Oh My Stars!

Our awesome translators have loved Marca's coin phrase "Oh My Stars!" but speaking it in Russian has proved difficult for the Americans - although that has not stopped us from trying. All proof that Russia loves Marca as much as Woods Chapel does.

We could not have done this week without our awesome translators. Sveta, Anya, Ulya, and Yana have been more than translators. They have played and bonded with the children and become friends to us. If you come to Russia on a mission trip, we hope you have the privilege of meeting them.

Today was our last full day at the orphanage. And we are still sore from playing snowballs yesterday.

We had an awesome beach party.

Potato sack races, mini-beach ball toss, dolphin ring toss, Mel's beach photo studio, and a snack shack. Stephanie has more hot air than anyone in the world as is evidenced by all the inflatable decorations she blew up. In fact, she was faster than the pump we bought. It was amazing to watch the kids relax and enjoy the party.

Marca finally cleaned her plate today. We had this meal before, but today she thought it was the best meal we'd had all week. And pineapple juice is phenomenal for a midnight snack.
On a serious note, we talked about dreams today. The kids shared from their hearts. One little boy wants to be a good father. Another wishes there were not cigarettes, drugs, or alcohol in the world that ruin lives. Other dreams are to be a writer, artist, and several said they want to be a better person.

We are all very aware of how very hard it is going to be to leave these precious children tomorrow.