First Week

YWAM Heidebeek is SO different than Amsterdam! I am used to being surrounded by 30 or so different nationalities, whereas here it's almost ALL Dutch people. Of course I love Dutch people, but it's a bit strange after living in the most international city in the entire world.

It's been a great first week here, getting to know new people; my classmates and the DTS that is just starting. At first they just spoiled us with feasts, movies, games etc. Now, however, we hardly remember those first days. The amount of work we have to do is staggering! We have our own study room in the dormitory building: the whole attic.

I think my Dutch learning will come along rather quickly here. I'm surrounded constantly by people speaking Dutch, and I'm using what I know at every chance I get. Maybe by the time the 3 months are over, I'll not only have a comprehensive knowledge of the bible, but a competent use of a second language!

I've been getting plenty of exercise riding my bike 10km every day from the base to the dorms. Also, I've been promoting hacky-sack as much as I can, and have gotten quite a few Dutchies into it (abandoning their inferior sport, soccer)! It's a great way to unwind after hours of study.

I'll keep you updated.

SPF