When the train from Munich crossed over the Vlatava River Friday night, I thought to myself “Wow, this isn’t just a dream anymore.” After months of preparation, stress over my Visa application, and still not knowing what to expect, I made it to Prague!

I have been in Prague for a week, and I am surprised at how much of the city I have already seen. (I learned yesterday that Prague is known as the “City of 100 Spires.” I wonder if I can visit all 100…) I joined an international student buddy program, and my buddy introduced me to other students and showed me parts of the city. Every Czech person I have encountered, from the coffee barista to the dorm receptionist, has been friendly and welcoming.

The churches, castles, and landmarks are stunning in their architecture and artwork. However, simply looking at these buildings and taking pictures is not satisfying my itch for exploration. I want to know these places on a deeper level. History has never been my favorite subject, but now, I want to learn the stories of these significant places- why these places are important, when were they built, and the symbolism in the artwork. Once I do some research, I want to revisit the places, and write down everything I learned. I want to look at this blog a year later and experience again the beauty and depth of this city.

After a few days of exploring, I reviewed my goals for this trip. I bought a notebook and went to the only coffee shop I know how to get to (Cafedu, right next to the National Museum). I reflected on the whirlwind of settling in; here is an excerpt of what I journaled:

Things that have gone well:

• I found an English speaking, Catholic Young Adult Community! There is also weekly adoration on Thursday. (I desire so strongly to sit in front of the Eucharist. I now understand how lucky I was in Texas to live close to St. Mary’s)
• The grocery store is close to my dorm, and I was pleasantly surprised at the price (half a loaf of bakery break cost less than one US dollar!)
• The Czech and Russian language are similar enough for me to understand about some words. Some of the city signs are also written in Russian.
• My roommate, Anja, is very friendly and respectful. I enjoy hearing her describe her life and favorite foods of her home in Belgrade, Serbia.
• Anja has a jewelry kit and she fixed my broken bracelet!
• I stumbled upon a nearby cemetery with huge tombstones and large crucifixes throughout. It was the perfect place to embrace the quiet in the busy city.
• I made a baby laugh on the tram today 🙂

Things that have gone not so well:

• My rosary broke on the train from Munich. (A perfect reason to buy a beautiful rosary here!
• I lost my dorm keys the night I moved in. (The keys fell through the hole of coat pocket, and I found them inside of my coat immediately after Sunday Mass.)
• Getting a $50 fine for having an expired tram ticket. (This was a dumb mistake and completely my fault for thinking I could get away with using an expired ticket.)
• I bought the wrong 3-month tram ticket pass and spent six times more than the student pass. (I am currently working on a refund; I might get lucky!)

As I write this, I realize the things that have gone “not so well,” are not as dramatic as they felt in the moment. I am learning from my mistakes and trying to let go of the situations I cannot change (which is difficult, because I stubbornly think I can change anything). The Serenity Prayer has been helpful in shifting my mindset and abandoning my will to God.

This Monday, I will begin taking my classes for this semester. This has officially been the longest winter break I have ever had (two months!), and I am surprised to feel myself looking forward to attending lectures. I am excited for a more structured week and to have a routine so I can plan my adventures.

PS: I wrote about my first week of classes and culture shock moments in this blog here.