It's been exactly one year since I left Albuquerque to begin my journey in Prato, Italy. I never imagined my field time would go by so fast. I remember like it was yesterday how I was feeling as I boarded the airplane knowing I wouldn't step foot back in the states for 18 months. I was scared to death and in all honesty, I didn't think I could do it. I didn't think at 19 years old I was going to be able to live in a foreign country for so long with out my parents. But, the Lord is good and He's helped me through this past year and I love looking back and reflecting on how I've grown and what God has done for me.
When I first got here, I didn't know Italian (of course) and now I'm able to easily have a conversation. I didn't know how to cook, and now I'm making homemade lasagna, baking, and making several different types of pasta. I've learned how to have complete and total faith in the Lord, take one day at a time, and be still and know that He is Lord.
As for the work that's going on here, it's been pretty slow lately. I've lost a couple of English lessons but hopefully I'll have one or two new students here pretty soon. My team and I have made a few new friends but they have no interest in Christ and the Bible. It's very difficult for all of us and we're starting to feel like we're not making much of a difference here. It seems to be getting us all down lately so prayers would be greatly appreciated.
It hasn't been easy and I definitely wouldn't have been able to do this without the love, support, and prayers all of ya'll have shown me. Thank you so much for everything. I love and miss you all very much. Take care and God bless!
P.S. The pictures above are of when my mom and aunt came to visit in March. Good times!
Slave of Christ,
Charise
