A quick break from settling in

Opatija

About 30 minutes away by bus is this amazing town now being referred to as the Istria Riviera(comparable to the French Riviera). We had been hearing about it so we thought we would take a break and get out of the city for the day. Of course relaxing day trips are always more interesting and less relaxing when you have 3 small kids with jet lag . . . but it was still great to get away and see the seaside.

There was actually no beach. Just cement decks where people would lay out mostly clothed. We would show you more pictures but this is Europe and while most people do wear swimsuits occasionally.... Even Grandma's wear bikini's here!

The water was pretty rough for swimming but the kids thought it was great fun to watch the water crash against the deck.

That's Rijeka in the background

Real life shot

I just poured them water but they all want my Schweppes Bitter Lemon drink!

The posed picture. The food here is amazing!

Overall it was nice to take a break from the city. The bus ride out may have been the highlight for me. As soon as people saw us getting on the crowded bus with the kids they would clear out seats for us and insist we take there seats. They love the kids! And they were so kind even when they knew we couldn't speak to them. I don't think I realized how many fears I've had coming into this trip. Fears of the unknown, of offending people and making them angry etc. I feel like God is giving me a glimpse into His heart for the Croatian people. Our trip this weekend definitely made my heart even more endeared to the people of this country. (Opatija was beautiful but honestly, I was getting a head cold that day and just wanted to be in bed. Sad but true. But the trip was worth it just to experience the kindness and generosity of the people)