Zhenia asked us all to be ready by 9:00am. At about 9:15am we call Zhenia to let him know we are all waiting in the van. He was delayed with more paperwork so we all went to camp to pick up the Boycott's daughter and a friend so they could go to her birth place to get her birth certificate. An hour or so later we return and Mark and I were told it will be 2pm or so before we will sign documents. So we wait.... It's always hurry up and wait here. But worth all the wait time in the world.
We sign documents and then wait about an hour and sign more documents. Then we wait some more... Finally it's time to go get the kids! Wooo! Hooo! They will be leaving camp and the orphanage forever. I have been concerned for the girls when it comes time to leaving for good. I have tried to imagine their lives up until this point. It's hard to take it all in.
The camp was buzzing with excitement! All the kids knew that Anya, Tanya, Tanya G. and Artuem are leaving! We brought gifts for the teachers. Artuem's teacher was there to greet us and sent for the other teachers. We were introduced for the first time to Tanya's teacher. She seemed like a nice lady. We gave her a gift and said thank you for caring for Tanya. Then, Svetlana, Anya's teacher arrived with Anya. Svetlana is a very kind sweet person who is obviously loved by all the kids. We presented her with her gift and she began to cry. I hugged her tightly and said thank you for loving my girls. Yes yes yes....I was crying too! I asked how long she had been their teacher. All the girls around counted and said 7 years! She has been momma to Anya. Svetlana asked that I please keep in contact with her. We exchanged addresses and phone numbers. She pulled me aside with Zhenia and told me Anya has had a very very hard life...alot of hurt and pain. She asked if I was a Christian. I said yes, that God is the one who brought me to Anya and Tanya. She said Tanya is good she just needs someone with patience and kindness. She said she is making progress; she is now able to say 'I'm sorry' when she is wrong. I told her we can see a sweetness to both girls and that along with God we will always love them. She said she wants her to have a future and to be loved. I told her that's what we are here for. Tears were flowing during the conversation. Zhenia while interpreting was tearing up as well. It was so hard to hear what my girls have been through. I am sure more will come with time. Anya shared some with Linda but does not want me to know...she said she does not want us to feel sorry for her! All Anya's friends were circled around and they asked if they could spend the night again. Of course and I asked for two nights. Svetlana agreed! Yeah! Slumber Party!
All this time, Tanya was not to be seen. When walking to the car she was there standing in a huddle of friends. All were hugging her as she stood with a sad face. Once in the car she was a little quiet for a bit then seemed ok. Once home Mark and Anthony went to the market. I started food. We had dinner Furr's style! Blinchkes aka pancakes, cucumbers, tomatoes, grilled cheese sandwiches, fruit etc. They ate till they were about to pop and the settled down and watched a movie. Soon they all fell asleep.
Sunday and Monday
Sunday and Monday, July 26 and 27, we went to the camp and picked up all our kids along with many others and went to the river for a picnic and swim. We had tons of fun! You could hear Big Booty for miles! Sunday our taxi driver, Sasha, prepared shish k bobs for us. Very tasty! We also played cherades (sp?). I was the first clue and Linda was acting it out. First thing she did was to hold her hands to her side to show my...curves! Tanya said "Phillips", my new nickname, immediately! I chased after her while she about fell over laughing so hard.
I have seen a side to Anya that I have not seen before. She is just as silly as Tanya! Lots of fun in the river with Anya and her friends thinking it's funny to dunk me! Both days were great!
I have seen a side to Anya that I have not seen before. She is just as silly as Tanya! Lots of fun in the river with Anya and her friends thinking it's funny to dunk me! Both days were great!
Anthony's 1st day with the girls!
Saturday, July 25, Mark stayed at the flat and we let Anthony sleep while me and the other two momma's went to pick up the kids at the camp. We we got back it was lots of giggles, smiles and hugs for their new brother!! They both fought over who was going to sit by him on the couch!! After a couple of hours at the flat we met up with the other families and went to Equator Mall for bowling and ice skating. This is one time I wish I could skate. Tanya was stuck to Anthony like glue. We bowled first and all the 'old' people were on one team and all the kids, including Anthony, was on another team. Tanya thought she was a big shot because she got to order ice cream and soda on her own! Then we ice skated....oh wait....no 'we' to it....all the kids, Linda and Bill skated while moms, Mark and Anthony watched! We all grabbed a bite to eat at Fat House in the mall then it was back to our flats with the kids.
Our family went down to the monuments to show Anthony and Linda came along to translate. There were two college age girls down at the monuments that were sketching. For 20 grivnas (about $3) each of the girls got their portraits sketched. The artists emphasized the necklaces we gave them after court that say "If Daughters Were Flowers I'd Still Pick You!" So special! Both girls were so excited to have them done!!! After they were finished Anya could not stop smiling and said thank you enthusiastically and gave us the biggest hug so far! It was a very precious moment! Then Linda took our picture and Anya put her arm around me and squeezed!
It was time to get the kids back to camp. Anthony went this time. It was his first time to experience something of this magnitude. He met Oksana, Denis, Sergey and Vicka and a couple of others that always greet us with hugs and smiles. He couldn't believe the ages of Sergey and Vicka because they are so small. He was overcome by the conditions of the camp and of some of the children. The ride back to the flat he was very quiet. Until you get our of your 'box', you just have know idea of the pain, hurt and neglect of others. I know for me the mission trips I have been on, both domestically and internationally, have changed my perspective quite a bit. Love God...Love People....plain and simple! Anthony says he wants to come back here next summer with a group to minister and love on the kids at the camp. I sure hope he gets the opportunity along with Miranda and Christen!
Our family went down to the monuments to show Anthony and Linda came along to translate. There were two college age girls down at the monuments that were sketching. For 20 grivnas (about $3) each of the girls got their portraits sketched. The artists emphasized the necklaces we gave them after court that say "If Daughters Were Flowers I'd Still Pick You!" So special! Both girls were so excited to have them done!!! After they were finished Anya could not stop smiling and said thank you enthusiastically and gave us the biggest hug so far! It was a very precious moment! Then Linda took our picture and Anya put her arm around me and squeezed!
It was time to get the kids back to camp. Anthony went this time. It was his first time to experience something of this magnitude. He met Oksana, Denis, Sergey and Vicka and a couple of others that always greet us with hugs and smiles. He couldn't believe the ages of Sergey and Vicka because they are so small. He was overcome by the conditions of the camp and of some of the children. The ride back to the flat he was very quiet. Until you get our of your 'box', you just have know idea of the pain, hurt and neglect of others. I know for me the mission trips I have been on, both domestically and internationally, have changed my perspective quite a bit. Love God...Love People....plain and simple! Anthony says he wants to come back here next summer with a group to minister and love on the kids at the camp. I sure hope he gets the opportunity along with Miranda and Christen!
Catch up time....
Sorry we haven't blogged in a while! Everyday with the girls has been full and exhausting! Friday, July 24th at 8am we got visitors! Tanya and a friend ring the door bell. Her caregiver is not very caring and lets them leave the camp whenever they want to! So frustrating! We were greeted with big smiles and hugs. We all had planned to go at 9am to pick up all the ki
ds so Mark, Tanya and her friend stayed behind while just the three mommas went to camp to get the rest of the kiddos. When we got back with Anya we hung out at the flat for a bit and watched yet another movie! Thanks Randy and Valerie for the Russian movies!
ds so Mark, Tanya and her friend stayed behind while just the three mommas went to camp to get the rest of the kiddos. When we got back with Anya we hung out at the flat for a bit and watched yet another movie! Thanks Randy and Valerie for the Russian movies! We then joined Rebecca and her son and went on 'malinky machinas' aka go carts. We had 4 kids total, Anya and Tanya, Tanya's friend and Artuem. When we arrive they only have 3 cars running! So Anya, friend and Artuem went first. Tanya was a little grumpy that she would have to go by herself. So Mark purchased a ticket. She really wasnt happy about thatn either!! She was the first car and Mark was second. When given the ok to go she went just enough to let Mark out and waited for him to be side by side with her. The race was on! I am telling you that girl can drive! I think it's gonna be a few long years before she gets her license. Mark was behind her most of the time. She blocked him from passing. Each time she passed us she was laughing! She wiped out two times. Once into the tires and once just did a complete 360 when turning! When they got off she said with a huge smile and giggles, "Mark is foo, I am #1!" Foo means no good! It was just the cutest thing ever to watch her!
Tanya and her friend had to be back at camp at 4:00 so we dropped them at the train station and then we took Anya and Artuem back at 5:00. That evening at 8pm Anthony and Linda arrived in Poltava. Lufthansa lost both pieces of Anthony's luggage! Thank goodness he wears the same size as Mark. We get a bite to eat at the restaurant below us and then went to bed. Anthony was exhausted!
We're Back!
We went to Crimea on Sunday, July 19th. It was awesome! We went with the two other couples and Veronica, translator and friend. We all stayed in one large house and shared the expense. We ate breakfast at the house and snacked during the day and had dinner out together in the evening. It was the least expensive, most awesome vacation we have ever had. Crimea is penninsula that is on the Black Sea. It's almost an island. It is primarily mountains by the sea and the beaches are all rocks. A bit tough on the feet but beautiful clear water. The last day we chartered a sail boat and by chance, got to see blue dolphins! Wow! So amazing! Mark and the other guys fished off the boat. Mark was the only one that caught one! It was a whole 2 inches long! LOL!
