Team 3: Goodbye

The last half of our mission trip was full of mixed emotions. We accomplished our mission to serve and love the children/teens, but one week simply was not enough. This trip made us realize how important it is to let go of our comfort in exchange for caring for others. For example, one of the non-Russian-speaking team members shared how surprised she was at being able to connect so closely to someone without being able to speak their language. One of the team members noted how universal the expression of love truly is. Even though our relationship with the children … Continue reading

Team 3: Day 2

Today was a fun day! We were pleasantly surprised by the relatively sunny warm weather we were blessed with, when we walked this morning to the children’s center. Seeing some of the kids greet all of us as we came in was in itself heart-warming. Especially, when little Zhenya came straight up to Victoria to show her his notebook of birds and other drawings, or how Mia flew across the hallway right into Jaimee’s arms as soon as she saw her. The day was spent sharing with the kids about loyalty and honesty and just plainly having fun in the … Continue reading

Team 3: Our 1st day!

Today was the first day we spent with the kids. It was amazing!! The kids were so happy to meet us. They welcomed us with open arms. We played games and sang songs. I think the kids enjoyed playing musical chairs to country music. I am so glad for the experience of meeting these kids; they have so much to give to the world. Some of the kids need some extra care because they did not experience care/love at home. I learned that one of the kids walked up to a police man and told him point-blank, that his mom … Continue reading

Team A: Time to say goodbye

Hey Everyone! The team is currently packing up and planning an all nighter for the flight tomorrow. We will be departing at 3 am and taking off for home. But before our long journey begins we wanted to let you know what has happened for the last couple of days. Friday was a special day for the teen group. We started off the day doing our usual morning routine with the kids, but we returned that evening after dinner for a dance party! We got some music playing, brought nail polish, and took polaroid photos of the kids that they … Continue reading

Team-A: Our 1st week

Hey Everyone! Kylee (teens) and Ben (kids) here to fill you in on what’s been happening over here in Eastern Europe! Life has been full speed ahead the past few days. The teens have become much more comfortable with us as well as more vulnerable and open with us. We are learning a lot more Russian and they have learned some English. Still most of our communication is through animated facial expressions, gestures, and awkward laughter. We have covered a variety of topics over the past couple days including: kindness, patience, and making good choices. It has brought about a … Continue reading