Russia Trip: Day 5

Even though clouds lurked all around us - we had beautiful (cool) weather - which made it so enjoyable to be outside in the sunshine. Monday was just as busy as the day before. Plus, we were able to spend some time working in the garden with the kids. The kids got to choose a partner and we worked together with them to pull weeds. The kids are serious about their work and were proud to show us how to do it right.




More VBS after pulling weeds, then lunch and afternoon nap (we can get very used to that!). We just spent more time hanging out with the kids and having fun.

Rachael & Susan worked on the cupcakes for the birthday party and some of us gathered up all the goodies we had brought to give the kids (balloons, party games, decorated pillowcases with balls, stuffed animals, hats, candy & toys.)




We ate dinner and then we had like 15 minutes while the kids ate dinner to decorate, get the games and presents ready. The kids waited outside with our translators and then we let them in....SURPRISE! (Even though we think they knew something about it.)



How wonderful to see the smiles on their faces. We told them how special we think they are and that God loves them very much. And since we wouldn't be with them on their actual birthday, we wanted to celebrate with them. We had such fun playing pin the tail on the donkey and making party hats. Then there was the fascinating game of duck-duck-goose that they would have played forever. Cupcakes were enjoyed by everyone and the night ended as we called each child's name and gave them a present. After everyone received a present we counted down and they opened them.















Everyone had fun at the party - the kids, the caregivers and our team. Who knew that the love of God could be shared with things like balloons, cupcakes and party games? That night was a turning point in our relationship with the kids. We were told that it was probably the best night that some of them had ever had.