2011 has arrived. My bags are packed and ready to go. The itinerary has been set for months now and by all appearances, students are excited and packing as well. January 3 is the start of the second J-Term session for The Master's Academy high school students. The course offerings are amazing, but we who are scheduled for the overseas trip certainly think that our destination is the best! Italy. Specifically, Florence and Rome with some little villages in Tuscany, sandwiched between the two.
How many books have I read.....volume after volume, to be sure. I think that the planning for the trip and learning about my destinations excites me about as much as the actual arrival in the foreign airport. I don't want to miss a thing! I want to savor the sounds and sights, the smells and textures of the towns and cities we visit. I want to blend in with the Europeans and not just be an observer of their lives....and I certainly do not want to be only a tourist.
I packed lighter this year. I am personally lighter this year. There is a skip in my step and a lilt in my voice and I look forward to re-visiting places I loved when first visiting Rome. I am so glad that I threw my three coins in the fountain (Trevi Fountain) and that indeed, I get to return to Rome ~ the Eternal City.
I hope this is more than just a destination or just a trip for our students. I hope they determine to learn a little more about themselves, a lot more about what Christians before them endured, and that they become more passionate about the Lord they serve. I hope they see God's hand in history and learn as young people that He has a great plan for their lives ~ and yes, if they only will allow Him to lead and let Him guide them, I wonder if they have any real idea what a marvelous life is in store for them.
My advice to the students was to rest well, stay hydrated, and stay well.....so they could enjoy this trip to the max. I need to take my own advice!
Firenze and Roma.....here we come!