We were all missing our kids but had a great time. The day after we returned Anthony arrived. Well gotta boogy...we are picnicing and swimming in the river with the kiddos today. I will blog more about the last two days tonight! We had no internet in Crimea and since we got back our internet service has been hit and miss. Things are going really good with the girls!! Love ya'll!!
1st Day as Momma and Pappa!
Couldn't wait to get to the camp today to see my precious girls! We stopped at the market and bought enough food for an army and then some. Each family bought 'care' packages for their kiddos. The Boycott's had a detailed list! I asked Tanya what she would like me to bring her the night before and she said 'I just want you to bring what you think I would like, I want to see what you bring!' I guess that was my first test at being mom to her! LOL! I know that she likes these stinky dried anchovies and calamari so I got several packs of those for her. Plus lots of other goodies! I passed the test! She was happy with her goodies!
After the market we picked up all the kids. Tanya called twice wondering where we were!! Artuem Thomas had a friend and the girls had three friends come along. Sasha, our bus driver, brought his little girl along as well. We went by the river and had a wonderful picnic and a swim in the river. I unfortunately did not bring a swim suit but wore light clothing. Sue had all the girls pull me into the water!! It was crazy fun just playing and being together. The older girls, Anya and Alina teased me about my Russian. I like it!!! Makes me feel at home!! Also makes me miss all my Shady Oak Youth!!
Tanya got bored and decided to head back to camp on her own! We were a good 3 miles or more from the camp! So Mark took after her and behind him was Veronica. Once they caught up with her they all sat in the field for a bit to talk. Veronica translated that Tanya said she is not used to having parents to tell her not to go. She was used to just going when she was ready. It's good that she understands. On the way back I caught Tanya looking at me and I winked at her and she smiled. We recieved lots of hugs when we dropped them off at the camp.
It's amazing now that the stress of court is behind us and the girls have 'committed', we seem to really be enjoying each other. Subtle hints, the way they interacted with us throughout the day, showed us they are ready for home.
Tonight we are packing and getting ready for our mini trip to the Black Sea in Crimea. Oh how I wish the girls could go with us. Not sure if we will have internet service while we are there...if not...we will blog when we return!!
Until then....oh....have I told you lately how grateful we are to have such wonderful people in our lives that have supported our decision to adopt our sweet girls! Thank you, a thousand times, for your prayers, support and love!
After the market we picked up all the kids. Tanya called twice wondering where we were!! Artuem Thomas had a friend and the girls had three friends come along. Sasha, our bus driver, brought his little girl along as well. We went by the river and had a wonderful picnic and a swim in the river. I unfortunately did not bring a swim suit but wore light clothing. Sue had all the girls pull me into the water!! It was crazy fun just playing and being together. The older girls, Anya and Alina teased me about my Russian. I like it!!! Makes me feel at home!! Also makes me miss all my Shady Oak Youth!!
Tanya got bored and decided to head back to camp on her own! We were a good 3 miles or more from the camp! So Mark took after her and behind him was Veronica. Once they caught up with her they all sat in the field for a bit to talk. Veronica translated that Tanya said she is not used to having parents to tell her not to go. She was used to just going when she was ready. It's good that she understands. On the way back I caught Tanya looking at me and I winked at her and she smiled. We recieved lots of hugs when we dropped them off at the camp.
It's amazing now that the stress of court is behind us and the girls have 'committed', we seem to really be enjoying each other. Subtle hints, the way they interacted with us throughout the day, showed us they are ready for home.
Tonight we are packing and getting ready for our mini trip to the Black Sea in Crimea. Oh how I wish the girls could go with us. Not sure if we will have internet service while we are there...if not...we will blog when we return!!
Until then....oh....have I told you lately how grateful we are to have such wonderful people in our lives that have supported our decision to adopt our sweet girls! Thank you, a thousand times, for your prayers, support and love!
It's official!!!
The Judge!
We are officially proud parents of two beautiful precious girls!
Anya Grace Kapp and Tatiana Faith Kapp!!!
Anya Grace Kapp and Tatiana Faith Kapp!!!
Last night Mark and I tossed and turned and could not sleep! We woke up at 4:00am then 6:00am! We went from the bed to the couch then to the bed again! AAAHHH! To exthited to thleep!! Finally we just get up and get ready. The other two families and Zhenia were all meeting here at 11am at our flat to prepare for court. Mark ran out and got some pastries for all. The kids arrived around 12:30 so we ordered pizza for them. Anya seems a very reserved and Tanya was in a very good mood! (I will be glad when I can figure their moods out! Oh wait...they're girls! It will be impossible!! LOL!) It was time to go! We stopped at the notary office first then on to court. Zhenia told us court may take about 45 to an hour per couple. The Boycott's were first! Twenty minutes later and they are done. We are next! I was a nervous wreck. Mark was very attentive to me and held my hand and told me not to worry. We walk into a small room. We have a podium in front of us. Seated on the opposite side of us was the judge and two jury, both women. In front of the podium seated on our side was the court reporter. To our left was seated the Inspector and prosecutor. Behind us was seated the attorney for the orphanage and represented the girls. Anya and Tanya sat behind us on the opposite side of the room. It was a lot more people than what I expected.
First Mark spoke and stated his name, date of birth and our address and where he was born, then I was asked to do the same. Then the attorney spoke giving her info. Mark again stood at the podium and was asked how did you meet the girls, why does he want to adopt, how many children do we have and what he does for a living. Mark said he was a foster child and felt it was his turn to give back! Our children are grown and now we have opportunity to care for other children. He met them in December when we hosted them in our home in the winter. He loves them and thought they fit well with our family. All of this of course, is being translated for everyone! Loved the fact the girls got to here how we love them, 'officially'!
Next....Me! Same questions for me. I said I met them in October when I came to Ukraine. I first met Anya and was amazed how beautiful she was. Then I met Tanya. We had a wonderful walk in the park and got to spend time together! When I returned I told my husband about them and we both decided we would like to adopt them. We hosted them at Christmas and had such a good time. (I then began to get choked up! I promised Anya I would not cry and I hear her heavily sigh! I apologized and regained my composure!) I told them we showed the girls the culture in Texas and I fell in love with them. I think they are amazing girls and want them to be our daughters. I said our faith compells us to reach out. I told them we will treat them as we do Anthony and Chrissy. And we promise to love them forever!! Whew! That was it!
The prosecutor then stood and said she had no objections whatsoever and she feels we will be good parents for the girls. Then the girls were asked their names and dates of birth. They asked them if they were in agreement with being adopted by us and if they felt comfortable with us. Anya was first and was very serious and spoke very confidently. Then Tanya...you could tell she was nervous. She smiled the entire time and said yes to every question. The best 'da' I have ever heard in my life. And the smile.....oh the smile!
After all had spoken the judge and two jury left the room to deliberate and came back in after about 30 seconds and granted the adoption! I immediately went over to the girls and hugged them but they were still a bit nervous and a bit stand offish. We shook hands with all and the inspector wanted us to know not to worry about Tanya...she is in good hands and will be just fine!
That was it! We went back to the flat
and changed clothes. We gave the girls necklaces that have a silver square that has a flower engraved on one side and the other side says "If daughters were flowers I'd still pick you!" They loved them! We love the girls that will wear them!We then met with the other families for an afternoon of bowling and a celebration dinner at our favorite restaurant, Kazachok! Soooo good! Tanya was a very happy girl all day and talked quite a bit to me! Anya was quiet most of the day. I think she is a deep thinker and just taking it all in!
We took them back to the camp. :( Mark and I received big hugs from both the girls! It was awesome. Tanya says she cannot wait to see her brother! Tomorrow we plan to take them all on a picnic again since we had so much fun before! Fun in the sun and the river! Shhh! dont' tell anyone we play in the river! Tee hee! Oh! forgot to tell you....at dinner Anya got everyone at the table to play Big Booty! Lots of laughter!!!
Now we wait again!! It's mandatory that we wait 10 days before everything is final! This gives the opportunity for ALL those Ukrainians to make up their minds about adopting Anya and Tanya! (Sarcasam!) All the couples have decided to take a trip to Crimea. We are giving up our flat for four days but have a deposit to get it back when we return. The money saved not paying for the flat for four days covers the cost of our trip to Crimea! We are looking forward to seeing the coast of the black sea. We leave Sunday night on a sleeper train and we will return Thursday by train. It's going to fun and a mini adventure! We are really bummed about the girls not being able to go with us but the government will not let them in our custody until after the 10 day wait! GRRRR!
Tonight, after taking the kids back to camp and dropping off all the other families, Zhenia came up and talked with Mark and I. Zhenia is a genuinely nice and caring person. He says yes his job is to be a facilitator but he really cares about each family and more so about the kids he is helping. He says he knows that God is with him and feels God has placed him in this position. Our conversation was much more deep and I have nothing but good things to say about our facilitator. He works hard and works diligentely to get us through this process as quickly as possible. God has been so amazing.....blessing us and helping us with even the tinyest fo details! Prasie You Abba Father!!!!
Yesterday was amazing! Simple summer day! We took Anya and Tanya, Tanya II, Artuem, Vika and Sergey, Oksana, Deniska and Alina all on a picnic. The day was glorious and so much fun!! I taught all the kids Big Booty!! We giggled and laughed so much! Anya kept saying Big Buddha! So fun! Tanya was a bit moody. Not sure what was up with her. I gave her space. Before we ate Linda, a friend and translator, said the blessing. During the prayer the kids giggled. All the adults were perplexed. Later we asked what she said and she said she prayed that Tanya would not be so grumpy but just find happiness. She said it in a light hearted way. She has had several people tell her to be happy and not so grumpy. My sweet baby girl is scared. I can only imagine her thoughts!! Please pray!
