Top 5 Lessons Learned from the First Half of our Semester

     As spring break draws to a close, it seems like an appropriate time to consider the lessons we have learned.

5.  Wear comfortable shoes

      We do not have a car here so we either rely on public transportation or walk.  Most of the time, our days involve a combination of the two.  We invested in hiking boots for everyone before we came.  We have put over 200 miles on them and no one has had to stop because of sore feet. 

4.  We're in Europe - Eat the food!

      Food here is different.  Seasons are different, packaging is different and availability is different.  We have tried haggis, black pudding and regularly make instant coffee because that is what we have access to.  We are thankful that the boys are right in there on this adventure with us, often asking to try new things.

3.  The world is your classroom - learn from it!

    There are many amazing opportunities which are unique to this area.  One example was Friday when we walked along the West Sands shore.  We had a great time hunting for crabs and interesting shells.

2.  Set your watch by the bus schedule.  No other time matters!

     If you want to catch the bus at 11:48, you can't be emptying the dryer at 11:45.  I learned that lesson early on!  If we miss the bus, which we haven't yet, there will be another one, but it may not be for another hour.

1.  It's not all about sightseeing, it's about relationships.

      Our family has been given an amazing gift this semester and we are striving to make family memories that will last a lifetime, but those aren't all going to be amazing medieval cathedrals.  We made some decisions quickly about choosing a church and going there when we are in town.  We really wanted the boys to make friends and that has happened.  Tommy and I have also had many opportunities to develop friendships with people here.  It would be easy to think that we don't need any of that, we aren't here all that long and let's face it, friendships are an investment. But, halfway through, we are thankful for those that we have gotten to know over these last weeks.

     It is also about our relationships with each other.  We are continually reminded of how we need to depend on one another and look out for one another as we strive to grow closer in love and grace.