You will remember that the White Witch cast her spell on Narnia, decreeing that it must be always winter and never Christmas. So when the children in The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe first arrive in this amazing place, the fields are covered with snow.

No ordinary winter!

That’s how I left Latvia just 6 weeks ago, covered in snow experiencing the worst winter for a 100 years. Yet just like the quote in the same book… Winters over! No snow, no ice, the colours of spring are evident everywhere. It’s amazing what a bit of Sunshine can do

No ordinary spring!

Sunday was the time to leave the Yeoman’s for another train journey to Ogre a town 40 minutes east of the capitol Riga. I was relieved to be met by one of the congregation who assisted in getting me to the one hotel the town has. Later today I would attend the Apostolic Church and meet the people I`m going tospend so much of my time with this year.

The pressure was on to secure inexpensive accommodation in the town for the 3-4 months I`ll spend here during 2010. Latvia is clearly in the grip of a deep recession. Lots of young people are leaving the country that faces an uncertain future. I’ve viewed a few places to rent and want to be sure I`m doing the right thing. Set up internet connection and phone.

I spent most of  Tuesday with Agris (local Pastor) we discussed loads of things but primarily our future relationship.

On Wednesday I met with the Ogre Leadership Team. There is some scepticism to overcome which was aired in the meeting. My aim is to gain the trust and confidence of the people during the next few months.

I`m one of only 3 guests in the hotel, it’s hardly busy. The advantage of this hotel is that each room has a small kitchen area making it feel more homely. The hotel Manager discovered I was looking for rented property and has offered me to stay at the hotel throughout the year at half the current rate. I’ve accepted the offer and have made this my 2^nd home for 2010. This will now work out cheaper than renting.

Finding my way around Ogre has been a challenge. I love walking and have quite enjoyed the 4 miles a day I cover in and out the town centre to my accommodation. The heaviest snowfall in 16 years along with the subzero temperatures make it a brisk walk opposed to an amble.

Missing Joyce a great deal and wish I could get home like they do in Star Trek for Valentine’s Day.

Tonight is Film Night at the church…Fireproof the movie is being screened. Looking forward to going out for the evening.

The Rugby Six Nations starts today and I’m far away from home. I`ve only myself to blame!

However, the Lord is good an American Missionary working with the AOG came to the rescue with 2 x front room seats in his home to watch Wales v England live. The result was tragic, England ran out winners, Wales beaten by a poorer team. It was really good to meet Jonathan and his family who have been serving in Latvia for the same period as John and Margaret.

Finally arrived In Riga, Latvia and met by John and Margaret Yeoman. This was their 33^rd wedding anniversary day. We celebrated the occasion with a Chinese meal near the airport after which we travelled to their home. Never been the 3^rd person in a wedding anniversary meal before!

This morning I travelled to Denmark for the European Apostolic conference. It was great time meeting old and new friends to hear up to date reports from around our own continent. Sound progress was made with my French colleagues for our future work in Pakistan and greater collaboration in Sri Lanka. I shared a room with my mate Arnie (Arnallt Morgan) who is always good for news and quality chocolate.