Today we got up very early to make sure we made it to the bus stop so that we could head into Simferopol today. The bus ride was long and bumpy-- something one would have to get used to day in and day out. It probably doesn't help that it is nearing three digit numbers-- can't wait till it comes back down to the mid 80's by this weekend.
The grocery store was not half as interesting as the flea market, but we got stuff to make a good ol' sandwich so I am happy. The sweetest and cutest thing was watching Sasha buy things for Rachel-- his one and only sweetheart. :) Even Julia thought he was adorable the way he carefully picked out things that we suggested she would like.
Anyway, we rode a taxi home to fried chicken, mashed potatoes, and a refreshing summer salad made up of cucumbers, tomatoes, dark leaf lettuce, parsley, and dill. It was fantastic but not as delicious as the warm homemade ciabatta bread that Marina the cook served.
Now we are listening to Julia's music that she brought--- Sasha wants the names of all the artists. He particularly likes Britt Nicole!
Julia never even got a read mark from the tick and before I could explain unpasturized milk to her she had gulped down a whole glass! David was enjoying it with his cherry vereniki so I went ahead and drank some too. Not bad... not bad. I mention these two things since they seemed to draw some concern--- DON'T WORRY! Oh... and we saw a snake in the river yesterday. It swam right past us. Sasha freaked out because his brother said that they can bite-- but if Sasha is willing to jump from rock to rock high up on a mountain and scare us half to death then a little ol' snake shouldn't scare him.
Only five more days here. It is bittersweet. Learning much about the culture, the people, and the different beliefs that people have. Can you believe that a deck of cards that we put in one of the older boys' gift bags was discussed?
10 inspiring thoughts:
We only drink raw milk, but I know the cow it comes from. If in another country, I would boil it first. But a glass every now and again should be fine, I think. I have an entire book on the subject called "The Truth About Raw Milk". Very interesting. BUT remember where you are :)
Yum cherry verenikis they are so good!!! you guys sow a snake in the rive that must be scary!!
but you guys had Sasha with you guys so that cool.
Enjoyed the update, Christine. I sooo wish I was there. Praying for you guys!
Funny how cultures are different. The Ukrainians I met seemed to be a superstitious lot. I remember our translator - she was probably in her mid 20's - she told us not to whistle because it takes money from our household. Our taxi driver was born Jewish (but I guess didn't practice it) but had to cross himself every time we passed an Orthodox or Christian church or cross. He had also kept a U.S. two dollar bill. He seemed to think people from the U.S. were funny because they thought the two dollar bill was bad luck. Our son brought a funny tradition with him when he came here. When he lost his first tooth, he had to throw it over the house. If he made it over the house, he would be lucky. Sorry to say, it didn't make it. I think it's also interesting to note that Dracula was supposed to have lived somewhere in or near Western Ukraine. Anyway, Sasha's one up on me; I wouldn't have been in the river at all. And, good thing about the tick.
Hey sister and my beautiful niece! Im really enjoying reading all about your trip. Sounds like you both have had lessons in gratitude and humanity. Such a blessing to learn these things in a culture much different than we are accustomed to. Im glad you both are safe and well. Big hugs to you both! ~Lena
Hi! I am so glad you got to spend some time in the Ukraine I think when you retire I can see you doing more mission trips to the Ukraine it seems that is where God has sent you. Pat
Yes, the cards were frowned upon at the orphanage too because of the "Satanic Symbols". Uno is acceptable :).
I agree, you will brave anything in the rivers when it's 100 degrees!
Praying for your continued safety and blessing on the camp participants!
I didn't know you were so close to Simferopol! I have friends there. :) I have sent you a map of interesting places there, check your email.
I don't comment much, but I just want to say thanks! Thanks for blogging everyday! Your family is so entertaining! I look forward to reading your posts everynight! You're an inspiration! Keep blogging! <3 in His name!
~Spud :)
My mother grew up in a household where cards were frowned upon by her gradndmother. I guess they were considerred to be "sinful" or something. Her grandma was from Holland.
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