Porky neck meat...and other such stuff

It is always interesting to read menus that are translated from another language into English. I'm not always sure what it is I am ordering, so I try my best to figure it out ahead of time so I am not surprised when I get something completely different than what I anticipated getting! On Wednesday morning we had ladies class. There were 12 women who came to class including me. I was expecting around 4-6, so it was a very pleasant surprise for there to be 11! Our youngest was 18, and it went up in age into the 80's. The group was diverse in age and in circumstance, but all had the same desire to study God's word together. The lesson text was from Psalm 23, in English, and Psalm 22 in Russian. Don't ask. I don't know which Psalm got left out or was "out of order" according to the English translation. We worked it out! The first time, several years ago, the class was very confused when I started reading in 23 and they couldn't find any of the same verses. Now, I am used to it. Maybe I will ask Sasha where the change came from. The story in Psalm 23/22 is about how much the Lord cares for His people, all people, in every situation. Whether in Texas or Ukraine, we all have similar problems and are cared for by Him. Even though our countries are so different, our ladies were very much the same. The lesson brought smiles and tears. It is hard to understand a "caring" God when you are personally in such pain over loss or hardships! At least two of the woman have lost husbands, and sons. Why? One has a daughter in prison. Why? Many of them were widows, many are in situations where their grown children are back at home and without jobs. Why? Some are helping raise grandchildren. Why? Some of them have grandchildren that abused them. Why? We expect to live our lives...raise our kids...keep serving God...and for good things to come to us because we serve God. Then REAL life happens! Job losses...loss of a beloved spouse...loss of a child or grandchild...loss of our home...government changes that are not the best...wars...corruption...inflation...low wages... Does it rain only on the good? How can that criminal continue to prosper all the while the believer lives in desperate situations? It isn't fair that I should lose my husband AND my son! It isn't fair... One answer from a sweet, godly lady, Raisa said it all. We have trials because we live in a fallen world. I have no answers...I just continue to have faith in the One who created the world and will one day take me home to live with Him forever. It was a good lesson and much more was discussed and thought about...then...we had a wonderful chance to just fellowship over a meal! This is where Porky neck meat comes in...I know you were wondering! We went to Melrose to enjoy a luncheon together. It is an American style cafe that also serves Italian, Japanese, and Mexican (fairly decent I might add) food. It also has a nice "Happy Hour" where they are happy to give the lunch bunch a 25% discount on food and beverages. You know me...I'm all about the coupon or % off on a meal...so it was very nice. I ordered a Louisiana Salad, I was expecting spicy but it isn't, so I am not sure why "Louisiana" is in the name. The ladies ordered what ever they wanted to eat, drink and have for dessert. It was a joy watching them look, talk about, change their mind about, and finally decide what they wanted to eat. Some of the items were listed as "Texas" steaks. I was tempted, but resisted the temptation and ordered salad. One of the items was "Porky neck meat" and the picture looked like a piece of meat, assumed it was pork, but I was looking for the "neck" part. (think chicken or turkey neck meat) Rita ordered it so I was glad to get to look at it and taste it. It was actually very tasty! We sat and visited and we had to discuss what everyone got to eat and if it was what they really wanted or not... We also got to discuss that "Jackie isn't eating enough" and "Jackie needs more rest"! What would I do if I didn't have all of my sweet sisters taking such good care of me! I am grateful to God that you are all my sisters, and that you care for me SO much! Next time...I think I'm gonna order the Porky neck meat myself!

The Kissy Lady

Awwwhhh...sweet Antonina! You are so dear to me, and I grieve for you this day, and many others to come as well. I walked over to your flat this afternoon and had a chance to visit with you for about an hour. It was lovely seeing your sweet face, even with the grief etched so deeply around your mouth, and your smile just not quite making it to your eyes. You have greeted me with lipsticky kisses and that joyous look of surprise that said "You made it again?" for so many years. I've come to expect it, to need it, to cherish it. Today, I saw pain and fear engraved on your sweet face. Pain at the loss of your son...fear of what the future holds. I cannot change either of those circumstances for you, but I know the Father loves you very much and holds you in His hand! At almost 85, the loss of your 64 year old son came as quite a blow. The stroke that eventually took his life, changed yours forever. He lived with you after losing his wife, he helped you, was a companion to you, and took such great care of you. Your grief stricken cries were not missed by the Father or by those that love you. I know you will "make it", I know you will "be all right", I know you will be able to "take care of yourself"...I just hate that you will be doing it without him. Death is cruel, but you are strong. You have the Lord walking with you! Don't give up...don't despair...hold tight to His hand and to those in the church. Be strong enough to tell someone what you really need...let them help you! I will be here for a bit, and I will do my best to give you comfort and to listen every time you want to tell and retell his story. It is what I can do. Tell me again, about your son. Tell me until you don't need to tell his story any more.

