Beginning normal Lithuanian life..

I have finally begun living my life here instead of being a tourist. Thank you, Lord. Not that being a tourist isn't great because it is. However, I came to be a part of the culture, so walking around in big groups holding cameras kind of isolates you from the culture.

Anyhow, yesterday, we went to church at a monastery. The service was in Lithuanian and the church was beautiful. We toured the church and some people even played a 400 year old organ. The oldest in the country... it was very moving. Then, we walked to the top of the bell tower. It's about 7 or 8 stories tall, I think. But you know me with measurements, so I am probably WAY off. Then, we ate at a traditional Lithuanian food restaurant and ate delicious (and heavy) food. Almost everything they eat is fried or potatoes or meat; delicious, but very filling! The rest of the day was free time. Orientation was over! :D Real life in Lithuania begins! I met two of my roommates; they are Nadia and Sasha. (pictures will come later) Beautiful Ukrainian girls. They are 19 and 20. First and second year students. So I watched them unpack and asked them many questions about their families, Christmas traditions, and how to live in Lithuania together. They gave me many tips and suggestions for how to live and enjoy life here together. What wonderful blessings they are! We went shopping together as well to buy a few things from the store since we have to make all of our own meals. There is no meal plan here, instead we receive a monthly stipend for all food!

Today, we started classes. I walked to school today in the early morning sunshine, which is rare. It took us 26 minutes to get there today. Then, I had today: Intro to Bible 2(new testament), Human Development (psychology), and Intro to Theology. Tomorrow I will have the Synoptic Gospels. I am very excited about all three of these and am anticipating a great year of classes as well as new experiences. I met plenty of very nice people in my classes who were eager to meet study abroad students from the states. Then, I walked with a few friends to have tea and we sat and talked about politics and government for a while. Very interesting and eye-opening. Then, I came home and met my third roommate, Ira. Wonderfully friendly and beautiful roommate. She brought me chocolates from the Ukraine as well. (Everyone always brings chocolates with them!) Overall, I have had a positive experience, but am not very excited about being a freshman again. :)
Thanks for the prayers! They are definitely needed!