back in the swing of things...

This will be quick because I have got to get to bed!!

I know I've written this multiple times before, but 'ben tornata' I think I my most favorite words ever. This week I heard them from my colleagues. From the guys at my local coffee bar near work. From some people I still hadn't seen at church. It is just lovely: welcome back! The 'back' part hints at belonging. I'm just so thankful when things seem disorienting, that God settles my heart here.

WORK
It's only been one week back at work but I can tell it's gonna be a bumpy ride!! I am (at the last minute) actually going to teach the next level up, which means I will have my old students from last year. This is a huge answer to prayer because I see God wants me in their lives another year. I also have some new students, of which include a classic know-it-all, aNOTHER adopted Congolese boy (but this one JUST came to Italy and only speaks French, yikes!), and a girl whose mom has cancer. I will also be working closest with the 'new teacher'...I hope this is more of a blessing than a burden, getting him off on a good start! My boss is pressuring me to work Saturdays, something that was not healthy for me last year. Please pray I can communicate my needs in a loving way and that she understands. So far it has been quite difficult. On a positive note, I was quite worried about buses but I found that works great...at least on the going end. It's also been SO sweet seeing my colleagues again.

OTHER

Tania and I ran into ANDREAS our friend and son of HILDA (who has a home here/member of our church but travels much of the year) while we were rushing across the piazza to get olive oil before the market closed. It was actually quite a comical situation. We almost got coffee together with his friends, then they decided to go--long story short--he seemed recovered from the mysterious throat surgery and doing well. He's back from Milan now and told us to come by the house anytime. Anyway, pray we can get back in touch with him and that he turns to JESUS!

MONICA--we've been running with her a few mornings a week. I helped her translate a letter to her ex-husbands parents in America. I also had lunch with her last Sunday and saw her daughter Erica for the full ten minutes she emerged from her cave-room. They need lots of prayer. Depression is gross.

My pastor, ROBERT, lost his father on Sunday. He hadn't been back to Africa in years, so imagine how it feels, but he is thankful to have talked to him on the phone before. Pray for the Diamubeni family, that God blesses and sustains them. I was encouraged to see that our little church raised €1000 as a gift to bless Robert in this time...he is always giving, giving, giving.

PERSONAL
I'd love prayers for my health...already deteriorating now that school has started...that I can sleep. I also need to get my health card from the city office since I haven't received it (supposed to come in mail) but it's complicated with my work schedule.

Anyway, THANK YOU for lifting these things up! I promise the next update will include funny kid quotes...I've already got a great list going.

Peace. Allie