This month, surprise, we are in Romania. We learned at Debrief that this would be the location of our 6th month. No one expected it, but it's been wonderful thus far. And we've only been in the country for 3 days (including today). In terms of travel days, it's one of our longer ones – this was 55 hours. It took us across 2 continents, 1 small ocean, through 3 airports, 1 train station, 4 physical countries (not to mention all the ones we flew over), and through 2 seasons – from hot summer to cold winter. Sunshine & heat to snow & freezing temperatures. It's been one heck of a travel schedule, to say the least.
But, Romania is BEAUTIFUL. And the people are remarkably friendly! Jenn, Tim & I met a man who works at the airport that is married to a woman who lives in Philly, less than 20 minutes away from Jenn. It was so cool to see how small the world we live in is and to see them connect over mutual places and experiences. On the way from the airport to the train staition, I sat next to a woman my age on the bus and we started talking. To strike up conversation, I told her I really liked her hat (it was big and fluffy and warm looking). We talked for the 30 minute ride about a bunch of different things and right before we got off, she told me that she wanted to give me her hat. It was so generous and completely unexpected. One thing God was working on me last month was accepting gifts from people when they make me feel "inferior" or something like that. So, at first I said no, for her to keep it, but she offered it again and I accepted. It was so thoughtful of her and a beautiful picture of hospitality and care. I was really touched, and so thankful because my ears were really cold!
I was so excited for it to be snowing! I've been hoping for it for so long – it didn't feel like winter, or Christmas, without the snow! I'm so glad for the snow – winter is so much more bearable if it's there – life is no fun if it's cold without snow. I'm looking forward to making snow angels, a snow man (although this isn't very good packing snow), maybe an igloo, snowcream (ice cream made out of snow), and maybe going sledding.
I'm so glad to be here, in Romania, in the winter, in the snow. It's glorious. And so bright (glad I have sunglasses!) We've eaten delicious meals so far – we made french toast this morning, and potato, carrot & onion soup this evening – both of which I had a hand in making! We drink unpasteurized milk from the cow of the neighbor next door, and we use local produce in our food. The eggs we get usually have some feathers stuck to them – it kind of grosses me out. But, so far I really love it here!
I hope you are doing well! Leave me a comment letting me know how I can pray for you this month!
I have my final financial deadline coming up! If you can donate, please contact me and I'll tell you the details! Thank you to all who have helped me get this far! Without you I wouldn't be here!
<3 Amanda
