Fall into the Bubble

And I'm back to the displaced bubble of reality some like to call "college." I've been here for about a week now and its been surreal to say the least. I mean college, in and of itself, is somewhat weird and distant to normal life, but over the past few days, having no classes and no agenda, it has been superfluously strange. Fun, but strange. I've spent much time getting the room in order, seeing friends, and smoking some hookah, but I cannot help but feel a bit useless for some reason. I mean there has been so much mindless chatter, so many "So how was Prague?...Oh thats nice...", so many awkward hugs, conversations, and high-fives. I suppose I'm just ready for classes to start and to feel like I am here for a purpose.

And as I embark on this new year, i will pray for discernment. Discernment in my decisions, in balancing my involvement and my need for distance within the Christian community. Discernment in my relationships, how and who to trust, how to love and be loved well, and how to draw those "lines" with people. And I will pray for my heart as I desperately miss many who I love so much, whether they are an ocean away or just a few short hours. And I will pray for patience and peace and grace during this continued time of processing, learning, and just breathing.

And maybe I'll even pray for a work ethic. Because I hear this rumor going around about how you are supposed to study in college....? I know, it's so strange, isn't it? Hm.

The Parker's go to the Beach

So the Parker's went on vacation last week. We were gone for a total of a week and a half, and left three days after my return to the states. It was nice as it served as some what of a buffer between Prague and entering regular American life. My family is still hilarious and my sisters are still the most amazing people I know. Some highlights include seeing our Annapolis friends, hardcore tubing, reading amazing books, watching a thunderstorm, listening to Jack Johnson, and witnessing Annie dance and subsequently fall on her face in the water during our late night walk on the beach.

"Worlds are colliding!"

So after I got back from my two month stint in Praha, the Davis' were already back in good ol' Richmond, V-A. WIthout going into all of it, Phil and I have some uncanny connections for never meeting each other before, one of which is the fact that his parents live about a mile away from me. I've riden my bike past their house before. Crazy, eh? So lucky me, I got to see them twice before we both departed our separate ways for the beach.

Just to let everyone know, the much anticipated ping pong match between Annie and Phil went down. And I hate to say it, the 17-year old girl beat Phil Davis, the man with "titles." If anyone else wants to attempt to humble Annie in her table tennis skills, please make your way to the Parker household ASAP.

But overall, it meant so much to see the Davis' and while it was a bit weird to see them outside of the Prague life, but nonetheless wonderful.

Still on the run...

I'm leaving for the beach now, and what would a beach vacation look like if I brought paul along? (thats my powerbook's name, for those of you who aren't so close to me...) I promise I will give you something worth reading after I get back. Maybe the waves will foster something purely ingenious. Doubtful. Oh well, see you all in a week and a half.