Today was another day of waiting...walked around the city a bit. Had dinner with our friends. We laughed alot thanks to Linda!! Love that girl! We are back in the flat now and getting ready for bed. I am not sleepy....anxious like no other. Tomrrow is court. Zhenia called and will be here at our flat at 11:00 to meet with all three families and prepare us for court. Court is at 1:30 starting with the Boycott's, we are at 2:10, and then the Thomas's at 2:50. Please pray for all three families. And I ask you especially to pray for our sweet Tanya.
Until tomorrow....
Today was another day of waiting...walked around the city a bit. Had dinner with our friends. We laughed alot thanks to Linda!! Love that girl! We are back in the flat now and getting ready for bed. I am not sleepy....anxious like no other. Tomrrow is court. Zhenia called and will be here at our flat at 11:00 to meet with all three families and prepare us for court. Court is at 1:30 starting with the Boycott's, we are at 2:10, and then the Thomas's at 2:50. Please pray for all three families. And I ask you especially to pray for our sweet Tanya.
Until tomorrow....
Moments and Discoveries...
Today we had time to ponder over the past week or so. We are learning more and more about the girls. We would like to share some moments with you.
Before we found out the girls were going to have to stay at camp....At dinner, one night, Tanya realized that Katia, Dara, the both of them, Mark and I were all going to be together when Anthony comes. She was worried and said: Where will our brother sleep? It's nice to know how thoughtful she is!
We came back to the flat with the girls and the housekeeper was still cleaining. We went to sit on a bench and Anya said: Why is father coming over here to sit with us? Wasn't a real postive moment but she said Father!
Mark took the girls to the market with him to buy food for camp. They had a ton of stuff! They wanted suckers too and Mark said no. They told Dara they like it when Phyllis comes to the market, she doesn't say no! Uh OH! They have us figured out already! Dara and Mark make me practice saying NOOOOO! LOL!
Both girls tease us on our Russian!
While walking in the park one day, they both were giddy and silly. Anya said to Dara she wants us to only speak English because she likes it when people look at us! Then Tanya was tickeling Anya and Anya said with my voice inflection and in English: Tanyaaaaa! Be niiiiice! It was so funny!
A fun moment with Mark....we were all walking back to the flat and it was dark outside. There are two entrances to the courtyard that leads to our flat. We started to go into the first one while the girls went ahead to the second one to hide and scare Mark. Our gate would not open...so I told Mark to run and scare them. Before I could turn the corner to our gate I hear blood curdleing screams! LOL! Then Dara was hiding in the unlit stairwell and scared all three of them! Good Times!!!! I am sure our neighbors really love us here! It's kinda funny, our stairwell has been lit every night since! LOL!
Tanya had a memory card from a camera, not sure where it came from. She downloaded pictures. I was in the kitchen and she called me into the living room. She looked at me sweetly and said look. They were pictures of her! It was a wonderful moment between us. Another sweet moment with her...she was sitting in the floor of our bedroom with the computer on the bed. I went in there to check on her. I stroked her hair and told her I loved her than rubbed her back a bit. It was sweet and tender. She did not pull away. (Ok....Mark keeps teasing me 'cause I say 'sweet' a lot! Sorry! But they are just so darn sweet!)
We have learned a lot about the girls. They have spent 7 summers, a couple of months each time, in Italy but in seperate families. The Italian governement gives tax breaks to those who host orphans. I knew they had been to Italy but did not realize they had been their 7 summers and seperated. They both said they did not like the families they stayed with. Both girls are fluent in Italian!
We have learned that Anya cooks and cooks very well. She is always polite and says Thank you for everything! Tanya always asks before she does anything, like taking a shower, going out on the balcony, playing with the computer, etc. We have also learned that Tanya is extremely boy crazy! Cute but not so much...you know what I mean!
We have learned that they love each other deeply. They may be stinkers to each other at times but they always, always watch out for each other.
Our girls have amazing friends! We are proud that they have made good choices for friends. (We wish we could bring them all home!) Most of you know that Tanya has a wall built up around her. She uses anger and attitude as her wall. We believe that it has been a blessing that we have to visit them at the camp. When Tanya acts angry or has attitude with us, her friends ask her why she behaves that way. They tell her it's obvious that we love and care for her very much and she should be nice to us. Not the we NEED that but SHE needs that. She watches us interact with her friends and the other kids....she watches how her friends interact with us. She is taking it all in and slowly learning to trust. It's like watching the snow melt and seeing a beautiful flower unfold from beneath the cold. God knew what He was doing by having them stay at the camp. God is always in control! I will trust in HIM!
Just wanted to share some sweet moments! Missing all of you!
Before we found out the girls were going to have to stay at camp....At dinner, one night, Tanya realized that Katia, Dara, the both of them, Mark and I were all going to be together when Anthony comes. She was worried and said: Where will our brother sleep? It's nice to know how thoughtful she is!
We came back to the flat with the girls and the housekeeper was still cleaining. We went to sit on a bench and Anya said: Why is father coming over here to sit with us? Wasn't a real postive moment but she said Father!
Mark took the girls to the market with him to buy food for camp. They had a ton of stuff! They wanted suckers too and Mark said no. They told Dara they like it when Phyllis comes to the market, she doesn't say no! Uh OH! They have us figured out already! Dara and Mark make me practice saying NOOOOO! LOL!
Both girls tease us on our Russian!
While walking in the park one day, they both were giddy and silly. Anya said to Dara she wants us to only speak English because she likes it when people look at us! Then Tanya was tickeling Anya and Anya said with my voice inflection and in English: Tanyaaaaa! Be niiiiice! It was so funny!
A fun moment with Mark....we were all walking back to the flat and it was dark outside. There are two entrances to the courtyard that leads to our flat. We started to go into the first one while the girls went ahead to the second one to hide and scare Mark. Our gate would not open...so I told Mark to run and scare them. Before I could turn the corner to our gate I hear blood curdleing screams! LOL! Then Dara was hiding in the unlit stairwell and scared all three of them! Good Times!!!! I am sure our neighbors really love us here! It's kinda funny, our stairwell has been lit every night since! LOL!
Tanya had a memory card from a camera, not sure where it came from. She downloaded pictures. I was in the kitchen and she called me into the living room. She looked at me sweetly and said look. They were pictures of her! It was a wonderful moment between us. Another sweet moment with her...she was sitting in the floor of our bedroom with the computer on the bed. I went in there to check on her. I stroked her hair and told her I loved her than rubbed her back a bit. It was sweet and tender. She did not pull away. (Ok....Mark keeps teasing me 'cause I say 'sweet' a lot! Sorry! But they are just so darn sweet!)
We have learned a lot about the girls. They have spent 7 summers, a couple of months each time, in Italy but in seperate families. The Italian governement gives tax breaks to those who host orphans. I knew they had been to Italy but did not realize they had been their 7 summers and seperated. They both said they did not like the families they stayed with. Both girls are fluent in Italian!
We have learned that Anya cooks and cooks very well. She is always polite and says Thank you for everything! Tanya always asks before she does anything, like taking a shower, going out on the balcony, playing with the computer, etc. We have also learned that Tanya is extremely boy crazy! Cute but not so much...you know what I mean!
We have learned that they love each other deeply. They may be stinkers to each other at times but they always, always watch out for each other.
Our girls have amazing friends! We are proud that they have made good choices for friends. (We wish we could bring them all home!) Most of you know that Tanya has a wall built up around her. She uses anger and attitude as her wall. We believe that it has been a blessing that we have to visit them at the camp. When Tanya acts angry or has attitude with us, her friends ask her why she behaves that way. They tell her it's obvious that we love and care for her very much and she should be nice to us. Not the we NEED that but SHE needs that. She watches us interact with her friends and the other kids....she watches how her friends interact with us. She is taking it all in and slowly learning to trust. It's like watching the snow melt and seeing a beautiful flower unfold from beneath the cold. God knew what He was doing by having them stay at the camp. God is always in control! I will trust in HIM!
Just wanted to share some sweet moments! Missing all of you!
The last three days...
Our sweet Anya!
Our precious Tanya!
Our precious Tanya!Let me catch you up...
Saturday morning, our sweet friend, Katia arrived!! Then all three families with translators loaded up and headed to the camp to see the kids. We stopped at a really nice grocery store on the way to buy food for the kids. You know how in the states you can eat a full meal on Saturdays just from the samples? At this store the sample representative was quite a bit different than back home! She was dressed just like the cigarette girls in night clubs from the 40's. She had on a cute red outfit with hat and all. She carried a tray strapped around her neck with delicious samples of cookies! Of course we tried them! Her advertisement worked and we bought some cookies for the kids along with fruit and other goodies. Mark especially got for Tanya her favorite, dried salted anchovies. Yuck! But she loves them!
Saturday morning, our sweet friend, Katia arrived!! Then all three families with translators loaded up and headed to the camp to see the kids. We stopped at a really nice grocery store on the way to buy food for the kids. You know how in the states you can eat a full meal on Saturdays just from the samples? At this store the sample representative was quite a bit different than back home! She was dressed just like the cigarette girls in night clubs from the 40's. She had on a cute red outfit with hat and all. She carried a tray strapped around her neck with delicious samples of cookies! Of course we tried them! Her advertisement worked and we bought some cookies for the kids along with fruit and other goodies. Mark especially got for Tanya her favorite, dried salted anchovies. Yuck! But she loves them!
