Adventures in Ukraine

Crazy Ira

2011-06-30T16:02:00.000-07:00

Crazy Ira is on my list of great friends I have come to love so much. Two of us were very honored to be able to stay with her in 1998. She blessed my life then, and continues to bless it today!

Several years ago, Ira and her husband got an opportunity to move to Germany. She is Jewish by birth and Germany has many lucritive opportunities for the Jewish communtiy to live there. She really likes her living situation but misses Ukraine, too. She has the opportunity to Skype with Jane on a regular basis, and that is where I got to talk to her once again.

I have to tell you in 1998 her English wasn't too bad! She carried an English/Russian dictionary with her or used the very large, very old dictionary that she kept at her flat. It was not easy to talk to her, but we could communicate enough to carry on a half way decent conversation.

In her flat in Dneper, she always had a million questions about pronunciation and definitions of words. She was eager to learn English, and she wanted to speak it. One of the things that she would do is lapse into Russian in the middle of her sentence...sometimes in the middle of a WORD! It made for a hilarious afternoon sans interpreters!

It just so happened that on Thursday she Skyped Jane while I was at home in the flat. She was delighed to talk to me, and couldn't get over the fact that I was there, and how much she wanted to see me.

It didn't take me long to realize that her English had gone down hill fast! I could only understand about 1 out of 10 words she was saying. And that includes the basic words I remember from high school German!

She was Skyping (we had her on video), and she was trying to ask me questions about my stay. Jane and I were sitting at the computer trying our best to make heads or tails of what she was saying.

You have to get this visual...Jane is shouting at the computer screen...Ira is wringing her hands and running her fingers thru her hair in frustration...Jane is trying to interpret what she is saying and she keeps switching between German and Russian with a stray word or two of English thrown in!

"Ira, you are speaking in German again!" says Jane.

"Wieghets (I think this means 'why')...

"Again with the German...you must speak Russian or English..."

"I am...(then on to a short conversation in Russo-Germ-ish)"

Jane shouting in Russian...Ira answering in pseudo German...me laughing and asking "what did she say...what did she say...?"

I don't think we got more than a couple of sentences out, but it brought back those delightful days with Ira, Karye and myself sharing sweet times on Karl Marx Ave!

Karye...this one's for you!

till later,
Jackie

Rosie the Riveter, Ukrainian style...

2011-06-30T15:40:00.000-07:00

I told you a little bit about Nadezhda in an earlier post, but I wanted to add some things I found out about her while we were having tea together.

In her flat I saw several large, framed, cross stitch pictures. I asked about them because they were so intricate and delicate. Beautiful lilacs, roses, and other designs were on pictures, table runners, and pillows.

I was so impressed that Nadezhda had done them all. I couldn't cross stitch my way out of a paper bag with the instructions in "Cross stitch for Dummies" style and the picture pre-printed on easy to stitch cloth!

Rita began to tell me the stories behind the pictures. It was unbelievable to me the lenghts she went to in order to create something of such beauty. The picture of the lilac's really caught my eye. The colors were gorgeous, and the stitches so even and perfect. It looked like it had come from a very expensive pre-made kit. It picqued my interest, so I asked about it specifically.

Nadezhda apologized for the look of the material that the picture was stitched on. She told me she couldn't wash it because it might fall apart. I was thinking, "well, it looks very old. so that is probably why it would fall apart." When Rita explained to me WHY it would fall apart, I was even more amazed at the beauty of the piece.

The picture was done during WW II, and there were shortages of everything, including thread. Nadezhda had collected small pieces of colored thread off of worn out clothes, towels, sheets...anything that she could put her hands on. Because she could not purchase matching thread at a store, she had to collect what thread she could and match it herself. And because she was using whatever thread she could get ahold of, some of the pieces were long and some were very short. That would make it very difficult to clean because of the differing lenghts of thread. I studied that picture and could not believe something that beautiful came from bits and pieces of throw away materials. What patience it must have taken!

That was not the only surprise I got during that visit. This little 5 foot package of womanhood had more to her than fabulous cross stitching abilities! She was the Ukrainian version of "Rosie the Riveter". Sort of...

She didn't actually rivet planes and such together...but what she did amazed me in so many ways!

Our little Nadezhda, sweet little thing with a HUGE heart, the one who looked like she wouldn't hurt a fly...was a truck driver during the war. Not only was she a truck driver, but she was a munitions truck driver! She drove those big trucks from the munitions factory to the front line areas where they would disperse them to troops.

Nadezhda...drove a munitions truck? Rita called it a "Studebaker" truck. I'm still shaking my head over the fact that she drove several hours with a truck load of ammunition in the back! What courage and determination that tiny little lady has!

I'm just so blessed to know her, and I am VERY glad that I am on HER side and not going to have to "go to fist city" over ANYTHING!!

till later,
Jackie

Tea Time with Nadezhda

2011-06-30T15:05:00.000-07:00

Two of my very favorite ladies here are Raisa, and Nadezhda. I spoke of Raisa before, so today,(Thursday the 23rd on my calendar)I will tell you about one of the funniest and sweetest ladies in the church, Nadezhda.

I had the privilege of having tea with her and her daughter, Jane. We arranged the tea thru Raisa who is a dear friend to her. When we arrived at her flat, Raisa was already there and Jane greeted us as if we were long, lost friends. Jane lives with her mother in a small flat near down town Dneper. She does not go to church with her Mother so I was not familiar with her at all.

The tea was set up on a small round table. I felt like the Queen of England with all the plates and cups and saucers...you know...regular 4:00 tea time set up! Jane greeted us warmly at the door, and made us feel right at home immediately. She was so thrilled to meet the lady from the USA who she heard about non-stop!

Nadezhda was reclining on her small sofa-like bed in the corner of the living area. The beds here are much like the fold out couches I remember from my Grannies trailor when I was a child. She was wearing a beautiful bed jacket that complimented her sweet face.

Some memories I have of her are her quick laughter that is so contagious. She is so willing to laugh at silly situations that others might take the opportunity to be "offended" at. She is more than willing to participate in childrens games that include relay races, baloon popping games, and funny hat competitions.

In fact, I have such fond memories of a picnic that took place several years ago on an island in the middle of the Dneper River. We all were taken on "a three hour tour, a three hour tour" (couldn't help myself, Sharon!) down the river in an open tour boat. The weather was hot, but not too muggy. Old Helen, (vs. 'young Helen' her grandaughter) was already on the island cooking over an open fire for the whole group. They planned some games (see above: silly types of games) and a Funniest Hat contest. She was SO creative in her efforts!

The look on her face when she realized that she had completely forgotten about the contest...it was not irritated or sad...just determined to use whatever she could get her hands on. The hats, of course, had to be shown off in a "runway" hat/fashion show. There were so many cute hats out there, from big sun hats with native flowers from the island on them, to baseball type caps with grass growing from them. It was hilarious just watching what people came up with.

As people began to create their masterpieces Nadezhda began searching for hat making material. Seeing that so many were decorated with grass and flowers, she decided to go ultra simple! I couldn't believe it when I turned around and saw her creation.

She had simply folded the edges of a brown paper bag into a cuff...and pulled it down over her ears! We laughed and laughed. She was very surprised that we thought her hat was so funny. She looked at us, and told us "you do what you have to do and you make do"!!

I don't remember who "won" the contest, but everyone had a marvelous time.

Nadezhda turned 90 years old on her last birthday. She doesn't get out much any more because of the difficulty she has in walking and seeing things, but I know that she misses the fellowship that she used to have with everyone at the church. She kept repeating over and over how much she appreciated us coming. It was definately my pleasure and honor to visit with such a lovely saint in His army.

By the frail appearance of her physical body, I am not sure I will see this sweet lady again this side of Heaven. But one thing I look forward to is her smile and hug and welcoming me to join her for some fellowship!

till later,
Jackie

Jane...speechless??

2011-06-29T12:35:00.001-07:00

I don't think I have ever seen my friend, and sister in Christ, ever be speechless. But I know that it happened...well at least once...a long, long time ago!

The year was 1993. Americans had been coming since 1991, and the local people were interpreting for them. (mostly teachers of English)There were two teachers who worked in the same school and one was doing some interpreting. She invited the other to do the same. The invitation was to work during the summer, while they were off, make some money, practice English, get a foot in the door to interpret...you get the picture.

The second teacher was very unsure of the situation and had to be persuaded. Finally, she agreed to do it, and THE DAY had arrived. The Americans would be arriving on the train, the interpreters were to meet them at the station, get their assigned person, and spend time with them before they began their "real" job on Monday.

There was a list of names, it stated the name and indicated a little about the person who was coming, so they tried to match up similar people with similar interests, etc. They had no idea of who the American person was...just a name on a list.

When the train arrived, the second teacher froze. Her voice would not come out. She was introduced to "her" American...and she was frozen!

Sally Clark, meet your interpreter, Jane Ostrovevgenia. Thus began a life long friendship. Since that "chance" name on a list the miles between the two have not stopped them from being friends. Sally Clark, Engish teacher in America, met Jane, English teacher in Ukraine.

That long week end before they began their job together "defrosted" Jane's voice. (trust me, Jane never looked back!) The miles between them have enriched their love for each other and for the Lord. Sally has been to Ukraine numerous times, and Jane has spent time in the States with Sally. What a beautiful friendship.

It would be a wonderful story if that were the end of it...but there is more. Jane's family background comes straight out of the old Soviet system of atheism. Sally wanted a good friend, and interpreter, but what she got as a bonus, was a new sister in Christ.

