Tag Archives: russia

SPU: From one camp to another

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Third update and things are going well here. It is always hard adapting to new locations and activities but those kids and teens we have been working with at the center have really embraced our company. Through this week we have shared some of our story and asked about theirs and have learned a lot about how they came to the center. Even though they have no reason to accept us into their lives and share their story they do so anyway, which shows how strong and welcoming they are. Their stories really touched our hearts. Many have been away … Continue reading →

SPU: First 2 days with kids

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Well, friends, the start to our week has been anything less than busy! It’s been a great two days at the orphanage so far and we love getting to know the kids and teens. Our plans haven’t exactly gone as we’d hoped, but God’s plan always prevails and that’s what truly matters. During a very important block of time for the staff, we were able to play with the kids and make lion’s masks out of paper plates. They loved it! One of the best parts was when they pretended to scare us and then said, “It’s me!” They are … Continue reading →

SPU: Tomorrow we meet the kids!

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Hey (or Privyet) Family and Friends! It has been an exciting last few days getting more situated with not only our team and lovely host but with Russia as well. Whether it be riding the metro, eating crêpes (blini), exploring ornate cathedrals, attending a local church service, or outlining our lesson plans for our upcoming time at the orphanage, each moment has proven to be an enriching one. Our host has been great at giving us more than just a tourist exploration of St. Petersburg as we’ve gotten to travel as the fellow Russians do. For one, we’ve learned that … Continue reading →

SPU: Sightseeing and learning!

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Hello, everyone! (And Happy 4th!) Kalie, here. It’s been an eventful first few days in St. Petersburg! While the team has been adjusting to the time change, we have also been roaming around the city and familiarizing ourselves with our new home for the next month. In the mornings we go through training, learning about the Russian history and the language, then sightseeing in the afternoon. Yesterday, we toured the Peter and Paul Fortress and stood along the Neva River, watching the boats float along in the rain. Within the fortress, we sat in modern architectural chairs that reminded us … Continue reading →

The team said good bye…

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We are a team, so here is our team blog. This morning we were out the door by 9:15 a.m. for our last day at the orphanage. Upon our arrival the children were ecstatic to have the “Americans” back for one last day.  The day was filled with stories, games, laughter, fun and a farewell backpack for each child full of plenty of goodies to celebrate the culmination of our time together! We were pleasantly surprised and delighted when we reviewed what we had shared, that the kids remembered all the crucial points that were the heart of our message.  … Continue reading →