda. But I had procrastinated in booking a tour to the reef so when I looked to book on Monday (the day before), everything was full for Tuesday. Thus I had to change my plans and visit the reef on Wednesday. Good thing too!! Due to my hectic night and haste to get in the house, I had left a light on in the car...

Tuesday morning was a leisurely one. I was able to sleep in a little, have a restful breakfast while getting to know Wilsy, my host. I had come in contact with them through a friend of a friend so this was our first real chance to introduce ourselves. Wilsy (born in India),  her husband Ole (born in Denmark), and their three children had been missionaries in Papua New Guinea for New Tribes Missions. He is a pilot and had flown a small plane back and forth carting supplies and people. Recently they moved to Cairns so their kids might have a better high school education. She embodies hospitality and I felt so comfortable in their home and enjoyed our conversations. 

I had decided to drive up to Port Douglas for the day so after breakfast I gathered my things, said goodbye, and got into my car. But it wouldn't start. And that's when I saw the light (literally and figuratively) and realized my battery was dead. It was a really good thing I couldn't book a tour for Tuesday because I would've missed my tour! Instead, I had time to call roadside assistance, talk to Wilsy more while I waited, jump start my car, and still have plenty of time for my trip. 

The drive was a beautiful one. Slightly windy and occasionally I would get stuck behind a slow truck, but I was in no hurry and the views were of tropical trees and a rich blue ocean. 

I arrived at half past two with enough time to lay by the ocean for 20 minutes before joining a walking tour I had signed up for. 

I love walking tours because you get a lay of the land while hearing about the history of that place. I learned about the gold rush, the effects of cyclones, about certain plants (one is called Wait Awhile because the barbed leaves make you wait awhile if you ever get snagged), animals (two deadly jellyfish and crocs...fortunately both are not "in season" during winter), and the development of Port Douglas first as a city for gold miners, then as a port for exporting sugar cane, and now as a tourist destination. 

The sun was just about to set when we finished so I grabbed a cup of coffee and found a prime seat on the edge of small park. The sunset was breathtaking. A strip of clouds perfectly placed above a mountain enhanced the sunset as did a crew of men rowing their boat across the lake. I couldn't stop taking pictures with both cameras as the sunset kept changing and posing until the sun had disappeared completely. There were moments I just sat and prayed, praising God for His beautiful creation and for His goodness in allowing me to see it. What a happy, peaceful moment.

My spot:

As the sky darkened, I walked back to my car and drove home, occasionally enjoying the stars. I was greeted warmly with dinner and tea as I recounted my day. Heading to bed at a decent time, I was eager to get rest for my big day tomorrow!