Early on the morning of July 15, 1995, Jane took a trip down to the Dneper River ans was baptized into Christ. Her mother was against it, but Jane knew what she needed to do, and at 6:30 a.m. she became not only Sally's friend, but her sister as well.

That other teacher? Rita Girenko, of course. (who was baptized in 1992, one year after her husband Andrew)

now you know the rest of the story,
Jackie

Monday, Monday...

2011-06-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

Monday, Monday....what a day this has started out to be. The morning started out overcast, with huge gray clouds that I could just barely see out the large picture size window from my bed on the couch. I thought about just covering my head and not getting up at all!

Next! So if I was going to HAVE to get up anyway, I might as well get up with a good attitude. Getting showered, getting my clothes together and finding all of the stuff that I didn't want to have to come back and get was fairly easy. It was cool, but not cold, and the rain had stopped completely.

Of course, Mother Jane was not satisfied with the thought that the rain had stopped, perhaps I might get a chill and would need a jacket...or it might start to rain again?? I replied that I didn't have a jacket or an umbrella so...of course you know that was not good enough for Mama J! She found a light jacket in her wardrobe and brought it to me. I looked at it...it looked vaguely familiar...it WAS my jacket from last year...you know KW, the one I have been looking for ALL year?? There it was...provided by God for just such a purpose as was needed now!

Well, I must add, the wind was considerably cooler when I stepped out of the flat, and it DID look like rain might start again any time. I was grateful for the added protection of a hood.

As we walked away from the building it began to rain. By the time we were around the corner on the street where we catch vans it was pouring! Needless to say, my little light jacket was not holding up under the downpour.

It didn't take me long to suggest that we not walk the mile to Larissa and Dima's house but instead take a taxi. We only had to wait a few minutes for one to arrive, and were able to wait under a tent outside the Pizza Cafe.

Arriving at Dima's and Larissa's house I got a VERY pleasant surprise. Masha had come for the long weekend from Kiev. She had heard that I would be here and found a train ticket to see her family. I am so glad she did!

We had a very good lunch of grilled meat, potatoes, salad and bread. They also have a mulberry tree near their front door and we had fresh mulberries from it as well as fresh apricots from their tree in the back yard.

Now when I say they have a mulberry tree, you have to understand it is obviously a Mutant Mulberry Variety! I am not kidding when I say those berries were 1 - 2 inches in size! They are HUGE...and SO sweet...wow! I think the purple fingers are SO worth the taste of the berries! I took a picture of them so I DO have proof of how humongous these things are!

After a long visit after lunch, they had to go and do some planning on the repair of their kitchen. I hated to go, but we all had things to do.

Jane wasn't home, so Rita dropped me off at my place and went on to her home. I just stayed in the flat and rested. I am exhausted from getting up and going from 9 a.m. till 9 p.m. I was ready to prop my feet up and relax. No Rita...no Jane...no tv...no cat...well the cat was still here...but nothing else. It was very calming!

So...ready for another full day on Tuesday!

till later,
Jackie

Do you remember "Garbage Pail Kids"?

2011-06-26T13:36:00.000-07:00

I remember those horrible tacky cards from when my boys were little. They were gross, slimy cards that you could trade for other gross, slimy cards that depicted little children in oozing, awful pails filled with garbage of one sort or the other.

Today, I want to tell you a tale about a real-life garbage pail kid.

When Sergei (not his real name) was born his mother threw him in the garbage. A baby...tossed aside like trash...laying amongst the filth and "unwanteds" that people throw away in every day life. His tiny cry was heard by a Good Samaritan, and he was retrieved from that filth pit. He was taken to the hospital where he would await a parent or relative to come and identify him and sign papers concerning him.

It was surmised which family he belonged to by neighbors. Unwed pregnant woman is no longer pregnant and has no baby. When she is confronted with the information, she admits that the baby was hers, and agrees to accept him as hers and fill out papers on him. (now he can have an identification attached to his birth)

Now, before you go postal on his mother, please consider the other side of the coin for a moment.

Unwed, under educated, poor, no support, no father willing to participate, overwhelmed, depressed...living in Ukraine. A country not famous for its care of the very young and the very old.

Should she have thrown away her child like last weeks left over lunch? Literally in a filthy, bug infested, heap of garbage? NO, again I will say NO!

What would you have her do? I'm not sure of all of her circumstances...I don't even know her name! I do have a bit of compassion for a lost soul who has found herself in a place with no apparent options. Having found myself, in the past, in situations that did not seem to have any good solutions I cry for her. I had family...church...social systems and mental health facilities...health care...friends...many, many things that she did not have available to her. But most of all...I had a knowledge of a loving God and Savior. I KNEW where I could turn when all else failed!

But that is not the end of the story. Sergei has a story much like Joseph, in the Bible. He was hated and "thrown away" by his brothers. He lived away from his "real" family, he was imprisoned at no fault of his own...he came to rely on a King (Pharoah), and was reunited with his family. Joseph's trials in life had a purpose, one that prepared him for a better life to come.

Sergei's trials also have a purpose. That little boy, the "garbage pail kid", got a second chance.

Because he was thrown away...he was found.
Because he was found...he was eventually moved to a Baby House.
Because he was moved to a Baby House...he came into contact with some Christians.
Because he came into contact with some Christians...he learned about Jesus.
Because he learned about Jesus...he shared Him with his birth mother.

Yes, that little boy who started out life as a "garbage pail kid" is teaching his birth mother about Jesus every time he sees her. He shares stories told to him by the church people who visit the orphanage where he now lives.

I wish I could tell you that his mother is now a believer, and can take him home, and that they will live happily ever after! But this isn't a fairy tale. It's real life.

His mother has married and now has another child that the couple are raising. They see Sergei on holidays and some weekends.

He is still at the orphanage. He still sees the church people. He is still telling his mother about Jesus.

This sweet little boy started his life out under dire circumstances. Yet, the King of Kings has taken those circumstances and given not only the boy, but his mother, a chance to feast at the table, and live with Him forever.

till later,
Jackie

It's Tuesday, this must be Ladies Bible Class day!

2011-06-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

It is Tuesday, so I felt right at home having Ladies Bible Class. We started off with about 6 or 7 ladies, and ended up with 13. I was so thrilled to have a table full of ladies that wanted to study and be together. We had a time of fellowship and study. It was in I Timothy (some of you ladies may be feeling a little dejavu about now) where Paul is telling Timothy that he is the worst among sinners.

Our point of the lesson was to encourage each other with the thought that if Paul could be forgiven, and he was the chief among sinners, than so could I. And that God would be glorified in the process.

During the lesson two different ladies were standing out to me. One is a struggling alcoholic who is barely sober, and the other was a young mother, who just had "that look" in her eyes.

The question was posed to them all "What are you thankful that God has done for you?". They were asked to answer it specifically, no "God" or "Jesus" answers that we get in VBS would be accepted. I wanted them to THINK about it and answer specifically.

The young mother had a teary look early in the lesson, but answered right away. The other lady passed her turn and wanted to answer a little later. Knowing her history a little, I knew that she was struggling with sobriety during adversity. The question came back to her and she admitted that she was thankful that God saved her "after all that she had done to herself with her bad decisions".

After a little more class time, and much discussion, I think that this lady finally understood, that no matter WHO you are, you have made bad decisions in your life. And that sometimes thru no fault of you own, think of Job here, bad things just happen. And that it doesn't matter which place you are in...you SHOULD be grateful to God for saving you!

I think I saw a little light go on behind her eyes. "Maybe...just maybe...I am worthy of Jesus saving blood". Not because of who I am, but because of Who He is! I hope that light stays on...it will make sobriety a tinsy, tiny bit easier.

The young mother caught me in the kitchen after class was over. She explained that she knew I gave that lesson specifically for her. She told me of the previous two days...very HARD days...and how the Word of God spoke to her and she was encouraged by being in class! She could do whatever it took to keep going.

THAT is why I come here...that is why I can't NOT come here!!

till later,
Jackie

Raisa

2011-06-23T05:51:00.000-07:00

I had the pleasure of visiting with Raisa on Tuesday. She is such a delightful little lady. Rita called and asked her when a good time to visit would be, and that I wanted to take her to lunch as a treat. She insisted that we visit at her place first. She wanted to show me some remodeling/repairing that she had done to her place, and I was very happy to oblige.

Her home is really a duplex, with her side being the larger of the two. It is brick exterior with a corrugated tin roof. She has put up a pre-fab concrete fence between her yard and the neighbors because that lady has gone to live with her daughter and only drunks, addicts, and homeless people bother to go there now. She was fearful of them trampling her flowers and garden, and just hanging around her door...so...the fence made for "good neighbors".

She has a beautiful garden filled with roses, mint, vegetables, and other plants too numerous to name. There is a quaint brick pathway from her door to the back of the garden where there is a wild patch of Siberian strawberries. It was my first experience with "Siberian" strawberries and I was very interested in how they looked and tasted. They are much smaller than any other strawberry I have ever seen, but they are very sweet, and quite tasty. She bent down and picked me two handfuls of them and I devoured them right there. She said a woman visited one time and just threw out a handful of seeds and because of the remarkable soil in Ukraine, they grew there and have been coming up every year since.

She proudly showed off the new wall paper in her bedroom and in the living area. The paper in the bedroom features a large panel with a forest scene which is hung behind where her bed sits. In the living space, there is a very pale green paper on the ceiling and on all of the walls. The ceiling has a leaf-like pattern where on the walls there is more of a striped, almost bamboo look. (if I am remembering correctly) A border very near the top of the VERY tall ceilings brings the two patterns together. A very soothing color and quite compatible look. It reminds me of my Grandma Martin's rooms in her old farm house near Temple, TX. A very airy and comfortalbe feel. It brought back such sweet memories of my families visits when she lived on that farm...hmmmnnnnh!

