As we approached the orphanage, we saw all the children outside and several adults we didn't recognize with a huge number of bicycles being repaired or ridden by the children. Sergei and the other adults were helping in the repairs. I counted approximately 17 bikes. Some were in good condition, some not and a few will need a new tire. My friend from CT and one of the older children (Vladik) repaired 2 bikes a week ago (e.g., new tubes, tires, pedal, spoke tightening, etc) before he and his family flew home. Wish he was here today!
I finally figured out that the adults I didn't know belong to a foundation that supports the orphanage called Star Dream (www.detdom.com.ua/ ) who donated these bikes. It was like Christmas - the children all excited with big eyes and smiles everywhere. Sasha greeted us with a big hug and a "where's mommy" and then, preceeded to point at a bike saying, "me bike." Then other kids said the same.
The children worked along side the adults and Vladic too. Repaired tires, chains, brakes, etc and filled them with air. I also noticed several, new to them, scooters being ridden around. This was huge and exciting especially after sharing only two bikes and a scooter this year. Spring and Christmas were here together on this Sunday afternoon.
We took a break and had obid (lunch) as a family. Afterwards we went outside to continue the bike assembly and repair. Then about 15+ colleged-aged girls came. I found out they were volunteers for the Star Dream Foundation. They interacted with the children, played some and then began a traditional spring task of painting the trees and curbing with white wash. Apparently, this prevents trees from being infected by insects. We have begun to see this white-wash on many trees in the Kyiv area..."Iss ukay...iss Ukraine!"
Lot's of fresh air and activity outside with bike riding, playground playing, soccer and helping with the beautification project. Lucas and I ended after staying nearly 5 hours.
Some news items...first, another MN family arrives tomorrow night (the Moores to adopt a girl and a boy). Second, our adoption agency (European Children Adoption Services- Plymouth, MN) just did an email announcement for this summer's hosting program. Some of the children viewed on our blog are available for hosting. We can genuinely encourage that any of these children would be a blessing to host this August.
Hey you guys. Thanks for another wonderful blog. I anxiously wait for these each and every day. Thanks so much. I also want to thank you for the wonderful photo of Georgiy. I just can't stop looking at it. We pray for your continued smooth process and can't wait to hear more for you. All the best to you! Hugs your way to pass onto Georgiy! ; )
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