Good Morning from Kiev. We had a great time on the overnight train and all slept very well. We fly out of Kiev about 3pm to Amsterdam and should arrive in New York about 8pm tonight and Richmond about midnight! Back in the USA today! We are looking forward to being home but we already miss our Ukraine friends very much! We thank God for a wonderful trip and give him all the credit and the glory. To our families...we will see you each tonight! To all our friends we will see you very soon!
Blessings to you all and thank you so much for all your love and support!
- Vicky
Saturday, August 30, 2008
Thursday, August 28, 2008
8 In Ukraine
Today, we were able to be a blessing to the orphanage through chores we completed for them, more prayer group sessions using our missions cubes and through the smiles and love that we showed each of the kids today. Many of them stayed with us all day.. just hanging out wanting to be close. They see love in our hearts for them and know that we have Jesus in our hearts.
I was also able to bless a few of the girls today by giving them clothes that I had purchased to bring thinking I would wear them but I didn't. I didn't actually need them and I think the Lord had this planned all along when I bought the clothes originally. It was so sad today to see the kids wearing the same clothes they had on yesterday. Laura informed me that they are required to wear their clothes for a week at the time. Some of their clothes barely fit and most all of them wear clothes that don't match or leave little to be desired period. Yana and some of the other girls were so touched by the clothes I gave them. They were very well mannered when I gave them out.. no one was trying to snatch anything up.. they waited patiently. Then, smiled when I said 'for you', gave me hugh hugs, said spaSEEba (thank you) and kissed me on the cheek. One of the girls had to leave tonight to visit her brother but as she came to say good bye to me.. she had her new clothes in her arms. Another one of the girls was wearing one of the shirts I gave her and then at another time of the day she was wearing one of the shirts I had given to yet another girl. So not only were they feeling blessed to have new clothes, but they are sharing with each other. That is another testiment to how God is working among them considering their circumstances.
We gave them the volley balls we had brought along that are color coded. Gold is for God, Black is for Sin, Red is for the blood of Jesus that was shed for us, White is for we are washed white as snow when we receive Christ and Green is for our growth in Christ. Just another way we were able to minister to each of them. Now each time they play with these balls they will be reminded of Jesus and what he did for them and of their salvation.
We ended the day with the kids by having a praise and worship time with them. Our wonderful companion Karina ( our translator) sang songs with them as a guy played the guitar and another the tamborine. He had his sound system set up and the music was great. Even our buddy and pal Salva played and sang. Wow! He was awesome. The kids were right up front singing along and making the hand gestures to go along with the song and dancing. It was truly a blessed evening.
With lots of good byes, smiles and hugs of love, lots and lots of taking pictures with my camera and reminders that Jesus loves them each, we left to head back to the hotel and they headed inside to their rooms and whatever it is they do at night. Will you be back tomorrow they ask? We assured them yes and they waived and off they went.
We praise God for a blessed day and look forward to more of his favor tomorrow.
Don't forget to read Laura and Lisa's blog.
Blessings,
Vicky
I was also able to bless a few of the girls today by giving them clothes that I had purchased to bring thinking I would wear them but I didn't. I didn't actually need them and I think the Lord had this planned all along when I bought the clothes originally. It was so sad today to see the kids wearing the same clothes they had on yesterday. Laura informed me that they are required to wear their clothes for a week at the time. Some of their clothes barely fit and most all of them wear clothes that don't match or leave little to be desired period. Yana and some of the other girls were so touched by the clothes I gave them. They were very well mannered when I gave them out.. no one was trying to snatch anything up.. they waited patiently. Then, smiled when I said 'for you', gave me hugh hugs, said spaSEEba (thank you) and kissed me on the cheek. One of the girls had to leave tonight to visit her brother but as she came to say good bye to me.. she had her new clothes in her arms. Another one of the girls was wearing one of the shirts I gave her and then at another time of the day she was wearing one of the shirts I had given to yet another girl. So not only were they feeling blessed to have new clothes, but they are sharing with each other. That is another testiment to how God is working among them considering their circumstances.
We gave them the volley balls we had brought along that are color coded. Gold is for God, Black is for Sin, Red is for the blood of Jesus that was shed for us, White is for we are washed white as snow when we receive Christ and Green is for our growth in Christ. Just another way we were able to minister to each of them. Now each time they play with these balls they will be reminded of Jesus and what he did for them and of their salvation.
We ended the day with the kids by having a praise and worship time with them. Our wonderful companion Karina ( our translator) sang songs with them as a guy played the guitar and another the tamborine. He had his sound system set up and the music was great. Even our buddy and pal Salva played and sang. Wow! He was awesome. The kids were right up front singing along and making the hand gestures to go along with the song and dancing. It was truly a blessed evening.
With lots of good byes, smiles and hugs of love, lots and lots of taking pictures with my camera and reminders that Jesus loves them each, we left to head back to the hotel and they headed inside to their rooms and whatever it is they do at night. Will you be back tomorrow they ask? We assured them yes and they waived and off they went.
We praise God for a blessed day and look forward to more of his favor tomorrow.
Don't forget to read Laura and Lisa's blog.
Blessings,
Vicky
Artom
Here we are the third day at the orphange. We were to be ready to do some hard labor work. Rob, Laura, Vicky, Slava and the kids did have to go to work in the basement. It was dusty and hot! I on the other hand got to cut hair (imagine that... it is Thursday and I should be at work). The kids were lined up for haircuts and there were four hairdressers there. One of which spoke English. Now you know how I always say God is Good all the time. You tell me I didn't have to work in the basement cause he blessed me with the ability to cut hair and he gave me a hairdresser that spoke english. That is not coincidence. That would be GOD! If my shop girls could see the scissors I was chopping out haircuts with! I think they got them out of their sewing box. It all worked out. On the first day at the orphange there was this 16 year old girl that I tried to approach that wanted nothing to do with me. Today she saw I could cut hair and she instantly became my friend. So as I was cutting her hair, I was singing that song, in my head "Jesus - he can move a mountain, my God is mighty to save!"
After lunch we came back to the orphange, after I cleaned off all the chocolate that had melted on me, my shorts, and my leg. You would of had to be there to think it was as funny as we did. I had chocolate all over me and we had no wet towels. If we were in America we could just go to the bathroom and get paper towels but we are in Ukraine! The bathroom doesn't have toilet paper much less paper towels. So these stupid Americans are in the front of a grocery store all wiping chocolate off with bottled water and napkins they had purchased. Mind you the chocolate was located on my inner thighs and all on the cuff of my shorts. We looked like we were crazy. My only other option was that bathroom I told you all about the other day.
At the orphange we started picking up the play ground area although I don't know that I would call it a play ground area; maybe a field with a few things on it such as a set of monkey bars, a maze thing and I think that is it. Lots of broken glass .. pretty much a dumping place for trash. Then we went back over to the building and the older kids were hanging out and my new friend Svieta was sitting with me while Laura and I were printing pictures of the kids off. We are making some pray pages for the kids. Making it personal. We were waiting for the young ones to get up from there naps so we could play games and get ready for the praise and worship band coming tonight.
The praise and worship band showed up and the kids were loving the music and having fun. When I realized that Artom was doing some skateboarding moves to the side I took some pictures. This is the kid that on the first day we showed up looked us up and down and had that tough guy look going on. I went back to the hotel and told the rest of them that I will talk to that kid before it is over. Well after I took his picture he came over and asked if I would take some more of him and his friends. The rest is kinda history. I found out that he is on fire for the Lord and that he knows the only father he has is God. He is amazing. He is worth my whole trip!!! His mother and father have passed away. He is a only child. He dream is to be adopted and taken away from Ukraine. He is 15 and is a beautiful kid. He kinda looks like one of mine.
I beleive God is doing powerful things on this trip. We ask and he deliveres everytime. I take that as He has big plans for Ukraine! Only through him can we move that Mountain.