Siberia

For the time being I am staying at the church with the lovely young couple who are working at this church. Sasha preaches and his sweet wife teaches at the school here, and takes care of all the goings on in the church. She prepares snacks, and cleans, and helps teach the children on Sunday...and does all the "preacher wife" stuff. (all of you married to preachers know just how much work this is!) We were sitting at breakfast Sunday morning talking around the table. He had dropped by McDonalds for an earlier breakfast and was sitting with us talking as Helen and I ate our breakfast. He brought us breakfast sandwiches, not McMuffins, but more like a Sausage Biscuit but with "salad" on it. I don't know for sure, but I don't think any of our breakfast sandwiches have lettuce and tomato on them. You can correct me if I'm wrong, but I've never seen it. Now, you might ask what Siberia and McDonalds have in common, I will be glad to tell you. I was making the point to him that breakfast was basically the only thing I ate at McD's, I just don't care much for their menu. He was telling me the differences in US menu and Ukraine menu. As he was going thru the list, he mentioned fish nuggets. I'm not really a fan of any kind of fish from McD's but nuggets sounds like fried bread with fish parts to me! As the conversation went on, he said he really didn't care for fish too much. They lived in Siberia for two years and he ate a lot of fish....a LOT of fish. As he was talking about fish I thought about Bubba Gump...smoked fish...pickled fish...fried fish...baked fish...grilled fish...FISH. It was what they had plenty of and in the winter, pretty much all they had. His telling of the hardship there...negative 73 degrees celsius in the winter...ummmhhhh...NO! I'm just saying...that is NOT where this Texas chic wants to be in winter! And the mode of transportation to get there...looooooonnnnngggggg train ride, then a bus or van then on to a motorcycle with a DIY side car because there were no longer roads of any kind. Wow. His father wanting to be with the family and eventually wanting to share the Gospel with them. His family came from a Jehovah Witness background. When they actually looked at scripture, from watching TV preachers, they realized that some of the stuff they believed wasn't in the Bible, so they started searching for themselves. They went thru several denominations and ended up at the church of Christ. His father didn't force him to convert, just answered his questions for a long time. Because his father worked odd and plentiful hours, they communicated by him writing questions and his father answering them. Eventually, Sasha obeyed the Gospel. His father now preaches here in Ukraine, and Sasha went on to preach himself. I hope I got all the details correct, it is a fascinating story. Sasha ended up at Sunset here in Ukraine following a pretty young girl named Helen! Now, you may be wondering what McD's, fish nuggets, and Siberia have to do with each other. Funny you should ask! Because of Siberia, he doesn't like fish, McD's has fish nuggets that he likes, I commented "why do you like fish nuggets from McD's if you don't like fish?". "Because they don't taste like fish." There you have it, if you don't really like fish...go ahead and try the fish nuggets 'cause they don't taste like fish any way!

Adventure 2016

What a fabulous opportunity to work in Ukraine again. Due to some personal circumstances I was not able to go last year, I was doing what I was supposed to be doing...but it didn't feel like it! I missed the brothers and sisters here and I just love coming here...so...long story short...I'm Baaack!!! After not a lot of sleep last night...I made it through...in between a "passport don't know where you are", and getting all five bags packed....and getting through Chicago...ughhhh...airport...I wish you could see the sentences I am erasing because I am TOO stinking tired! I may have to do it all over again! I'm gone girls...too tired!! See you in the morning...much loves!

Try this Again!

I have to tell you that I began this blog on Friday evening shortly after I arrived in Dneper. It was right about time for me to go to bed. I started this journey with a little over 2 hours sleep on Thursday morning. I know, stupid! My mind would not shut down, and I could not sleep...so I was up till almost time to leave for the airport! I managed to carry 4 large bags...actually 2 footlocker like boxes, and two large suitcases. The weight limit is 50 lbs and everyone of them was over 49 lbs but not at 50 lbs. The porter, who was worth every penny that I tipped him, couldn't believe that not one bag was over, not even by percentage points of the 50 lbs! I will say, it was a good thing that they did not weigh my backpack! It was a least a hundred pounds by itself! I know...I carried the silly thing all the way! We got out of DFW pretty much on time. The security wasn't too bad, not like the almost strip search I had last time, and the lines were actually not too bad either. It did take me three little gray boxes to get all of the stuff thru the x-ray machine! The people behind me were rolling their eyes, and snorting little puffs of discontent with being behind me...it was not my fault that the airport had one x-ray machine down, and some of the slowest people I have ever been around doing the looky loo through the bags! I had the shoes off, the computer out, the CPAP machine pulled out, the liquids bag, the backpack, the roller carry on....the kitchen sink! We made it! The flight was easy, but Chicago is not my favorite airport. Have I said I don't like O'Hare yet? After arrival, I got conflicting details on where I had to go to get to the International Terminal...three times...by airport employees...some of them United Airlines people. Did I say I really, strongly, don't like O'Hare! A very nice passenger on his way to the remote parking terminal finally got me pointed in the right direction. I had to leave one terminal and go thru security...you heard me right...go thru security AGAIN!!! The water I bought at Terminal 1 was suddenly now a terrorist bomb liquid that would nuke half the city! So...I had to throw it away! Not really, I could have slurped it down in front of the TSA agent...but then I would have to go thru security...AGAIN! The cattle call to the airplane were about what I expected. Everyone was in a hurry, and wanted to be first in line. We made it...in spite of all the rude, ignorant people who actually ride on planes a lot! It's a plane ride people...the first hundred people in line Do.Not.Get.a toaster oven when they check in! The ride was smooth...terrible food...cramped space in the cattle call section of the plane...two good movies...good seat mates...what more could you ask? Well I can think of a couple...js! Falling asleep again so I must go for now! Love you all...see you when this adventure is over! when

Roma

My new little friend. His name is Roma. He is about 6 or 7 I suppose. Bright...creative...curious...a little unsure of this strange woman talking to him in a language he doesn't comprehend. At first, hiding behind his Mama. Peeking out of the crack between her arm and the side of her body. A shy smile...eye contact for just a brief moment. He has a toy car...he wants to show it off to me...but he is not quite sure about even acknowledging I even exist. When we sit down, I pat the spot between his mother and me. I give him a smile and make "big eyes" over his "machina". He decides I must be okay...maybe. He wants to draw...all of the Babushka's help him find some things to draw with. I give him my place mat to do his second Picasso on...wow...a masterpiece in the making. The gap between us is closing...very slowly. By the time I draw my rendition of a bird on his paper he is leaning against me. He is not sure about my bird, but he puts it in a tree he draws for his bird. (unfortunately the table busser is not a lover of the fine arts, especially the 7 year old kind, and unceremonially trashes our beloved artwork!) We begin to share wild stories. I ask him if there is a hippopotimus in his soup...neyet (no) with a look of contempt. I ask him how he knows, he didn't even look to see if there was one there! You know,of cours, he had to look! The answer was still the same...neyet! The story went back and forth as he ate his soup, and fries, and chocolate ice cream, and latte. It moved from the hippo to the crocodile. I assured him there was a crocodile (craw co dill) in his latte. Of course not...it couldn't be. That is when I pulled out all the stops...I drew a picture of a crocodile on the sugar packet that he had just torn open and poured into his latte. He laughed out loud and told his mother there was definately a crocodile in his latte because it had been in the sugar packet. His Babushka asked me how many grandchildren I had. I told her 5. She said to me, I knew it, you sound just like a grandmother to me. What a compliment! Thank you, Nadezhda, the same to you! The space between us is non-existant...Roma is almost in my lap...but it is time to go. Tears, hugs, promises to see each other next year. Hope and prayers for the future of this country, of these people. Rita and I walk towards our destination as they wait at the tram stop. I turn and wave...but he is absorbed in watching the busses, vans and trolley busses go by. After all...he is a 7 year old boy who loves big transportation!