She is 66, but has been living with a disability for awhile. She doesn't walk very fast, but she does walk long distances considering her condition. We took off to find a suitable site for lunch, and she kept suggesting small coffee/cafe type places that don't really serve a meal, just maybe a sandwhich or something very light. I wanted to take her to a real "sit down and look at the menu" kind of place. I know on her limited income she does not/would not go to a place like that. SOOOO....

We ended up at a German/Italian/Russian restaurant in a shopping mall, on the third floor. It was very pretty, and not too expensive. During the course of the meal, she told about the first time she went to a restaurant. I was trying to understand, "you mean the first time last week" or the "first time last month"...NO...the first time EVER to go to a restaurant! She explained the very first time she had ever been to a restaurant was when she was 50 years old. I did not stutter...50 years old. My children and grandchildren had probably been fifty times by the time they were 3 years old...or maybe even TWO years old! Wow! Her first time was on a holiday for disabled people, a restaurant gave them (7 people) a free meal.

Raisa remembered that day as a very important day in her life. She even remembered what she had to eat! Now, sitting right next to me, she was so excited to look at the menu and realize she could order what she wanted to eat, not what someone ordered for her. The choices were hard, but she finally ordered a salad (which we all shared), a soup (hot, and thin...not creamy "which isn't really soup"), and a pasta type dish with meat. She ate her dish, the rest of the salad, some of my meat dish, and some dessert. Smiling all the while.

When the dessert that we all three shared turned out to be too much for us to finish, she asked what would happen to it. Rita told her she could take it home, she was so surprised! I told her "Either we are taking this home or we are going to sit here until we are hungry again, because this is too good to throw away!". It was some kind of "Kaiser-strudel", made like sopapilla's only with egg as a main ingredient! De-lish!!

As we said our goodbyes and watched her walk away thru the buildings near the the mall, Rita told me a little about her. This was only her third time in her life to eat at a restaurant. The first, on her 50th birthday, the second, when the ladies held a Ladies Day and went out (as a treat from OUR Ladies Bible Class) two or three years ago, and the third, again, as a treat from our Ladies Bible Class.

Thank you, ladies, you will never know the joy you gave this one sweet little lady! I appreciate the honor of "making her day" that you have allowed me to do.

till later,
Jackie

Shop till you drop

2011-06-21T23:01:00.000-07:00

They have a store here, Metro, that is much like a Sam's Warehouse in the States. We went there to shop after our visit with the boys on Monday. It is a very nice place, but you have to navigate it much like Sam's (without the free samples!)There is much to see and not a lot of time to get it all in.

We had a list from the Baby House and the Dawn orphanage. It was fun trying to find the correct sizes of shoes and socks and underwear. The task made more difficult by the fact that we were trying to find them in different colors or styles as well. We managed to find as much as possible in different styles.

You would think that the older teenage girls would ask for pretty shirts or hats, make-up, maybe hair stuff. You would be wrong.

They asked for body soap, shaving cream and razors, personal hygiene products, shampoo, and toilet paper. Basic essentials. That's all. They said they didn't want anything else.

Things that make you go "hmmmm".

till later,
Jackie

An Armenian Holiday

2011-06-21T22:36:00.000-07:00

What a delightful day Monday was. It started out with a very pleasant visit with Valia. She is an excellent English teacher and has many pupils. Two of those pupils are David and Robert. They are from an Armenian family who live here. (their mother is Ukrainian) They obviously are from a family with more means than most here. The boys both enjoy Karate and Judo and have been to competitions in the States more than once. They were very proud to show me their many trophies and medals.

They were just as eager to show me the books that they had been reading, in English. There was quite an assortment. They reminded me of my twin grandsons. Each trying to talk over the other, and one finishing the sentences of the other when the right English words would not come.

We spoke of how sports can build in them the character that God would want them to have. Good sportsmanship, fairness, compassion, team work. They were very attentive and very polite. They even did a small "show" letting us see their abilities.

Their mother prepared a delicious meal for us, an unexpected pleasure for me. She understands some English and was anxious for us to converse in English as much as possible. They are very open to talking about God and the Bible. Valia gave them an English Childrens Bible which they love to read out of.

When we were leaving, I gave them a craft to make later (thank you Miss Sally), and offered them two pencils. They very politely took one pencil and then said that they should leave the others for other children who might need one.

Yes, sir, very polite and good young men.

till later,
Jackie

I have to tell you about Kate...

2011-06-19T13:50:00.000-07:00

Katya, or Kate in English, is one of the children I remember from way back when. She stuck out in my mind for the first time when she was probably 4 or 5 years old. She is currently 15 or 16. A beautiful and talented young lady.

Kate was playing, shirtless, in the play area outside of the orphanage. She was dirty, as only little kids get after a long day in the yard, and full of spunk. I had Barbie-like dolls that I gave all of the girls, and matchbox cars and trucks for the boys. I looked over and saw her with tears running down her face. I quickly wanted to know what was the matter. The interpreters were embarrassed and didn't want to tell me the problem.

I insisted! They finally told me that Kate was unhappy with her toy. She didn't play with....dolls....she wanted a machina like the boys were playing with. The interpreters thought she was being ungrateful...I thought she was being a tom boy! Of course we immediately exchanged the toys! I wish you could have seen her eyes light up! I told her, and her friends that story today. She shrugged her shoulders and admitted that she much prefered being outside with trucks and balls and dirt. She doesn't look much like a tom boy any more...more like an exotic model!

Kate is not only beautiful, she is a talented artist. The thank you card on the bulletin board is one of her works of art. She has been working on a 'surprise' for me for quite awhile. Rita told me she was really looking forward to giving it to me. When I arrived at her group, she was excited to show me. She had hand painted two glasses with traditional Ukrainian folk art. They are really pretty, ask me, I'll be glad to show them to you!

Kate has grown from a disgruntled and hurting little girl, into quite the together young woman! I don't know where her art will take her, but I know she has a way to support herself when she graduates in two years.

By the way, Fayrene, she proudly showed me something that I gave to her last year. It was one of your bracelets. She had very carefully wrapped it up and kept it in her room. Thank you for loving my girls!

till later,
Jackie

I remember you!?!

2011-06-19T13:34:00.000-07:00

We have been going to the Dawn orphanage for several years now. Many of the children I remember from when they were very little. Peter, Katya, Nastiya...so many more faces that I cannot put a name to at this moment. They know me, and long for my visit as I long to visit them.

We will be helping them get ready for their summer visit to the Forest. They need hats, flip-flops, bags, toothbrushes, socks, underwear, t-shirts....

We will do what we can do! I want to thank Meadow View for their overwhelming support! Because of you (including the youth group t-shirt donation thanks Dennis)I am going to have to buy only one t-shirt! The kids loved them, and really needed them! Thank you for those who donated toothbrushes and toothpaste! They were so excited to get new items so they could get rid of the old brushes! It was fun to watch the "lottery" to get a tshirt. We drew numbers for who went first...you could see that sometimes someone picked a shirt that someone else was looking at...but NO one fussed or pouted about not getting their first choice. I thank my t-shirt lady who faithfully gives me t-shirts several times during the year (you know who you are and so does God!) The kids LOVED them!

We took several pictures of the groups and got a wish list for camp. I don't know how much we will be able to fulfill, but they are truly grateful for any and all help they recieve. It appears that this year their funds are even more limited than usual. And they have some governmental rules that dictate what they have to have in order to go to camp. (one being hats, which the girls refuse to wear) It makes it easy to buy the cheapest hat we can find, since they more than likely won't wear it. Maybe the boys will take it later and wear it when theirs wear out.

We have a lot of shopping to do, and I know we will have to visit many places to get the necessities before they leave. I am SO grateful for the support that I recieve from those that love the Lord, me, and my kids! Thank you!!

till later,
Jackie

Today is the day that the Lord has made...

2011-06-19T13:19:00.000-07:00

What a beautiful day it started out to be! The weather is cool, the clouds are keeping the sun from burning us to a crisp...I have on a light weight cool skirt...the van comes very quickly...it is not too full...I am going to worship with my brothers and sisters in Christ...what more could you ask??

The van ride was quick and not too crowded. We arrived at Kirova street and bought some cherries for the children to have at snack time. I didn't know what to expect from the class, maybe one, maybe none, maybe...We actually ended up having four. The youngest was 13 months old, the oldest 11. Quite a range to teach, but we did okay.

Julianna, Vlad and Tanya's 3 year old daughter is VERY shy. She has just started to keep her eyes open when she encounters strangers. Now she just turns her head and refuses to look at you. Before she would stand with her eyes closed untill the person left or her parents came and removed her from the situation. She is just as cute as a button, looks like a small fairy with very delicat features. Very tiny hands and delicate facial features. A sweet smile. All in all a beautiful little girl! She is not rude about it, she just won't look at you. Perhaps if she cannot see YOU, YOU cannot see her!

We drew different body parts (hands, feet, eyes, etc.) and talked about the most important one. We decided that they were all important and needed each other in order for the body to function...much like the church...all members are equally important and need each other to function!

After first singing together as a congregation we dismissed to childrens classes. After about 45 minutes we gathered back together to participate in the Lord's Supper. Then again we dismissed for children's classes. We made our lesson point, did our craft and ate our snack.

