New News and Old Olds

Bonjour! Eleven days in Belgium and all is well. At this point I am pretty comfortable being here with the Petries and knowing what is expected of me. As far as out of the house - that's a different story. It is always humbling being in a completely different culture and trying to function and communicate. I realize it would help tremendously if I knew the language, and decided it would be easier for me to learn French than for everyone in Genval to learn English. So I am going to pursue learning the language a bit more than I have been.

From here on out, my schedule is pretty much the same. I work everyday and have Tuesdays off. It hardly feels like I'm working though. It really is just being with Rebecca and taking care of her needs, and as I get to know her, it only gets better. Yesterday being Tuesday, I was off. I went to Chateau de la Hulpe, which is what the above picture is of. It is acres and acres of beeauutiiffull land and old, historical chateau (the castle looking thing) about a 10 minute bus ride from the house. As I walked through it I felt a little like I was in Narnia - it was all so gorgeous and peaceful. My feelings might have also been affected by the fact that I was reading one of the Chronicles of Narnia, but, nonetheless, it was magical. I hope to return there with a bike sometime so I can explore some more. It was good to get away and relax, read, and re-energize.

There is a lot happening and my days are often busy, and there is likewise a lot going on in my mind and heart. I'm learning practical things from Rebecca concerning gardening, birds, and cooking as she instructs me and I act as her hands. I am also continually impressed by her character and there are many traits from her it would behoove me to adopt. I am learning so much from Paul about European culture, politics, and history. I am learning what it means to be full of grace and to function in open relationship with people. I feel like the Father is opening my heart towards Him and teaching me about Himself and shedding light on things that are inside of me. It is good to have time to seek Him. I pray I use it wisely.

I am continuing to enjoy the Belgian delicacies, the beautiful weather, and the people. It is good to be here. I am grateful for the opportunity. I am trying to keep pressing in and not give into monotony or stagnancy. No, I have not yet had a waffle. Maybe next week.