To Get Away...just for a moment...

Can you imagine...just for a moment...that you are sharing your living space 24/7 with at least 4 people, but up to 30 people. Wait...it isn't your space...it is space "loaned" to you. You have no bedroom, no true living room. A kitchen with minimal amenities...you know...pots and pans, spices, a pantry, a refridgerator bigger than the one you used in college, stove, oven...you know the important stuff you need to feed your family. Your bedroom is a corner of the small room used for worship services, or the couch in the fellowship room, or perhaps you share the children's classroom (6' x 10' approximately) with another person. Your bed is a very small cot with a thin mattress or a pallet on the floor. There is a bathroom available, but no shower. The baptistry is the closest thing to a shower space you have. You totally depend on the kindness of strangers, well, not exactly complete strangers. You depend on the brothers and sisters who worship in this building for the place you lay your head at night. You are not home...you do not know for sure if you have a home to return to...you have no idea how long it will be before you can even attempt to see if your home is still standing, or if standing has every thing been stolen or vandalized. BUT...there are no riots in the streets...no t.v. cameras capturing the heart of war, umhhh, I mean the heart of conflict...there are not random gun shots...no hordes of people who used to live in peace with each other screaming horrible things, no shells exploding...no houses burning...no people bleeding in the street tossed about like rag dolls...no stench of fear, no fear of death at any moment. You've left your home, your beloved garden, your job, your school, your soccer field, your local grocer, your inside the home plants, your security, your bank account, nearly everything you own, and everything you once counted on as "normal" in your life. You are now a refugee. You don't want to be...you abhore that label...you are a hard working person...you don't depend on people to give you things...you have always taken care of yourself...you don't want or need pity...you don't want to depend on charity...you are a human being...you would like to live with a little dignity...you want to go home...like it was before... Something totally out of your control has changed your life forever. You left your home in fear, and maybe even in a panic. Decide...now...what is important...throw it in a bag and get out. This day has been coming for awhile, but you are not prepared. You always thought it wouldn't really come...not to your home! Not to YOUR family! Not to YOUR country! It has. So...you smile bravely...you keep your hands busy...you try not too think to much or you will cry and maybe never stop! You try and "make the best of it", your reassure the children it "won't be too much longer", you tell anyone that asks "I'm ok". I see your eyes, red rimmed, exhausted, fear filled...it is NOT ok...it may NOT be over soon...your best may NOT be good enough. This is where your faith kicks in big time. I trust you Jesus takes on a new, deeper meaning. You will get thru this, but it won't be easy or quick. You are not alone, God is walking by your side, the world wide church is praying for peace in this wonderfull country and they are sending support. Hold fast, don't give up! I got the blessing of sharing lunch today with 6 delightful people. My interpreter, the preachers wife, and four refugees, including one small boy, Roma. For just a moment, we were just woman chatting over lunch. Friends who are getting ready to say good bye after a short visit. What will we eat? Have you ever had French Onion Soup? What about tacos in Ukraine? Laughter...decisions...sharing photographs of children and grandchildren...Mimi and Babushka stories...quiet...no preparing food or being responsible for the clean up. "I am so glad I got to finally meet you, I've know your daughter for awhile"..."It seems like you just got here and now you are leaving"..."I always put the leaves from a cherry tree in my pickles, it makes them crunchy"..."I'll try that, I love crunchy pickles" Just woman...just sharing...just laughing...no war...no fear...no refugees...just sisters and friends. I would have paid double the price for the meal in order to get that look of quiet comfort and encouragement I saw in their eyes. Just for a moment...it was just friends sharing a meal. Thank you God for the moment.

A mother's heart is the same in Ukraine or in Texas...

I am the very proud mother of two sons who have both served their country in the United States Army. William, my oldest, joined right out of high school and served in the regular Army for 4 or 5 years, I can't remember. Joseph is currently serving in the Arny National Guard. He has been in a since the twins were fairly little (they are 8 now). When I hear of a young boy being killed, or see the bodies on the t.v. I can't help but remember my own two sons. I am proud of their service...I want them to serve...it is just the thought of long term injury or death that takes my breath away! I can't bear the thought... The Army here in Ukraine is...well it is...umhhh...it is Ukrainian. It will always bring to my mind how grateful I am that they served the US Army. As many things as there are to complain about...not one holds watr against the situation here. I can't even describe it. Today, we went to a city check point and delivered supplies to the soldiers there. Bsics: water, coffee, tea, cookies... The whole city is gathering together basic necessities for them, much like we do in natural disaster relief situations. It is still rather mind boggling to me. Later, we delivered supplies, food, and clothing to the Veterans Hospital. I have such a heart for veterans, my Father and Father-in-Law both served, several uncles served, both sons and a couple of Jarhead nephews served. I don't believe the very worst Veteran's Hospital I've seen or been in even compares to what these soldiers are staying in. (Like a MASH unit with less amenities.) The walls in the halls had many hand written and colored pages from area school children. They were all full of words of love and encouragment for their soldiers. It touchd my heart. I am not here on a mission to "choose sides"...I am not here to represent the USA in this sitution...I am here as the mother of two soldiers who "gets" the drama and pain of being afraid for your children in "war" time... I am here to minister in whatever small way, to those injured and in pain with little or no resources, as I beleive everyone who truly believes that God was right when He said to love your neighbor as yourself. My first mission is to the orphans and widows...then encourage the local church...and reach out to those who are lost without Him. As part of thst mission to reach out to the lost, I am never sure where God will lead me, possibly the decrepid halls of a Ukrainian Veterans Hospital. I just have to be ready to go. till we talk again...

Hookah me up to wifi please...

