Just the Beginning

I am beginning to get accustomed just enough that I feel at home but not so much that I've lost my sense of wonder for Wales. Contrary to popular belief, life here isn't always sunshine and rainbows (though I do see quite a few of both). I'm still living life and it still gets hard, and lonely, and sometimes I want to stay in bed all day. But I don't dwell in those moments because lately they've been passing just as quickly as they've come. In the past week I've met many more smiling and welcoming beings, eaten very delicious home cooked meals, and laughed those good deep-belly-laughs. The ones that make you beam on the inside. I've been making the most of all of life, even the 6 hours I spend in lecture on Mondays. It turns out I'm really enjoying my classes. Especially when we spend 20 minutes rehearsing the oral storytelling of "The Little Red Hen" until each word and motion is committed to memory long after class is over. We had a lot of laughs that day. One of the most loveliest days was this past Sunday. A couple from the church I've been going to invited a group of young adults over for lunch. There, only feet from the sea, in their quaint and quiet home sat 15 bodies huddle around a wooden rectangular table. Literally shoulder to shoulder we feasted on delicately made sandwiches, soups, teas & coffee, biscuits, yogurts, treats, and crisps (chips). Afterwards we walked down along the coast, climbing over rocks when the tide had risen too high, and hiking up trails that looped back to their home. Awaiting us back in the living room, were card games, laughter, books, and of course, more tea. The exploration of the coast, the cluster of colorful birds outside the window, the conversations we'd shared, the (oh so good) food we ate, even the drive over, all played a significant part in one of the most restful Sunday's yet. Moments grasped turned into memories that last. Life here is beyond what I can put into words. It's more complex than a good or a bad. It's a whole process. One experienced from my perspective. And I like that I can share some things with you and hold onto others for just me.

Welsh words/phrases I say quite often.

Croeso y Cymru- Welcome to Wales

Caos- Cheese

Cwtch- mix between deep embrace and a short cuddle

Bore a Da- Good morning

Diolch- Thank you

#update #grateful