GOD IS GOOD,
Lisa
After lunch we came back to the orphange, after I cleaned off all the chocolate that had melted on me, my shorts, and my leg. You would of had to be there to think it was as funny as we did. I had chocolate all over me and we had no wet towels. If we were in America we could just go to the bathroom and get paper towels but we are in Ukraine! The bathroom doesn't have toilet paper much less paper towels. So these stupid Americans are in the front of a grocery store all wiping chocolate off with bottled water and napkins they had purchased. Mind you the chocolate was located on my inner thighs and all on the cuff of my shorts. We looked like we were crazy. My only other option was that bathroom I told you all about the other day.
At the orphange we started picking up the play ground area although I don't know that I would call it a play ground area; maybe a field with a few things on it such as a set of monkey bars, a maze thing and I think that is it. Lots of broken glass .. pretty much a dumping place for trash. Then we went back over to the building and the older kids were hanging out and my new friend Svieta was sitting with me while Laura and I were printing pictures of the kids off. We are making some pray pages for the kids. Making it personal. We were waiting for the young ones to get up from there naps so we could play games and get ready for the praise and worship band coming tonight.
The praise and worship band showed up and the kids were loving the music and having fun. When I realized that Artom was doing some skateboarding moves to the side I took some pictures. This is the kid that on the first day we showed up looked us up and down and had that tough guy look going on. I went back to the hotel and told the rest of them that I will talk to that kid before it is over. Well after I took his picture he came over and asked if I would take some more of him and his friends. The rest is kinda history. I found out that he is on fire for the Lord and that he knows the only father he has is God. He is amazing. He is worth my whole trip!!! His mother and father have passed away. He is a only child. He dream is to be adopted and taken away from Ukraine. He is 15 and is a beautiful kid. He kinda looks like one of mine.
I beleive God is doing powerful things on this trip. We ask and he deliveres everytime. I take that as He has big plans for Ukraine! Only through him can we move that Mountain.
GOD IS GOOD,
Lisa
work and play today
We finally got chance to do some work for the orphanage today. We swept out and removed trash from a filthy basement room. I don't think they really got the picture about us whating to work because there were woman all over the grounds today painting had white washing the curbs and building and trees etc. and there we were just sweeping a basement floor.
We brought all of the soccer balls and volleyballs today while riding the "mashutka". I'm sure we were sight with all of our stuff. After we got moving in the morning and found Olga and got on to the mashutka we were safe and rode a different way to the orphanage.
Once we got there we were greeted by many of the kids whom we had talked to and while we were working they watched and or helped.
Lisa got to cut hair today because it was haircut day and they had poeple in to do the kids hair so Lisa volunteered to "fix" the kids hair. I think she had a ball. You'll have to read her post to see.
While she did that, the rest of us cleaned the basement room.
We then ate at the grocery store again. Evidently people don't sit and eat at the grocery store so Slava just told us people will think we are just stupied Americans. We were Ok with that and sat right down to eat for the second day in a row.
Vanya's stomach was a little upset so he didn't eat much but the rest of had a very good lunch and then it was back to the orphanage.
I had to run around find out what happened to the suitcases that the backpacks were in and then try to find the balls we were going to use to evangelize with. That was a like and easter egg hunt only no one knew where the eggs were hidden. We did finally get that squared away and in the meantime everyone else was out cleaning up the field with the broken glass and trash and such. There was so much glass in places that it was impossible to get it picked up. At least there is a little less than there was before.
We were ready for a worship band to come at 5:00pm but in typical Ukrainian style they showed up at 6:30 just in time for most of the kids to get ready to go in and eat. Before that time we were all going around trying to get the names and pictures of as many kids as posible. It was fun to use the littel printer Rob got for us for the trip. I hope we have labeled them correctly in order to tell who is who.
We have committed to pray for these kids and also write to them. I hope it will not be difficult to fullfill that promise. Rob continued to play with all the boys in Yuri's group and got quite the workout I think. The boys looked like littel dirtballs most of the day but who's looking At least they got a haircut from Miss Lisa! Yes, I sent them up with Keely to get in line for a haircut right along with all the other kids who belong there.
They turned out great and I'm glad we had that done since they were really looking a little shaggy.
Many of the girls we knew from last year started to warm up and we got a chance to talk with most of them too. I didn't really see most of my own kids most of the day. I could see them but I'm glad they weren't hanging on me.
This was Andre's last day a the orphanage as he will leave for good tomorrow and go to trade school to become a doctor. I pray he gets in and makes something of himself. We did make sure he had a few things he needed to have for starting school and tomorrow we will take groups of kids over the buy shoes and an outfit for the first day of school. We'll see how far the money goes.
We will get to take groups of kids we have been hanging out over with us to pick ut their own stuff so it fits and such.
Busy busy busy. But God is good all the time.
Bye for now,
Laura
don't forget to read the other posts for today
We brought all of the soccer balls and volleyballs today while riding the "mashutka". I'm sure we were sight with all of our stuff. After we got moving in the morning and found Olga and got on to the mashutka we were safe and rode a different way to the orphanage.
Once we got there we were greeted by many of the kids whom we had talked to and while we were working they watched and or helped.
Lisa got to cut hair today because it was haircut day and they had poeple in to do the kids hair so Lisa volunteered to "fix" the kids hair. I think she had a ball. You'll have to read her post to see.
While she did that, the rest of us cleaned the basement room.
We then ate at the grocery store again. Evidently people don't sit and eat at the grocery store so Slava just told us people will think we are just stupied Americans. We were Ok with that and sat right down to eat for the second day in a row.
Vanya's stomach was a little upset so he didn't eat much but the rest of had a very good lunch and then it was back to the orphanage.
I had to run around find out what happened to the suitcases that the backpacks were in and then try to find the balls we were going to use to evangelize with. That was a like and easter egg hunt only no one knew where the eggs were hidden. We did finally get that squared away and in the meantime everyone else was out cleaning up the field with the broken glass and trash and such. There was so much glass in places that it was impossible to get it picked up. At least there is a little less than there was before.
We were ready for a worship band to come at 5:00pm but in typical Ukrainian style they showed up at 6:30 just in time for most of the kids to get ready to go in and eat. Before that time we were all going around trying to get the names and pictures of as many kids as posible. It was fun to use the littel printer Rob got for us for the trip. I hope we have labeled them correctly in order to tell who is who.
We have committed to pray for these kids and also write to them. I hope it will not be difficult to fullfill that promise. Rob continued to play with all the boys in Yuri's group and got quite the workout I think. The boys looked like littel dirtballs most of the day but who's looking At least they got a haircut from Miss Lisa! Yes, I sent them up with Keely to get in line for a haircut right along with all the other kids who belong there.
They turned out great and I'm glad we had that done since they were really looking a little shaggy.
Many of the girls we knew from last year started to warm up and we got a chance to talk with most of them too. I didn't really see most of my own kids most of the day. I could see them but I'm glad they weren't hanging on me.
This was Andre's last day a the orphanage as he will leave for good tomorrow and go to trade school to become a doctor. I pray he gets in and makes something of himself. We did make sure he had a few things he needed to have for starting school and tomorrow we will take groups of kids over the buy shoes and an outfit for the first day of school. We'll see how far the money goes.
We will get to take groups of kids we have been hanging out over with us to pick ut their own stuff so it fits and such.
Busy busy busy. But God is good all the time.
Bye for now,
Laura
don't forget to read the other posts for today
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
8 In Ukraine
Wow.. what a day. Full of fun and lots of emotion.
Baby House - we made it finally. So many little kids. We had fun playing ball with them and blowing up balloons and watching them play and POP them! I would hold out my arms and bend over and smile and immediately they were wrapping their arms around my neck and holding on so tight. Broke my heart. So precious and so sweet. Later we joined them in their baby room where they were all running around with nothing on but their undies.. and again they were even more precious. They loved the attention. We prayed over the kids that needed healing and I spent time blessing each one individually as well.