I have to tell you...I don't get the what the big deal is about Hookah's. I've just spent an hour with several of them. (while better than cigarette smoke)I don't get it. They still stink. I must admit part of my "un"-infatuation with them has to do with my wifi situation. I have so few places to get good wifi and one of them happens to be a fabulous little cafe, best mushroom soup in town, that caters to Hookah's. It is fabulous especially since a lot of the time, no one in here is smoking (I guess that is what you call it) them. But...when it rains it pours. Today I have been trying to talk to my husband for the first time since I left D.C. Umhhh..of course that isn't going to happen! I have called on skype to phone...I have emailed...I have facebooked...I have had friends call him... It looks like it is not meant to be. I actually had a 3 - 4 minute (tops) conversation with him today that was excruciating. Between "can you hear me" and "are you still there" all I got was "there is a lot of background noise", "it sure is noisy", "I can't hear you very good". I was doing the best I could do...it is "Hookah" time here, the place is full, I can't go any where that will be quieter...(btw one of the kids just shut the outside door so for sure it will be hotter and smokier)and I can't get wifi in my flat... It has been a mixed bag kind of day. I got to go the the Far Off Orphanage (1 1/2 hrs away) and be with some amazing boys. I got to interact with them and teach them about forgiveness and the story of Joseph and his brothers. Ask Sharon Andersen about this place if you happen to know her, if you don't know her you really should get to know her because she is an amazing lady! I got to sit with a hospital administrator/dr. and discuss the possibility of putting a play room on the floor of the hospital I visit every year. Tamara's hospital is what I call the place. Her kids, the orphans, deserve to get out of the cribs they live in 18 - 20 hours a day or more. They deserve a place to play and move and use their motor skills. She was not only open to the idea...she was excited about it. On the other side I encountered a person who doesn't have any idea how much perfume/cologne to use, especially in closed in places, and with the mega strength of this one. Within just a few minutes my head was hurting and I was very nauseated. In fact I wssn't sure that I would get away from this smell in time! And NOW, to be so close to talking to my love! And yet so far away... Till I get wifi again...

Flying is for the Birds!

I haven't flown that much in my life, and I have only been really scared a couple of times. Well, one of those times was flying into D.C. on Thursday. Maybe it's just me, but did that plane shake a lot more and make even weirder sounds than usual? Popping...growling...growning...loud engine noises...do I have life insurance...is my bathroom clean? The guy caddy corner from me more than once assured his wife "it's supposed to sound that way". But, I saw his EYES. That did not look like an "it's supposed to sound that way" look to me! It was more like a "does my brother know my passwords to my Fantasy Football team...and will he mess my team up?" kind of look for sure! When we were descending into the airport airspace, ready for a landing, suddenly we made a rather sharp right turn and straight up (well it seemed like it was straight up, there is probably a huge margin of error with my aeronautic abilities to tell direction when trying not to wear that plastic cup of orange juice) Then, of course, Chuckles the Pilot comes on the intercom and explains "I'm sure you noticed that we seem to be making a right turn...just a little air traffic control adjustments...seems like we are a little two close to another airliner's air space...no problem, we'll just make another circle and be landing in approximately 15 minutes. Thank you for your patience and thank you for flying ****** Airlines." As for me...I'm in no hurry...my plane left D.C. and hour ago! Speaking of a hurry...waiting 30 minutes outside the terminal for the luggage guys to take my carry-on out of the cargo hold was easy-peasy. It was when he tried to give me random pieces of luggage, (yes, he had the claim ticket in his hand) and then after I refused to take them, he asked me "are you sure this one isn't yours?". I finally told him, "If there is money in that one, I'll take it...otherwise I want the small grape colored one." I think that he finally got the hint! After waiting literally 30 minutes, I was clock watching, I got inside to find the line to reschedule your flight was right at an hour and a half...until two of the workers had to go on "30 minute breaks" at almost the same time. To say that the "natives were restless" was an understatement! We were all tired, stressed, wondering about where to stay for the night, frantically making calls to inform those waiting on us...when Tweedle Dee packs up his stuff just as I was approaching him with ticket in hand and says "I'll be right back..." Famous last words. Oh well, the next attendant was almost finished...just a few minutes and she could help me... Until SHE began to pack up her stuff and prepare for her "30 minute break". At least she was honest when she told a time frame! There were about 30 people in line still needing connecting flights and help with hotels, etc. Not very many happy campers left! They did have the good sense to call in the riot police...I mean two other attendants who would be here "in just a moment". You guessed it, apparantly no one at this airline can tell time! It all worked out...I got into my hotel about 10:30 after, wisely, choosing the certainty of airport food, over the uncertainty of hotel restaurants being open this late. Good decision! And to my delight, I had two FB replies to my adventure with offers of lodging/food/whatever I need if I am ever stuck in D.C. again. Thank you Andy Pierce and Michelle Neveu Pimentel, your parents are blessed by your kindness and generosity in times of trouble. I knew that Andy and Ann were fairly close, but the fact that they have a very small baby to care for influenced me not to bother them, I should have, your offer was extremely kind and made my day. When I saw the reply, I remembered that Ben and Michelle lived somewhere near D.C. but really had no idea they were close enough to extend such a kind offer. The fact that they have a very young child would probably have influenced my reply to you as well, Michelle. I won't let it stop me from giving you a call next time to see what's up (if you guys are not stationed in Timbucktoo by then). People are prone to say "call me any time you need anything" never expecting anyone to take them up on the offer. I believe these two young couples made a real offer, and meant every word. You may never know how much that meant to me to have your kindness during a pretty stressfull time! Another young lady, Sarah Moore McCutchen (I hope I did not butcher your last name, Sarah), helped me get pre-flight insurance. Sarah...that was one of the best uses of $107 I can think of in a long time! They will now take on the responsibility of my hotel and meals, courtesy of "air traffic controller/weather problems". You all make Jesus proud of how you are reaching out and showing His love thru your actions! I am proud to know you and call you friend as well! Till next time!

At last...

