Conversations

We are finally starting to be able to actually chat with people (depending on the subject). I (Emily) have met three of our neighbors that live around the same stairwell as us. Jason finds more conversation out on the street, walking around the neighborhood. Thank you all for your prayers that we would meet more people. Please continue to pray that we would meet more of our neighbors and that we would have the boldness to speak to them when our paths cross.
A couple of nights ago, we had the amazing privilege of eating dinner with a Neapolitan family. They prepared and served pasta with zucchini, peppers with tomatoes, eggplant with tomatoes, sausage, and sliced zucchini cooked in olive oil. For dessert, we had fresh watermelon, cherries, oranges, apricot, and gelato. We were so full by the time we left that evening, but the food was so wonderful! Talking with the family was a lot of fun. Occasionally, we needed someone to translate, but a lot of the time we could actually understand what was being said. Please pray for this family and their salvation. They are a sweet, sweet family with big hearts, but one claims atheism and the others do not have a personal relationship with Christ.
We have one day and one week left of language school. In school, we have good days and bad days. Some days, it seems like we understand all or most of what is being said in class and we're even able to respond relatively easily. Then, we have days that it feels like we're starting back at square one. Please pray that during this last week of school our brains will stay alert and that we will retain the information and skills being taught.
Last thing, we plan to return to the states in August. When we return, we will be going through the visa process again. Please be praying for the person behind the counter at the Consulate. Please pray that the process will be smooth and not lengthy. We are looking forward to seeing everyone, but the longer we are away from the language, culture, and the people we've already met, the harder it will be to settle back in when we return to Italy. We love and miss you guys!