Orphanage #3 - we arrived here about 1:30 and what a difference. Yesterday, they were not about us but today .. the complete opposite. They wanted to know who we are, where we came from, what our goals are, what our dreams are, etc. We sat with them on the grass in groups and talked about Jesus and they said they knew him and believed in him, that they read their Bible and they pray to him. Many of them prayed with us the prayer of salvation anyway and we all prayed together. They were very interested in what we had to say about Jesus and we had a wonderful time talking to them and answering their questions... through Karina that is.. our translator. She is such a Blessing to us.. she is a wonderful girl and does such a good job for us. Salva is also a true asset to us and said tonight he feels like he is part of our family. We totally feel that way. He is a Blessing as well. We prayed together before we headed out this morning that the minds and hearts would be open in the children today.. and we believe our prayer was answered. It was really nice to just sit and talk to the girls in our little circle and see them so interested in what we had to say.
Vikka (Victoria), the little girl who is being adopted by the woman from MN was being sneaky playing tag and then running from me but I would get her and tickle her and she was so happy and full of giggles. It was a true blessing to see her say that she believes in God now since her prayers have been answered. She is happy about Jesus and looking forward to her new home.
Rob and Salva spent alot of time too with the boys, in seperate groups, talking to them about Jesus using the cube that we have. The young boy that Rob was talking to had lots of questions about various life experiences and how God wishes us to act in such situations. After they talked for a while, I joined in prayer with them and I believe he was blessed.
We thank God for his blessings today and for the children he touched today. We know he touched the lives of the children and that he will answer their prayers. We know he will show us favor tomorrow as we start at 9 at the orphanage on the many chores that the Director has planned for us.
Blessings,
Vicky
Baby House - we made it finally. So many little kids. We had fun playing ball with them and blowing up balloons and watching them play and POP them! I would hold out my arms and bend over and smile and immediately they were wrapping their arms around my neck and holding on so tight. Broke my heart. So precious and so sweet. Later we joined them in their baby room where they were all running around with nothing on but their undies.. and again they were even more precious. They loved the attention. We prayed over the kids that needed healing and I spent time blessing each one individually as well.
Orphanage #3 - we arrived here about 1:30 and what a difference. Yesterday, they were not about us but today .. the complete opposite. They wanted to know who we are, where we came from, what our goals are, what our dreams are, etc. We sat with them on the grass in groups and talked about Jesus and they said they knew him and believed in him, that they read their Bible and they pray to him. Many of them prayed with us the prayer of salvation anyway and we all prayed together. They were very interested in what we had to say about Jesus and we had a wonderful time talking to them and answering their questions... through Karina that is.. our translator. She is such a Blessing to us.. she is a wonderful girl and does such a good job for us. Salva is also a true asset to us and said tonight he feels like he is part of our family. We totally feel that way. He is a Blessing as well. We prayed together before we headed out this morning that the minds and hearts would be open in the children today.. and we believe our prayer was answered. It was really nice to just sit and talk to the girls in our little circle and see them so interested in what we had to say.
Vikka (Victoria), the little girl who is being adopted by the woman from MN was being sneaky playing tag and then running from me but I would get her and tickle her and she was so happy and full of giggles. It was a true blessing to see her say that she believes in God now since her prayers have been answered. She is happy about Jesus and looking forward to her new home.
Rob and Salva spent alot of time too with the boys, in seperate groups, talking to them about Jesus using the cube that we have. The young boy that Rob was talking to had lots of questions about various life experiences and how God wishes us to act in such situations. After they talked for a while, I joined in prayer with them and I believe he was blessed.
We thank God for his blessings today and for the children he touched today. We know he touched the lives of the children and that he will answer their prayers. We know he will show us favor tomorrow as we start at 9 at the orphanage on the many chores that the Director has planned for us.
Blessings,
Vicky
productivity actually happens in Ukraine
Finally we got to go to the baby house! We suited up in the morning wiht the armor of God during our devotional, prayed for our children, and off we went. Everyone was on time and we arrived at the baby house and were greeted nicely by Vanyas group. A part of Vanya was excited and a part was really not too sure why we were there. He was having no part of being more than an inch away from me and didn't really respond to all the smiles from the caretakers. Much to my and Rob's surprise all the children were fully dressed to go outside. Many of the little people we recognized but many others were new. There were quite a few downs syndrome babies in the group now as well. There was also a little girl that had legs like Vanya's friend Luba. What a precious little girl Svieta was. Full of smiles and was even using the stroller that had been Luba's previously. They really wanted us to take a picture of her in hopes that someone else would want to adopt her to she could live a normal life as well. Olga had some games for the children to play and a tube for them to crawl through which they thought was a blast and also some balloons. We prayed for as many of them as possible. I had a very hard time with the first one but after that it got easier. Marina, with the big hair, was there and she was just as cute as last year. We got to stay right up until they had lunch and even then it was very hard to leave. Vanya had fallen down and hurt his hand and was not a happy camper after that but was content to have me hold me anyway. He had played nicely with his group but much preferred his brothers to his group mates. Everyone was very grateful for our visit and many of the caretakes were just thrilled to be able to see us and know that we had brought others to make a differnece in the lives of these kids as well.
Then it was off to the market. I had one of the best nectarines I have every had in my life. Lisa found some more fresh veggies and fruit as did the rest of us. We negotiated for some soccer balls and volleyballs for the kids as the director had told us that the playground would not be started until more funding was available. So we have purchased some balls adn will look for some Keds for the kids to play sports in which is the other request. We had a bite to eat at the good ole MickiD's and hten we were back to #3.
The kids were very happy to see us today and even Andre was a little today. I didn't post yesterday becasue the comuters weren't working right and I just needed time to get over how much some of the kids have changed in a year. Every year in an orphanage takes it toll on kids. We were able to share our cubes with this kids and a group of girls really took and interest and prayer the prayer a teh end to accept Jesus into their heart! Most of them already knew about God but this time they prayed teh sinners prayer and are now part of the family of believers. Yuri did great at the orphanage and was very happy to see his friend Roma. Even though he couldn't talk with him they had fun racing and playing games together. The girls we were talking with had all sorts of different backgrounds but knew it was important to pray and that God is real. It was sad that one girl had said she had come to America before but that the people didn't want her and sent her back. I thinkit was probably a hosting trip and then the people decided not to proceed but the way she toold it ws that she tried out adn wasn't wanted. We explained to her that God has a perfect plan for her and obviously she wasn't meant to be in that family but that she is on the family of God and that is all that matters. We really got a chance to hsare with the kids today and I felt as though we had a very productive day.
Tomorrow we will work in the morning doing something adn then have activities and a concert with teh children. We have begun to put the heart gallery togeher as wehave gathered namesand pictures of many of the kids. We hope to get many more tomorrow.
Signing of for now but read Lisa and Vickies posts too,
Laura
Then it was off to the market. I had one of the best nectarines I have every had in my life. Lisa found some more fresh veggies and fruit as did the rest of us. We negotiated for some soccer balls and volleyballs for the kids as the director had told us that the playground would not be started until more funding was available. So we have purchased some balls adn will look for some Keds for the kids to play sports in which is the other request. We had a bite to eat at the good ole MickiD's and hten we were back to #3.
The kids were very happy to see us today and even Andre was a little today. I didn't post yesterday becasue the comuters weren't working right and I just needed time to get over how much some of the kids have changed in a year. Every year in an orphanage takes it toll on kids. We were able to share our cubes with this kids and a group of girls really took and interest and prayer the prayer a teh end to accept Jesus into their heart! Most of them already knew about God but this time they prayed teh sinners prayer and are now part of the family of believers. Yuri did great at the orphanage and was very happy to see his friend Roma. Even though he couldn't talk with him they had fun racing and playing games together. The girls we were talking with had all sorts of different backgrounds but knew it was important to pray and that God is real. It was sad that one girl had said she had come to America before but that the people didn't want her and sent her back. I thinkit was probably a hosting trip and then the people decided not to proceed but the way she toold it ws that she tried out adn wasn't wanted. We explained to her that God has a perfect plan for her and obviously she wasn't meant to be in that family but that she is on the family of God and that is all that matters. We really got a chance to hsare with the kids today and I felt as though we had a very productive day.
