When first gandering at our race route, I never felt any excitement towards Romania. Nonewhatsoever. And now that I am here, I am completely in love with the land and it’s people.
Romania is beautiful. We are living with John Fracker, a missionary from the United States, and his wife and son. They are an amazing family and have shown us nothing but love and incredible hospitality since we arrived. We are staying in a Gypsy village called Viile Tecii. (Fun fact: We are about a half hour away from Bistrita – where Dracula was written!) John told us that the Gypsies in Romania are basically viewed how African Americans were back in the days of segregation. It makes me sad to think about – these people have been nothing less than incredible towards us since we have arrived. We go running down the street and people run into the road offering us fruit, they invite us inside to meet their entire families, and they give us everything in spite of the fact that they don’t have much to give. It’s touching. And something you would rarely encounter in America. Think about it – can you imagine seeing a jogger and immediately going to your fridge to run him down and offer him a plum? It’s awesome.
We have been busy beavers during our time here. We have been working on random construction projects for the families around the village, volunteering at an orphanage, organizing a daily Kids Club for the children of the village, and helping out at the Sunday church services. We have also been spending a lot of time just getting to know the families around the village. We are building some fantastic relationships here.
In more personal news, I have fallen in love. His name? Adi. He’s tall (for his age), dark, and incredibly handsome. I should also mention that he is four years old. We met at the orphanage, and it was love at first sight. For me, at least. The language barrier presents communication difficulties, so I am unsure of his exact thoughts. But true love needs no words. He is in great care at this orphanage – he is well clothed, well fed, and most importantly – well loved. Once again, I am finding myself broken hearted in another new country; I am already dreading the day we leave.
I must admit, Romanian food is delicious. We spent a night learning how to make Romanian donuts. I am only slightly ashamed to say that I consumed 12 during our baking session.
Our Mondays are our days off, and this past Monday John took us to a salt lake. The lake contains insane amounts of salt – you literally float without effort. Shortly after our arrival we found mud and decided to cover ourselves and pretend it was a spa. Heather Duke documented this event – here are some of her amazing photos.
My mom always tells me that she expects to come home one day to find packages on the door step containing small animals and children that I find along my way and want to adopt. In addition to Adi, she will probably soon find this little fella.
We are all very much looking forward to our next two weeks here in Viile Tecii. Please continue to keep us in your prayers, and thanks so much for your support and encouragement! 🙂 God is good. All the time. And everywhere.
Love love love 🙂
