I'm coming to the end of my time in Leuven, and I've managed to learn how to manage exam time finally. So I guess that means it's time to move on. In the past exam time has been hard because I'm pretty much on my own, and I don't have the chance to get out and interact. This time I've fixed myself a schedule. I get out to the library in the morning, a little after it opens at 8:30am. I study there till about 1:00pm, which is more or less when I need some lunch, and my computer battery is worn down. The nice thing about this is I usually meet someone over there that I know, and most of us are a little starved for human contact, so we end up chatting a little. How's it going... papers... exams... success!!!! (that's the local way of saying good luck, all the best, etc.)
My latest project is to develop a little online survey to help gather information for my thesis in canon law for next year. You can check it out if you like: click here.
So today I was at the library and a Chinese student came by and asked if I could go over the english on a paper he was handing in. I did that - then he took me to lunch - mmmm..... So over lunch we caught up on his plans and my plans. Some of you will remember John from Beijing. He is here doing theology, still discerning about priesthood. He told me stories about his family back in China, and some of the difficulties with religion and the government.
After this, it was cold, so I decided not to go on my after lunch bike ride, and just to head home. I studied a little more. Then decided to head out for a cup of coffee at Pangaea, the international coffee shop - a usually daily affair, though I usually have it at lunch. There I met Casper - a Brother of St. Joseph from Benin. We decided a long time ago that we're all in the St. Joe clan, so we're family. He is always delightful, and we chatted for a while. Then I was off for my bike ride; I was dressed warmer at this point.
Now I'm back at my place. It being spring, all the construction has started. They are renovating two buildings right next to mine. As part of this project, they parked a dumpster right outside my window. Those who have been here can testify that I actually reach out my window and touch the dumpster. Another casualty of the construction is my bike parking place. I have my bike parked inside now - quite normal in Belgium actually.
Do pray for me over the next few weeks. I'll have exams and thesis defense. I'm not worried about any of them at this point. But it is always good to have a few extra prayers. Most of this is scheduled - see post below. I still don't know when I defend my thesis - which is only a problem because I they might schedule when I have something else, and I'll have to negotiate times, etc, etc. Other than that, I'm starting to wind down and make lists and go through things I think I won't need any more. And make more lists.... Okay, I better get back to the books. I have to figure out a Medieval dispute between Gerson and Ruusbroec. Oh, last time I posted my notes and some folks seemed to enjoy that. If you want to know what my classes are this time, they are Online . The ones marked Theo 2b or CL2b are the ones I'm taking this semester (2b = second year, second semester).
Peace,
Amy
P.S. The baby is Justina, daughter of Yuriy and Mariana.
2 comments:
Thinking of getting a bike here. Would have similar bike parking issues. Not sure I want it in my bedroom. "Success" on all your exams and prayers on your transitions.
Go for it! Get the bike! I'm thinking of getting a bike for St. Louis, perhaps instead of a car, but many factors will play into that.
Amy
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