Tomorrow we will work in the morning doing something adn then have activities and a concert with teh children. We have begun to put the heart gallery togeher as wehave gathered namesand pictures of many of the kids. We hope to get many more tomorrow.
Signing of for now but read Lisa and Vickies posts too,
Laura
Baby House
Hello Everyone! I can offically say I am home sick. We got to go to the baby house today. I can't believe people really just leave their children. I know it is better than aborting them. I just have to believe God has a much bigger plan for them. I have lots of stories to tell when I get home. I want to tell everyone about one little girl at the house that was beautiful. Her name was Svieta. Her feet were turned inward. She should probably not be able to walk but believe you-me she does! Laura said her handicap is a birth defect usually caused by fetal Alcohol Syndrome. I would like everyone to pray for a miracle for this baby. I believe God has a family for her! I officially became home sick when I saw all those babies... it made me miss mine. We just don't realize how fortune we are.
Off we go to the Broading School #3. They all had fresh hair cuts, which made them all look different today... still all beautiful children. Most were very pleased to see us. We were able to share the gospel with some of the older girls today. They know who Jesus is... we just confirmed it for them. They really started to come around more today than yesterday. Tomorrow will even be better.
We will start the day doing actual labor at the orphange in the morning and then we will be spending more time with the children. We will be at the orphange all day tomorrow. We are having dinner with them and a praise and worship band tomorrow night.
I know I only have one full day left with the children and I know God will show up as he always does and I pray great things will continue happening. God is Good all the Time!!!
God Bless,
Lisa
Off we go to the Broading School #3. They all had fresh hair cuts, which made them all look different today... still all beautiful children. Most were very pleased to see us. We were able to share the gospel with some of the older girls today. They know who Jesus is... we just confirmed it for them. They really started to come around more today than yesterday. Tomorrow will even be better.
We will start the day doing actual labor at the orphange in the morning and then we will be spending more time with the children. We will be at the orphange all day tomorrow. We are having dinner with them and a praise and worship band tomorrow night.
I know I only have one full day left with the children and I know God will show up as he always does and I pray great things will continue happening. God is Good all the Time!!!
God Bless,
Lisa
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Mission on" Wait for Ukraine "
Well, we all jumped out of bed, headed to do God's work when along came a wrench (we call the devil) to try to destroy us but those that know me know I will not be destroyed because I am built with the armor of God. So our team tighten up our stripes, put on our helmets, gathered together and prayed and like always, since GOD IS GOOD all the time, we were off and to the orphange we go.
We were suppose to go to the baby house today but our driver ran late and we missed that window of time that we were aloud to be at the baby house. So we will pray over them tomorrow. I can't wait. God is going to do something in that baby house. I don't know what but I know I am going to be sitting here tomorrow night blogging you telling you; so hold on, get ready Mircles are coming. Hey if I go to the baby house tomorrow that will be a miracle in Ukraine. So I will start small, God will produce big!!!
Well, we finally got to the orphange today, I LOVE THEM ALL!!! You know these kids aren't clean and they are not dressed very pretty but they are beautiful! I am amazed by how handsome and beautiful they truly are. So I came home tonight and looked up beautiful in the Bible and I believe it was 1Peter 3:3-4 that talked about it does not matter what you wear. It's all about your inner self. So I just thought that really related to these kids today. I took pictures of them all and there are two I want to bring home. I will share all my photos when I get home to American connection ( my husband).
Enough of the serious stuff let me tell you my breakfast was good again today and coffee. The bathroom I had to use was finally a little piece of the Ukraine everyone was telling me about. I would perfer to go behind a tree and come away feeling cleaner. On the wild bus ride home I saw about three blocks of fresh fruits and veggies on the side of the road but I couldn't get anyone to agree to walk 2.5 miles home with me. To top off my day I got to eat a real Burritto.
Then for all my children, Auntie Lisa took all the Passanita boys for Ice Cream and we loved it. Off to bed I go to get my rest. Love you all and miss everyone.
God is Good,
Lisa
We were suppose to go to the baby house today but our driver ran late and we missed that window of time that we were aloud to be at the baby house. So we will pray over them tomorrow. I can't wait. God is going to do something in that baby house. I don't know what but I know I am going to be sitting here tomorrow night blogging you telling you; so hold on, get ready Mircles are coming. Hey if I go to the baby house tomorrow that will be a miracle in Ukraine. So I will start small, God will produce big!!!
Well, we finally got to the orphange today, I LOVE THEM ALL!!! You know these kids aren't clean and they are not dressed very pretty but they are beautiful! I am amazed by how handsome and beautiful they truly are. So I came home tonight and looked up beautiful in the Bible and I believe it was 1Peter 3:3-4 that talked about it does not matter what you wear. It's all about your inner self. So I just thought that really related to these kids today. I took pictures of them all and there are two I want to bring home. I will share all my photos when I get home to American connection ( my husband).
Enough of the serious stuff let me tell you my breakfast was good again today and coffee. The bathroom I had to use was finally a little piece of the Ukraine everyone was telling me about. I would perfer to go behind a tree and come away feeling cleaner. On the wild bus ride home I saw about three blocks of fresh fruits and veggies on the side of the road but I couldn't get anyone to agree to walk 2.5 miles home with me. To top off my day I got to eat a real Burritto.
Then for all my children, Auntie Lisa took all the Passanita boys for Ice Cream and we loved it. Off to bed I go to get my rest. Love you all and miss everyone.
God is Good,
Lisa
8 In Ukraine
Finally! We were able to make it to the orphanage today! We started out the morning planning to go to the baby house first but again we were delayed by things out of our control so we did not get to go. We had to skip it. Our bus, which I named Jaloppy Blue (because it is about to literally fall apart) arrived around 12:30 pm and we left the hotel. We were praying the whole way that we would make it... quite an experience. Anyway, we arrived at the orphanage before the kids arrived back from camp.. which was a trip to Italy. We met with the director. She was very nice and was excited to see Yuri (Laura's oldest son that was adopted from there.) The staff was happy to see Yuri too. We met with the kids, gave the smaller kids balloons and took lots of pictures. I ended up locked in the bathroom stall and Slava had to climb over the wall into the stall with me to try and free me. The lock was hard for him to open too, but he finally got it done and we were able to get out. That was funny.
We are going to the baby house in the morning we hope.. at least we keep saying we are.. and then back to the orphanage #3 to begin our chores that the director laid out for us today. We have the 166 backpacks ready for the kids too so we will get those delivered as well. Kids were alittle stand offish today but I'm sure that was because they were just arriving back and excited to get to their rooms and unpack and get to dinner.
We did get to meet Victoria, the little girl that is being adopted by the lady we met from MN. Today was the first day she was able to meet her new mom and that mom was able to met her new daughter, since they have been at camp! They were both excited and happy. Mom, gets to take her home in 2 weeks. One blessing already as Victoria has been saying that she didn't believe in God since he would not bring her a new mother. Olga said that she prayed with Victoria each day that she came and asked God to bring her a new mother. Today, her prayer was answered and she was all smiles and she now knows that Jesus is real and that he has heard her prayers. Her sister is being adopted to by this same lady and they will be reunited for the first time in 2 years; her sister is in a different orphanage. She was showing us all the picture of her sister which was on her mother's camera. She is really excited about her sister and can't wait until they get to home home to MN. Praise the Lord.
We look forward to an exciting day tomorrow filled with work and fun, fellowship and ministry with these kids.
Don't forget to read Laura and Lisa's blog!
Blessings,
Vicky
We are going to the baby house in the morning we hope.. at least we keep saying we are.. and then back to the orphanage #3 to begin our chores that the director laid out for us today. We have the 166 backpacks ready for the kids too so we will get those delivered as well. Kids were alittle stand offish today but I'm sure that was because they were just arriving back and excited to get to their rooms and unpack and get to dinner.
