A group of nine people set off for a weekend of day walks in Tongariro National Park. We were very fortunate to have fine weather, especially on Saturday. Our walks included - Lake Rotopounamu, Mangatepopo to the Skotel, the Silica rapids (very beautiful), two 20min walks to a lovely waterfall and the intriguing 'mounds', and a ramble around the Happy Valley area. The group worked well as a team, all pitching in where needed. Margaret served us superb meals, especially her homemade soup, simmering away in crockpots. Gary told tall tales of previous tramps, and somehow got himself and Margaret to Tongariro before the rest of us who departed earlier! Gary, Alan and CS drove us safely from place to place. Alan also made himself chief operator of the kitchen sink. Michelle and CS got up at an unearthly hour to photograph a surreal sunrise. Lucy and her trusty tablet, kept us fully informed re dropping temperatures on Friday and she also showed us how to REALLY pose for a photo. Florence used us all as walking dictionaries and added many new words and meanings to her Translator's vocabulary. Susan wrapped her head in wet towels and tried to figure out the finances. Eileen's devotions was particularly apt for the setting. She instructed us to sit where we could see the mountains while we reflected on Psalm 133. God promises us '..life forevermore.' While we see aspects of this life in the cycle of life all around us in nature, the present blessing of eternal life is to know Him, and walk with Him - who is our Creator.