By the end of class, Julianna was looking at me and participating with the others. I am determined that she will like me by the end of my time here...I only have a few more days so I better get cracking!

After services were over, Dennis, Marina, Rita and I went to eat at the Poisatta Hhatta (phonetically written). It is a Ukrainian Luby's. Decent food at a decent price.

After lunch we will go the the Dawn orphanage and visit those children.

till later,
Jackie

YeeeHaaaa! A real live Ukrainian Rodeo!!

2011-06-19T12:43:00.000-07:00

For those of you who have never been to a real Texas (or American in general) rodeo you don't know what you're missing! They are a lot of fun and have a lot of dangerous stuff in them! Bulls...broncs...overpriced corny dogs!

Well, I tell you for sure, I didn't know what to expect when Rita and Jane told me they were taking me to a Ukrainian rodeo. I wasn't disappointed at all...but it wasn't a THING like the "World Famous Mesquite Rodeo" that I am used to.

In fact, they could really call it the Cossack Horse Theatre. The show was a very good display of horsemanship. They rode standing up, over the neck, over the back, on two and even three horses at one time. They did flips and twists and ran past and picked up hats and various things from the ground while riding at full speed...and in full Cossack costume! It was very exciting and I enjoyed it a great deal. I think my three friends, Rita, Jane, and Oxsana had as much fun watching me as I did watching the horses. (I couldn't help but think how much my grandchildren would have LOVED this show, and the ride around at the end!)

The show was held in a Cossack Village (a very good re-creation of an authentic village) with the arena (a long rectangular strip) being on one side of the village. I guess a better word would have been Cossack Fortress rather than village! Inside they had a fair going on with artisans showing their wares for sale. (it is much like Scarborough Faire, in Waxahachie, TX, with many hand crafted items that were really unique) Of course I did really enjoy the shopping, too.

We tried some traditional Ukrainian food while at the fair. It was porridge called "coulish", sort of like oatmeal. It looked like instant oatmeal...not bad...but I didn't want seconds.

Rita used every opportunity to tell them I was from Texas, and to show them my "real" Texas cowboy boots. They were very nice to me and I took many pictures. I'm not sure if I am going to share the one of me riding the horse. Rita insisted that I MUST ride the horse...being from Texas and all...even though it has been YEARS since I rode anything with four legs...and I WAS in a skirt (a very long one, Rick, not to worry)...it all turned out okay...but there was that moment when I was attempting to mount that extremely TALL horse that I had my doubts!

Rita tried to get me on Ukrainian television. They were doing a story on the pottery fair and she thought I would make a better story...being from Texas and all...with my real cowboy boots...needless to say...they didn't. They DID say, if I could throw a pot they would do a story with me in it!! Whew!! Snatched from the precipe of disaster!

While in Zhaparozia (sp??), we also got to tour the Cossack Fortress that was built for a historical movie (that used famous actors I have never heard of...). It was really quite cool. It overlooked the Dneper River where the Cossacks watched from their fortress island to make sure the Turks did not get into Ukraine and other parts of Russia. A very interesting history.

Fact: Do you know why the Cossacks shaved their heads except for that one lump of hair (usually a pigtail type of lump)? They wanted to differintiate themselves from their enemies so that in the heat of battle they could recognize their own warriors (other enemies apparently had completely shaved heads or long hair).

There was a sketch artist there who "secretly" sketched people in the crowd, then gave them a "free gift", and he usually only charged 50 greivna, and you didn't HAVE to pay a poor starving artist any money...

I knew he was going to draw someone, Rita tried to get him to do me, he said that he NEVER drew woman because they didn't like the results (looked too much like they really looked). I laughed and said I wasn't that picky. Well, to make a long story short...he broke his "never draw woman" rule and did my sketch. I thought it looked just like me, but Rita said there was a reason he didn't draw woman and he should stick to his rule! Oiy Vey!

After an extremely long day traveling (about 2 1/2 to 3 hours), and an extremely hot day 51 degrees C, and long walks on not very good trails to get to the fortress, etc. we left for home. I enjoyed myself so much, good company and good food but was very ready to get home and rest. When we got home I took a short nap (woke up at 9 p.m.) and was ready for bed at 10 p.m.! I showered and got in bed! Never did a bed feel better than that one did!

Tomorrow...Sunday worship day!

till then,
Jackie

What's for breakfast? Gizzards, of course!

2011-06-17T13:00:00.000-07:00

Yes, that's right, gizzards. They are SO delicious! Jane remembered how much I love gizzards, so she bought some and fixed them for me...for breakfast! With buckwheat, tomatoes, and cucumers! Yummy! Her buckwheat is better than some others I have tasted, and it is better with meat! Jane is doing her best to keep me healthy so I am getting whole grains (buckwheat) and lots of veggies (tomatoes and cucumbers) and fresh bread! And to top it off with GIZZARDS....couldn't get any better! BTH she boils them and then pan fries them with onions and fresh garlic. YUMMO!!

I forgot to tell you something very funny that happened when I was having lunch with Natasha. We went to an Italian place so I kind of knew the food would be pasta and pizza. How can you mess that up?

Well...I looked at the pictures...and looked again...was that French Fries on that pizza? Or broccoli? That couldn't be catsup and corn, could it? Yep...fries, broccoli (plus green beans and corn), and catsup (yuck) with corn...wow...I had to take a picture, I just didn't think anyone would believe it if I just told them!

I can't wait for all of the culinary surprises that will come from the Rodeo tomorrow! I will let you know...

until then,
Jackie

To Cool for School...

2011-06-17T12:34:00.000-07:00

I have to say...Jane did it!

See Jane? See Jane put new A/C in her flat? Clap Jane, clap!

See Jackie? See Jackie sit under A/C? Cool off, Jackie, cool off!!

While I was away shopping for the Baby House with Rita, Jane had some men come in and put in A/C. It is a very small unit that sits on the wall and has an exterior system to vent out the heat. (I guess, since I am definately NO a/c expert!!) It is very effecient and wonderful to use! One problem!!!! Jane doesn't want me to get too close to the breeze because it is "dangerous". I've tried to explain to her many times, that I live in TEXAS, and it gets HOT in TEXAS! I promise I will be okay if it blows directly on me! I don't think she is convinced! I'll keep trying!

We bought diapers, hand soap, dish soap, and little books for Hospital #1 where Tamara is the Head Nurse. We actually took a taxi to the Left Bank to deliver it since the bag was so heavy. Very fast taxi ride, and it would have been a change of transportation and a long wait for a taxi-van other wise. So the trip was easy.

When we got there, we discovered that they are remodeling and had a fence up where we normally get in, so we had to circle around to find the entrance. Tamara was so happy to see us. We also brought a little cake for the nursing staff since this weekend is "health care appreciation" days. I hope they enjoy it.

They have several orphans there right now. A couple are Down's Syndrome and the parents have signed papers for them to be adopted, or cannot yet be located to sign the papers. There are at least two whose parents don't want them, but on the other hand, don't want them adopted out either. That is very strange to me. Let someone adopt if they want a child, especially if you DON'T want them. One is a very cute little girl, her mother comes by occasionionally to "check up" on the staff to see if they are "treating her right". She does not want the responsibility...but cannot relinguish her rights?? I have a heavy heart for that sweet little girl! The other is a boy whose parents don't want him but just don't sign the papers. That puts him at a severe disadvantage. He will sit in the hospital for up to 2 years...waiting... Doesn't seem fair!

We also had a chance to visit with some other children while we were there. One young man, Slavic, did not want anything we had to offer...not books, bananas, stickers...until Rita brought out the pipe cleaners! His head went up, he moved closer to the other little boy...you could see in his eyes...WOW...what is THAT?? He took some extras back to his room to play with. I told him we would be back in a day or so and bring balls and stuff to play with...all I got was a negative shrug...not interested. Guess I will have to bring back more pipe cleaners!

Also had the wonderful opportunity to have lunch and visit with Natasha. What a sweet mother she is. We had some time to talk about so many things...her 4 year old twin girls are visiting their Grandma...I know the feeling...it was a good lunch and an even better visit.

After finishing a long lunch and fellowship, we had to go to the prayer meeting they were having at the church building. It was very nice. Six people were in attendance. Max came after wards and needed to talk to Dennis Knight, former missionary to the congregation. He and Ludmilla, his wife, will be going out of town Sunday until the 27th of July. I hope to see them there Sunday morning.

Came on home after the meeting and stopped by Daffy to get some things, then walked on to the flat. Guess what? Jane turned the a/c on for me!! HOORAY! Although I would have been just fine without it!!

Tomorrow we are going to the Ukrainian Rodeo...although it might just be the "Horse Theatre"...it has been called both! Whichever, I am looking forward to being there!

I will let you know how it goes, and if I can get pictures, and IF I can figure out how to post them here, you will all see the rodeo, too.

till later,
Jackie

Greetings from Rita...

2011-06-16T12:13:00.000-07:00

When we arrived in Ukraine, our plane was full, we deboarded along with another plane full of people. It looked like a leming race for the cliffs to get indoors! We had to ride the approximately 300 feet to the airport. Usually we have to fill out some kind of entrance paper with an address of the person we are going to stay with while in country. That rule has apparantly changed this year. So I didn't look for my address while I waited in the line. After about 30 minutes it was my turn to get my passport checked.

That was when I got the "blessing and curse" put on me. The lady that was looking at my passport was friendly. Karye, she actually SMILED at me! (that is the blessing BTW) But then she asked for the dreaded address. (another blessing...she spoke a few words of English) Of course, by then, every memory I had of where I had put it had VANISHED! I fumbled and twisted thru my bag...three times... before I found it! Meanwhile, the two guys waiting directly behind me were OUT of patience! But, all is well and I found the right documents and was on my way!