We did get to meet Victoria, the little girl that is being adopted by the lady we met from MN. Today was the first day she was able to meet her new mom and that mom was able to met her new daughter, since they have been at camp! They were both excited and happy. Mom, gets to take her home in 2 weeks. One blessing already as Victoria has been saying that she didn't believe in God since he would not bring her a new mother. Olga said that she prayed with Victoria each day that she came and asked God to bring her a new mother. Today, her prayer was answered and she was all smiles and she now knows that Jesus is real and that he has heard her prayers. Her sister is being adopted to by this same lady and they will be reunited for the first time in 2 years; her sister is in a different orphanage. She was showing us all the picture of her sister which was on her mother's camera. She is really excited about her sister and can't wait until they get to home home to MN. Praise the Lord.
We look forward to an exciting day tomorrow filled with work and fun, fellowship and ministry with these kids.
Don't forget to read Laura and Lisa's blog!
Blessings,
Vicky
Monday, August 25, 2008
AHAAAA Fresh Veggies
Well, today was not real eventful, Laura will explain the day. I am going to tell you all a little about Ukraine. I was told before I came on this trip that I would find fresh fruit and veggies on the street. Well, so far I have not! I have ordered salads and received fresh veggies (No lettuce) which works for me; I don't love lettuce anyway. This morning I had the best breakfast since I have been here. I had fresh cucumbers, fresh tomatoes and the best watermelon ever and thought of my mom; she loves watermelon. The coffee was even good this morning. Life is Good when your coffee is Good!!! Well, I just wanted to let you all know about my eating and that I am eating well. I know when people go to foreign countries that is the first thing that freaks you out. Keely ate cow's tongue today and liked it. She did not know it was cow's tongue until after she ate it. Olga, the lady that is making our arrangements, brought us fresh plums off the tree at her house. Those were good and as close to getting them off the street as I have got. Well, I am still striking it lucky with toilet paper and to top it off we went to a restaurant today where the bathroom looked AMERICAN. Vicky and I decided that it was the nicest one yet. So we used it twice. That is all for now except Anita I miss you too!! You would never make it over here except the girls still dress like they are in the 80's. Well, until tomorrow... another day God has made. God is Good all the time!!! Laura will be blogging tonight too.
God Bless,
Lisa
God Bless,
Lisa
Another Holiday in Ukraine
As many of you know, holidays are abundant in Ukraine. They have to have a holiday after the holiday just to be safe. Soooo.... We had intended to go the baby house today to minister there but were told that since the director wasn't there (due to the holiday) that we could not come visit because the gates were locked. Olga had asked if we wanted to go on the river boat tour so we decided to take her up on that. We slept in a little bit first and went to breakfast at the hotel which was very good and then we were off to the boat. The boys were excited about going on the boat and we all had a great time. Krina and Olga were with us as well as Slava. We got to go through the locks that they had that were similar to the ones on the Panama Canal. It was pretty cool. We enjoyed seeing the sites and chatting with Olga and Krina. Vanya hadn't felt well since morning and only ate a little bit of breakfast but boy he made up for it on the boat and then at lunch. He took a nap on the boat and was ready to eat again when he woke up. Keely, Veecha and Yuri enjoyed wandering around the boat and looking off each end and feeling the breeze. That is in between eating snacks. Rob was enjoying some time to himself as he almost fell asleep on the upper deck. Vicky took lots of pictures and took in the scenery while Laura and Lisa talked the whole time with Olga and Krina. There was a boy on the boat named Sasha who was very interested in playing with the kids and talking with all of us. He knew a little English and wanted to be with us. It appeared that he was there with his grandparents but it didn't look too much like they cared too much about him. Very sweet boy it seemed.
After we got off the boat we were headed to the restaurant on the pier. Before getting there we saw kids jumping off the bridge into the water by the beach. In Ukraine the boys simply take off their pants and jump in wearing their underwear. Well Slava decided he was going to jump in. Immediately the Passanita boys wanted to do the same and before I even had a chance to respond they had taken off most of their clothes and were standing there looking at me with such great excitement that I couldn't say no. I didn't really think they would jump off the bridge because it was about 20 feet off the water. Well after I said OK ,Yuri was the first one over the rail ready to jump. He hesitated for about 2 seconds and then jumped right in! Since Slava was in the water ready to catch him I didn't feel so bad. Then Veecha got up and didn't even wait for the 1 2 3 and he was off. Much to my amazement Vanya wanted to jump as well. He thinks he is 10 times bigger than he really is. After the 1 2 3 count my little peanut was jumping off a bridge with not a care in the world. When they got back up on top all I heard was "I want to jump again". I figured papa really had to see this. He was waiting in the restaurant for our food to arrive but this was amazing. I think they attracted a crowd. Could have been the scooby doo and Thomas the Train undies but I think people were just amazed that these little guys weren't afraid of jumping in to the water. Thank goodness Slava was willing to be in there with them. Afterward we went up to eat lunch and then we returned to the hotel for our prayer time and journeling notes. We had a very uplifting and encouraging session and are determined to fullfill whatever plan God has for us. We intend to be able to report miracles and healings and other wonders God has in store for us. Since we weren't able to visit the baby house today, we will go in the morning and then to #3 orphanage in the afternoon to greet the children from camp. I think we will be in store for a fullfilling day tomorrow.
We ended the day by doing some street evangelism. We went down what we thought was an alley that Lisa had been analyzing from her room window. It ended up being an entrance to an apartment complex but we did hand out a few tracks anyway. We found that there was a pool place in an open tent like structure. We went in there and handed out a few tracks before Rob and Slava decided they would continue the mission by playing a few games of pool. Since Vicky had been watching the boys who had fallen asleep during our prayer time, the gals headed back to the hotel to wait on Rob and Slava to return. Once they returned we headed right here to tell you all of our journey for today.
Don't forget to see Lisa's blog for today also! She's the entertaining one and I am "just the facts" one. Enjoy :)
Laura
After we got off the boat we were headed to the restaurant on the pier. Before getting there we saw kids jumping off the bridge into the water by the beach. In Ukraine the boys simply take off their pants and jump in wearing their underwear. Well Slava decided he was going to jump in. Immediately the Passanita boys wanted to do the same and before I even had a chance to respond they had taken off most of their clothes and were standing there looking at me with such great excitement that I couldn't say no. I didn't really think they would jump off the bridge because it was about 20 feet off the water. Well after I said OK ,Yuri was the first one over the rail ready to jump. He hesitated for about 2 seconds and then jumped right in! Since Slava was in the water ready to catch him I didn't feel so bad. Then Veecha got up and didn't even wait for the 1 2 3 and he was off. Much to my amazement Vanya wanted to jump as well. He thinks he is 10 times bigger than he really is. After the 1 2 3 count my little peanut was jumping off a bridge with not a care in the world. When they got back up on top all I heard was "I want to jump again". I figured papa really had to see this. He was waiting in the restaurant for our food to arrive but this was amazing. I think they attracted a crowd. Could have been the scooby doo and Thomas the Train undies but I think people were just amazed that these little guys weren't afraid of jumping in to the water. Thank goodness Slava was willing to be in there with them. Afterward we went up to eat lunch and then we returned to the hotel for our prayer time and journeling notes. We had a very uplifting and encouraging session and are determined to fullfill whatever plan God has for us. We intend to be able to report miracles and healings and other wonders God has in store for us. Since we weren't able to visit the baby house today, we will go in the morning and then to #3 orphanage in the afternoon to greet the children from camp. I think we will be in store for a fullfilling day tomorrow.
We ended the day by doing some street evangelism. We went down what we thought was an alley that Lisa had been analyzing from her room window. It ended up being an entrance to an apartment complex but we did hand out a few tracks anyway. We found that there was a pool place in an open tent like structure. We went in there and handed out a few tracks before Rob and Slava decided they would continue the mission by playing a few games of pool. Since Vicky had been watching the boys who had fallen asleep during our prayer time, the gals headed back to the hotel to wait on Rob and Slava to return. Once they returned we headed right here to tell you all of our journey for today.