Already I am experiencing difficulties with keyboard interface with the Ipad. There are some glitches that need to be worked out.That will be for another day....just letting you know the blog might have some issues that I cannot fix and it may have things that are not what I would like to put up, but rather than scrap the whole post I will leave them in! That being said... The adventure began before I ever stepped foot in the airport in Dallas. Ukraine is experiencing conflict even as we speak. I was not sure that I would be allowed in the country even as I cleared security at DFW airport. This has been a faith walk for me from the start. You see (no pun intended)I am a walk by sight and not by faith kind of girl. I know that is totally backwards to what Jesus taught. The problem has been that I didn't think that I was that kind of girl. I trusted God...I believed that He was in control...I "knew" He had my back... Then why did I keep checking the status of my flight, impulsively, OCD'ish, trying to figure out what the next step was? Why did I not just leave it up God what the outcome would be. If I leave for Ukraine...praise God...if I am stuck in Dallas...praise God! Why was I trying to manipulate what I would do...when I would do it...how I would do it...you get my drift! As my shoulders scrunched up with anxiety...and my neck tightened up...I had to remind myself of certain things. This trip is in the hands of God. It is His will that I am trying to follow. I had to remind myself that I asked God for certain things...an open door if you will...to give me clarity on going or staying. Matt Langford prayed one time that God would open the doors that needed to be opened and close the doors that needed to be closed and that I would have discernment between the two. If I believe that...why am I incessantly checking and trying to see the future? Before you leave for the airport make sure you have a flight...then get in your car and go! I looked on line...called Austrian Air (which did not answer)...called United Airlines...tried to get ahold of the travel people...called the airport... Finally I said "STOP". Leave this to God, He will let you know what you need to know. After I cleared airport security I got a text from Rita. Oksana, who worked for Austrian Air in the past, found out through her contacts that the planes would fly into Dnepropetrosk for the first since Malaysian Air went down near Donetsk. Go figure...God really does have this! The trip wasn't trouble free, I got stuck in Dallas, missed my connecting flight to Vienna, had to spend the night near the airport...God took care of that as well. I don't always purchase insurance, but this trip I felt like it was more necessary than usual. The insurance will take care of my hotel and extra food expenses. I was where I was supposed to be when I was supposed to be there. I believe that. I have so many supporters that have held me up in prayer, given me funds, given me donations of goods, and said words of encouragement to me. I know that so many of you were conflicted this year. I appreciate your discomfort with the situation. It is a trip that was much prayed about long before it became a reality. It was not spur of the moment, it was not taken out of a misguided need to come because I always have before! It is not pennance for my sins, trying to make up for my faults, or a way to make me "good enough" in His sight to be considered for a place in heaven. Jesus paid that price for me...His blood covers my transgressions...I don't need to do mission work to cover that tab. It is paid in full because of the love of God and nothing I have done to "earn" it. I know that some of you were/are afraid for me. I know that some are angry with me. I know that some of you totally don't get this whole thing...why Ukraine...why now? I beg you to not live in fear...give that fear to Jesus...walk with me in faith as I struggle each day. Please forgive me if I have offended or hurt you...it was unintentional. Our brothers and sisters here need to see us...hear us...feel us in their midst with our support and love for Jesus and them. I am not brave...I am not strong...I am not special...I'm just trying to be a Jesus girl...I'm just on a journey with Him. I am doing what I think He wants me to do. I am trying to walk by faith and not by sight. He said "Go into all the world"...I am telling Him "here am I send me". I thank each and every one of you for your love and support. Please don't stop praying for me and the people of this beautiful country. I will see you very soon, Lord willing.

Austrian Air

I really have to give credit where credit is due. Austrian Air was fabulous this year. They went out of their way to give me the best service possible, and I do appreciate it. They were above the call of duty to get me home as comfortably as possible. It is never fun to have an injury or condition that immobilizes you. When that happens in a foreign country is even trickier. I'm not sure what happened to my knee yet, doc visit today, but I do know what excruciating pain is. It put me on a cane in a country that loves stairs! Can you say going from the hare to the tortoise? The prospect of making my way thru four different airports in three countries, dragging luggage, wearing a heavy backpack, walking with a limp and a cane...I can just say I was dreading it. Oksana, one of my friends and sisters in Ukraine made a few calls for me and I got the hook-up for getting thru the maze. I initially asked just for transport service in D.C. so that I would not miss my connecting flight to Texas. I hadn't really considered the 40 stairs up and the 20 stairs down and the ride on an overcrowded tram transport to the plane that I would have to manuever at DNK airport in Ukraine. Though it was a little disconcerting to depend on the staff to make sure I made my flight, it was actually a God send. They had a wheelchair for me at the airport and I had the least amount of trouble I have ever had getting thru security. The scary part was being wheeled out of the line of sight and left to wait. I kept hearing boarding warnings about my flight. Finally a gate person looked up and assured me that they hadn't forgotten me. I was transported by chair thru the "back" way strait out onto the tarmack and allowed to get on the plane first. Someone carried my backpack and luggage up for me and helped me get seated. The same routine at VIE airport in Vienna. They had a special bus they took me to the terminal in. Also an escort thru Passport Control, all the way thru the maze and wheeled to my hotel across the street. I was assured of an escort in the morning. The next morning, promptly at 7:30 my escort arrived and took me back across the street to the airport. I got thru Passport Control, and security like a breeze. (don't get too excited...still had the security pat down) I was escorted to my gate and assured they would be back to get me on the plane. I even got to sit in the "Business Class" area because of the chair. (that sounds more special than it is, I just didn't have to go thru the cattle call of Economy Class to get my papers checked, no special seats, just a different area) Just as promised, my escort came back and got thru the long wait and on to the plane ahead of the crowd. The plane wasn't crowded so I ended up having a seat between me and the other guy in my row. Niiiiicccccceeee! Of course the fantasy of great service ended at Dulles in D.C. What can I say...welcome home! Thank you Austrian Air...you were the bom...wait...you were the best!

Ritooolia!!

