I suppose that, technically speaking, I forgot to write in this journal yesterday. But in my defense, this is such a timeless place that it really is hard to keep track of what day it is, let alone what the time is. So, I'll make a valiant effort to cover both days in one blow. Yesterday we went on a hike to Osen, which is a high mountain lake (at close to 900 meters) about 6 or 7 kilometers up the valley. It was a gorgeous day, and an awesome hike - it's such a magnificent view from the top. A huge waterfall is fed by a stream flowing from the lake, and it thunders past the trail at one point. The water falls with such force that it kicks up a huge spray which almost instantaneously drenches you as you hike along the side of it.

One of my goals for this summer is to develop (or re-develop, as the case may be) a regular, consistent prayer life. I want to be able to set aside time each day not only for silence, reflection, and communication, but also to integrate a running dialogue with God into the rhythms of my day. I've asked the rest of the group here to hold me accountable, to ask me how my prayer life is going and to spur me on. I already feel so blessed to be surrounded by "such a cloud of witnesses," six other believers who are older, more mature, wiser, and filled with the joy of the Lord. My soul feels nourished and renewed as I spend time in their fellowship. Lord, thank you for the saints you've surrounded me with, both here and at home. Help me to learn, to listen and to look to them for Your help, guidance and wisdom. Help me to pray, Lord. Teach me..