Now to find the luggage, again, thank you prayer warriors, it was all intact and undamaged. Of course, no one offered to help me drag it off of the carasel or thru to the luggage scanner. I bet I looked like a circus clown trying to perform in all three rings at the circus!

THEN...another blessing!! Just as I got all four bags thru the scanner, the official left. I looked around, everyone else was going on thru...and then I saw Rita thru the doors. "Should I come on thru?", of course she looked around at everyone else and said "of course!!"

Can you believe it?? Not one question on any of my bags!! Thank you Father!

It started to rain that cooled things off, and Sasha (who owns a private car) took me home from the airport to Jane's flat. It felt SO good to be "home". Just coming into the flat and re-introducing my self to Boyna, the cat, and finding my bed, the couch, and hugging my sisters! That is what the sweet life is all about!

Another day of adventure in Ukraine must come to an end. I ate a light supper, and REALLY tried to stay up till dark, and snoozed on the couch. Jane finally woke me up to shower and go back to bed. (We did manage to go thru the bags and quickly organize them for tomorrow)

till next blog,
Jackie

The Adventure Begins...2011

2011-06-16T11:38:00.000-07:00

What a day...I was so nervous that I would miss the plane due to traffic or some other disaster that I could not foresee... Well, it didn't happen! The traffic was horrific, but, we got to drive in the HOV lane and so missed most of it! Rick took me to the airport and saw that I got off properly. And after a marathon event with Karen Withrow, the night before, I needed taking care of!

We got it all in 2 bags that weighed in at 49.5 lbs, and one that weighed in at 44 lbs. But it was harem-scarem getting last minute details together! I realized, at 11:15 p.m. that the "secure place" I stored my money in...still had my money in it! And I had to make a quick, very apologetic call, to the Safemeister and he let me come over and retrieve it, even though by then it was 11:30 p.m.!! Thank you for your indulgence!

I bought peanut butter for my interpreters...and I don't remember where I put it, but it did not make it into the suitcases...sorry Rita and Jane! But that was really the only casualties I can think of with the luggage!

There was, however, a small casuality at the airport...but let me start with the beginning. I have to say, "thank you, God" for the fastest track time EVER in getting through security! I am not exagerating, I don't think it took more than 10 minutes to get through. Maybe a little less!! I could not believe it! I had more than enough time to get to my gate and eat a quick breakfast. Step one:Excellent

After boarding the plane...well let me just say...it took a down hill turn! My seat was kind of whomper jawed and I reached back to pull it forward for takeoff.

You know, after they give the instructions that EVERYONE'S seat should be sitting up and the tray tables should be "upright and locked into position". Wellllll...the lady behind me had a drink that landed on the floor when I pulled the tray table and not my seat! I'm just saying...if she had been following directions it would not have been a cold and slushy mess on the floor! Of course I apologized...again and again! I'm not sure that made her feel any better!

After a plain-Jane trip to D.C. I managed to get to my next gate in plenty of time. I did make the shuttle and it left on time...whoohoo...and some of you know what happened next...

Yes, Rick, I found a guy on that shuttle that I had a slight, and I do mean slight, connection to. I grew up in Arlington, TX and he had lived there as well. I asked where? He said right off of 360. I said how far off of 360? Of course it ended up that we were less than 3 miles from each other. He knew quite a few old time Arlington hang outs. It was funny talking to someone from my old home town!

I only had a slight glitch at the Austrian Air gate. They didn't have a record of me in their computer. Of course, I just happened to have written down a confirmation number...still no luck...then I found the old ticket from DFW to IAD and it had some kind of number on it that they used to "find" me. Thank you prayer warriors! Thank you, Father!

Since I was not in the system, I got the seat that was available...yeah...you guessed it. The one next to the galley...and the restrooms! The "gentle" sound of flushing accompanied my sweet dreams! But even from the flushing, God gave me a blessing! (The seat I got was actually second from the galley) I was able to move to my final seat, next to the galley, and I shared the row with a very nice gentleman. Who just happened to be going to Ukraine. He was going to Odessa, several hours from me, and he was going to minister to orphans there. We were able to have some very good conversations over the trip!

We exchanged emails at the airport and hopefully we can talk again. He said he would like for me to come, or at least phone, some of his congregation about ministering to orphans in Ukraine. You know me...I would love to share the adventure with more people!

The trip to Dnepropetrovsk was even more uneventful. The plane was full, but it was a great flight. The only problem I had was keeping my head up long enough to read the book I brought! I kept waking myself up when my chin would hit my chest! Ready for Rita and Jane, ready for Ukraine, and ready for a NAP!!

Will tell you about my next day in another post!

Jackie

It's a new day...

2010-06-26T07:59:00.000-07:00

2010 will be another wonderful year! I am making plans to return to my second home, my country by choice and not birth. Just the anticipation of seeing old friends, making new friends, walking the streets of Dnepropetrosk...it all makes the butterflies in my stomach come to life!

This year will be very different for me as well. In 2009 I lost some who were very dear to me. My beloved Father "Big Bill" passed away in July from complications of dementia and a broken hip...in November my brother, by choice not birth, Gary Hutcheson passed away from an aneurysm. Gary and I traveled to Ukraine many times, he was more than a friend to me. He encouraged my love of mission work, he mentored me in the culture of Ukraine, he made me laugh often and out loud. He was the brother I never had, I loved him and will miss him more than I can say. 2010 did not start out much better. I lost a beloved brother in Christ, Ben Andersen, to cancer. His wife, Sharon, is one of my best friends, Ben was my husband Rick's best friend. I will miss the family vacations together, the "Andersen fix" on the weekends, the camping, the instant computer fix, all of the things that he and his wife and children mean to me. Sharon, Regan and Bennett are still a huge part of my life and we will miss Ben SO dearly! Words cannot express the depth of loss I feel! It will hit me again when I return from Ukraine and Ben is not there to meet me and eat at Macaroni Grill together...Sharon...we will do it together and honor his memory with much love and laughter.

I am also going with a team of people this year. Some of the Mission Committee from Bentonville, AR will be there at the same time. I am not sure, as of today, what the travel plans will be, but I believe that we will go thru Moscow this year. SOOOO...that will be another adventure as well. I am so looking forward to going with Steve, Cathy, and Glenn. I know that the Lord will bless the work that is to be done while we are there. I am SO looking forward to seeing my sisters Rita and Jane and Tanya and all of the other brothers and sisters at the church there....I can hardly wait.

I will blog again as the plans gel and I know more about who/what/where/when and how!

Jackie

Saturday is a good day to SHOP...

2009-09-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

Got up this morning to oatmeal! I love oatmeal! Other mornings I have had fish, various "porridge" dishes, borscht (soup), cutlets (chicken fried steak-ish)...I can't remember what all else. Jane doesn't think any one over 30 should drink milk...so we don't have cereal...and I'm not sure I would drink milk over here so it is really a mute point any way. Any ways...(a Karye-ism) I enjoyed the oatmeal.

Rita came at 10:30 and we started our day. I had to pick up a few more things for my family, some things for the hospital, and some stuff for the orphanage. So we had a full day of shopping to do! Everything was available and we got it all done.

While we were downtown I saw a wonderful sight. It is the "closing" of the season for motorcycles this weekend. There was a parade, of sorts, of bikes thru out the town. We were down town and they stopped traffic for 20 minutes. I saw one biker "explain", after getting off of his bike, just why it was that the guys car could not join in the line of bikes! It was very cool! There were all kinds from Harley's to scooters! I laughed and waved at them all!

After we left downtown, we had a few more stops then headed for the orphanage. We spent some time with the girls doing crafts and sharing. They did some stuff for me that I am really proud to show you all when I get home. I know that you will be just as impressed as I was! Afterwards, stopped off at Rita's place. Then home later!

It is late and I have to get back to my flat! I love you so very much.

Jackie

School days...

2009-09-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

Today is a school day and we are going to join Tanya at her school. I have gone to her before and her students are delightful.

We will be there at 11 and it will be great...

We had 3 classes, and the day ended at 2:10. It was very good. The children are sweet and I learned all of their names. Some classes were 13 or 14 or 15 kids. They were attentive and I had several teachers join us for class. It is interesting the differences in our teaching philosophies. What a difference a country makes! The teachers are glad to have the opportunities to see different things, and I am glad to learn from them as well.

They are all required to work on their classrooms, and I do mean WORK. They have to do all of the painting, repairing, etc. or it doesn't get done! I bet all of you US teachers are giving a great big "whewh" (or however you spell that) about YOUR fixing up your classrooms!

I was able to give Tanya a little "teacher pack" thanks to so many of you supporting me. She does not have the financial means to take care of all the things that she needs to have a smooth running class room, so you all took a little of the burden off of her, thank you.

I got to walk home by myself today and let my self in my flat. It was very nice to have some quiet time to myself as well. Jane is such a sweet sister, and I love her. You heard a "but" didn't you?

She is like living with your mother/grandmother/big sister all rolled into one. She worries about my getting "hungry" (have any of you EVER heard about ME letting myself get "hungry"?) She doesn't want me to drink cold things, she doesn't want me to get in a draft, she wants me to eat things that are best not mentioned! She has a crazy cat that she feeds by hand...and who LOVES me...stop laughing Rick...so any way...it is nice to be home by myself...just me and the cat!

