Stop 5 - France

While traveling to Vienna on various modes of transport from ferries to trains we got to have a few interesting adventures. The trek included sleeping on trains with beds that were narrrow enough that rolling over could cause you to have a akward entanglement with a sleeping neighbor.

With stops in France we vistied Metz and Montpellier. The town had beautiful buildings and churches (although many churches were closed). While wandering through Metz we passed a French military local recruiting station. As captured by the picture, I briefly considered joining the French millitary (for 1x10^-11 seconds). Nevertheless, I decided to stay on the strainght and narrow and remain with the US Air Force.

Another note, I have found nutella to be a great discovery in Europe. Altough I may be late in trying the spread for any bread, Europe's answer to Peter Pan has been a worthy find. Another great discovery was when a guard ran after me to return my cellphone and wallet that I left at a checkpoint. God really has provided for us on our journey, and Jesus has mercy that is greater than any propensity to make mistakes (even mistakes by LTs).

Stop 4 Morocco

First question by cstoms at the border to Morocco was, "Bush or Obama" (I don't know if the wrong answer could cause a deportation). The trip was a post-windsurfing adventure across the straits for some tourism and visiting a Bedouin village. People stay out late and there are many new and beautiful ocean walks. The locals also make a great mint tea (albiet sweet) and serve tasty olives. The picture shows both continents.

Stop 3 - Spain

I have been staying near Malaga Spain in a fantastic villa for a few days rest. A friend's family owns a house in the area, and they have kindly opened the door for us to stay in the wonderful mansion. We even have a pool surrounded by flowers and gardens.

Also, I have learned that good milk can come in a box (not jug) and that Spain makes amazing cheese. Also, one should not take fruit to the checkout of a grocery store without having an employee weigh the item in the back of the store (initially very confusing when you are not fluent in Spanish)

As we rest, we have also been windsurfing, beach bumming, and hiking part way up mountains. God has truly blessed us with a break before we go to Austria for a construction project.

Stop 2 - Hamburg

I am enjoying seeing two close friends in Hamburg, Germany. We are staying in their apartment near a beautiful park in nothern Hamburg. During the day, Jeff and I are volunteering near St. Pauli (near the redlight district) with the Jesus Center (http://www.jesuscenter.de/). The charity gives food, housing, counseling, and much more to people in need. Yesterday we had the chance to serve by cleaning and washing windows. Tomorrow, we plan on painting and serving in additional ways. I am looking forward to serving people who ociety could define as lower class, but whom God considers to be just as valuable as myself.

Stop 1 - Köln

I am in Koln visiting my old campus pastor from college. I am staying with his family and even have my own room and bed. I am staying in a cool little town on the outskirts of Köln called Zündorf The host family is cooking excellent food for me, and I have had copious amounts of bread and potatoes. The hospitality is overwhelming between the food, tours, free train tickets and just great times. (my host can give a great tour despite not speaking the same language)

The small town itself has amazing walking paths and two beautiful lakes along a large pavilion. We can even get to downtown by a quick train ride. The town is even celebrating its 1000 year anniversary in a few months (three times older than Boston)

I also have been able to volunteer and help a number of churches in the local area. We spent time with one of the local campus ministries (called Chi Alpha in the US) and we were able to speak at a class on the Holy Spirit at a local church. Later I even got to see one of my friends from Boston who passed through the area. I have run into many friendly people (even customs and train workers)

For everyone who has been praying, thank you. I hope that more people will see their value the Christ's love.

Leaving

I am trying to pack quickly, throw all of my needed journey items into a single pack, and get out of the door. My last few minutes on active duty were spent rushing from one part office to another completing tasks so I could make a promotion ceremony seconds before it started. My preparation reminds me of a Bilblo Baggins who was hurried off to adventure by Gandalf without breakfast or a pocket handkerchief. I am looking forward to traveling abroad, but I miss so many people already in Boston.