Don't forget to see Lisa's blog for today also! She's the entertaining one and I am "just the facts" one. Enjoy :)
Laura
Sunday, August 24, 2008
The Weakest Link
Well it is Lisa blogging again. I have met all kinds of people. I met Victor who was our translator, tour guide and for some of you reading this, your facilatator. Whatever the case, he was a prayer answered from GOD for us. He had our days planned out travel, train, walk, whatever it took. The past three days have been quiet the experience for Lisa and Keely neither of whom have ever been out of the country or ridden a train, much less slept on one. As for that experience, I will be traveling by train more often. Well for everything everyone has told me about Ukraine, I have not had any of that. I have had a nice shower everyday. I have eaten well. I have had toilet paper everywhere I have been.
The next day I met Slava. He has taken Victors place. He is very nice and says he doesn't know English very well and that we are his experiment. He speaks it better than most Americans. He road the train with us last night and anyone that knows me knows that I ask a million questions. He is a very interesting guy. He is married, has two little girls and is a starving Musician. I promised to buy him the movie August Rush and send it to him; he plays the Guitar like that kid.
So I went to Church today! How about that Pastor Mark; out of the country and still going to Church!! Did not understand a word (okay, I am lying. I did understand Amen). Regardless if there is a language barrier the presence of the Lord is still there.
Then I met Olga personally; not just kinda in passing. She is the one that set up all our activities at the Boarding School #3. She is very nice and I will be spending the next four days with her. Well, I will be blogging more to tell you all How GOOD GOD IS!!!! over the next four days when I get to go bless all his children. I have learned everyday walking the streets of Ukraine that these are God's people just like you and I. They are different than you and I but God made them with the same hands that he made you and I. Keep all of us in your prayers, not just us and the orphange, but Ukraine; they need God's people praying for them!!!
Don't forget to read Laura and Vicky's blog from today too!
God Bless,
Lisa
The next day I met Slava. He has taken Victors place. He is very nice and says he doesn't know English very well and that we are his experiment. He speaks it better than most Americans. He road the train with us last night and anyone that knows me knows that I ask a million questions. He is a very interesting guy. He is married, has two little girls and is a starving Musician. I promised to buy him the movie August Rush and send it to him; he plays the Guitar like that kid.
So I went to Church today! How about that Pastor Mark; out of the country and still going to Church!! Did not understand a word (okay, I am lying. I did understand Amen). Regardless if there is a language barrier the presence of the Lord is still there.
Then I met Olga personally; not just kinda in passing. She is the one that set up all our activities at the Boarding School #3. She is very nice and I will be spending the next four days with her. Well, I will be blogging more to tell you all How GOOD GOD IS!!!! over the next four days when I get to go bless all his children. I have learned everyday walking the streets of Ukraine that these are God's people just like you and I. They are different than you and I but God made them with the same hands that he made you and I. Keep all of us in your prayers, not just us and the orphange, but Ukraine; they need God's people praying for them!!!
Don't forget to read Laura and Vicky's blog from today too!
God Bless,
Lisa
what a day
Well, we made it to Zaporyzhzhia bright and early this morning. The train ride was very hot even though we had an air conditioned train. The other cars were quite cool whereas the one Rob, myself and the boys were in was not. I think it must have been the sheer testosterone in a small space that did it. They all give off so much heat that it definitely counteracted the air conditioning. Well it really took it's toll on me. After Yuri falling off the top bunk and landing on me and then not really getting any sleep because we had a food bag in the room that really stunk I woke up to a rushed trip to the bathroom. Then with nothing in my stomach we had to offload the bags and the kids and get checked into the hotel just in time to rush right out to the Church service at "Christ is Alive" which started at 9 instead of 10. So with a quick shower and wet hair we ran out the door and got there. It was great to hear some of the same praise and worship music that we sing but with different words. Rob and I were called up front to speak and it was a good thing that God was with us as we weren't exactly prepared to make any kind of long speech. The pastor sat down and was looking quite comfortable as we were finishing up with what we had to say. It was great to see GOD at work though in the lives of these believers. It was very interesting that the sermon at crosswalk said some of the same things we said this morning. Rob even made reference to the fact that many kilometers away believers are doing the same thing we are and worshipping God. It was great to hear the responses form the audience. We were treated like royalty. However, because of the heat I had to take our 2 younger boys outside and that is where the "nursery" was. It looked like the buggy brigade to me but all the other mothers came over and smiled as they introduced their children. One lady understood enough English for us to communicate a little and they were all very nice. Many babushka's came up and said something to us that I imagine was something like "bless you" and one of them even gave Vicky a bag of plums for us to take with us. Afterward we went to get a bit to eat at the AMCTOP which in Russian is said amstore. I was feeling pretty crummy by that time but everyone got a bite to eat and when we got back to the hotel I laid down and took a nap while everyone else went out to explore our new city. I thought I could have just laid there and died as the heat was not my friend. After getting a little rest I felt a little better so we went outside to a Christian festival which was right in the park next to our hotel. That was a first for us! We couldn't even find a church last year when we were here. Now they are having a huge Christian festival as it is the evening of their independence day. Funny how that happens. Last year we were here and picked the boys up on July 4th, our independence day and this year we are hear for Ukraine's independence day. I think God must have intended for it to be that way to emphasize that He is really the one who gives us all our independence by being dependent on Him.
We got to get together with Olga and Christina and Gregory at our favorite Pizza place (NayBay pronounced PowWow). After 2 of the boys fell asleep right on the table we decided it would be a good idea to go put them in bed.
We have made plans for the day tomorrow as it is a continuation of the holiday from today. Here in Ukriane you have to have a holiday from the holiday. It's just the way it is. Now we are here at the internet cafe sharing all of our thoughts with our families and all you other blog readers. Thanks for the comments and keep 'em coming. If you read this post first make sure you read Lisa and Vicky's posts for today as well. We all have different perspective and God has shown each of us differnet things that are worth while reading.
Blessing to all,
Laura et al
We got to get together with Olga and Christina and Gregory at our favorite Pizza place (NayBay pronounced PowWow). After 2 of the boys fell asleep right on the table we decided it would be a good idea to go put them in bed.
We have made plans for the day tomorrow as it is a continuation of the holiday from today. Here in Ukriane you have to have a holiday from the holiday. It's just the way it is. Now we are here at the internet cafe sharing all of our thoughts with our families and all you other blog readers. Thanks for the comments and keep 'em coming. If you read this post first make sure you read Lisa and Vicky's posts for today as well. We all have different perspective and God has shown each of us differnet things that are worth while reading.
Blessing to all,
Laura et al
8 In Ukraine
The team has made it to Zaporizhzhia. We had a great day Saturday touring around Kiev, taking lots of pictures. We saw alot of the city and many exciting sites.. including St. Andrews. We walked through the open markets but we did not buy anything. We headed back to the train station, had dinner and boarded the train around 8:00 p.m. Ukraine time. Around 8:30 p.m. we pulled out. The sleeping quarters of the train were quite small but we had a great time. Our quarters were each next door to each other; even the bunk where Slava was. Slava is our translator and he is great. Victor could no longer join us but he is still helping us with our travel arrangements while here. We miss him. We had our tea and then joined in one room to have our nightly team meeting to discuss the day, our thoughts, our challenges, and our plans for the next day. We ended our day with a prayer and then off to bed. I slept on the top bunk with Lisa and Keely underneath. We were so tired and didn't talk long before we were out. The swaying of the train and the noise of the tracks put me right out until 6:00 a.m. this morning.