There are no words to completely describe my sweet sister and friend, Rita. She is a sister in the faith, a sister of the heart, and a pit bull in lipstick. Her whole focus while I am here is to see that I am taken care of. She arranges my transportation, meals, meetings, classes, visits, rest, water...I believe that she would go to the bathroom for me so I wouldn't have to use Ukrainian toilets if she possibly could. She is relentless about finding good bathrooms for me. And she reminds me consistantly "if you need the toilet, this is a good one" or "this is not such a good toilet, maybe you can wait". If you have ever been where the facilities are not what you are used to this is truly a blessing! When I first arrive she sets up a schedule of how the days will go. She makes a calendar and starts to set up appointments, class times, visits, etc. I give her a list of who I want to go and see and she does her best to make it happen. This year I was terribly disappointed that especially two woman would not be available. Nadeshzda and Galena are both home bound. Nadeshzda from old age and immobility, and Galena with a broken hip. Their families did not think they were up to a visit. The problem is the tradition here is to entertain guests. So even if you do not want or expect to be entertained, they feel an obligation to do it. I had to respect the desires of their caretakers and had to miss the opportunity to visit with them each. I will probably not get another opportunity to see them this side of heaven, but I sent my love and greetings to them thru their families. Rita is responsible for getting me where I am going. She has to arrange transportation if we cannot use public means, and she has to arrange times to see the people I need/want to see. Sometimes it is difficult to get everything to line up just right. It reminds me of Ginger Rogers. She did everything Fred Astaire did, but she did it backwards and in high heels. Rita has to come from across town (10 to 30 minutes depending on availability and traffic) and be at my flat, or wherever, to meet me and then start her day. She used to come to my flat regardless, but because I can manuever some of the taxi vans she can now just meet me at the church building or Daffy or other places. I have become quite familiar with route number 53, it gets me to most places I want to go. During the time I am here, she comes early in the morning and goes home late at night. When my day ends, she still has a 30 minute travel to get home. (depending on how late, the vans don't run as often) After I go home she has to reintroduce herself to her husband and family since she has not seen them for more than a few minutes a day for the entire time. She is with me sometimes 12 or 13 hours per day. Dedication is not something she has a problem with. Rita takes better care of me than I take care of myself. She was extraordinarily careful after I had the issue with my knee. She was so fearful of me hurting myself, that she was willing to forgo a trip on the Steppe during our outing at Askanyanova. She wanted to go out and see the animals, too. But she was willing to sit at the zoo so I could rest my knee. It was a good thing that I hit "override" on that issue...the bumpy wagon was worth every ache I had afterwards. She finally agreed that it was a better time than sitting at the zoo. My knee was okay, I am afraid that my behind did not fair so well. If I could just shift the "padding" in my belly to my bottom the problem would have been resolved! Rita has a heart as big as Texas. She has such compassion for the homeless dogs and cats of Ukraine. She takes her own money and provides sterilization for as many as she can. She also volunteers at the shelter for them. It is a long car ride out there, the facility is primitive at best, and the work is boring and hard. At the shelter, the dogs are cared for by homeless peolple who in turn get a place to live. It seems to work well for both parties. With Rita, you laugh, you cry, you discuss, you are treated like a queen, you are treated like an unruly child...you are loved...completely and fully! She gives you the care you would receive from our Saviour...loving and compassionate and selfless. She is a wonderful interpreter, manager, and most of all...friend. Rita, I love you. Till next year! P.S. Give Andrew lots of attention and my greetings!

Sweet Baby Jane

How do you explain Jane? When you are supposed to check off the box that describes you when filling out paperwork, there isn't a box that she could check. There isn't a one-size-fits-all catagory for her. She is fiercly loyal, she loves with intensity, and she has a high octane energy that is hard to keep up with at 60+. She let me invade her home and monopolize much of her time for a month without any expectation of financial gain. Many people, for a price, will do what she did. Not many will do it for free. Her generosity allows me to spend the majority of the funds I have on the tasks I came to do. Woman's and children's ministries. (Because I have funds for my room and board Jane does get some compensation, but it is not what I would have to pay other parties.) I have told her over and over, "It shouldn't cost YOU money for me to come here and stay with you." Just this morning, I was sleeping on the couch as Jane got ready for work. She has to creep around very quietly so that she doesn't "bother" me. She is in the middle of getting ready for work...think of your routine...think of it being completely disrupted...every morning...for a month! That is just one of the reasons I love her so much. Let me tell you about the joys of being in Jane's life. She loves old cartoons in the morning. Why start your day with the unpleasant news channels or the endless "Rich and Famous" type of shows...drivel. It enrages her to think of elderly people eating out of garbage cans here while so many sit enthralled by how many houses, cars, jewels, etc. the "rich and famous" people have. I love her heart. The old cartoons have morals to their stories and songs that she still sings along to. I love her heart...did I say how much I love her heart? Every evening she asks me what I want for breakfast in the morning. My standard answer is "oatmeal" (porridge)...to which she answers "I think that you would like something different? More interesting maybe?". Of course my answer is that I love oatmeal but whatever she wants to prepare is fine with me. (At this point I must add, she does NOT want me to do it myself, she considers it HER job...period.) I tell you that I have had some interesting things for breakfast...salmon, chicken with porridge, gizzards (yummy), curds, cottage cheese...and of course oatmeal (with cinnamon and fruit). She is delightful and still does not understand that I really do like oatmeal for breakfast...every morning...it's okay! It is very interesting to go with Jane to the grocery store. Jane dances in the grocery store aisles when a good song comes on the muzak system. I love it. She sings to it when she knows the words. I love it! I know that I am not the only one that does that! You must know that Jane's kitchen is HER kitchen. I was making Mexican Food for the English Club one Friday night. I got instructions on just how to do it. I looked at her, "how many times have you made Mexican Food?"..."never" she replied..."I just know how things are prepared correctly". I just looked at her..."Okay, okay you must know how yourself...". Jane, I got this one...really...I've done it before... We have long conversations about the church, life, movies, books...what ever comes to mind. Politics is one subject she is passionate about. We have some minor disagreements about "the good life", whether it was better long ago or today. It is definately a topic we do not discuss with Rita...too many passionate disagreements to waste time on politics when there is so much more to talk about! "Jane-isms": - fooh (a sound she makes when she is disgusted or irritated with something) - "It seems to me..." - "Take it easy..." (said any time she thinks I am in a hurry or irritated with something) - "That's living..." (said when describing Ukrainian life when something doesn't work properly here ie. elevators, trams, etc.) - "It's okay..." (said whenever we don't really agree about a subject) - "Jeckie, don't go barefooted" (said when I take off my socks and don't put on house slippers) - "I am cold and I think you are cold as well...I will put on the blanket..." (said when trying to convince me to put the heavy, itchy, WOOL blanket on to cover me at night) - "the men of re-'nay-is-sants" (better known as the movie "Renaissance Man" Before she left this morning...we didn't talk much...just watched each other. Finally, when she HAD to leave, she came over to me to say good bye. "Now Jeckie, I am leaving for school. I am looking for you next year...God Bless you...safe travels...I want you to come again...(she now sees me tearing up)...Don't cry Jeckie...(of course I WON'T cry)... As she slips on her shoes at the door and grabs her coat as well, she is trying to make light of the fact that she has to go to work and I have to leave for Texas. "I am going where my students are SO glad to see me and to hear the English language...to my great job...to my wonderful students...don't touch anything (said in a very strong Russian teacher voice, meaning my bed linens or the breakfast dishes) I will take care about it later...don't be afraid to be here, Rita will come soon...I love you!" She is out the door and on her way...leaving me sitting on the couch...not wiping away tears I have not cried. I cannot express the deep love and friendship I feel for her. She is a joy to be around. I constantly laugh and share "Grandma" stories, look with confusion when I don't understand a word, and stand open mouthed at some of the "old wives tales" she so strongly believes. Jane, my sister, my friend...I will miss your cartoons and the singing in the morning...till next summer, God willing. I love you.

