A World Away: Hands, hearts and shoes!

Hey look we really didn't forget about our blog and all the folks out there anxious for a look or the ones that just don't have anything better to do;) The last few days we have had some nice visits with Y and some with her bff A. I learning how easy it is to fall for these kids they are always so excited to see us Americans there visiting and are quick with a "Halo" or a "goodbye" and they do play a mean game of UNO.


Electronics are good on days like this when we forget stuff.

(Friday the 15th) Today was shower day so kids were a bit delayed. Good thing as Jon and I ventured out on foot a bit around our apartment looking for the Mini Market but some how we got turned around and ended up going to two little markets. Our driver Yevgenny drove up when we were almost back to our apartment. We were super brave and got some kind of pastry with what we believe to be chicken in it and it looked like the Russian word chicken was on the label - so far so good - I had a little bit of it and Jon the rest but I have tums, alka seltzer and some stronger digestive aids if necessary. It is really hard doing just little things like walking to the mini market in your block and getting a couple of items. We also made an errand to get sweet Y a pair of sneakers and some socks as the thick fur lined boots she has been wearing were obviously way too hot and have been worn way too many years by people. Of course we didn't have our cash with us so gracious Yevgenny brought us back to our apartment to get it, then off to find some shoes. As we were going back to car we found someone had parked directly behind us, beside us, and the remaining sides were cement walls. In America we would most likely just wait for one of the other drivers to return - but not here - with a full three quarters of an inch to spare total between the two cars it was back and forth, wiggle, wiggle and I cannot believe he got the car out - we had a little celebration of cheering. The sad thing is I am not exaggerating - there literally was less than half an inch on either side to spare.

Jon trying to distract Y by mimicking her screen locked eyes .

(Thursday the 14th) On Valentine's Day we hand made a card for Y along with some candy and gum and also a card for A and a couple packs of gum. Jon taught us all how to play "Fast Hands" and we had some good laughs. We did try and throw the football around but readily got scolded by the stern guard lady. Who knew you couldn't play ball in the house:) Our facilitator rode back with us and was dropped at the train station so he could get to Kiev to submit our paperwork - I mentioned I really was hungry for pizza so he said come with us and we will go to a little pizza shop near the train station and I will order for you before I get on the train. He has really been super accommodating and we are very thankful to have some one who knows the process so well. And the super wonderful Yevgenny gave me the cutest little bouquet of petite white flowers all bound together with a few big leaves. A very good Valentine's day.