Tanya, Yulia, Katia
When we arrived we were greeted by Tanya at the gate. Mark was the first off of the bus and she came right up to him and gave him a big hug!!!! As soon as I was off she gave me a hug too!! First real hug from her! Then up came Anya with the rest of the kids. Anya also greeted us with hugs! Tanya took us to her room and was so cute showing it to us. She was all smiles!! She had posters of Avril Lavigne and Ranetke (a popular Ukraine girl band that has a TV show). The room has 3 beds and a dresser in it and is very tiny. The room was about 8x10. The beds are very crude, springs with maybe 3 inches of poor quality foam on it. They sagged terribly. Makes Riverbend Retreat Center seem very high end! The room was tidy and all beds were made.
After that we walked around a bit and ended up at Anya's dorm. We could not go in because some were dressing. Louda, one of Anya's best friends, walks around the corner with wet hair and just a towel wrapped around her! She came up and gave all of us a hug then went inside to dress. Modesty is no where to be found amongst the orphans. Shoot! Modesty does not really exist in Ukraine! Unless you are a babuska! It's kinda shocking to me, one who is extremely modest!
We hung out with the kids, walked to the store by the river, took pictures then it was time for the kids to eat lunch. We reluctuntly said our good byes.
After that we walked around a bit and ended up at Anya's dorm. We could not go in because some were dressing. Louda, one of Anya's best friends, walks around the corner with wet hair and just a towel wrapped around her! She came up and gave all of us a hug then went inside to dress. Modesty is no where to be found amongst the orphans. Shoot! Modesty does not really exist in Ukraine! Unless you are a babuska! It's kinda shocking to me, one who is extremely modest!
We hung out with the kids, walked to the store by the river, took pictures then it was time for the kids to eat lunch. We reluctuntly said our good byes.
On the way back home we stopped at a huge beautiful field of sunflowers. These fields are
everywhere and are the most amazing sight! We took tons of pictures! It was so much fun! Then we all ate lunch together at the Botanical Restrauant. Walking home from lunch we saw a bride and groom taking pictures. It was so neat. Once home we talked on Skype a bit and rested.That evening we joined the others for dinner. We were headed to a Greek restaurant but it was packed with a private party. So we headed to another restaurant. We all got excited when we realized it was the first restaurant we ate at in October. Mark loved the food there! He got a grill sample of beef, chicken and pork with mixed grilled veggies which included brussels sprouts. I got spinache and cheese ravioli and it was deeelicious! Once home, Dara and Katia stayed up and watched High School Musical 3.
Sunday morning we got up and said good bye to Dara and Katia. I think Dara was very homesick plus there is need for Dara to be here because the girls cannot be with us. Katia had to get back to work. We met all the families at 8am to head for Harkov for church. Rebecca and Barry, one of the families adopting with us, went there 5 years ago on a mission trip and wanted to visit. Also, there was a mission group there from Alabama. It was a 2 1/2 hour drive. Lots of beautiful wheat and sunflower fields along the way. Harkov was once the capital of Ukriane and boasts to have the largest square in all of Europe. It was pretty amazing! While waiting on the mission group from Alabama, we all took a short walk to the square and viewed an exhibit of sand sculptures. So cool! We then loaded up and went through the city to get to church. The city is huge but seems to have a lot of poverty. We were greeted warmly by the pastor who speaks excellent English. He just returned from a 4 week trip in the states. Before the sermon Mark and I spoke to one of the ladies from Alabama. She had been to Ukraine several times on mission trips. We talked about the weird superstitions and beliefs of the Ukraine people. She told us that when working with kids in a village she had the mothers standing over them at all times because the Ukrainians believed Baptists eat children! What the heck???
The Alabama group had a quartet that sang an upbeat gospel song. The pastor introduced each of the three families to the congregation then the group from Alabama. The sermon was in English and Russian, not in Ukraine...Harkov speaks primarily Russian. In the congregation were several black people. After the sermon they all introduced themselves. They came from Africa to Ukraine to study. They were all very kind. Some were from Uganda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya and several other places in Africa. Mark and I met Steve from Kenya and talked with him in length! What a precious man! It was a definite blessing! He got my facebook and email address.
Afterward we went to a huge mall and had lunch at McDonald's. All I have to say is...not the same as back home! After lunch we headed to a site that was purchased for a transitional home for the 'graduates' of the orphanage. This home will help teach them life skills and trades. It will be a privately run home, no help from the government. It is set on the outskirts of a village with a veiw of beautiful hills. Dennis, a man involved with this project, said that they will not have tv or phones in the home so the kids will be able to focus on their studies.
While there our taxi driver got a call stating a big storm hit Poltava. His entire roof was blown off. We left there in a hurry to get him home. We were still 2 1/2 hours away. We felt so bad for him. The kids were calling us also telling us not to come to the camp that evening because it was not safe. They said the wind was blowing hard and trees and limbs were breaking. While driving back we got a call from Alina, Anya's friend, saying Tanya and her friend Lulia went into Poltava to be with us! I YI YI YIIII! They took a train and were waiting for us at the flat. Ok...so you know you are a mom when you freak out that your daughter is out by herself with no phone and in a terrible storm. Sue said she thought it was encouraging that she left the camp just to be with us! (She is pretty good about seeing the glass half full! ) We get home, no Tanya nor her friend. About an hour later we got another call saying Tanya and her friend were back at the camp and were safe. They took the train that morning and arrived at our flat around 10am and waited all day for us and got back to camp around 8pm! She left without permission. She did not get caught thankfully because it could have caused her problems as well as us with the adoption process!
That evening some of us call a taxi and go to the Equator Mall to go grocery shopping. I bought food for the girls...sandwiches, chips, fruit, juice, water and soda. Also food for Mark and I a couple of dinners, breakfast and lunch. I had 5 or 6 Large bags full to the top and it only cost a little more than $50. Food is so cheap here!
The next morning we head out to the camp. Once again greeted with big smiles and hugs from all the kids. Bill brought a soccer ball and played with Vika and Sergey, siblings. Oh my goodness they are cutie patooties. I met them in October. Vika is 10, looks like 8 and Sergey is 7 but looks like 5. They are not adoptable. From what I understand the grandfather will not allow it. :( Also hanging out with us is Denis and Oksana whom I met in October as well. Precious kiddos! We had a great time with them but, again, we had to say good bye... all to soon! Each time gets harder and harder! Soon it will be all over and they will be with us!
After our visit with the kids we went to Sasha's (our taxi driver) house to view the damage. His home is nicer than most but the entire roof was gone. We saw a huge tree that was uprooted and blocking the road and the village had no electricity. The situation was very grim. Sasha asked us to please use him as much as possible so he can earn money to pay for the damage.
Once we arrived home, Mark and I cleaned the flat and started dinner. We had the other two couples over for dinner and a movie. It has been a tremendous blessing to have others here with us.
This morning, Tuesday, we slept in.....awww so nice! Mark made oatmeal. I asked if he bought it on the pet food isle because it was more like oats for a horse. It had a lot of the husks in it. Well....I have had my fiber for the next week! During our breakfast, Alina called, Anya's friend. She asked if I would please bring her some chips. She is such a sweet girl! We plan to take chips, chocolate and juice to all of their friends. It is so hard to bring food to our girls and not to ALL of the kids at the camp. While in Tanya's room the other day we saw a plate of food. It was gray oatmeal that looked horrible! Some of the kids at the camp have come from different orphanages and are terribly malnourished. Please pray for all of these kids. I wish I could take them all home with us! I have threatened to buy a larger suitcase to stuff a few in! My heart is full of all emotions right now... love, hope, faith but also full of despair, hurt and sadness. I hope Mark and I can return with a group from the states to try to make a difference here. It starts with one!
Now you are all caught up! I will try to be more disciplined and blog every day! Today we will sight see and then purchase goodies for the kids. Keep praying and stay tuned....
:( ......
Today the girls got up early and left to go spend the day with their friends at camp. It's wierd to just let them go and go on public transportation at that. Things are very different here. Mark, Dara and I all slept in. Mark and I had breakfast together and read The Word. God showed us some powerful things this morning! We just sat around the flat, cleaned up a bit, did some laundry. Laundry is a fun task...our washer holds about two pairs of pants and a shirt at a time....we have a drying rack and use our new fan to speed the process.
Later this afternoon we got a call from Zhenia stating that the director told him all the kids need to return to camp permanently until the court date. Something happened to a child with another adoptive family. I have no details. So now the government is doing a head count in the camps to make sure all the children are accounted for so the children have to stay now. Grrrrr! Just when we were making head way!
Katia is coming in to town tomorrow and we were hoping to spend the day with everyone horseback riding. We now will go and hang out with the kids at the camp for a couple of hours. Most assuredly will go to camp every day to see them, take them food and clean clothes as well.
Today I was thinking of the sweet moments with the girls...the moments that you know everything will be ok. Last night, while eating dinner, we were discussing that Katia was coming. She asked with us, Dara and Katia where was her brother going to sleep when he gets here. AWWW! I cling to those moments!! The moments when the softness comes through. I will blog more of the moments later....stay tuned!
Later this afternoon we got a call from Zhenia stating that the director told him all the kids need to return to camp permanently until the court date. Something happened to a child with another adoptive family. I have no details. So now the government is doing a head count in the camps to make sure all the children are accounted for so the children have to stay now. Grrrrr! Just when we were making head way!
Katia is coming in to town tomorrow and we were hoping to spend the day with everyone horseback riding. We now will go and hang out with the kids at the camp for a couple of hours. Most assuredly will go to camp every day to see them, take them food and clean clothes as well.
