Privet,
This weekend we had the opportunity to relax and explore our home here in Novgorod. On Saturday, we went to a Russian village museum where we got to see how Russians lived centuries ago. Our favorite part was a huge wooden slide that we raced down, go figure. Also, there was a craftsman who made authentic birch items: like hats, shoes, bookmarks, baskets and so much more. As we talked to him we found out his story; he is one of the last people to know the way the ancient Novgorodians would work with birch. Getting to know the Russian people and their stories is a blessing.
From there we went onto our second historical stop which was a local monastery. We explored the beautiful grounds; it was mind blowing to think that we were walking on the same ground that has such a deep connection with the history of Novgorod. The rest of the day we spent swimming in the river that runs through the city, which we enjoyed immensely due to the heat. It was a great way to spend our Saturday.
On Sunday we worked with the kids at the church and later in the day we had the opportunity to go souvenir shopping at the Kremlin (get ready for some great gifts). The weekend was nice but we were all really eager to get back to the kids at the center. Today was the first day of the last week here in Novgorod. We all agree that we are not ready to say good-bye to the kids and we are making sure to take advantage of every moment, not taking any second for granted. Our team meeting tonight was filled with mixed emotions, all of us struggling with the realization of the limited amount of time we have left and what their lives will be like when we leave. But we know that they will forever be in our hearts and in our prayers. We look forward to all of the fun things we have planned for the rest of this week (cinema on Wednesday!). As always please keep us and the kids in your prayers as we continue in our final week.
Love from the Novgorod team, Sam and Adrienne
It is always good to hear from you, team! Thank you for sending pictures! The memories you have made will last a lifetime. Praise God for His blessings on you and all those you have encountered. We will continue to pray for you as you prepare to come home.
Aryn: We are so excited to see you soon! Soak up every last moment you have in Russia! Thank you for the postcards:) xoxoxo Mom
Wow, Where has the time gone. It seems it was just yesterday we were sending you off from the airport and now we are counting down the days until your return. Thanks so much for keeping us part of your adventure and for serving these kids. Enjoy the last week in Russia. Jess, youe Mom, Sister, and Dad are very excited to see you. Love you very much. Mom and Dad.
You all look so joyful in the pictures. Sami, I miss you so much!!
I can’t believe that it’s almost time to make another trip to the airport. So incredibly excited to see you. The pictures are great and it’s so wonderful to see your beautiful, smiling face. This transition trip home will be an emotional one for you, I’m sure, but the memories that you carry will be with you forever. You look so happy and look like you are having the time of your life. Enjoy each and every moment that you have left with these beautiful children. They will be in your heart forever! Godspeed my baby girl and can’t wait to see you. All my love, Momma
Love your pictures.. Looks fun 🙂 God bless you always. I know it will be hard to say goodbye but there will be more in the future in store for all of you. You guys did a fantastic job!!! You have a memory that will last a lifetime and experience that will mark your character forever. Miss you and can’t wait to see you again. Love you – Mom 🙂
Hi Adrienne! Bet you are amazed at how fast your adventure came and went. I can’t imagine all you have experienced these past four weeks but I am excited to hear your retelling of all the details. Hope all your expectations were met and exceeded. I’m thinking that your flight will be non-stop which means your flight will probably take you over the Arctic circle as that is the most direct route from Russia to the west coast. Just another notch on the adventure belt. Be safe and may God be with you and your team members. All my love. Dad