We arrived in Zaporizhzhia about 6:50 a.m. and had to hurry with all the bags (we have 15 or more bags!), get loaded on the van and get to our next hotel so that we could make it to Church by 9 (including showers!). The hotel is about the same as the one in Kiev. Twin beds, no A/C (except all windows wide open) and typical European bath.. stand up shower that is mostly like something you climb up into. But at least this time the shower curtain reaches the bottom so the floor does not get drowned. Oh the last hotel in one room didn't even have a shower curtain. They provide breakfast tomorrow so we'll see how that is. We have 3 rooms. Boys and Dad are in one room, Lisa and Keely are in another and Laura and I share a room. They are very small.. definately not your typical USA hotel. We are ok though.. whatever it takes. We are not here to be comfortable but for the children. We made it to Church by 9 (just did make it) and that was good although we could not understand one word. Rob and Laura went up on stage and spoke to the congregation and Slava translated for them. It was so cool to hear Laura speak, here Slava speak and here the people respond. They laughed, they clapped and were glad that we were there. One lady sitting in front of me turned and smiled and handed me a bag full of plums. Slava said 'She wants to share with you' so I took the plums and replied 'Spa-SEE-ba'... thank you. She replied 'pa-ZHAL-sta' .. You're welcome'. That was cool. The lady behind me was fanning me because it was so hot in there. Again, no A/C. The Church was just an old building, like a warehouse or sorts. Had a big stage up front that was a wooden floor and a 50 ft. red curtain. Looked like some sort of theater. It was very packed however and the people were singing and praising and worshipping God. It was great to see.
We left Church and walked to a near by market to eat lunch. Then went back to the hotel and Laura went to bed to try and get well and the rest of us went walking. Visited the indoor mall .. that was pretty nice. Went to a local bookstore and then the Internet cafe. Then back to the hotel to get Laura.. she is feeling better now thank the Lord. We then went next door to where they are holding a Christian concert tonight .. can hear the music from my hotel room. Met with Olga there and met our two additional translators. Then we all went to have dinner. Had pizza. Olga cannot speak English so Kristina helped us all be able to communicate. She is very nice and does a good job with translating. We decided we are going to sleep in tomorrow for the first time since we left. Taking a boat tour at 12 since Monday is their holiday. Today is Independence day in Ukraine (1991). Then we will be visiting the baby house at 4 p.m. tomorrow.
This is where our work begins. We are all excited and ready to go see and share with the children. The kids here will be infants to age 4. Tuesday we will visit orphanage #3 where the kids will be ages 6-16. (Remember they are required to 'graduate' from the orphanage at age 16.) They have to leave although they have no where to go but the streets. The 4-5 year olds go to a seperate orphanage. So tomorrow our blogs could be filled with lots of tears and emotion.
So things here are good so far.. it's just very hot since we have no A/C. Spoiled Americans! But we agreed 'Whatever it takes!' and forward we shall go. We feel very blessed to have this opportunity to go forth and do what God would have us do. He has been so good to us so far.
We have a great team and we are all getting along and sharing and helping each other and we know we will be blessed each day and be stronger personally and in our faith once this trip is over. Remember us in your prayers and thank you for all your support with answering emails and reading our blog. We miss you all back home but we are glad to be here too!
Don't forget to read Lisa and Laura's entries for today as well!
God Bless You!
- Vicky
We arrived in Zaporizhzhia about 6:50 a.m. and had to hurry with all the bags (we have 15 or more bags!), get loaded on the van and get to our next hotel so that we could make it to Church by 9 (including showers!). The hotel is about the same as the one in Kiev. Twin beds, no A/C (except all windows wide open) and typical European bath.. stand up shower that is mostly like something you climb up into. But at least this time the shower curtain reaches the bottom so the floor does not get drowned. Oh the last hotel in one room didn't even have a shower curtain. They provide breakfast tomorrow so we'll see how that is. We have 3 rooms. Boys and Dad are in one room, Lisa and Keely are in another and Laura and I share a room. They are very small.. definately not your typical USA hotel. We are ok though.. whatever it takes. We are not here to be comfortable but for the children. We made it to Church by 9 (just did make it) and that was good although we could not understand one word. Rob and Laura went up on stage and spoke to the congregation and Slava translated for them. It was so cool to hear Laura speak, here Slava speak and here the people respond. They laughed, they clapped and were glad that we were there. One lady sitting in front of me turned and smiled and handed me a bag full of plums. Slava said 'She wants to share with you' so I took the plums and replied 'Spa-SEE-ba'... thank you. She replied 'pa-ZHAL-sta' .. You're welcome'. That was cool. The lady behind me was fanning me because it was so hot in there. Again, no A/C. The Church was just an old building, like a warehouse or sorts. Had a big stage up front that was a wooden floor and a 50 ft. red curtain. Looked like some sort of theater. It was very packed however and the people were singing and praising and worshipping God. It was great to see.
We left Church and walked to a near by market to eat lunch. Then went back to the hotel and Laura went to bed to try and get well and the rest of us went walking. Visited the indoor mall .. that was pretty nice. Went to a local bookstore and then the Internet cafe. Then back to the hotel to get Laura.. she is feeling better now thank the Lord. We then went next door to where they are holding a Christian concert tonight .. can hear the music from my hotel room. Met with Olga there and met our two additional translators. Then we all went to have dinner. Had pizza. Olga cannot speak English so Kristina helped us all be able to communicate. She is very nice and does a good job with translating. We decided we are going to sleep in tomorrow for the first time since we left. Taking a boat tour at 12 since Monday is their holiday. Today is Independence day in Ukraine (1991). Then we will be visiting the baby house at 4 p.m. tomorrow.
This is where our work begins. We are all excited and ready to go see and share with the children. The kids here will be infants to age 4. Tuesday we will visit orphanage #3 where the kids will be ages 6-16. (Remember they are required to 'graduate' from the orphanage at age 16.) They have to leave although they have no where to go but the streets. The 4-5 year olds go to a seperate orphanage. So tomorrow our blogs could be filled with lots of tears and emotion.
So things here are good so far.. it's just very hot since we have no A/C. Spoiled Americans! But we agreed 'Whatever it takes!' and forward we shall go. We feel very blessed to have this opportunity to go forth and do what God would have us do. He has been so good to us so far.
We have a great team and we are all getting along and sharing and helping each other and we know we will be blessed each day and be stronger personally and in our faith once this trip is over. Remember us in your prayers and thank you for all your support with answering emails and reading our blog. We miss you all back home but we are glad to be here too!
Don't forget to read Lisa and Laura's entries for today as well!
God Bless You!
- Vicky
Friday, August 22, 2008
We made it!
Hello everyone at home in Virginia. The 8 to Ukraine have arrived. Over all a really good trip. Two of us got seperated from the group only once at JFK transfering on the metro but that was ok as it comes back around in 10 minutes. The two was myself and Keely, 10 years old. The others did not get off the train quick enough and so Keely was abit nerved as her mom was left on the train but we were ok. The trip was long, most of us did not sleep during the ride. Lisa did and the kids did (thank goodness!). Keely and I learned how to count in French using the computer that was in the back of the seat in front of us. I really got into playing that game! Keely agrees with me. The coolest part of it though was the fact that you could see the plane traveling the route as wel went. You could see where on the map it was day time and night time and how fast the plane was traveling, how many more miles to go, expected arrival time, etc. As we approached land again we could see that we were passing over Ireland and then England and into Amsterdam. From there, after about a 2 hour layover, we were off to Kiev. So we left USA at 10:05 am Thursday EST and arrived in Kiev, Ukraine at 6:15 am Friday EST or 1:15 pm Ukrain time. We are 7 hours ahead. So it is about 2:45 for you now and 21:49 for us. This internet cafe we are in is great! There is about 50 or more computers in here. And lots of people. Service is about 30 minutes for 70 cents. Victor is with us, our guide and interpreter. He is a great guy. We have enjoyed his company. We leave tomorrow night about 7pm to head on the train to Zaporizhzhia to the orphanage. We should arrive about 7am Sunday morning. And we spend the week there with the kids. This should be fun and exciting and heart breaking too. Looking forward to it. Will let you know more how that goes as we gain access to the Internet. Take care and continue to pray for our group and that God uses us as he desires. Lots of love. Vicky
We Have Arrived
Well where do I start, First off this is Lisa blogging and Lisa has never been out of the country!!! What a different world. I am a spoiled AMERICAN with out a doubt. It is amazing to see how other countries live and are content and happy. We had no problems at the airport, we met up with Victor and he is a blessing in its self. Tomorrow we go on our Train Ride to the orphange, Ukraine is celebrating their Independence day on Sunday. By the way there has been toilet paper every where I have been!!! I also have a million dollar business opportunity Chick-Fil-A in Ukraine. That is all for now, Everyone is tired a good nights sleep will be Great, to get up and start on God's Journey!!!! Keep us in your Prays-Lisa,Vicky,Keely and the Passanitas.
