Week One in Review

Hey guys! So week one in Vienna was awesome! My time at the office has been mostly training and orientation so far, but next week I'll be able to start the real work! I'll be taking pictures, working on some interview transcripts and getting ready to travel!

I found out yesterday that I'll spend some time in Bratislava and a few days in Lithuania and the Czech Republic interviewing and taking pictures. More details to follow ;)

Besides work, I've been able to get to know some of my co-workers this week - really precious brothers and sisters! Already, I'm dreading having to leave them! The staff meets first thing in the morning for devotions and we pray for other offices, stations, partners, co-workers, etc. It's amazing how involved TWR is within the organization. It's not just independent offices scattered all around Europe, but rather a connected web that stays in close contact. My aunt says it's a family and she's absolutely right! I really think it's a wonderful picture of not just a successful organization, but the church itself.

Everyone has really gone out of their way to make me feel welcome here (so Mum, you can stop worrying about me being alone ... yeah, I'm talking to you woman!). I went over to a couple's house for pizza last night and we just chilled and watched a movie - something I really appreciated; I felt right at home! And I spent today in a neighboring town with another family from the office. Another nice time to just relax and learn a little bit more about the city and culture.

On a side note, I had quite the fiasco at the grocery market today. When I was paying, the cashier said something in German and my immediate response was PANIC! Fortunately, a woman I knew was with me and she explained to me that the cashier was simply telling me how much I owed. Seriously, what a spazmatoid I am. Ahhh ... another terrifying culture lesson under my belt.

I think that's all the news for now. I'm watching fireworks and drinking coffee on my balcony right now. I think that's a lovely way to end the week, don't you?

P.S. Don't make fun of my office picture. I am very proud of my very own desk! Besides, it gives the post a sort of "reporting from the office" feel. That sounds like something Michael Scott would say.

"The steadfast of mind You will keep in perfect peace, because he trusts in You" (Is. 26:3).