Ukraine - Week 2

Nov. 8/15
This evening we headed to a church service with MJ where a few missionaries and their families meet in one of their houses.  It was interesting to hear that this is the house that the Gorters lived in when they lived in Ukraine.  (Transcona CRC people, I'm sure you'll appreciate this tidbit.)
Later we headed to the House of Hope where Slavik is living.  We had a wonderful visit with him, his house parents, and others who live there.  Slavik whipped Rodger in foosball which Rodger hadn't played since his days at Dordt.  We ate supper, played some board games, and visited.  His house parents are a wonderful Christian couple who care deeply for the boys living there.
Fabulous day!

Nov. 9/15
It's been a week since we arrived in Ukraine.  We feel like we've got a lot done but we still have a long road ahead of us.
Today is the second working day since we arrived in Odessa so it was a get going on the paperwork day.  First we headed to the Orphanage #5 where Vica is.  She had to write an official letter saying that she wanted us to adopt her.  Slavik had to do the same.  The orphanage also handed us a huge stack of papers which we need for our adoption dossier.  Next we went to a notary where we had to sign papers stating that we wanted to adopt Slavik and Vica.  After that it was off to Slavik's trade school to explain what paperwork we needed from them.  This is the first time that they've gone through this process so they were unsure of the expectations but they are very willing to help us.
We noticed that there's been a shift that now when we see the kids they come and give us a hug on their own, not our initiative:)

Nov. 10/15
We shopped at the grocery store (just across the street and down half a block).  It's always interesting to see the things they have that are the same and similar to what we have in Winnipeg.  Many prices are crazy cheap (to us, however not to Ukrainians).
We visited Vica in the orphanage and played Qwirkle and Spot It!  We are also trying to teach her a few English words and phrases.  I wish I had flashcards on my laptop that I could use.  I've been looking online but haven't found anything that I like.

Nov. 11/15
MJ has supper and a Bible Study at her place on Wednesday evenings and she asked if I would make cookies for dessert as she thought the kids would really like that.  Well I made chocolate chip and M&M cookies but between substituting ingredients (no Crisco Gold or chocolate chips available) and a different oven it was a challenge that took me most of the day.  Everyone thought they were delicious but we knew they weren't the same as those I make at home.
After supper we went to watch Slavik play soccer indoors.  Not that I am the best judge but he seems pretty good and loves it.  He's hoping that he'll be able to play soccer in Canada.
It was really nice to be able to Skype with Kevin and Krista last night.  Reassuring to know that everything is being capably looked after on the home front.