Today I was thinking of the sweet moments with the girls...the moments that you know everything will be ok. Last night, while eating dinner, we were discussing that Katia was coming. She asked with us, Dara and Katia where was her brother going to sleep when he gets here. AWWW! I cling to those moments!! The moments when the softness comes through. I will blog more of the moments later....stay tuned!
One more step accomplished!
This morning Mark left early on a mission...to locate jam! OY! We have looked at 4 grocery stores for it. He went pretty far to yet another grocery store and found it! He made Ukranian pancakes (thin!) for all of us for breakfast! With JAM! The girls ate it up! I have to admit they were pretty tasty!
After that we hung out until it was time for our appointment with the Asst Chief of SDA. I was a bit nervous but Zhenia assured me all will be well. All three couples were taken upstairs and then, one by one, with the children we were taken in. The Asst Chief was a very smiling nice man. The inspector was there as well. They asked what we do for a living, how many children do we have, where we live and what is the school system like there. Mark answered first then I. Then he asked Anya how she knows us, did she like us and did she like our home. She said she met me in October when I came to visit, then we hosted them at Christmas and yes she loves our home and definitely wants to go. Then on to Tanya, he asked her if she is in agreement. All she could do is look at him then back at Tanya with a big smile on her face. Then Zhenia asked are you supporting what your sister wants to do and she said yes! Then she said she just wants to make sure she can come back to Ukraine when she wants. The Asst Chief was satisfied with that and that was it. Over and done in a matter of 5 minutes. Whew!
Next we signed the offical documents for court. You know it's kind crazy...we are signing all these documents without having a clue what they say. Just trusting...
Once we all were done, we made plans to hang out with the Boycott family but the girls wanted to go home at watch some scary movies dubbed in Russian. Zhenia brought a ton of Russian movies for all the families to share. That was awesome! Tanya seemed happy and excited! She then said a friend aka teacher??? was coming over and wanted to know if she could invite HIM up to the flat. We said yes! (We have had more company!) In walks this sweet boy named Alexi. Very sweet. Tanya was so excited and was kind of showing off! It was pretty cute. I asked Dara if this 'teacher' was really a boyfriend and she said no just a really good friend. She wanted us to show him pictures from home on the computer and for Mark to talk with him. They talked a bit and then we sat in the living room and they talked and she hit and he tickled. Alexi said that Tanya is a good girl but tough! He said that when she walks up to the boys they all say ,"oh no here comes Tanya!" He spoke very good english and seemed to be more like a big brother to her. He really cares about her.
After he left, things went into a downward spiral! Anya asked if they could go back to the camp tomorrow morning. I said no and you would have thought the world had come to an end. I just can't bear the thought of them being there anymore than they have to. The threats of running away, calling Zhenia and telling him they do not want to be adopted...etc... It was pretty tough but I kept remembering to stay calm and have a calm voice. After a deep discussion of how threats are hurtful and they will not get anything accomplished, Mark and I took a break and stayed in our room for about 15 minutes talking. We ordered pizza to be delivered because it was pouring down rain. After we ate and they finished watching a TV program, we had a family discussion. It was so good! Anya says when she gets upset she acts that way because she doesn't no what else to say! She apologized. We explained to her that we worry about them there because of some of the counselors and they do not get enough food there. I told her when we disagree it's best to discuss things. The answer may still be no but it's always best to talk about it. We came to a compromise, they can go on the days they plan with us in advance so we can make arrangements since we are doing things with other families. There input was we all go to the store and buy them food for the day so I won't worry about them eating! Pretty cool stuff huh! All during the discussion Tanya is taking it all in. Dara said that Tanya told Anya maybe they should go just for the day and not spend the night! WOW!!!! The both of them were very happy. Anya said she was happy that we worked it out. We all then got our shoes on and walked to the store in the rain at 9:30pm. It was a fun silly giggly walk to get food for them tomorrow!!! We ran into their Art teacher which I had met in October. He asked that we make sure Tanya keeps up with learning art because she is very gifted. He said Anya is also gifted but a bit lazy. Once home, I made them sandwiches, enough for 4 or 5 kids, cookies, soda and Mark gave them money for the train. It's so hard for me to comprehend just letting them go....but this is the life they are used to. I am praying for wisdom and knowledge.
After that we hung out until it was time for our appointment with the Asst Chief of SDA. I was a bit nervous but Zhenia assured me all will be well. All three couples were taken upstairs and then, one by one, with the children we were taken in. The Asst Chief was a very smiling nice man. The inspector was there as well. They asked what we do for a living, how many children do we have, where we live and what is the school system like there. Mark answered first then I. Then he asked Anya how she knows us, did she like us and did she like our home. She said she met me in October when I came to visit, then we hosted them at Christmas and yes she loves our home and definitely wants to go. Then on to Tanya, he asked her if she is in agreement. All she could do is look at him then back at Tanya with a big smile on her face. Then Zhenia asked are you supporting what your sister wants to do and she said yes! Then she said she just wants to make sure she can come back to Ukraine when she wants. The Asst Chief was satisfied with that and that was it. Over and done in a matter of 5 minutes. Whew!
Next we signed the offical documents for court. You know it's kind crazy...we are signing all these documents without having a clue what they say. Just trusting...
Once we all were done, we made plans to hang out with the Boycott family but the girls wanted to go home at watch some scary movies dubbed in Russian. Zhenia brought a ton of Russian movies for all the families to share. That was awesome! Tanya seemed happy and excited! She then said a friend aka teacher??? was coming over and wanted to know if she could invite HIM up to the flat. We said yes! (We have had more company!) In walks this sweet boy named Alexi. Very sweet. Tanya was so excited and was kind of showing off! It was pretty cute. I asked Dara if this 'teacher' was really a boyfriend and she said no just a really good friend. She wanted us to show him pictures from home on the computer and for Mark to talk with him. They talked a bit and then we sat in the living room and they talked and she hit and he tickled. Alexi said that Tanya is a good girl but tough! He said that when she walks up to the boys they all say ,"oh no here comes Tanya!" He spoke very good english and seemed to be more like a big brother to her. He really cares about her.
After he left, things went into a downward spiral! Anya asked if they could go back to the camp tomorrow morning. I said no and you would have thought the world had come to an end. I just can't bear the thought of them being there anymore than they have to. The threats of running away, calling Zhenia and telling him they do not want to be adopted...etc... It was pretty tough but I kept remembering to stay calm and have a calm voice. After a deep discussion of how threats are hurtful and they will not get anything accomplished, Mark and I took a break and stayed in our room for about 15 minutes talking. We ordered pizza to be delivered because it was pouring down rain. After we ate and they finished watching a TV program, we had a family discussion. It was so good! Anya says when she gets upset she acts that way because she doesn't no what else to say! She apologized. We explained to her that we worry about them there because of some of the counselors and they do not get enough food there. I told her when we disagree it's best to discuss things. The answer may still be no but it's always best to talk about it. We came to a compromise, they can go on the days they plan with us in advance so we can make arrangements since we are doing things with other families. There input was we all go to the store and buy them food for the day so I won't worry about them eating! Pretty cool stuff huh! All during the discussion Tanya is taking it all in. Dara said that Tanya told Anya maybe they should go just for the day and not spend the night! WOW!!!! The both of them were very happy. Anya said she was happy that we worked it out. We all then got our shoes on and walked to the store in the rain at 9:30pm. It was a fun silly giggly walk to get food for them tomorrow!!! We ran into their Art teacher which I had met in October. He asked that we make sure Tanya keeps up with learning art because she is very gifted. He said Anya is also gifted but a bit lazy. Once home, I made them sandwiches, enough for 4 or 5 kids, cookies, soda and Mark gave them money for the train. It's so hard for me to comprehend just letting them go....but this is the life they are used to. I am praying for wisdom and knowledge.
Prayers are being heard....
Today was a much better day. We woke early after going to bed late. We had to get out of the flat by 10am because the housekeeper was coming. We all went to a local bakery and got some baked goods then walked across the street and bought juice. Anya got a Pepsi! She is a true Kapp! We then found a nice park bench and liesurely ate breakfast while the girls looked at pictures on the computer. The girls were restless so we started walking. Mark was determined to find the restaurant the landlord had told us about. We end up at the center of Poltava. Soooo beautiful. Across the street from the park is where Anya and Tanya's brother works. We did not realize this until we arrived. They asked if it was ok to go in and have him come out to meet us. Of course we said! They were in the building for quite some time. We sat and waited on a park bench. Finally we meet Sergey. What a nice looking young man. He looked older than his age of 23 but was very nice and interested in us. The girls were so cute as if they were showing us off! They immediately told their brother that Mark likes cars and that Mark should show him the pictures on the computer. They talked cars for a bit. Then the girls wanted to get ice cream and we brought Sergey one too. We talked a bit more and then it started to rain so we had to go to beat the down pour.
Zhenia was to arrive at the flat at 1pm to talk with Tanya as well. We arrived and started watching a movie waiting for Zhenia to arrive. The girls asked every 30 minutes when he will be here. Finally he arrived 2 hours later and spoke with Tanya. He said that we are good people and that no one will love them more than us. That we will provide a future for them. She said she still will say no to adoption tomorrow at the appt we have with the Asst Chief of SDA. She was smiling after the meeting. Not sure what she will say but Zhenia said that the fact Anya wants to go so bad and Tanya is a 'character'; the Asst Chief will take this into consideration when making his decision. We are set for court on July 17th at 1pm. Wow things are moving fast!
