Dear friends and family,
This week has been simply amazing at the HIV baby orphanage! When we first arrived at the orphanage, we were greeted with many hugs and smiles from some of the children but many took more time to warm up to our group.
But we stood the test and have bonded with the children deeply, knowing they will remain in our hearts forever. Every morning, we have been chasing the children and have been blessed with seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter as they play.
It has brightened our world seeing how well these children are cared for and the resources they have at their fingertips.
During an intriguing tour of the facility, our whole team was blown away by the amount of room the children have to play, and that these kids have the opportunity to play in a swimming pool, and breathe deeply in a salt room as well as a sauna.
This facility has been truly a blessing to all the children and we are grateful for the opportunity to lend a hand, even if shortly.
In the afternoons, we have been visiting many places throughout the city including: the Hermitage, where we were grateful to see such a variety of art in one building (including some pieces by Rembrandt, Picasso and DaVinci); Orthodox churches, part of an assignment in pairs; and on a prayer walk around the city in groups of three.
Today, we will be seeing Saint Isaac’s Cathedral and view the city from above as well as some slight roaming around the city. Each day has been full of activities and we’ve become pretty exhausted. Prayers to keep up our energy levels are greatly appreciated.
Also, please pray for allergies, as some of us are experiencing a little. Please pray for our continued health, and for the health of the children we are working with.
And please pray for these beautiful and bouncy children as we prepare to part ways and journey to Novgorod.
Thank you SO MUCH for all of your comments! We love hearing them so much, and they really lift our spirits!
Peace to you all,
The Russian journeyers!
LOVING the pictures! You all (and the kids) are in my prayers.
Mary Ann,
News from home: Joy and George are now grandparents! Baby and Kate are doing fine.
I love you!
Mom
Laura,
What a great time you are having……………what a great thing you are doing.
We miss you.
Love from us all.
ps: where are the trees in the big square?
Your lives will never be quite the same as your hearts gather pieces bits of ownership from each of these experiences. Praying!!!!! love Emily’s mom
SPRINT Team: Here’s hoping the energy from those delightful kids and knowing how happy you have made them give you all the boost you need to see you through this first part of your mission. Love the pictures.
Emily’s Aunt Carol
August 13, 2010
Dear Hilary:
We can feel your joy all the way over here and we rejoice with you. We pray you leave an eternal impact on the children. Also, we are praying the allergies cease and that the air is better in Novgorod. Keep up the good work and may God give you strength.
Love Dad
Thanks for giving your heart to these little ones. Looking forward to hearing stories. Let’s have your fam over for a meal once you get back.
Natalie, Hello Sweetheart! I can’t help thinking how grateful I am to have a wonderful daughter ,Your warmth, loving and caring nature reflect from the photo’s. Truly the children are blessed by the Sprint Team! “Thanks” for the photo’s and stories. Fun&Safe Journey to all with God’s Blessings. Missing You! Love,Mom P.S. Please check your email pinkbarbie