f i v e

What!! How has it already been five weeks!? The days feel long at times, but man do the weeks fly! I hope these pictures from the past few weeks accompanied by some written explanations help to give you an idea of what life is like here in Mitrovicë. Thanks for being here.

Sunday Hikes

Featured is the hike to Baigora with Albana, Mimoza, and Troy!

Beautiful village. Mimoza hopes to build on this property in the future. She happily served us tea as we gazed across the rolling hills and took many deep breaths of crisp clean air! So incredibly refreshing!! Hikes like these typically leave me feeling like: #bringonanotherweekofschool

Volleyball and Basketball

Intramural basketball Wednesday after school.

Every-other Saturday volleyball clinic.

Sunday basketball game watching three KLA students in the city sports center.

CHOPPED

Cooking competition with team members. I had the distinct privilege of being a judge. Troy and I schemed together to decide what mystery ingredients the contestants needed to include in their dishes (modeling it after the show, Chopped). In between the three rounds (appetizer, main course, and dessert), I got to make the most delectable grass soup (a blast from my personal past) with Loresa and Rion (Lydia & Lavdim's children, Nadine's grandchildren).

School

I moved classrooms! I was previously sharing with another teacher, and we were able to make use of an empty room. Because I have few students at one time, I attempted to shrink the space a bit so we weren't swimming in the room.

I continue to learn that while first-year teaching is no easy task no matter where you are, there are innumerable opportunities for growth and I am continually seeking to remind myself of that. I came across this try post and it struck me. Keep trying. I need to continually humble myself in asking for help and admitting my shortcomings while giving my students my very best.

The death of Kobe Bryant seemed to be the catalyst for hearing of many other health issues and deaths of those that are close to those I love over the past couple weeks. I have found myself thinking lots about how short life truly is and considering that any time I talk with or spend time with someone, it could very well be the last.

I have clung to a verse from Come Thou Fount:

"Oh that day when freed from sinning, I shall see Thy lovely face.

Clothed there in blood-washed linens, how I'll sing Thy sovereign grace.

Come my Lord no longer tarry, take my ransomed soul away.

Send Thine angels now to carry me to realms of endless days."

Food!!

The most favorite picture section ;)

Stopped by the bakery by my apartment on my way home for some traditional meat burek for dinner on Tuesday. I also enjoy picking up a hot rotisserie chicken from a stand near my place.

I had to include one of my favorite meals I think I have ever cooked for myself: zucchini, peppers, egg, chicken whole grain wrap! It was so delicious, I didn't want it to end. Maybe you will try it too? Sooo tasty.

Wondering when my peanut butter and jelly CRAZE will wear off?! (My roommate said hers lasted about 2 months.) I don't think it has ever tasted this good. Tastes like home. :)

Game night!! Woohoo!

Alabana and Mimoza - or Alba & Mimbo ;)

Really enjoying getting to know these girls! Got to have a girls night downtown this weekend (Mimoza and I pictured left) It was my first time being the only American in a group so I felt immersed in the culture to another degree. Excited to keep learning about them and hear more about what they believe and why. Praying for opportunity to share also what I believe and why. Please join me!