Zhenia called us a cab. (Volva says Hi Randy and Valerie! He's a great driver!) We were off to the race track to drive malinky machinas aka go carts! By this time it was pouring down rain but we were still determined to ride! When we arrive the rain had stopped. They suited up all three girls in plastic see through jump suits, hair nets and helments. So cool and funny! Then off they went. They had a blast. We definitely know, without a doubt, we are going to have to buy the slowest car made when Tanya starts driving!!! That girl can drive! They spun out because of the water and their faces were covered with dirt from the track. We definitely will need to go back when it's not raining.
On the way back we asked the driver about the restaurant that Mark wanted to try. He took us there for dinner. What a nice place. Sorry for all of you who like Fat House in Ukraine; this place is awesome. It's a bit pricey but was a great place for something special! All three girls ate like little pigs! I was glad to see them eat some healthy salad and such. The girls, Anya, Anya (sweet friend of the girls) and Tanya were so giggly and animated.
We returned to the flat and showered then sat down to watch movies once again! Oy! Anya began to ask questions about school and such. She doesn't like the name of her school! So Funny! But then asked serious questions like what to expect....will the kids pick on me....what do I do if they pick on me .....etc. Earlier when walking they both said it was cool that people stare at them when we speak english....Anya said she only wants to speak english so they will look! I told Anya that most of the kids will think she is so cool because she speaks Russian! Assured her to be herself....not to worry about what others think....She will be awesome....etc... It was a good talk.
Tanya went into the our room to do karaoke on the computer. She loves to sing! She had the computer on the bed while sitting on the floor. I went in and sat beside her and asked if she was ok....da! She let me stroke her hair and pat her back! Progress! I just cant wait to hold her! We will get there!
Your prayers are being heard and answered. Please, especially for tomorrow for our appt with the Asst Chief of the SDA at 3pm. :o)
Zhenia was to arrive at the flat at 1pm to talk with Tanya as well. We arrived and started watching a movie waiting for Zhenia to arrive. The girls asked every 30 minutes when he will be here. Finally he arrived 2 hours later and spoke with Tanya. He said that we are good people and that no one will love them more than us. That we will provide a future for them. She said she still will say no to adoption tomorrow at the appt we have with the Asst Chief of SDA. She was smiling after the meeting. Not sure what she will say but Zhenia said that the fact Anya wants to go so bad and Tanya is a 'character'; the Asst Chief will take this into consideration when making his decision. We are set for court on July 17th at 1pm. Wow things are moving fast!
Zhenia called us a cab. (Volva says Hi Randy and Valerie! He's a great driver!) We were off to the race track to drive malinky machinas aka go carts! By this time it was pouring down rain but we were still determined to ride! When we arrive the rain had stopped. They suited up all three girls in plastic see through jump suits, hair nets and helments. So cool and funny! Then off they went. They had a blast. We definitely know, without a doubt, we are going to have to buy the slowest car made when Tanya starts driving!!! That girl can drive! They spun out because of the water and their faces were covered with dirt from the track. We definitely will need to go back when it's not raining.
On the way back we asked the driver about the restaurant that Mark wanted to try. He took us there for dinner. What a nice place. Sorry for all of you who like Fat House in Ukraine; this place is awesome. It's a bit pricey but was a great place for something special! All three girls ate like little pigs! I was glad to see them eat some healthy salad and such. The girls, Anya, Anya (sweet friend of the girls) and Tanya were so giggly and animated.
We returned to the flat and showered then sat down to watch movies once again! Oy! Anya began to ask questions about school and such. She doesn't like the name of her school! So Funny! But then asked serious questions like what to expect....will the kids pick on me....what do I do if they pick on me .....etc. Earlier when walking they both said it was cool that people stare at them when we speak english....Anya said she only wants to speak english so they will look! I told Anya that most of the kids will think she is so cool because she speaks Russian! Assured her to be herself....not to worry about what others think....She will be awesome....etc... It was a good talk.
Tanya went into the our room to do karaoke on the computer. She loves to sing! She had the computer on the bed while sitting on the floor. I went in and sat beside her and asked if she was ok....da! She let me stroke her hair and pat her back! Progress! I just cant wait to hold her! We will get there!
Your prayers are being heard and answered. Please, especially for tomorrow for our appt with the Asst Chief of the SDA at 3pm. :o)
Today we went to the camp where most orphans stay for the summer. Two words....tough day! If the conditions there were not bad enough, the workers are less than desirable. Dara, our translator, was telling us one of the 'counselors' was yelling and cursing at the kids. It was very obvious none of the workers wanted to be there. The kids are not supervised at all and they roam around everywhere unattended. They were so hungry for love and attention. I absolutely loved watching Mark interact with each of them. Sue brought toy parachutes for them. Mark was the official parachute instructor. Once they mastered it they looked to him for approval. So precious. All the kids were hanging on us; begging for hugs and love. One little girl said to Mark that she wanted him to adopt her. Just crushed us. We wish we could bring back all of them.
At lunch time we noticed kids with hands full of bread. We were told that they get very little to eat and bread is easily supplied to help fill them up. Most of them were eager to use their english with us and proud to do so.
I sat with on little boy and he was so beautiful but so sad. He slowly sat down at the picnic table with us. He told me his name and that he is 12 years old. He asked me if it was nice in America? I said I like it. He began to tell us that some of the 'counselors' are smoking marijana and drinking but he would never do such things! He was a sweet boy. I will never forget those sad blue eyes.
When we arrived at the camp we thought we would see Anya and Tanya right away. But we could not locate them. Soon Vika and Sergey, Denis and Oksana arrived with happy faces. Oh it was awesome to see them! I met them when I was here in October. Finally we see the girls but only with sad faces. Tanya especially. She was upset that when she called yesterday we could not pick her up. OY! Anya was ok but a little miffed. When we were leaving the driver asked Tanya why she was so upset and rude. She said I am only going to America because Anya is going. I don't want to be American, I am Ukranian. She is so scared and masks it with anger.
Once we arrived home, the Thomas family came up for a bit. They left quickly because the girls were being difficult. We had a bit of a rough time. Details later. They finally calmed down and we watched movies and had dinner. Tanya left her plate on the table and I asked her to take it to the kitchen. She did!! That's progress. Tonight when she got into bed (when she's tired she goes right to bed!) I sat in the chair beside her and she listened to music on my phone while I downloaded pictures. She let me whisper in her ear without jerking away...Ya tibia lu blu...I love you but quickly turned away. I showed her pictures on the computer from yesterday. Then she showed me a scary video...you know the one that the face pops up and scares the tar out of you? Yes I screamed. She so loved that! She laughed so hard. Then she fell asleep. Sweet end to a difficult day.
Alina, Anya's friend, missed the train and she asked if she could spend the night. Cool that she asked. We said of course. Alina is 17 and not adoptable but I think I am going to stuff her in our suitecase. She is adorable....very outgoing and silly and speaks english pretty well. When she arrived she was hungry so we fed her alot! Now they are on the palate on the floor watching an American movie dubbed in Russian. Kinda funny to watch.
Please continue to pray for the girls especially Tanya. We have an appointment with Assistant Chief of the SDA to sign documents on Thursday at 3pm. Tanya boldly said today just before dinner she will say no to being adopted. We believe Tanya has been told by many caretakers aka 'counselors' at the camp that America is bad, we are going to treat her badly and that she is betraying Ukraine if she goes. There was some teachers in the orphanage that told them the same thing! Again, pray.
We so appreciate the many words of encouragment and your prayers. This is tuff stuff!
At lunch time we noticed kids with hands full of bread. We were told that they get very little to eat and bread is easily supplied to help fill them up. Most of them were eager to use their english with us and proud to do so.
I sat with on little boy and he was so beautiful but so sad. He slowly sat down at the picnic table with us. He told me his name and that he is 12 years old. He asked me if it was nice in America? I said I like it. He began to tell us that some of the 'counselors' are smoking marijana and drinking but he would never do such things! He was a sweet boy. I will never forget those sad blue eyes.
When we arrived at the camp we thought we would see Anya and Tanya right away. But we could not locate them. Soon Vika and Sergey, Denis and Oksana arrived with happy faces. Oh it was awesome to see them! I met them when I was here in October. Finally we see the girls but only with sad faces. Tanya especially. She was upset that when she called yesterday we could not pick her up. OY! Anya was ok but a little miffed. When we were leaving the driver asked Tanya why she was so upset and rude. She said I am only going to America because Anya is going. I don't want to be American, I am Ukranian. She is so scared and masks it with anger.
Once we arrived home, the Thomas family came up for a bit. They left quickly because the girls were being difficult. We had a bit of a rough time. Details later. They finally calmed down and we watched movies and had dinner. Tanya left her plate on the table and I asked her to take it to the kitchen. She did!! That's progress. Tonight when she got into bed (when she's tired she goes right to bed!) I sat in the chair beside her and she listened to music on my phone while I downloaded pictures. She let me whisper in her ear without jerking away...Ya tibia lu blu...I love you but quickly turned away. I showed her pictures on the computer from yesterday. Then she showed me a scary video...you know the one that the face pops up and scares the tar out of you? Yes I screamed. She so loved that! She laughed so hard. Then she fell asleep. Sweet end to a difficult day.
Alina, Anya's friend, missed the train and she asked if she could spend the night. Cool that she asked. We said of course. Alina is 17 and not adoptable but I think I am going to stuff her in our suitecase. She is adorable....very outgoing and silly and speaks english pretty well. When she arrived she was hungry so we fed her alot! Now they are on the palate on the floor watching an American movie dubbed in Russian. Kinda funny to watch.
