Chocolates for John

     Today marked my very last class. Academic courses at the NUIG have been finished since last Friday, however, todays course held at Emmaus School of Scripture came to a close. Technically, one last class will be held next week, but I'll be in London. At this point I'm sure you're all feeling sorry for me. I know, I know, it's rough, but someones gotta do it.
     During our course we covered, the importance of prayer, observation, interpretation, evaluation and application. At time some material seemed daunting and unrealistic as I couldn't imagine having the time to go through verse by verse applying these new skills. However, John did a wonderful job breaking scripture down to very small details, but also showing us the importance of realistic Bible study.

   As our classes wound down, Joe and I had each thought about giving John a gift. Agreeing on chocolates and a card we ventured windy shop street in search of a delicious treat.

Passing Butlers Chocolates their enticing smell and shiny appearance have caught my eye many a time. Alas I am too frugal to actually try them. Promising myself at some point during the semester I would indulge, makes the frequent walk past a bit easier. Thankfully Butlers proved to be the perfect place for John's present providing us with a small box of chocolates beautifully wrapped in gold paper with a bow.

At the conclusion of todays class we presented John with his chocolates and card. Both of which he greatly appreciated.  With only 4 of us in the course, opportunities for deep dicussion and question asking were frequent.  Another funny dynamic was Beatrice pregnancy. As a 20 year old, none of my close friends have ever been pregnant. Beatrice is the first person I've seen on a consistant basis throughout a pregnancy. It's been fun to watch the baby grow as Beatrice eminates with her Motherly Glow more and more each week.

Ricardo, Joe, Me, Beatrice, John

Following Bible class John again allowed me to stay in the upper room to study. What a blessing! It's absolutely silent with natural sunlight streaming through our window overlooking the canal. Overhearing this Joe piped in asking if he too could join me. Of course I eagerly invited him, maybe it would keep me on task.

Joe hard at work studying engineering

Making my way up to the room before Joe had, I began my work. Walking in a bit later exclaiming how hot his feet were, Joe announced he'd take off his shoes. Tempted to make a smart alec comment about the smell of his feet, I refrained incase it'd result in self conscious thoughts. After a solid hour and fifteen minutes of studying I was ready to head home. Leaving the classroom, it was adorable to see Joe's shoes tucked neatly next to the wall outside the classroom...just incase they smelled. What a gentleman.

Trying something new for dinner we feasted on spinach quiche. A new favorite!

My Irish language exam is Monday. I currently know....about 3 phrases in Irish...this is not good. I've got loads of studying to do.

With Love from Galway