Where has the time gone?

Time is flying here. I can't believe that I have already been here for over two weeks!

To update you a bit on my life here...

* After much searching I have found and moved into a permanent apartment. I am still getting things cleaned up, and settled in. It is a nice little loft on the 5th floor of an old building in Old Riga, it's just me and the rooftops up here.

* God has blessed me with many friendly people to meet, and begin to get to know. On Friday night after a youth group at one of the churches here, a group of people (many of the youth leadership) go out to a cafe. I have gone 2 times now, and though I don't understand all of the conversation that is had, I enjoy it very much. I feel very happy to be included in this because of many reasons including the fact that Latvian people are not quick to trust or open themselves to strangers generally speaking, so being blessed by opportunities to build relationships and friendships here already is surprising to me, and brings me great joy.

* The international playgroups went well again this week. It is getting to be quite chilly (there are whispers of snow soon) and it is fun to have children come in all bundled up like puffy marshmallows with rosy cheeks. The children are very fun to play with, and the adults always have good conversation. This week there was mention of a very good Russian ballet someone attended, which sounded very interesting. There are still a few things that catch me off guard about being here. Like Russian ballets being sort of common.

* I am on the downward stretch of a head cold, and am very thankful for beginning to feel healthier.

* English service was very good again today. I met a man who has been a regular at the service, but was away due to travel since I had arrived. He is involved in promoting and organizing the Hope Festival that is coming up here in Riga. They are expecting thousands of people at this event from all over that will include music performances and sharing of the hope that is found in Jesus Christ.

Keep praying for God's blessing on the sharing of faith within Latvia. God is at work here, and His message is reaching out to people as light in a dark world.

You are all in my prayers and I hope you are well. God's Peace!

Visu Labu! (All the best!)