A Babushka's Hands

I saw her on the taxi van. She got on with a man, probably her son. She was so tiny, she looked like a little bird with a brightly colored headscarf. A typical Ukrainian nose, reminded me of the "bad guy" on Despicable Me who adopted the three girls. Her face was lined with age, weather and a hard life. What I noticed right away were her hands. They almost looked cartoonish, as if she had Minnie Mouse gloves attached to her slender wrists. She could not have been more than 4'11", but her hands were very large. I thought of how hard they must have worked her entire life. I thought of the things those hands have endured. The cruel weather and circumstances in Ukraine for a lady of her age. I thought of the Revolution that she lived thru, not having read about it in a book. I thought of how weathered they looked, and wondered if she had many children that she cooked and cleaned and did laundry for. I wondered if they would return the favor in her old age! I thought of how blessed I am to live in a country with so many things to ease our troubles in life. I hope that the man with her was someone who would make sure that those hands that have been through so much would be able to have some relief from hardships. I thought of my own grandmothers hands...and I had a deeper appreciation for her work hardened hands as well. Thank you Grandma Martin for loving me and teaching me about life!

Weird Knee Thing...

I recently had a major blow out with my knee...I have no idea of how/what/why...just a weird freaky knee thing that took me by surprise...knocked me down and then kicked me while I was on the ground crying. It is not nice to kick someone when they are down...but it did. I was walking home from a visit with a dear brother. As I turned the corner to get to my flat I had the thought "Wow, my knee hurts". By the time I got another 20 feet I was saying "I hope I make it home and don't fall on the ground right here". I can't remember having pain in my knee like this ever before. I don't mean my knee's have never hurt, I was a high school athlete who didn't take care of her knees like she should have, so I expect pain as I grow older. It just surprised me by the intensity and the speed at which it hit me. I put in a call to people in the medical field for information on how I should proceed. (Finally all that FB time has paid off)And got an immediate response to my questions. Thank you RN's who were so compassionate and prompt with your educated opinions. (I know...they do not have MD behind their names, and they did not give me "medical advice"...just their opinions from years of experience in the medical field, which I completely trust.) Long story short... I didn't go anywhere on Sunday...didn't even get out of my p.j.'s. Took what medications I had with me, and borrowed a cane so I could at least go to the bathroom with out assistance. Now...as of today...my knee is still acting up...still painful and stiff, but I can at least move around without croaking! I am asking a friend here with airline connections to help me get a seat change and airport assistance in D.C. to lessen the possibility that I will miss my connection home because of mobility issues. We will see how much customer service someone gets who only flys one time per year on a missionary rate! So...if any of you see pictures of me with a cane, I'm not sporting a new look, I actually am using it for what it is intended! BUT...keep praying...and don't worry...I am fine! I will be home next week. I love you all and really appreciate the love and support you give me. Till Tuesday!

A Beautiful day in the Neighborhood

What a beautiful day in the neighborhood. It started off with Jane going to work and me having to find my way to the church by myself. It's getting to be a good habit to be in...I like this getting there by myself. No hassles, no problems...just a little drink of water from God that is going to refresh the flowers for us.I will buy an umbrella maybe...it may not rain again! Had just a little wait at the building before Lena arrived with the key. Aloysia was there with his daughter, Rosa. Marina arrived about five minutes later and soaking wet. It appears that the rain on her journey was much stronger than the little bit I got on mine. The day started off rather slow. Just Rosa and her father were there at 10:00. Our next "kid" was quite a different story. An adult man walked in off the street and began to ask questions. Something that I almost always welcome. Today...not so much. It didn't take long to realize that he was inebriated. He had seen the advertising on the window about a children's class and wanted to talk to us about that. He started off with Marina, an interpreter, and myself. He stated that "faith was very serious, and should not be played with games". I asked Marina what he was saying and she said most of the sentences don't match, and don't make any sense. I let him talk for awhile. It became crystal clear that he meant to disrupt our class so that "no games" could be played. I then broke in and spoke my mind...I know what you are all thinking...NOT Jackie...speaking her mind???? I said to him that children and adults learn in different ways. I told him faith was a very important thing to me, and I did take it seriously. I also told him my class was going to start and that he needed to come back and have his discussion with the preacher. There would be an appropriate time and place for his questions, and they would gladly all be answered, but that at the moment we were starting our children's class. "Baca"...good bye. And then I pointed to the door. Aloysia walked him out. They spoke a little bit before he finally left. By this time two more little girls were there. Sophia and her sister Mila, members children, had come for class. It was upsetting to Rosa to hear the man speaking loudly and gruffly. I have all the utmost sympathy for his position, but when you are disturbing my children...you better back off. I am grateful for my training at school on how to deal with unruly parents in the class room. He bowed his chest and stepped into me with a loud voice. I stepped in his direction and very calmly and politely invited him to leave. He immediately backed down, and just "wanted to talk". Umhhhh...let me think....NO. This is my classroom and you are here to disturb it not contribute...umhhh...NO! We started class and had a good lesson on the life of Joseph. The girls were making the many colored coat of Joseph when a young boy, Misha, arrived with his mother. We only had 30 minutes left in class, so I had the girls do a review with him. Then questions, with prizes, and a snack, and we called it a day. Class and snack were over about 12:30. I assumed that Misha was someone that the church knew or had invited personally. I was wrong. Misha saw someone he knew with a children's Bible and he wanted one. They told him where to get it and showed him the invitation. They showed up and were very happy to be there. He was a good student. We gave him his own Bible, and invited him for tomorrow. Thank you EEM for sending the Bible's. We have passed out so many of them, and we still have more to give away. It thrills me to see their faces when they get the children's version with beautiful color pictures. Or the older people to get the large print and be able to read it themselves! What joy that brings...agian...thank you EEM and all those who support you!

