Friday March 2

Today we rested all morning and early afternoon in an effort to feel better, was at least partially successful. It may be that travelling 3 times is more draining than we realized or appreciated. Anyway, we were contacted by our Nashville friend Heather (hhinukraine.wordpress.com) about meeting for dinner. She knows we have American stomachs and appetites that haven't been indulged much this trip. So our task was simple. We needed to walk about one half mile to the Demivska metro station. From there, we take the train up one station to Lubidska station to get to the Ocean Plaza mall. Simple, right? Well, we managed. It may have been Angela's first time in such a busy place alone with us. As soon as she saw Heather, we became old news! She wanted to hold her hand and walk with her all night! We didn't mind this a bit, because we understand that Angela still probably has more trust for Heather and Lesya (our host in Kiev) than us for at least two reasons. First, they can speak her language. Second, she has known them for 5 years, and for 5 years they have developed her trust. These children have so few people in the world they can rely upon, and Angela is about to say goodbye to to of them. Trust is hardly won, especially after it has been repeatedly destroyed. It was beautiful to see them interact, and also gave Julie and I a little break.

As I said, we went to a large, suburban mall for the evening to eat. I can happily report that I had a steak and french fries and it was delicious. Lesya joined us later in the evening. A good night of fellowship all around.

Angela and Heather

After dinner

After dinner we walked around the mall for a while. It was a very upscale place, so much so that they had a mini aquarium! I hope my oldest son is following this because, we saw, in person, a shark! A nurse shark swimming in a tank, to be specific.

For R, my oldest boy and a shark lover.

Near the exit, Angela wanted us to all pose for a picture in front of a fountain. Most importantly, she wanted to take it. So, here it is.

Everyone but Angela. 

At the end of the evening, we all returned to Lesya's place and watched videos, looked at pictures, and heard stories of previous orphan camps and orphans the girls know. The enormity of this whole situation, being 6,000 miles from home, in a country on the brink of war, filled with hurting children, and about to become the father of one! We have for so long prayed for and anticipated this event and the Lord has accomplished it so perfectly! I found myself praying that we would be worthy of this rich reward. We will rely upon Him alone to continue to go before us.


Michael and Julie