We are going to Natasha's house later to work with her on pre-school stuff. She and Rita will be teaching the childrens classes later on this year and they are getting their stuff together to do that.

They live on the Left Bank, and it is more difficult to get to them. Natasha and Sasha have twin girls who are 2. She is contemplating home schooling them as well. We were able to share a couple of hours about teaching methods, Love And Logic, and general classroom and home discipline approaches. She is so quiet and reserved I hope I didn't permanently scar her! I can be a little intense about subjects I feel such passion for! They fed us dinner and later we shared tea together. It was a very pleasant evening. We left about 9:30 p.m. and were home around 10:00.

As we got off the van we saw several motorcycles at a nearby place. We went over to see them and ask questions. There were a mix of bikes, but several Harley's. My son, Wil, loves to ride Harley's so I got my picture with one of the bikers. I am glad to be home and I am glad that it is Friday! I can sleep in at least until 8:30 in the morning!

love you much,
Jackie

I'm disappointed, but leaning not on my own understanding...

2009-09-05T10:16:00.000-07:00

We got back to hear that the school principal had cancelled our plans to visit one of the schools. I was very disappointed, but, this is Ukraine and they have their own way about things. It was a good time to regroup and rest after the train ride home.

I had some time to shop for items that were asked for, and we would have Ladies Class that night, too. I actually got to go to the class by my self today. I let Rita, my interpreter go home. She was tired and there was a couple of hours before class...I assured her that I would be fine by myself...

When it was time to leave the flat, Jayne was not home yet, so I just left. I knew my van number was 53...I just walked out to the street and stuck out my hand when 53 came by...just like a regular Ukrainian...I got on...paid my fair and sat right behind the driver. I couldn't remember the name of my stop, so I would have to be VERY close in order to stop him in time for me to get off.

When it was my time to say "stop bajshalsta" some one else needed off at the same stop so I didn't have to say anything! I was a little relieved, I'm not sure my Russian is enough to get him to stop! (but probably I could have communicated "I'm getting off of this van right here!")

Our class was very good. We had 17 ladies attend, and we shared laughs, tears, and stories as well as tea. I do love these ladies SO! We got out of class and on our way home around 8-ish. The trip home was an adventure...you knew it would be!

Rita, Tanya and I walked some of the older ladies to the van stop and then rode with them to their stops. They were hilarious. I picture Jackie, Karen, Sharon, Kathy and Elise doing much the same. There were loud discussions, opinions, and scolding each other on "correct" ways. Old Helen is so much like a Russian Jackie I have to laugh. She is teasing, laughing, acting crazy, and just a hoot! I laughed at their antics and thought of my sisters at home...I hope we still love each other this much when we get old...older!

Helen is in her late seventies, Antanina is also, Nadeshda is 86! 86! She still uses public transportation, does her own shopping, and goes everywhere by herself! She is something else! When she goes to heaven I'm gonna miss her a lot!

Got to go for now...I'm thinking of all my sisters right now...ALL of you!

love you much,
Jackie

Sophia is beautiful...

2009-09-05T09:57:00.000-07:00

The park is very beautiful. Our hotel is across the street from it and there is a very nice restaurant in the hotel.

There was an adventure getting to the hotel...you didn't think there wouldn't be did you? We got off the train very early and asked about the transportation to the park. The bus we were shown was right there so we hopped on. Rita asked a couple of times if we were on our way to the park and was told "sure". When we arrived at the gate, it was the gate on the opposite end of where we were staying and then we had to find transportation to the actual gate where we were going to stay. Of course there was only a taxi from where we were. But, we got there and started thru the checking in process.

You have to understand, this hotel did not have a check in desk brimming with employees or guests...we had to hunt to find it on the second floor. They said that we could not check in for several more hours because other people would have to leave and then we could check in. What other people? We didn't really see many other people, but, we went to eat at the restaurant and waited. One person checked out that I could see, and shortly after, we were allowed to go into our room. In fact, we were allowed to see three different rooms to see which one we wanted. Go figure!

Our room is very lovely, it has two rooms and a nice bathroom. Bathrooms have become something of interest to me. Some are MUCH better than others! I knew that it was going to be okay when I saw how nice our bathroom was! We cleaned up a little bit and were ready to visit the park.

Wouldn't you know it...the first day of school coincided with our visit. That is the one day of the year that the children get in free! So we shared our nice quiet park with about 300 school children. They were dressed in school uniforms like I have never seen before. They looked a little like French Maid Costumes at Halloween. The girls all had dark dresses (VERY short), white aprons, white knee high socks, and HIGH heels. Oh, and on their heads were these ENORMOUS white pom pom like bows. I couldn't help but giggle every time I saw a young girl (14 - 18) looking like a Halloween party. They were looking at my outfit as if it was weird, and I was thinking the same thing about them!

Our trip back home was much more pleasant. We shared a compartment with a lady my age who was very sweet. We had a lunch packed and read some while we traveled. Our cab driver, on the way to the train station, gave us the grand tour of the town. He said that we would be way too early for the train and that we should see some sights while we had a chance. He didn't even charge us for the extra tour. The bathroom wasn't any better, but the trip didn't seem so bad going home.

I enjoyed the park, we got to see the tomb of a Hasidic Jewish guy who attracts thousands of visitors each year, and we got the grand tour of the town as well. The evenings were quiet, the weather was fabulous, the park was beautiful...God is good!

We returned to Dneper to a torential down pour. I was glad that Jayne told me to pack an umbrella. Sasha picked us up at 4:30 a.m. and we went home to rest.

I am glad I had a day of rest in a beautiful place.

I love you all,
Jackie

I rode "the bull" for the full 8 seconds

2009-09-05T09:37:00.000-07:00

A Ukrainian train is like no other...Picture yourself back in the late forties or early fifties...in Russia...got it?? Now you can see what kind of train we were on. It is not a bad ride if you like Six Flags a lot...just kidding. The ride on the train from Dneper to Uman was much like taking a bus from Dallas to El Paso. You will certainly stop at every place that has more than one house standing close together. We stopped so often I wasn't sure that we would make it before it was time for us to come home!

You have to understand the train system here as well. You buy a place to sleep in a compartment that sleeps four. It really doesn't matter to them WHICH four are sleeping together. We were joined by a young man who looked like he was in his late 20's or early 30's. It was very hard to even think about sleeping with him in the same room with us...(stop laughing Ben Andersen)...so we neither one got very much sleep.

The ride was very much like a bad ride at 6 Flags. Every time they came to a stop...which was VERY often...you were jerked forward and then backward. If you had been asleep before, you weren't now. Also, several of the stops were at actual train stations and the loud speaker squawking out unintelligable Russian was very hard to sleep thru, if by chance, the kleig lights didn't wake you. The other stops were so fast I'm not sure that I could have gotten up the steps and into the train before it took off again.

As for the bathroom...

I'm not sure there are words that would describe that experience. Anyone from the old school Casa View may remember the Express Bus. It had a place in the very back next to the emergency exit that served the same purpose. Using that facility was like riding a bull, thus the name "the Bull". Well...I tell you what...give me the old Express! This Ukrainian version is something else!

You have to make sure that you roll up your pants before you go in because there is usually water standing on the floor. And if there is toilet paper it is more like the cheapest version of paper towel available. Then...IF you can stand, there is a stainless steel potty that smells like...you don't really want to know the answer to that! All the while rolling down the tracks, so you are in a Port-a-potty on wheels and the driver is drunk! It sways and jerks so much that they have a grab bar so that you won't fall down. Of course when I am finished I can't make the sink water work at all so my hands are...you don't really want to know the answer to THAT one either! It is an exciting adventure to try and hit the right place while swaying and twisting and trying to hold your breath! You ladies know exactly what I'm talking about. Rita, I might add MUCH after the fact, told me you are supposed to put on foot on the toilet seat, one foot on the ground, and hold to the grab bar with one hand. (the other one is up in the air rodeo style I am sure) It apparantly gives you a sense of stability or something! Next time I'm on a Ukrainian train I'll try it!

Just wanted you to have something to be thankful for today!

love you much,
Jackie

Monday, Monday...

2009-09-03T04:13:00.001-07:00

This morning we got an early start and it was a good thing! One of the girls from the Dawn who has finished school and is now looking for work hooked us up with her boyfriend. He has a small car and we needed immediate and reliable transportation for this day to work.

Julia gladly asked Sasha for his help and he was very gracious to help us. We had to go to the Metro (Ukraines version of Sam's Club)and purchase some diapers, soap, socks, and a small washing machine for the boys to use on socks and underwear. They are not very good at making sure everything is cleaned just so...girls I think are much better at that! Anyway, it was a small washer, much like a bucket that has an agitater in it! (any of you trying to make any analogies about agitation should just STOP right now!!)

Any way...we bought the things that we needed and added them to some things we already had for the girls and went over to the Dawn right away. We had some school supplies, and some craft stuff for their pictures, and some time to visit with them. It was a good time for me. They are so much like American teens...and in such a difficult situation...they are so unlike American teens! Some days I am amazed at their tenacity in the face of all they encounter!

After the Dawn, we made it across to the Left Bank and saw Tamara, the head nurse, from Hospital #5. We were able to supply them with soap, paper towels (they have new, much needed, sanitation rules)to replace their cloth towels, and diapers. We have more things that we have to add to their list before I go, but that will come another day. She was so glad to see us and it was a time to renew an old friendship.

