Lazy 5 Ranch

Today was our day to host 2 of the chaparones that came to America with the children. Iryna, from Ukraine and Alla, from Latvia. We headed out to pick up the ladies around 10:00 and then on to the Lazy 5 Ranch. It was really cool listening to Iryna, Alla, and Viktorija carry on conversation in Russian. Although Viktorija speaks very little Russian, she seems to understand a fair amount. Iryna spoke VERY limited English, and Alla did pretty well. I was proud of Viktorija who helped to translate a little bit for us. They were impressed when I told them that Viktorija was reading to us in English. Basically it was a fun game of charades for much of our time together. But, what a super fun day it was!! The ladies were a pure joy to share the day with. We learned a bit about where they come from and what they do for a living. Can you believe full time work in an orphanage brings in $200-$300 dollars a month?!? We are so very blessed in America, and often take for granted our many blessings. We were so moved by meeting these ladies. And, I do believe it was good for Viktorija to be able to speak her language (Latvian) with familiar people.

Since it was such a hot day, I was worried that the ladies wouldn't have a good time outside at the ranch. But, they really seemed to enjoy it! They were taking many pictures of the animals and everyone in our group of 5. We took the wagon ride, which gets you up close and personal with the animals. Viktorija had fun feeding the many different kinds of animals. Her favorites were the baby giraffe and the baby kangaroo. We also saw cute baby pigs too. She wanted so badly to hold one, but they were too young to even be away from their mommy.

After Lazy 5, I asked Viktorija where we should have lunch. She replied without hesitation...Chic-fil-a!!! We're training her so well;-) Iryna and Alla really enjoyed the food too.

We had some time after lunch and I asked them if they needed anything at the store....shopping?! They happily replied they would like to shop. Since time was limited, we went to Target. I had them pick out a couple of "gifts"for themselves. They were so moved and thankful. It was such a pleasure to share that time with them. It was hard to take them back to their prospective homes. Alla offered to come over to our house and cook for us soon. They eat a lot of soup in Latvia and Ukraine. A common soup is Borscht (? sp). I've had it before and would love for Mike to try it. I hope to get together again with the ladies and have them over for dinner before they return home. Please pray that we can continue to be a witness.

This entire experience has really pushed Mike and I out of our comfort zones in every way! I'm so thankful for every second of this "journey". I pray that God will continue to lead us...and that we will LISTEN. I, personally, try to often to figure things out on my own. It usually doesn't go well when I do that. I have so many very different emotions running through my mind and body at this time. I need to STOP, wait, and listen.