Monday, December 29, 2008

A Jolly Journey

Well, the adventure has begun, bringing me to Frankfurt, Germany for a day and a half.
We just arrived to our hotel, across the street from the train station. I type to the unfamiliar sounds of German in the background, coming from the television. Even in the past hours of being here, I have come to find out that I wish I knew German. However, there are so many people here who can speak English, which has proven to be quite helpful!
The flight went smoothly. My birth mother Renee, and her father (my grandpa) are accompanying me and we decided to spend a day and a half here in Frankfurt to do some sightseeing. Renee is a flight attendant for American Airlines, and this has been such a blessing in regards to traveling. I have felt so cared for throughout this trip, and countless times consider how blessed I am to have them here with me!
When we arrived in Frankfurt, we met a man at the airport who helped us purchase our train tickets. He is originally from West Virginia, but married a German woman, and has lived here for almost 30 years. He was a highschool teacher for Americans and International students, and was quite knowledgeable about history, the city, and many other things. It was like our very own personal tourist!! He was so helpful, and I thank the Lord for providing in such small, but meaningful ways.
On a funnier note, I always find the bathroom experience quite humorous.... one never knows what to find! So far, so good... I have thankfully been able to figure out how to use the various water closets, toilets, etc... we shall see what other places offer! :)
Also, I have a couple of prayer requests.
The first one has to do with my luggage. There are possible complications tomorrow as I fly to Romania, and I may not be able to take my two checked bags (which are packed with basically all of my things for four months). As I encounter this scenario, please pray that my responses and how I handle it will truly reflect a peace and trust in knowing that even in these things, ultimately I am not in control, and in everything, there is a purpose. So please pray that I will keep this in mind, and have an attitude that reflects peace and trust in Him, and not grumbling!
Secondly, the first two weeks in Romania, I will be traveling with a friend from Cornerstone, Heather. She is fluent in Romanian, and we are visiting many of her friends, which have chosen to so graciously welcome us into their homes!! Please pray that in our time as guest we can encourage fellow brothers and sisters, as well as have hearts of service for them.
And thirdly, ahhhh the language... in whatever way I learn, I can glorify the Lord with motivation to learn, dedication and perseverance. I would love to soak it up immediately and speak well, but please pray that my mind would be sharp and learn quickly, for His glory. I can only imagine how ecstatic and certain of His work I would be if I learned the language rapidly!

Well my dear friends and family, I am off to take a little nap (plane travel does not afford the most restful sleep!). And then we are going to tour Frankfurt for the evening.

If you would like to email me, my email is laurenjoy222@gmail.com

Thank you for reading, and there is definitely more to come!!!

Joy in His Provision,
Lauren

1 comment:

Amy Richey said...

I am paying for you! Enjoy your time!!