Please continue to pray for the girls especially Tanya. We have an appointment with Assistant Chief of the SDA to sign documents on Thursday at 3pm. Tanya boldly said today just before dinner she will say no to being adopted. We believe Tanya has been told by many caretakers aka 'counselors' at the camp that America is bad, we are going to treat her badly and that she is betraying Ukraine if she goes. There was some teachers in the orphanage that told them the same thing! Again, pray.
We so appreciate the many words of encouragment and your prayers. This is tuff stuff!
The last two days...
Saturday…July 4th
The girls had a friend spend the night, Alina. Sweet girl! We woke up around 9:30am after a late night of silliness!! We had to hurry and clean up a bit because our landlord, once again, was coming over to fix an electrical problem in the kitchen. Microwave and fridge quit working. Also to try and get the internet working AGAIN! It’s kinda frustrating not having internet service! While the landlord was here, the girls were bold and said we do not have coffee cups and a skillet to cook with. In fifteen minutes we had both! Electric problem fixed but still no internet.
Around 10:20 Dara arrives! We get her settled and then Mark and all the girls went to the market for breakfast items. Justin, if you are reading this, yes, we even eat breakfast on the ‘Kapp’ schedule! LOL! We made cheese omelets and had bread and butter with juice. After breakfast I hop into the shower and when I’m done and step into the dining area we now have two more girls, another Anya and Luoda!! Oh how I love Luoda! She is a very sweet girl I met when I was here in October. I was greeted with a big smile and a hug from both girls! I want to bring them all home with me. The girls did crafts, sat out on the balcony and watched movies. Constant movement all the time!!
Today we signed all the court documents. After we signed them Zhenia pulled out a small envelope. Inside were pictures of Anya and Tanya. Three of Tanya and 5 pictures of Anya which included pictures taken of them last year when they were registered for adoption. The pictures were bitter sweet.
Around 3pm we took all the girls for pizza. We now have had pizza at three different places here in Poltava! Who would have guessed that you would come to Ukraine for pizza!! J After pizza we said good bye to all the girls and then Anya and Tanya changed into their new clothes and packed for camp. Dara and I took them to camp in a taxi. I got a hug from Anya but a head leaned toward my way from Tanya! On the drive back Dara and I had a long talk about some of the conversations the girls were having. Please pray. Even though they both said yes to the adoption there are still so many insecurities and fears. We are making progress!
For dinner we ate with the other two couples at Sue and Bill’s flat and then watched a movie. Now it’s off to bed. I probably will not blog tomorrow, Sunday. We will explore Poltava a bit and go to church at 5pm. Tomorrow will be a quiet day. I miss the girls already. Can’t wait till Tuesday morning!!
Sunday July 5th
Today we slept in!! Girls are at camp. We went to the shopping center, got soaking wet. It rains here like it does in Texas! LOL! We bought an oscillating fan on a stand for only $7 us dollars. Best $7 spent. Bought some fruit and vegetables and a phone card. Back at the flat we change clothes and head to church. It was just Mark, Dara and me. It was very charismatic. A hint was given to us in the beginning…Mark heard Benny Hinn’s name mentioned! We recognized two songs. Even though some of the worship practices are not how we worship it was nice to know we were in the house of the Lord and worshipping with other believers. Dara tried to translate but was hushed by a babushka behind us. Oops! Mark is putting the fan together, Dara is making friendship braclets and well, I am journaling!
I miss the girls so much!
The girls had a friend spend the night, Alina. Sweet girl! We woke up around 9:30am after a late night of silliness!! We had to hurry and clean up a bit because our landlord, once again, was coming over to fix an electrical problem in the kitchen. Microwave and fridge quit working. Also to try and get the internet working AGAIN! It’s kinda frustrating not having internet service! While the landlord was here, the girls were bold and said we do not have coffee cups and a skillet to cook with. In fifteen minutes we had both! Electric problem fixed but still no internet.
Around 10:20 Dara arrives! We get her settled and then Mark and all the girls went to the market for breakfast items. Justin, if you are reading this, yes, we even eat breakfast on the ‘Kapp’ schedule! LOL! We made cheese omelets and had bread and butter with juice. After breakfast I hop into the shower and when I’m done and step into the dining area we now have two more girls, another Anya and Luoda!! Oh how I love Luoda! She is a very sweet girl I met when I was here in October. I was greeted with a big smile and a hug from both girls! I want to bring them all home with me. The girls did crafts, sat out on the balcony and watched movies. Constant movement all the time!!
Today we signed all the court documents. After we signed them Zhenia pulled out a small envelope. Inside were pictures of Anya and Tanya. Three of Tanya and 5 pictures of Anya which included pictures taken of them last year when they were registered for adoption. The pictures were bitter sweet.
Around 3pm we took all the girls for pizza. We now have had pizza at three different places here in Poltava! Who would have guessed that you would come to Ukraine for pizza!! J After pizza we said good bye to all the girls and then Anya and Tanya changed into their new clothes and packed for camp. Dara and I took them to camp in a taxi. I got a hug from Anya but a head leaned toward my way from Tanya! On the drive back Dara and I had a long talk about some of the conversations the girls were having. Please pray. Even though they both said yes to the adoption there are still so many insecurities and fears. We are making progress!
For dinner we ate with the other two couples at Sue and Bill’s flat and then watched a movie. Now it’s off to bed. I probably will not blog tomorrow, Sunday. We will explore Poltava a bit and go to church at 5pm. Tomorrow will be a quiet day. I miss the girls already. Can’t wait till Tuesday morning!!
Sunday July 5th
Today we slept in!! Girls are at camp. We went to the shopping center, got soaking wet. It rains here like it does in Texas! LOL! We bought an oscillating fan on a stand for only $7 us dollars. Best $7 spent. Bought some fruit and vegetables and a phone card. Back at the flat we change clothes and head to church. It was just Mark, Dara and me. It was very charismatic. A hint was given to us in the beginning…Mark heard Benny Hinn’s name mentioned! We recognized two songs. Even though some of the worship practices are not how we worship it was nice to know we were in the house of the Lord and worshipping with other believers. Dara tried to translate but was hushed by a babushka behind us. Oops! Mark is putting the fan together, Dara is making friendship braclets and well, I am journaling!
I miss the girls so much!
Friday.......
We woke up late after the day we had before. We were exhausted!!! Mark went to the market for some groceries for breakfast and lunch. I piddled and straightened up a bit. We still did not have internet. Zhenia called the landlord and he was here in 15 minutes! Great service!!! At around 1pm, Irene, the attorney for the orphanage brought the girls to the flat. First thing in the door they show us their key saying they did not loose it!! Made me smile!! Second thing, "I'm hungry!" Good thing Mark went to the market. We had hot dogs (their favorite), really good cheese, bread with butter, cherries and bananas. For our sweet Tanya, mineral water! They ate a bunch! Then Mark and the girls went to the market again for batteries and drinks. Around 3pm Zhenia came and we left to meet the others at the Equator Mall for shopping. It was a bit difficult! Anya hates to shop! (Something we gotta work on when we get home!) But success! They both got new shoes and one new outfit. They told us they want to go shopping in the states! Well alrighty then! We enjoyed pizza for dinner (actually very good pizza at the mall). At the mall we met a friend of Anya's. She asked if she could spend the night! So it was a fun slumber party! We had a blast; tickle & pillow fights, junk food and all! We talked with Anthony on Skype too! They were excited to chat with him. Right now I am watching Tanya sleep and Anya and her friend are on the balcony chatting! As Anya would say....TODAY WAS A GOOD DAY!
Tomorrow Dara arrives. She is a close friend of Katia's. Katia is our sweet friend that translated many phone calls for us. Dara has volunteered to translate for us! We will hang out and then take the girls back to camp. They are having a special camp for the older children and Anya does not want to miss it. Tanya is going just because she does not want to be with us alone. As they say here....NO PROBLEM! We then pick them up on Tuesday morning.
More later....thanks again to all of you for your prayers. God is GOOD!
Poltava!!!
Wednesday evening we arrived in Poltava around midnight. We moved into our flat and ooooo what flat it is!!! Thanks Randy for helping us! It is awesome!!! We were up until 3am unpacking and settling in then up at 7:30am to get ready for the day.
1st thing on the agenda, we met with the inspector. There are three couples adopting and working in unison. We were second to see the inspector. She explained to us the girls situation as to why they are in the orphanage. She seemed to have a very special interest in the girls. She asked if the girls talked about their family. Later we learned that the inspector was the one who removed the girls from the home. This is a very emotional process and inspector was a bit emotional also. It was so hard to hear the conditions of how they were found.
Next is was on to meet the director of the orphanage along with Inspector. We drove over to orphanage and had to wait for her to arrive. Our hopes were that the girls would be at the orphanage when we got there. They were at the medical center getting blood tests done. They came shortly after we arrived. It was so awesom to see them. Anya quickly came up to us and hugged us and Tanya was her usual shy self. Once director arrived, her and Zhenia met together first. Zhenia came out and told us that things were tense. The goverment is accusing the director of selling kids to Americans. We were told not to worry this will not affect our adoptions. When we met with director, we made sure we expressed how grateful to her we are for all she does for them. Then the girls were brought in along with the inspector. The inspector asked them questions and then asked if they want to be adopted by us. Anya said yes with a big smile on her face but Tanya, smiling, said she needed about 5 minutes. Anya became very agitated with her. We stepped oustide with the girls and with Veronica translating, Tanya said she is afraid we will beat her. Anya said she was afraid we would not treat us the same as if they were their own. If she could only understand our heart....they are our own!! She asked Veronica not to translate that to us. Thankfully she did. Veronica said I need to tell them how we will love them...make in tangible. Such a big help!! We talked a bit more but felt we should give them so time to just talk with Veronica. Anya all the while was very upset with Tanya about her behavior. After some time Tanya finally said yes. When I learned of this I looked at Tanya and told her how happy I am. She shyly smiled. Veronica told me that she was teasing and didn't mean it when she said no. Tanya has her survival mode up most of the time....trust no one!
