Perfect Days

Hi friends!
Saturday we went on our "Death Hike" and I must say it did not live up to its name for I found it to be very much the opposite. We woke up very early, 4:45 am and walked to the tram station and rode a tram to a bus stop. Then we smashed ourselves into a maxi-taxi (which is what they call something that looks like an over sized minivan) and rode the fairy boat across the Danube. Then we smashed ourselves even tighter into another maxi-taxi and rode for a long time through winding roads and watched the sun begin to rise. I was a bit sick but still doing all right. When we reached the village we bought snacks and were freezing cold and wanted to start walking just to warm ourselves.
The countryside is so rugged and unspoiled. At the base of the mountain there was a herd of goats and a shepherd walking up the hill. Very picturesque.
We took our time climbing as there were 14 of us and we had all day long. Still we reached the top the mountain by 10 am and so we nestled in for naps and rest. The wind was cutting but the view was lovely and you could find rocks to shelter inside. Laughter and quiet silence and happy conversation. We stayed for several hours and ate lunch together before the descent. The creature delight was finding a baby turtle. A lovely day.

Vali and me








Some have asked exactly what it is that I am doing here in Romania and with Word Made Flesh. A day is spent hanging out with kids in art classes and English lessons and playing outside, and we help with random projects that need completed around the center. But most of the time it is just life in a big family. I don't have a "job" that is mine and I am no one important. But I am loved. The staff are here not for the employment but because they want to give their lives for their friends. It is a different mentality than making your rent money. And life is lived in way that reflects the existing and coming perfection of Christ and his kingdom. It is a haven and refuge.
Last night I made dinner for the Englishmen (and English Rachel too) and for everyone interested, American and Romanian alike. Word spread that I could make Mexican food and the pressure was on. It took two days to procure all the ingredients and I had to make enchilada sauce from scratch but it turned out to be a feast and it was such fun making food for everyone. Chocolate chip cookies topped us off and I was kicked out of the kitchen and not allowed to do dishes. (I wasn't eager since I had spent nearly 4.5 hours cooking, even though I loved every minute.) These have been good days.
Vali and Lau (a Romanian couple I may have mentioned before?) invited the Servant Team to the countryside and Valis' mom's home on Saturday. I am really looking forward to getting out the city yet again.
Must head to chapel. Everyone write-I love hearing from you.
Makes you not seem so far away.
Much love,
e