After the hospital, thank you to Sasha, we had to a chance to visit the Baby House. (at the hospital, the babies were sleepinh, but we did get a few pictures, they were asleep at the Baby House as well)We got to talk to the nurses because the babies were sleeping. It was a time to share why I do the things that I do, and some differences from US. One baby, Artiom (Tom), woke up and entertained us all for awhile. Rita went to the principle and tried to get the necessary papers...of course she was not available today so Rita will have to go another day. This is Ukraine and things do not hardly ever go as planned.

We did manage to get all three things I wanted to do today DONE...but...I would have liked to have held the babies...done more with the girls...I guess I just have to be happy with what IS and not fret over what IS NOT!

We were taken to the train by Sasha later in the evening. I am ready to have a day of rest and a visit to Sophia Park.

I love you all very much...
Jackie

I'm baaaaccckkk....

2009-09-03T04:11:00.001-07:00

I have been out of contact for a couple of days so I know that you are all anxiously awaiting the return of "the blog"...

Well...maybe you want to read about some things going on here! So, I will post blogs according to the day they happened...keep reading....

love you all!

This is the day that the Lord has made...

2009-08-30T09:22:00.001-07:00

This morning was glorius. The sun was shining, the breeze was gentle, and we found a van very quickly when we got to the street. Our trip to the church building was quick and uneventful.

After we arrived, the morning class was held by Max and it was SO good. He talked about light and darkness, good and evil. It was very encouraging and was well recieved by all. The second hour there were zero children so we stayed in worship service. A young student from Sunset in Donetsk taught during worship. He was very good as well. It was the most pleasant, peaceful worship service. I felt the presence of the Lord...I know that it was a prayed for service...and it made a difference.

After the service, they had some business to accomplish. Last Sunday it became a shouting match, so I was a little apprehensive about today...again...a prayed for time...it was so smooth that it lasted only ten minutes and the business was finished. There were some differences of opinion, but they were settled like brothers and sisters should! It was a cause for me to say, again, "Thank You Lord".

Afterwards, Max had agreed to speak with me. He was in last weeks meeting and I didn't know quite what to expect from our time together. AGAIN...a prayed for moment...it was so reasonable, so calm, so loving, so respectful...our differing opinions were not so different. We just loved each other, listened to each other, and tried very hard to communicate with each other. It was a blessing. I think that I surprised him, and I know that he surprised me. We left with good feelings about the progress on understanding each other.

Lunch with Rita, Julia, Natasha (mother of twin girls)went very well. The company was good and the food was great as well. I left there in time to Skype the church. I was able to catch Dennis on his cell, and I hope that he was able to announce to the congregation the progress that is being made here. I also hope that he was able to tell you just how important your prayers are!

I only know of 3 people who are "following" my blog, so I am not sure how many of you are even getting these notes, but I love you all, and I hope to blog again soon.

Tomorrow we will visit three places, then we will go to Sophia Park and rest for two days. I am looking forward to that. When I get back, we will hit the schools, the hospital, Baby House, and the Dawn again. I will work until I start home on Monday. This week will be full, and I will out of touch for 3 days, so KEEP ME IN YOUR PRAYERS! I love you all...

Jackie

Second Saturday...and all is well...

2009-08-30T09:01:00.000-07:00

This morning I spent resting, then Rita and I went downtown and shopped for my family gifts. It was a very relaxed morning. In the afternoon I met with Nastya, the young woman who teaches the ladies class here. We met at a coffee shop and had a very good conversation over tea and coffee.

She is a delightful young woman and we had a lot to talk about. She is currently one of the ladies who believe that you should cover your head in worship or prayer. We had a very good conversation about the trials that are currently going on at this congregation, and also a deep discussion on I Cor. 11. She is not in favor of "requiring" it of all ladies, but she does think it is necessary for her. We spent about 2 1/2 hours all together discussing the subject of submission, Men's Council, head covering, teaching ladies, etc. I think it was productive and we left after a prayer together.

We left that meeting to go greet Vasily's family. He is the young man who is being home schooled here, I mentioned him last year. He is so talented, and his English has improved 100% from last year. He is delightful, although a tad rude, and I enjoyed this visit very much. He videoed us singing a duet from My Fair Lady, Wouldn't It Be Loverly, so there is no telling...I may be a UTube star by the time I get home!!

His father came home before we left and we had a good discussion over tea. He is a very interesting person to talk to. He lived during the Cold War (he is in his 60's) so he has a very different and REAL perspective on things. By the time we left, I was getting very hungry.

We stopped off a TGIFridays for some soup, they sent me a complimentary sample of quacamole. They had listened to my complaint about it from a day ago, and had fixed the problem. The sample was...well...YOU know it wasn't as good as mine...but it was decent!

I had a great discussion with Rita before we left. We shared together for about 2 hours what the Word has to say about relationships. It was intense, but we SO love each other that we can say hard things to each other and it not hurt our ability to share! I really appreciate that about her!

It was late when I got home and I was ready for bed when I realized that I hadn't made any arrangements for Sunday morning to Skype the congregation. So I got on the cell phone I have here and tried to call several people. Some of you have the feature where you don't accept "unknown" numbers...you know who you are...so my call to you did NOT go thru! Others of you were BUSY on Saturday...what...you didn't expect a call from Ukraine?? I called Sharon Andersen on her cell and there was no answer. Then I called several others with no one at home. When I made a last attempt to reach Sharon the phone was answered.

When I heard the sound of preaching on the phone I said "I know where you guys are..." and I almost hung up! They were at Stream listening to Jeff Walling! (I am still jealous by the way)That is when I heard a very small voice say "who is this?", I, of course, answered "it's me, Jackie". Sharon thought maybe I was in trouble so she went out of the service to answer my call. (By the way, I apologize for the interuption of your sermon) She was glad to hear that I was doing okay, just needed some information!

When I finally got off the phone with her, it was very late here, after midnight and I was once again ready for bed! Tomorrow would be another day!

I love you all...
Jackie

Shopping is not all it's cracked up to be....

2009-08-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

We went to the Dawn today and took the girls shopping with us. We had already been to shop for the things that they needed, but there was some personal things that they wanted to pick out themselves.

So we went to several places to buy them bags for school. They had a "budget" ant had to stay under that amount. It was...fun...as much fun as taking 8 teen girls to the "mall" can be! I was ready long before they were to go!

We stopped on the way home and bought tomatoes...they were fab! So supper was tomatoes and some other stuff...not nearly as important as tomatoes! (the soup was delicious as well!)

Then to the Pizza Guy to skype and talk to you on the blog...but it is late and I must go home!

I love you all SO much...keep praying...
Jackie

Medicine Ukrainian style...

2009-08-28T11:20:00.000-07:00

Well...I have not been feeling well and Jayne, my hostess, has brought in one of her doctor friends. I am not sure about her techniques...but I don't think that it will hurt me...

She has some little electrodes that are put on the sick area (for instance your throat) she lets them give "information" to the machine...then the machine (with the electrodes hanging over the water) put that information in the water in a jar...

I took some antibiotics...and her treatment...we shall see.

We went to the cemetary where Diana Knight is buried. It was an eye opener about the difference in our cultures. They have benches and tables there so you can eat and visit you relatives on holidays. The time is also spent taking care of the ground around your loved one because there are no grounds keepers, etc. Restland it is NOT! We stood around and sang some songs and remembered her life, then we went back home. I have some pictures that I will share later.

Went home and crashed! I am very tired so rested the afternoon. In fact that is when the doctor showed up to treat me. We will have Ladies Class tonight so I want to be extra ready...

The ladies class went well we had about 15 in attendance and everyone was glad to see each other. We had class, then ate some sweets that Old Helen fixed for us...they were scrumptious! Then had some juice and water to drink. It was a pretty good class.

Home and then back to bed. Next day will be busy!

love you much,
Jackie

Wednesday...all ready been gone a week!

2009-08-28T11:05:00.000-07:00

I am enjoying my time here so much. I remember just how much I love this city, and these people when I am walking their streets and greeting them at their homes and at the church building! I do miss my brothers and sisters at home...and know that I will be on my way home very soon!

We went to the Dawn orphanage and saw the girls today. I also saw the boys teacher for just a few minutes. They are feeling much neglected because we are working with the girls so much. The boys have presented problems in the past with terrible behavior problems...so that precluded me from helping them much. Now maybe I can restore that relationship with them??

Anywho...we saw the girls and took lots of pictures and visited with them. They are growing up SO much...soon they will be young woman! There are 19 girls on their floor, 9 of them are in the older group. That is less than before, so I will have a few bracelets left over, Fayrene, but they will be put to use for birthdays and Christmas presents.

We got a list of things that they need from the teacher and we will go shopping for those items later. (probably tomorrow)There is such great need here, some days I feel like a very small fly on a huge wall...how can I make any difference? Then I think about the young ladies that I have watched grow up and make it...and then I think even that small fly is irritating to someone!

After visiting the orphanage, we went to TGIFridays for dinner. Rita doesn't work there at the moment (due to not enough customers) but they know me from last year and were glad to see me. I must say, they have a "chips and salsa" on the menu that is fair...but their guacamole...well...I KNOW what it is supposed to taste like...and that AIN'T it! It was left untouched and they gave me some more salsa (Rick, I know, I know...it's just tomato sauce to you!)instead of the quac. I was happy to have some more sauce...I mean salsa to eat.

I began to feel not right as we were eating. I was a little feverish and my throat and ears started hurting. When I got home I went right to bed and started some antibiotics that I had been given by my doctor. I don't want this to get a hold of me and get me down while I am here. In the States I would tough it out with o.t.c. medicines...but here...not taking any chances!

