We have soup!

We have had another great day. Today our mission was to get a pitcher for sweet tea and a pot to cook soup in. Last night we made our first meal at our flat, so we were ready to try to cook soup tonight. We called Katia and Sonya to ask where to go, so they offered to take us shopping. We went to the "bazaar", similar to a gigantic flea market but with more useful items. It was quite an experience! We finally found what we needed, and offered to buy the girls lunch. They of course wanted McDonald's, so we took them to eat. It was about 2:00, and while we were eating they both mentioned that it was their first meal of the day. They were still hungry, so we went back to order more. Then we told them we were headed to the orphanage. They were visibly upset- torn because they wanted to be with us but didn't want to go to their old home. I told them not to worry- we would meet them later and all have dinner together at our flat.

At the orphanage, after sitting around for a while and not seeing any kids, the director came out and invited us to go sit in on a concert the older kids were doing. It was wonderful to see many kids that we knew all playing their instruments. What an unexpected treat! Chris was not in the concert, and he was very glad to see us. We then spent a few hours with Chris learning some more English words and explaining to him his extended family. He was very happy to know that he has a big family, especially when we told him that everyone loves him and can't wait to meet him. The only negative of the afternoon was when the older boys (ones that have been to America) began to pick on Chris and Noah. It is such second nature for these older boys to pick on the younger kids. As a momma, I started to get defensive, but I know that these boys are only doing what they have learned. It was another sad reminder of orphanage life.

After leaving the orphanage, we met up with Katia and Sonya. They wanted to teach us how to make Ukrainian soup. We went back to our flat and made some of the best soup I've ever tasted! It was such a great time--I only wish Chris could be with us. As we talked, though, I became more and more aware of how these two go without things all the time. Katia has no refrigerator, and both seem to be without food more often than with it. I ended up making them "goody bags" full of our American snacks to take home. They were so appreciative to have someone dote over them-- act like a mom might. I had to stop and thank God once again for the opportunity to be a mom to these sweet orphans-even if it's only for a few days! I am so blessed!

We are still waiting to hear about court. We have been assigned a judge, but she does not want to have court this week. So we continue to wait. We are hoping to head down to Zap and see our little girl in the next few days. Please pray for all the details to work out. Also, Chris's birthday is on Saturday, the 15th. Please pray that he might be able to spend the night with us.

Love to all,
Paula, Ande and the kids