Northern Ireland

Writing this on a brief 5-day, 4-night stay with a seminary friend who's doing a year-long internship here. She is cooking fajitas for me now while I play on her computer. I have my own guest room -- she's driven me around 120 miles today alone -- photos in the gray and rainy, still it's "grand" to be here.

Finals just finished -- systematic theology exam last one on Friday. Then ran home and packed and headed for the airport. Today is technically Saturday....but my body doesn't agree. I'm jet lagged. Glad to get Christology paper on whether Mary could have said "No" out of the way, also Hebrew exegesis paper on Genesis 1:26-31 (creation in God's image), and finally (actually first!) my Greek exam. Also appraisal for field ed. Now need to prep for Hebrew exegesis ordination exam....

Won't take the time to write long or much. It's good to be away from home. Christmas and New Year's were stressful -- a little "me" time is essential, although I truly do miss my family and think of them lots. The big highlight for me "yesterday" was my oldest calling via cell phone from high school (between classes, even) to wish me a good trip. That made my day.

Two church services tomorrow (I have already seen MANY cathedrals!) -- looking forward do it. Irish step dancing class on Monday! Fun, fun, fun!