So we've been back from Europe for almost 2 weeks... it seems like it was a dream! We had such a lovely time. I have to admit, Austria was so heavenly for me. It was so nice to reconnect to my "homeland." I said that I didn't even care what we did in Austria, I'd be happy just to drive through the cities I served in... but I have to say, visiting with my "friends" was how I really was able to reconnect to Austria.We had such wonderful visits with my dear friends: Erika, Natasha, The Back Family, (including Roland), Monika, and Rebecca! I am so happy that they all wanted to see me after 14 years!!! What's so amazing.. is that when I was there, with them, walking down streets, eating schnitzel and Almdudler... it just seemed like yesterday, AND Derek was proud that, yes, I could still speak German... and they could understand me! What was interesting was that during the time I was there I prayed in German, and even dreamed in German. What fun!
The whole trip was just delightful... and I was able to share it with Derek! It was his first time to Europe, and we gave him the crash course, as we went to 4 countries (Austria, Czech Rep., Germany, Netherlands) in just 9 days! We ended the trip in Amsterdam... the "homeland" to the Vreekens. My grandpa was born in Amsterdam. It was such a beautiful city. I LOVED the canals, and the architecture! But finding my grandpa's home was the cherry on top. Walking the streets that my ancestors walked, worked, and joined the church! It was quite moving for all of us! I am so grateful that my mom found the address!
How grateful I am for this trip. I LOVED my mission, and to go back was truly so wonderful! And then going to Amsterdam, was so humbling. I am so thankful for the missionaries that knocked on my "great granparents" door, and taught them the gospel! I am so thankful for their sacrifices that they made to move to America!
So, now I can only hope to someday return again... but until then, I will hold onto these sweet moments, and new memories to sustain me... and hope I won't have to wait another 14 years ... but if I do, what sweet journey it will be! (again)
