Adventure: Winter in Narnia (aka Czech Republic)

Last month, I had the opportunity to attend a YFC Staff Training School in the Czech Republic. All staff who have joined within the last year are invited to attend this program, which teaches about the history of YFC, different ministry models used around the world, fundraising strategies, professional and personal work habits, and spiritual foundations. I really enjoyed meeting fellow workers from around Europe and the Middle East and sharing stories of ministry in various contexts. Although we are all working towards the same goal, it's fascinating to see how different ministry looks in Germany, Slovakia, Tunisia, and Spain. I also got to enjoy the beautiful snowy landscape and frigid winter temperature. And what winter adventure is complete without a trip to the local doctor and hospital with a case of pneumonia! Yes, I know how to do it right!
I developed the yearly cough and cold about a week before I was to leave for Europe. I usually get this once a year, so I wasn't too concerned. However, ten days later, my cough persisted and was accompanied by a fever, congestion, and a general feeling of "being sick." Since I generally don't enjoy doctors or medication, I insisted on toughing it out as best I could. I stocked up on Tylenol to keep the fever down and continued to attend training sessions with pockets full of tissues and cough drops. Only once I developed this obnoxious little chest pain in my ribs and lungs every time I coughed that I finally gave in and agreed to see a doctor. Let the adventure begin! First we needed to find someone who could drive us to the doctor. There was a very sweet older woman who worked at the campground where we were staying who agreed to take me. The only problem was, she didn't speak a ton of English. So first we had a meeting with the camp owner who listened to all my symptoms, and then explained in Czech what the problem was. Then we bundled up and headed into town. Unfortunately, the doctor didn't speak English either so after a few attempts at communication and many blank stares, we resorted to google translate to help us out. What resulted was a 15 minute "silent" conversation where I acted out my problem, she typed something on google translate, and I nodded either my agreement or disagreement. It was eventually decided that I had a bacterial infection that needed antibiotics.
I spent much of the next two days in bed, full of medication. Unfortunately, as the days passed, I wasn't feeling any better. My chest pain was worse, if anything, and I seemed to be more tired and sick than before. So the last night of the conference, I found myself taking a midnight trip to the hospital, where thankfully I found an English speaking doctor who diagnosed me with pneumonia. More pockets full of medicine, and I was finally on my way to getting better.
Although it wasn't what I was expecting at all, I must say, it was an enjoyable trip. I learned a lot from the sessions I did attend, had great conversations with people of the same heart and mindset as me, and enjoyed the change in scenery.
I must admit I have taken most of these pictures from other people. Being confined to bed is not conducive to many picture-taking opportunities. :)