After the drama, we went to the notary office for all our signatures on documents to submit to the court. Oops! It was back to the orphanage again because we forgot to get the girls to sign a petition saying they agree to be adopted by us. This time we were called in again to the directors office and had a wonderful chat with her. She asked about the school where the girls will go to. I told her that our school district is exemplary and we would start slow with just English. I told her Anya wants to be a hair sylist and she can go to classes in high school and have her license before she graduates high school. She was very impressed by this. She said she wants to do education for trades in the orphange and teach them to be better equipped before they leave. The director was an orphan also and grew up in the very same orphanage. She has a passion for these children.
I told her we were sorry for all the trouble she is going through. She said the suffering is worth it for the children. The children are all that matter to her. She wept as she told us this. She hugged me over and over. I, of course, was crying too. It's amazing to meet such a person that loves so big.
Finally, we were through with all the meetings and it's pizza time! The girls at this point are still a bit shy with us but we had a good lunch. Zhenia then informs all of us that he is working on us getting the kids for two weeks while we wait to go to court. OHHHH! Happy smiles all around!! The girls were so happy.....and that sure did make mama and papa happy too!!!!
After lunch we went back to the flat. They were so excited about the flat. Glasna! Meaning 'Cool'! We gave them their new soccer jerseys. They loved them! (Thanks Karen!!) They put them on right away and looking at themselves in the full length mirror over and over!! Anya looked at me and said she wants to play soccer and have her name on the back of her jersey!! Once they found the bag with all the crafts and presents they went crazy. It was so much fun. They started right away making things. Then Zhenia came and they were showing him everything.
Tanya then found something very special...I had no idea how special it would be. We had friends who had a little girl that was scared of adoption. A friend told them that people process either by thinking or by talking. It was suggested that they give her a key to their home in the states ...something tangible to represent security, love and a forever family. Knowing the fear and unsurety they both were feeling prior to us coming, especially Tanya, I brought two keys on Texas key chains. When she found them, I snatched them quickly so she would not know what they were just yet. We sat them down and had Zhenia translate. We said, "That these are the keys to our home in Texas. It's no longer Mark's or Phyllis's home, it's Anya and Tanya's home too! It's where our FAMILY lives! We wanted them to have a key to their new home." Tanya was smiling and giggling! Anya had the widest eyes ever and then asked if it was a real key! We said yes and then she asked to the front door and the back door...we said yes. She was so excited! She couldn't believe it!! Then she asked what if she lost it at camp (because they had to back for the night). I said if you loose it we can make another one!! You know that feeling you get when you get the gift you have wanted forever at Christmas? This is how she was but 10 times more!! I will never forget this as long as I live! A beautiful precious moment!
Then it was time to go to take the girls back to camp. All three familys loaded up in a mini bus and away we went. When saying good by there were lots of hugs and kisses. Mark was so happy....Anya kissed him on the cheek!! Anya must have said thank you a million times!!
Tomorrow should be a nice day....no appointments....just hang time with the girls!!
1st thing on the agenda, we met with the inspector. There are three couples adopting and working in unison. We were second to see the inspector. She explained to us the girls situation as to why they are in the orphanage. She seemed to have a very special interest in the girls. She asked if the girls talked about their family. Later we learned that the inspector was the one who removed the girls from the home. This is a very emotional process and inspector was a bit emotional also. It was so hard to hear the conditions of how they were found.
Next is was on to meet the director of the orphanage along with Inspector. We drove over to orphanage and had to wait for her to arrive. Our hopes were that the girls would be at the orphanage when we got there. They were at the medical center getting blood tests done. They came shortly after we arrived. It was so awesom to see them. Anya quickly came up to us and hugged us and Tanya was her usual shy self. Once director arrived, her and Zhenia met together first. Zhenia came out and told us that things were tense. The goverment is accusing the director of selling kids to Americans. We were told not to worry this will not affect our adoptions. When we met with director, we made sure we expressed how grateful to her we are for all she does for them. Then the girls were brought in along with the inspector. The inspector asked them questions and then asked if they want to be adopted by us. Anya said yes with a big smile on her face but Tanya, smiling, said she needed about 5 minutes. Anya became very agitated with her. We stepped oustide with the girls and with Veronica translating, Tanya said she is afraid we will beat her. Anya said she was afraid we would not treat us the same as if they were their own. If she could only understand our heart....they are our own!! She asked Veronica not to translate that to us. Thankfully she did. Veronica said I need to tell them how we will love them...make in tangible. Such a big help!! We talked a bit more but felt we should give them so time to just talk with Veronica. Anya all the while was very upset with Tanya about her behavior. After some time Tanya finally said yes. When I learned of this I looked at Tanya and told her how happy I am. She shyly smiled. Veronica told me that she was teasing and didn't mean it when she said no. Tanya has her survival mode up most of the time....trust no one!
After the drama, we went to the notary office for all our signatures on documents to submit to the court. Oops! It was back to the orphanage again because we forgot to get the girls to sign a petition saying they agree to be adopted by us. This time we were called in again to the directors office and had a wonderful chat with her. She asked about the school where the girls will go to. I told her that our school district is exemplary and we would start slow with just English. I told her Anya wants to be a hair sylist and she can go to classes in high school and have her license before she graduates high school. She was very impressed by this. She said she wants to do education for trades in the orphange and teach them to be better equipped before they leave. The director was an orphan also and grew up in the very same orphanage. She has a passion for these children.
I told her we were sorry for all the trouble she is going through. She said the suffering is worth it for the children. The children are all that matter to her. She wept as she told us this. She hugged me over and over. I, of course, was crying too. It's amazing to meet such a person that loves so big.
Finally, we were through with all the meetings and it's pizza time! The girls at this point are still a bit shy with us but we had a good lunch. Zhenia then informs all of us that he is working on us getting the kids for two weeks while we wait to go to court. OHHHH! Happy smiles all around!! The girls were so happy.....and that sure did make mama and papa happy too!!!!
After lunch we went back to the flat. They were so excited about the flat. Glasna! Meaning 'Cool'! We gave them their new soccer jerseys. They loved them! (Thanks Karen!!) They put them on right away and looking at themselves in the full length mirror over and over!! Anya looked at me and said she wants to play soccer and have her name on the back of her jersey!! Once they found the bag with all the crafts and presents they went crazy. It was so much fun. They started right away making things. Then Zhenia came and they were showing him everything.
Tanya then found something very special...I had no idea how special it would be. We had friends who had a little girl that was scared of adoption. A friend told them that people process either by thinking or by talking. It was suggested that they give her a key to their home in the states ...something tangible to represent security, love and a forever family. Knowing the fear and unsurety they both were feeling prior to us coming, especially Tanya, I brought two keys on Texas key chains. When she found them, I snatched them quickly so she would not know what they were just yet. We sat them down and had Zhenia translate. We said, "That these are the keys to our home in Texas. It's no longer Mark's or Phyllis's home, it's Anya and Tanya's home too! It's where our FAMILY lives! We wanted them to have a key to their new home." Tanya was smiling and giggling! Anya had the widest eyes ever and then asked if it was a real key! We said yes and then she asked to the front door and the back door...we said yes. She was so excited! She couldn't believe it!! Then she asked what if she lost it at camp (because they had to back for the night). I said if you loose it we can make another one!! You know that feeling you get when you get the gift you have wanted forever at Christmas? This is how she was but 10 times more!! I will never forget this as long as I live! A beautiful precious moment!
Then it was time to go to take the girls back to camp. All three familys loaded up in a mini bus and away we went. When saying good by there were lots of hugs and kisses. Mark was so happy....Anya kissed him on the cheek!! Anya must have said thank you a million times!!
Tomorrow should be a nice day....no appointments....just hang time with the girls!!
Day 3
Not much going on today....just waiting to go to Poltava. It's a beautiful day today...no need for a/c. We are being kinda lazy and hanging out in flat, catching up on emails and such and packing up. Another couple had their appointment today. We have to wait on the referral for them. Once in hand we will leave for Poltava around 4 or 5. We will get settled in and then meet with Inspector and Director of Orphanage tomorrow ....and....hopefully get to see the girls!!
Oleg called last night! He is head of Radooga Ministries which is equal to StudentLife in the states. He is an awesome man! Radooga is doing camp for the orphanage. I mean camp in the sense as we know church camp. This is so awesome because our girls are getting to experience it! He said for Mark and I to talk to his staff when we arrive and they can arrange for us to stay at the camp for a couple of days and experience it. I am stoked about that!!! I thought I was going to miss the camp experience this summer and look how God took care of that!!! Really looking forward to seeing all the kids! Especially two sweet girls!!!
Well I had better get busy!
Oleg called last night! He is head of Radooga Ministries which is equal to StudentLife in the states. He is an awesome man! Radooga is doing camp for the orphanage. I mean camp in the sense as we know church camp. This is so awesome because our girls are getting to experience it! He said for Mark and I to talk to his staff when we arrive and they can arrange for us to stay at the camp for a couple of days and experience it. I am stoked about that!!! I thought I was going to miss the camp experience this summer and look how God took care of that!!! Really looking forward to seeing all the kids! Especially two sweet girls!!!
Well I had better get busy!
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