As I am writing this entry I am sitting in Vienna, Austria. Vienna is such a beautiful place but am amazed at how everything on Sunday comes to a halt for them to recognize the Sabbith. Granted most pubs and restaurants are open, but all shops including the grocery stores are closed. At first I was bothered by this concept however I think it would be nice for us to recognize the Sabbith more. To take time to be with family or rest rather than run errands for the week or go shopping and loss focus of what is important. I have truly enjoyed the ringing of the bells in all the towns we have been in, calling everyone to mass. Everytime I have heard the bells I feel as if I should drop what I am doing and go to church. However, not being Catholic...I would care not to offend. I'm missing my church back home. I have noticed that being away has made me appreciate and miss seeing everyone and having the worship time.
I took some quiet time this morning to do a short devotion on commitment and devotion. Funny what you come upon when you just google some words. I was thinking more on my relationship with my spouse but came upon a devo about my relationship with God. I found it much needed as it helped bring my lens back into focus on the things that should be important in life and what really is not.
Speaking of what is important, at the first part of this trip, we met with distant relatives that the family has never met in Zetea, Romania. I wish I could put my feelings into words on the experience but I find it too difficult. Other than to say a few things. We were welcomed with such open arms that it was such a beautiful thing. I miss Opa more than ever now that I have met people from his past. To look at his cousin's eyes and see him was so beautiful. I think as Americans we get so wrapped up in the little things and wanting more that we forget the importance of family, togetherness. Visiting these folks and taking time to get to know them through the help of an interreter helped me have a better appreciation for family. I look forward to saving money to see these family members again and I hope that we can help bring their children over for a visit in the years to come.
All in all, I feel blessed to be able to be on this journey in Europe. This has been a priceless experience to watch my kids experience another side of the world that before only existed in pictures, . I hope to continue to give them many more of these priceless experiences so that they can continue to grow to be amazing adults.
Tomorrow.... on to Munich.
