Today was one of the most beautiful days I’ve ever experienced in Northern Ireland. It was sunny and warm. Not hot by a long stretch. More like I-think-I’m-not-cold-quite-yet warm. But I got to wear a t-shirt and that felt great! Mark and I went for a walk in the morning. Not too far, but the hills made it feel like a bit of a work out. Some day I’ll get over walking hills. It’s just still so shocking for an Indiana girl!
Campbell to us to Newry this afternoon to get a mobile phone. It’s maybe a 30-40 minute drive on some back roads through some breathtakingly beautiful scenery.
driving to newry
We had no luck with the phone, as we have to have a bank statement or debit card. The letter from the bank with our numbers all on it wasn’t enough, it seems. So we likely have to wait another week before we get a phone. Campbell had some luck, though, and got a phone with a good camera and GPS. We stopped into Grounded, a great espresso bar, for some lunch. The boys had fun playing with the new phone while I enjoyed a delicious roasted chicken sandwich. (It really was SO good!) And on the way back to the car, we saw a big Sally (Beauty Supply, but with a slightly different name) and I got a really good straightening iron for nearly 60% off. Even without the phone, I got to go home with a toy.
campbell playing with his new phone
mark loves his coffee
near the promenade
having a cuppa
Mark and I have been reading a chapter of Proverbs together every day. It’s been really fun seeing what themes we’re struck by. And seeing how many times it says something like “lying tongues don’t tell the truth”. We’re after the heart and wisdom of the Lord. It’s fun to search Him out this way.
We’re hoping to get to move into our townhouse in a couple of days. And we’ll be picking up our car. And paying for it. Less fun, but it’s got to happen. I start my upholtery/textile class on Thursday. It’s been draining, believe it or not, for me to have so much down time. We’re trying to be with people, meeting themand learning about this place we live. But it’s been hard knowing quite where to start. When I look at “the list” (as if there really was one), I feel like we’re doing a good job for the amount of time we’ve spent here. Even so, I’m excited to get to nest. I love making space into a home and am chomping at the bit to create a place for Mark and I to Live together. I can’t wait to have a space to invite people into. And to be able to accomplish practical things during the day – what joy!
I’ll leave you with one more lovely picture for the day. The country lends itself to beautiful photos, but I’m excited to learn to use my camera better!
the kingdom of mourne
Ange:
We loved reading your comments about the day. We hardly recognize Mark with his new “cut”. Tell Cameron and Kris ‘hi’ for us. We are praying all the i’s will be dotted and the t’s crossed!!
Love, Eldon and Louise
WE CANNOT WAIT TO BE THERE WITH YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(in caps, on purpose!)
Love the photos…keep them coming
your pictures are awesome! yeah for straight irons!
These luscious pictures remind me of landscapes I was in in Black Forest, Germany. The rain and overcast skies remind me of Germany too. I remember there was one November that we did not see the sun once. When the sun would come out, the atmosphere was like a holiday and everyone was outside celebrating. I will pray for God to sustain your hearts when it feels dismal. But, he did make the rest of the country so gorgeous and green which makes up for a lot.
My friend and I painted the dresser and bedside stand you left behind bright red, and we’re exchanging the nobs for skinny black modern handles. I’m really excited about them. The room is coming together, but I have still not managed to sleep there yet. Hopefully tomorrow or the next day. I’m so excited to live with all those great girls in that house, with Laura constantly trying to addict me to new reality TV shows. Dancing with the Stars was last night. I bought an old mailbox and put upright to be my trashcan. I’m really proud of that one.
Thanks for the pictures and for keeping in touch this way. Very helpful to know how to pray for you better. I was reminded with some of the details you shared, about some of the trials my parents went through in adjusting to life in Turkey. So many red tape details my dad had to jump through for things like residence permits, car insurance, receiving packages in the mail etc. All sorts of little things that are different and difficult that you would never think would be. I will be praying for strength to wade through those details that probably feel like you just want to get them out of the way so you can get to the “real work.” But, God’s not impatient…he understands that that stuffs important to accomplish also. I know you will make a lovely living space, Ange. You have always done that so well, and make people feel so welcome. I know the Lord will use that love of yours and that talen to minister to people like me and unlike me who love beauty.
Wow, this got long. Can you tell I love you guys?
Miss you and am praying!
Wish so much I was out there with you all. Maybe someday. I follow this nearly every day, so keep writing!
Matt