The first week of January, we were blessed to attend CCA's family camp at Waihi Beach. 

Waihi Beach is a couple of hours drive-time from Auckland.  It's a beautiful drive!!  (You can see some pics on Shutterfly.)  We didn't spend much time on the beach this week because the expanse and the crash of the ocean upset James.  We were surprised by his reaction since he's been to the beach and seen the ocean before...but we realized that those beaches had been slightly sheltered ... and Waihi is not!  So as we topped the rise and the ocean came into sight, James started crying and wouldn't stop!  It was a reminder, though, that we should all be in awe (fear and respect) of God's awesome creation -- and remember that, although He is our Father God, He is Powerful and Holy.  We should be in awe of Him and not treat our relationship with Him as something casual and safe. 

We enjoyed the days of fellowshipping and worshipping with other members of CCA -- and got to know quite a few more families.  It's nice to look around the sanctuary now and actually put faces and names and conversations together.  CCA is feeling a little more comfortable and as if we are becoming part of the body there.