I’m finally posting something. After countless occasions of friends and family hounding me, I am finally writing something. To be honest with you, I probably have four or fine different entries saved on my computer that are incomplete simply because there is so much going on here. So, here is a quick recap of my time here since....November 7, 2010....
November was a month full of snow, hot cocoa, and some Christmas cheer! It was so enchanting to be in the castle, with a fire in the fireplace, a brightly trimmed Christmas tree, and a mix of 16 nationalities celebrating the season of love. We sang carols often, and had a massive “playing in the snow” event during the first snow fall. We also had a splendid Thanksgiving, which the Capernwray staff put on just for the Americans. We had a full feast and we ended the night with a massive game of capture the flag (Pilgrims vs. the Indians). It was a very different Thanksgiving, but it is definitely one I will always remember.
December took me home for three weeks. Although being away from my Capernwray family was quite strange, I was overjoyed to see the familiar faces of Waukesha, Wisconsin. I spent such wonderful time with my family and I made new cherish-able memories with my dear friends. For those of you reading this, thank you so much for your love and company! I said goodbye with tears, knowing that I would not be home for five and a half months....
When I arrived back in England in early January, the second winter term began. This brought new roommates, which God greatly blessed me with yet again. I have a lovely room in the castle with a large window framed with purple curtains and a tall, white ceiling. There are five of us living there: two Americans, two Canadians, and one German. The constant sound of laughter and dance parties coming from our room is proof that we get along quite well. I am so grateful for them!
So, I have been here for about four months, and I have built such precious friendships. But just recently did I look at a calendar and realize that over half of those people I will never see again in five weeks. Most of the students are not staying here in England for spring school, which means that every second with every person here, I am holding so close to my heart. God has demonstrated such love through the people here, and I have learned the importance of Christian friendship. I am not just friends with these people, but I am growing with them. I am walking with them and learning to glorify God as we walk. It is such a beautiful thing, and I thank God for pouring such wonderful blessings upon me.
Home seems so far away, but I’m beginning to see the entire world as a place to call home...
Talk to you soon, friends!
Kristin