Tomorrow...we'll see how it goes!

love you guys a lot,
Jackie

2009-08-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

Helen out does herself again....

2009-08-26T02:36:00.000-07:00

Jayne, my flat mate, went to the hospital for "treatments" of some kind so we went there to meet her and pick her up. I took some pictures of the adult hospital. It is quite different from home. I will try and post pictures when I figure out how to do it!! We met Zoya and Raisa at the hospital and then after we picked her up we had to go to the Orthodox park.

Monday...still a holiday for Ukraine...we went with Zoya and Raisa to a park that has a beautiful Orthodox church, kiddy park, and zoo. It was such a treat for the ladies to get out and fellowship with other people. Here it is so difficult to go any where (because of the expense) and their flats are very small so they don't invite many people to come there, and eating out is not done (again because of expense)...so for me to invite them is a treat for them.

We enjoyed the walk, and the time to visit and encourage one another. It was interesting to the whole group the way things are at this church. It is a beautiful day, there is a place to see a little zoo, there is a spot for the children to play, there are many trees (like a small forest) surrounding the area, places to picnic, and NO way to see the inside of the church. No one was there, and they are only open on Saturday and Sunday, and then sometimes you can have certain types of services if you pay. It was interesting.

While there, we met, and were able to greet, Oxsana, Galina, Ira (Galina's daughter from London), and their friend Marina. I usually pay to stay at Galina's flat but this year her daughter is here for a visit. It was a very good visit, and we also had a chance to talk about God, the church, His creation, and relations between people of different cultures. It seems to me that the Ukrainians are surprised to hear me say that I love this country! You all know that I DO! But I think it surprises them.

After the park we went downtown to a mall and developed the pictures I took that day. The ladies do not get a chance to have pictures of themselves so that was a treat for them. They are thrilled to get copies, so I make sure I go to some place that developes fairly quickly. It is a little cheaper here, but not much.

On Tuesday we went to Helen's house and had lunch. I brought the pictures from before and gave them to the ladies that came. There were several of the older ladies who never get to go any where who were there. A different Zoya came, Tanya, and Raisa, and Lydia also was there. Helen used to cook for the president of Ukraine several years ago...she can still cook like she did before!

We took more pictures, ate some incredible food, and had a deep time of discussion. There was a lot about forgiveness, mercy, and grace. Also, the important part the ladies play in the goings on of the church. It was an emotional, but necessary discussion. Again, I am drained from some of the discussion, but know that it will be okay...you are praying!

On Wednesday we will to the Dawn orphanage. We will take packets of school supplies and visit with the girls. I will write you again soon...you KNOW that I love you!

Jackie

Sunday...once again

2009-08-26T02:29:00.001-07:00

I told you I was BAD at this...Sunday was erased! So here goes...Sunday again!

After the meeting on Saturday I did not teach the childrens class in the morning, instead I was in the adult worship. Vadim preached and he was VERY good. His smile and gentle way with God's Word were so encouraging and loving. He will make a great preacher where ever he decides to work, hopefully here at Dneper.

After worship the men called for a meeting to discuss some items that needed to be addressed. It was much like one of our town hall meetings on health care...there were heated exchanges and much was loudly discussed. There were those who were quieter than others, and some made no comments at all...

After THAT meeting was over, I was asked to come and meet with the Men's Council by myself. It was a difficult meeting as well. It ended at 4:00 p.m. and its conclusion was that I would be allowed to teach the ladies two times and have one children's class on Saturday only. The hospital and orphanage were different and I could, of course, go to them when ever I chose.

Thank you to those who were praying and still are praying for me!

The rest of the evening is discribed in the Saturday post.

Much love to you all...

Jackie

Wow...am I EVER bad at this!!!

2009-08-26T02:23:00.002-07:00

I must tell you, I am not very good at this blog yet...it has been a year since I tried it and I am SO rusty!

Saturday is wrong...I put the events of Sunday afternoon on Saturdays post...then I ooops and could not get it to say that I had messed up Saturdays post and you would have to read the end of Saturdays post to know what really happened on SUNDAY evening!!! WOW! I am going to try once again to get it straight!!

Saturday night we just went home and to bed after eating soup for dinner...on Sunday we did all of the events listed on Saturday nights post...

NOW, is that clear as MUD!

The next post will be better...you know that I love you guys...right??

Jackie

2009-08-26T02:23:00.001-07:00

Saturday...

2009-08-26T01:54:00.000-07:00

Getting to rest, although it was a jet lagged rest at best, was very nice. Saturday morning was unpacking and getting ready to see the children's teacher, Marina, and work with her some. Then Vadim, the new preacher candidate, wanted a short meeting.

We got to the building and went over some lesson plans, gave some goodies to the teachers, and went over some teaching methods and just visited about the students who were coming to the church, etc. Then, Vadim came about an hour later and we met together as well.

That was quite a meeting. We did not leave until after 8:00 p.m. (almost 9:00 in fact) and the meeting started around 2:30 or so. There was much that needed to be discussed, and it was a very difficult and emotionally draining meeting. BUT...I got thru it, thanks to much prayer, and we left on very good terms.

Afterwards, Rita, Tanya, Ira (her daughter), went to eat dinner and then visit the park. We actually stayed across the street from the park and people watched from our table. We drank tea, laughed, fellowshipped, and encouraged one another in the Lord. It turned out to be a Hookah (I hope that I spelled that right) Bar (not an alcoholic bar, but they did serve some drinks there). The restaraunt served food, sweets, tea, coffee, some alcohol, and allowed people to smoke hookah pipes. It was interesting to see how "cool" people sat around and destroyed their lungs all the while laughing, talking, and looking "very cool". I was very glad to not be one of the "cool" ones, and we actually got to sit where we were not affected by the smoke but got a great view of Chevshinko Park. It is delightful.

This weekend is a holiday weekend. Ukrainian Independence Day (from the Soviet Republics, not USSR) so a lot of people were on holiday and walking in the park and going to the Dneper river and swimming, etc. The streets, parks, and mall areas were full of people. It was a lot of fun.

Not too late...we returned home and was I ever ready for BED. I was glad for the opportunity to visit with Ira and her mother, they are delightful sisters in the Lord and are in much need of encouragement. Ira lives about 2 1/2 hours away and came in for the holiday and will be back next weekend to worship with us again.

The next day will be the Lord's day...a time for renewing old friendships and making new ones as well! Good bye for now...much love from me

Jackie
p.s. my blood sugar is a little high, but I am working on it!

We begin again....

2009-08-24T10:43:00.000-07:00

Well it looks as if I am starting over!!! I am in Ukraine and it is beautiful! The weather is perfect...a cool 25 - 27 degrees centigrade! You will have to figure that out for yourselves because I can't remember how to do it!

It seems that I have "lost" the first account with blogspot and I am now in google blogger or something or other....aggghhhh! You know how I LOVE to have to push more than a couple of buttons in order to get some place...stop laughing Sharon, Rick, and Ben! Any way...I hope to have this address to Rick so he can get it on the list at church.

The beginning of the trip was a little adventurous...what do you expect, Lucy is going to Ukraine and left Ricky at home!! I was dropped off at the correct gate, but the gate number on the departure area had a different place. SOOOOO....I walked about 10 gates to the end to be told I was in the wrong terminal....SOOOOO...I got on the little shuttle thing at the airport and rode to "B" from "E". After getting to "E" I found my gate and waited....for an hour....only to discover after a friendly conversation with the lady next to me that SHE was going to Reagan and I was going to Dulles on the same plane! It doesn't usually work that way...SOOOOO...I found a friendly airline person who informed me that I should be in terminal "E" not "B". By this time it was nearly time to board my flight for D.C. I was only a little worried about catching my flight. SOOOO....I raced down stairs and across to the little shuttle thing again and rode BACK to "E" in order to catch my flight. When I arrived at the terminal I was directed to the very gate I had walked into after the security check! I finally got some answers when I talked to one of the "little old people with cowboy hats" who are ambassadors for guests. She asked if my airline was United...of course you know it was...and she said they only have four gates so their flights don't show up on the regular signs, but only on the one right in front of their gate. SOOO...when I was thinking I was looking at United Airlines I was actually looking at U.S. Airways!

After that the trip was a breeze! They were calling for the boarding of the flight when I rushed up so I wasn't late, but rather just on time! The flight wasn't full so there was plenty of room, and the construction phase at Dulles was completed so the exchange there was perfect as well. When we got on the international flight, it wasn't full either. That put a spare seat between me and the gentleman next to me! WOW...what a difference a seat makes! The little kid behind me was bareable and the movie was stupid...but other than that...it was great!

At Vienna, the flight was on time and not full...food was inedible, but other than that....it was fabulous!

And now, what you've all been waiting for......(drum roll)....the arrival and customs at Dnepropetrovsk!!

A gentleman on the flight helped me fill out the newest form for Ukraine so it was correct and all four of the bags arrived on time (I had to check my carry on in D.C.) so I was anxiously awaiting the customs guys. I know you will believe what happened next because you have ALL been praying for a great trip. I walked over to the customs area and they didn't want me to stop at all...they just waved me thru...I held up 4 fingers and they just waved me thru again. So I pointed to the doors and they waved me to go there and then come back.

ALL FOUR BAGS WENT THRU WITH OUT ONE OF THEM BEING OPEN ED OR QUESTIONED!!!! There is a first time for everything!

Of course my dear sweet sisters Rita, Marina and Jayne met me at the airport and took me home! I have to go for now (computer battery is down and the time is late) so I will write again tomorrow.

KNOW that I love you all!
Jackie