first snow...

I just wanted to post some Pictures of the first snow here in NE Poland. Since in Texas light fluffy snow, snow at all for that matter is not common and bascially non-existent I wanted to make sure I had plenty of Pictures to remeber the event. Enjoy!

*View from my balcony over looking the tennis courts

* A little look at the snow

Mr. Golden Sun

Who knew once my constant complaining over the Texas summer heat and sun would soon be something I dreamed of? This time of the year the weather in Poland consist of mainly dark, cold, and rainy days. We will go several days without seeing the sun and it now gets dark by 4pm.

Today, however, was not a typical polish weather day. The sun was out and shining bright! Since the day was so beautiful staying inside all day was not an option. So Alethea (a teammate) and I took a beautiful walk around one of the lake that is located by old town here in Olsztyn. It was so nice to have nowhere to be and just had the chance to take in the beautiful sights of the city.

The rest of the week is supposed to be cold, foggy, and rainy. So even though the nice weather is over..it was so nice to have a day that just warms your heart and gives you another reason to praise the Lord for his blessings and gifts

lights in a dark world

Tonight the team went and spent some time prayer walking through one of the cemeteries in town. Today is November 1, which is All Saints Day. I’ve heard one of our team members says it best. It’s the most beautiful darkness even. After seeing the sights I would have to agree. It’s a beautiful sight to see and at the same time heartbreaking. To see people praying to Mary, parents teaching their children lies and the plan fact that people are putting their faith in something other than Christ. It shows the totally darkness that is here. While at the same time you saw how the light of the candles cut through the darkness just as we are to be lights of the world and cut through the darkness. I found this and thought it explained some aspects of All Saints day nicely:
-Participate in the tradition light candles at and visit the graves of deceased relatives. The candles, znicze, of All Saints Day are uniquely designed to burn for hours to provide light to help the souls of the dead find their way. Cemeteries are also decorated with small lanterns. The metal covers of the lanterns help to protect the flames from the wind.

-People bring fall flowers or wreaths to place on the graves. In Poland yellow and white chrysanthemums are traditionally used to decorate graves as are asters. Kwiat and znicze (flower and candle) markets are set up outside the gates of some graveyards.

-Silent crowds revel in the lights. The thousands of candles lighting the cemeteries creates a glow which can be seen from far away.