Every once in a while I'll get this this gut wrenching feeling. It comes so quick, so unexpectedly, and fills me with homesickness. Just as my heart begins to grieve its loss, the feeling is abruptly replaced with tranquil rest. Talk about the Peace of God that passes all understanding. Theses past 6 days (if you count the full day it took to get here) have been full of wonder. We took a trip to Llansteffan Castle, Whitesands Bay and Saint David's Cathedral (pictures in the link above). But today I was able to rest, write, and reflect on the things that I've cherished. And come to terms with a few things I don't.
Being the only North Carolinian, I'm like free range cattle; confined to no one group of friends. I can bounce around, and explore alone sometimes. I love my alone time.
Speaking of cattle. The meat here is fresh and free range. The produce is straight from the ground, and the purple onions are feisty to the taste buds.
The colors here make a rainy day a bit brighter. The grass is on a whole other level of green, and the houses that line the streets are uniquely designed. Even the rocks are vibrant!
In a country that's known for it's rain, the mud is endless... and squishy... and fun to step in. Each splash is a shot to my cleanness.
I can't go more than 4 hours without something or someone reminding me of one of you back home, and it stings not being able to live it with you.
Meal time is one for education. The conversations that I have with friends here have given me insight to saddening Welsh history, delicious Malaysian food, the weather in Canada or traditions of a Chinese New Year. I'm learning a lot and classes haven't even started.
Birds sing at night. No. They squawk. And not just at night, ALL DAY. It honestly sounds like they're planning to
attack.
The on-campus gym isn't free:( but since anywhere in town is basically walk-able I'm getting exercise anyway.
People always ask how I'm liking the weather here. I'm liking it a lot. The cold isn't so cold when your adrenaline is pumping. The mist still feels like soft kisses, and the white fog in the sky gives the place a sort of mystery.
Sadly, I learned today that I'm not all that great at cooking like I thought. Dinner was a disaster, but I have 4 months to get it right;)
God's gifted my first two days with sunshine! That's rare y'all. Not a drop of rain the whole day. He knows how to get my attention.
When my camera doesn't do a sight justice I thank God for my eyes that can gaze on forever without the disruption of a low battery and even lower quality.
I found a lovely bookstore run by a man named Alan, and I think that'll be my go to spot. There's just something about bookstores that make you want to read everything.
I am absolutely in love with the way EVERYTHING shouts praise to its Creator.
All in all, there is so much to be discovered and I follow expectantly in the path God's leading me on.
Things you could be praying with me for: Building lasting relationships and loving people well Fruitful conversation with friends God to pursue with abandon