One Year

Tomorrow marks a year since I flew into Berlin. I still remember the day my family drove me to the airport and the morning after when Mike and the boys picked me up. In many ways I can't believe it has been one year. About six months ago I started keeping track of what "I'm learning..." I keep this in my Notes on my handy. So I open it up on the bus or train and type a few lines when I'm thinking of it. I hope you enjoy these "I'm learning" statements. This has truly been a trying year but also one that has brought great revelation. 

• I'm learning how to take advantage of adventure. Just do it.

• I'm learning that I'm growing up. I feel guilty for not saving but then guilty for not living.

• I'm learning how to leave work at work. This is a huge challenge for me. Mostly because I care. I want the best.

• I'm learning to have a goal and achieving it.

• I'm learning that there are some people that time and distance don't shake our foundation. I'm thankful for these individuals and I miss them more than a ten page letter could cover. To be honest, I'm not even offended that those people don't read this blog because that's the thing... We know life is busy and when we reconnect we will need to catch up on details but our love for each other doesn't become less.

• I'm learning you always have love.

• I'm learning the Spirit is alive in all languages.

• I'm learning I need to ask the tough questions.

• I'm learning that I am a romantic in love but a realist in life.

• I'm learning country music can make all things better.

• I'm learning to be a friend from across an ocean.

• I'm learning to read a map, ask for directions and adventuring out on my own.

• I'm learning I'm never alone. Jesus is always here and near.

• I'm learning I have the best family and friends.  They may not understand but they are there supporting and missing me.

• I'm learning that if one lives away from home they always feel that when they travel that direction they got to go home. So if I travel west, I'm traveling home not anywhere else until I move home. Then I'll travel in that area. 
• I'm learning truly how history affects the future.
• I'm learning that God provides.
• I'm learning to not just accept everything that is offered to you.
• I'm learning some more about interceding and about my relationship with God. My place within the family of Christ.
• I'm learning I have a lot to learn.
• I'm learning I have a fear of being electrocuted, however, I did change two light bulbs.
• I'm learning I'm not patient enough to let finger nail polish dry but I'm too much of a perfectionist to let it be. Oh it's an awful curse.
• I'm learning to be self disciplined in many area of my life: fitness, work, and spiritual.
• I'm learning the importance of a rest day.
• I'm learning that you can always be a student and pick something back up.
• I'm learning that I like to do thoughtful things like write handwritten letters but my fear of not knowing what to say when I get to the post office gets in the way. I have thrown away more letters than I've sent.
• I'm learning that I know the Berlin transportation system more than I thought. Especially when the U1, U2, U3, and U4 aren't working.
• I'm learning that I will always be saving to travel to a new place or to travel home. 
• I'm learning that Spotify is my serious blessing every single day.
• I'm learning I can live one winter without a snow day. I'm not sure if I can do two... I miss waking up and looking out the window and seeing white. I miss impromptu pancakes and bacon. I miss the lazy days that come when snow is upon us.
• I'm learning there are things you will always miss. One day I'll miss Berlin for... And right now I miss home for... (well the list is miles long!)
• I'm learning that other cultures certainly can offended one another without even knowing it.
• I'm learning to thank God for the moment now. The ones in front of me. Not just for the ones behind me or praying for the one to come. But thankful that it's as green as its gonna get.

From my corner of Berlin to you. 

Jan. 2015

Sending hugs!

Next blog post is for those of you longing to get out of Central PA.

 I'll share with you what you'll miss and not even realize it!