Just to let eeryone know we have already been to the McDonalds much to my (Laura) delight since we had something that resembled fish on the plane.
We are looking forward to being able to spend time with the children at Yuri's Orphanage and will keep everyone posted on our progress. So far things have gone smoothly and we know all the prayers that are being prayed have definitely helped. God has gone before us and will use us for His glory on this journey.
Many blessings to all and don't forget to comment to us!
Mama mama mama
Just to let eeryone know we have already been to the McDonalds much to my (Laura) delight since we had something that resembled fish on the plane.
We are looking forward to being able to spend time with the children at Yuri's Orphanage and will keep everyone posted on our progress. So far things have gone smoothly and we know all the prayers that are being prayed have definitely helped. God has gone before us and will use us for His glory on this journey.
Many blessings to all and don't forget to comment to us!
Mama mama mama
Thursday, August 21, 2008
We're off!
Well the time has finally come for us to go! It got here very quickly but I think we are all prepared for what God has in store for us in Ukraine. Even though it is 3:00am, I am full of anticipation and still wondering what I have forgotten. The team has packed all the backpacks and has prepared as well as possible for our journey. Now it is time to leave the hustle and bustle and slow down the pace a bit and enjoy the scenery.
We hope you will follow our journey and pray for all of that we will have continued good health and traveling mercies.
The next post probably won't be until we have arrived in Kyiv and possible until we have rested over night. Writing comments to us will be the only link we have to home so feel free to write away. It will be uplifting to hear from our friends.
Bye for now
Monday, August 18, 2008
3 days to go
Well the time has come for us to start packing. All the arrangements have been made and we are starting to lay things out to make sure we have everything we need. We have completed the backpack drive and praise be to God for really providing all that we needed. We have 162 backpacks to take to bless orphanage #3 in Zaporizhzhia. How we will pack them all is yet to be seen but each team member is responsible for 20 so it shouldn't be a big deal.
We were extremely blessed to be able to have been prayed for by the entire congregation of Crosswalk Community Church yesterday at both the 8:30 and the 10:30 services. It is great that we have some great prayer warriors in our corner as Ukraine is most often very unpredictable about everything. Things change like the wind and if you aren't well grounded you could easily get off track.
God has gotten this far and has a special purpose and plan for each of our team members. I can't wait to see how He is going to use us. The Passanita boys are excited about the trip and have have a full understanding of where we are going and for what reason. I just know God will bless their time and protect them from any unrest they may have about their past. So far the biggest questions have revolved around food. Imagine that; boys wanting to know about food! I think they will be just fine, it's me I'm more concerned about. After spending 7 weeks there last year, I'm not quite as excited about the options for food. Rob, on the other hand, is looking forward to any and all new culinary tastes. Maybe he will have new ideas for the men as they prepare to serve the women of Crosswalk breakfast soon!
Lisa is running around like crazy trying to get all the last minute things taken care of for the rest of her family. He 2 sons and husband will remain home while she and her daughter go on this mission. Vicky is probably ahead of all of us and has probably also packed most of her things as well. It's a good thing we have her on our team to keep us organized and on time.
The only detail left to take care of is the money. We have to get new bills from the bank for all of our expenses since Ukraine is a cash society for the most part. I will have to carry the cash with me and take care of all the general expenses as they arise. Talk about feeling like you have a target on your back. Try walking through a foreign airport with cash strapped to your body.
I guess that is about it for now. I'm hoping that the rest of the team will chime in with their thoughts as well.
Laura Passanita
We were extremely blessed to be able to have been prayed for by the entire congregation of Crosswalk Community Church yesterday at both the 8:30 and the 10:30 services. It is great that we have some great prayer warriors in our corner as Ukraine is most often very unpredictable about everything. Things change like the wind and if you aren't well grounded you could easily get off track.
God has gotten this far and has a special purpose and plan for each of our team members. I can't wait to see how He is going to use us. The Passanita boys are excited about the trip and have have a full understanding of where we are going and for what reason. I just know God will bless their time and protect them from any unrest they may have about their past. So far the biggest questions have revolved around food. Imagine that; boys wanting to know about food! I think they will be just fine, it's me I'm more concerned about. After spending 7 weeks there last year, I'm not quite as excited about the options for food. Rob, on the other hand, is looking forward to any and all new culinary tastes. Maybe he will have new ideas for the men as they prepare to serve the women of Crosswalk breakfast soon!
Lisa is running around like crazy trying to get all the last minute things taken care of for the rest of her family. He 2 sons and husband will remain home while she and her daughter go on this mission. Vicky is probably ahead of all of us and has probably also packed most of her things as well. It's a good thing we have her on our team to keep us organized and on time.
The only detail left to take care of is the money. We have to get new bills from the bank for all of our expenses since Ukraine is a cash society for the most part. I will have to carry the cash with me and take care of all the general expenses as they arise. Talk about feeling like you have a target on your back. Try walking through a foreign airport with cash strapped to your body.
I guess that is about it for now. I'm hoping that the rest of the team will chime in with their thoughts as well.
Laura Passanita
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Preparation
Well the team is getting ready to go and what a journey it has been thus far. This trip has been on our hearts and minds for quite some time and has finally come. Our team consists of the Passanita Family, who adopted their 3 boys last year, Lisa Rochard and her daughter, Keeley, and Vicky Stallings. The team is being sent out by Crosswalk Community Church and Heart for Orphans. Heart for Orphans is a local non profit group whose aim is to minister to the emotional, spiritual, and physical needs of orphans in Ukraine. Crosswalk Community Church has developed a growing orphan ministry and has completed many projects related to orphans, adoption, and foster care.
God seems to be working on the hearts of the people in our city and we are all looking forward to seeing what He has in store for our team in Ukraine.
We have all completed the study "Preparing Your Heart Before Packing Your Bag" and it has proven to be a great source of uniting our team. We got to share some of the things that made us want to go on this trip and also some of things we expect. Those discussions as well as some of the other ones have given us a window into our team members thoughts that will be to help us see each others strengths and weaknesses. We hope this journey of our trip will be inspiring and thought provoking and most of all to be Glorifying God because He is the reason for all we do. Our theme has been James 1:27 and we have all committed it to memory. Each of us will be posting our thoughts as we prepare and go on this trip.
I have posted this first one as the leader of the team but the thoughts and posts to come will be from everyone on the team as they feel led to share. We welcome and covet your prayers on this journey.
Laura Passanita
God seems to be working on the hearts of the people in our city and we are all looking forward to seeing what He has in store for our team in Ukraine.
We have all completed the study "Preparing Your Heart Before Packing Your Bag" and it has proven to be a great source of uniting our team. We got to share some of the things that made us want to go on this trip and also some of things we expect. Those discussions as well as some of the other ones have given us a window into our team members thoughts that will be to help us see each others strengths and weaknesses. We hope this journey of our trip will be inspiring and thought provoking and most of all to be Glorifying God because He is the reason for all we do. Our theme has been James 1:27 and we have all committed it to memory. Each of us will be posting our thoughts as we prepare and go on this trip.
I have posted this first one as the leader of the team but the thoughts and posts to come will be from everyone on the team as they feel led to share. We welcome and covet your prayers on this journey.
Laura Passanita
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