VBS Ukrainian style...

You never know what you will get here. We invited so many children from the area of all ages. So, I wasn't really sure who all would come...little ones...teens...one...fifty? Just whatever God sends my way. We started off with Rosa, 6 years old, one of the members kids. She is an angel, so sweet and such a helper at passing out invitations to the classes. There were not very many kids in the yard behind the building, sometimes several, sometimes none. This morning...zero. So none of them came. We were there about 15 minutes when Daniel showed up. He is 11 and speaks a little English, very well I might add. He was delightful to work with. A shy smile behind big blue eyes. Such a sweet boy. This morning started off with me not having an interpreter to go with me to the church building. That was okay. I know to look for van 53. Jane actually got me started. She said she would tell the driver about my stop...one problem...we have to change vans about half way thru the route. So I had to practice my stops name. Na vah-coo-chew-link. Over and over and over. I didn't want to mess it up and him not stop. As it happened, I thought I got blessed because some people were getting on right near there. Then he started to drive off. I quickly threw my "Russian" at him and he pulled over and let me off. Now...I'm not sure if he understood my Russian, or the fact that I was standing at the door looking like I might leap out on my own if he didn't stop, got him to pull over and let me out. Really...it didn't matter to me...he let me off at the correct stop! We started our lesson and began teaching about Noah at a little after 10 a.m.. After we looked at the lesson a little bit, we decided to walk off the length of the ark. We went outside and started at the shops up the street from the building. I think the kids were really surprised at how big that boat was! Afterwards we cut out the ark that Fairy Cooper put together in my packet. The kids eyes got real big looking at all the colors and the animals. They really enjoyed it. In fact, all of the adult helpers wanted to do one themselves. I really wished more kids could have come today, I think they would have loved the things we got to do. After all the games, projects, and memory verse, Rita bought us some ice cream and we had our snack. A fun time had by all. Tomorrow, some more of the kids who regularly come should be back from the national holiday weekend. After a lunch at City Center, we went to a sports place and bought the Far Off orphanage some shoes and swim suits. They will probably keep the suits till next season, but maybe the last group of boys going to the sea will get to wear them. I hope so. We took a taxi home with all of our bags, and I was able to rest a little while on the couch watching "Ever After", starring Drew Barrymoore. Of course, I'm glad you asked, it was in Russian. The good thing was the English was just dubbed over so you could still hear it most of the time. Love that movie! Now I am at Constantine's Kot Cafe using his wifi. I even offered to buy a lemonade...he just waved his hand at me like "really?". I do appreciate the feel of this place. Much like a very comfy couch to sit on and put your feet up. It feels like home here. I am thankful to God that he is such a nice guy. Tomorrow I should have wifi in my flat! I don't want to get my hopes up too much, but it would be very nice! I will still come and drink lemonade at the Kot Cafe...just not use their wifi. till then...

Day 1 - Well on my way...well on my wayyyyyy!

I am well on my way to Ukraine. I didn't sleep much, I guess I was just thinking of everything I had to do to be completely ready to go. If it is not done by now...forget it...it won't get done at all. Got to the airport and changed things in the bags around. Big Red held exactly 50 lbs, the black rolling back held exactly 50 lbs. I bought two gray "foot lockers" (plastic variety) and stuffed them full. (one 46 one 48 lbs) They will be left behind in Ukraine and used as needed. The WEEM ladies suggested I do that so that they would be able to have storage over here and I would not have to pay to get them back home empty. Great idea. After only 3 hours sleep...every thing gets a little fuzzy around the edges. I manage to get thru securtiy with no pat down this year, I am eternally grateful for that, and I wait at the gate with some junk food breakfast. D.C. is D.C. but their airport is much better than it used to be. I didn't have to use the dreaded people mover with surly driver intact. Much better system to have a tram take us to the needed gate area. A much smoother and easier exchange...thanks D.C. You got this one right! Had to check my carry on at the Austrian Air gate, apparantly they think it is too big. I saw many other people with various and assorted carry ons that were bigger...but it is not worth the argument. I take what I need out of it and send it on its way. Flight uneventful, watched movies, didn't sleep, not much worth eating...typical airline fare...oh well. Got to Vienna on time and in fact had a little time left over. I knew I should not have slept at the gate. I almost missed the flight because I didn't hear the boarding call. Then in a panicked state, couldn't immediately find my passport! Oh well...all is well...found the passport..got on the plane and made it to Dniper! The customs guy helped me, for the very first time, with my bags. He loaded them on the conveyor belt to be x-rayed. Of course I was the last to go thru because it took me so long to manhandle 4 lg bags and a carry on plus my backpack. But we got through and waited to be approved. After several minutes of struggling with the limited language exchange between us I finally made them understand I had an interpreter waiting on the other side of the sliding doors to freedom! Having Rita there made a huge difference. She listened patiently as he told her I should buy all of the stuff I brought in from the Stated from Ukrainians. And next year not to bring the stuff in with me. Uhhh...not! There is absolutely NO way to get the handmade things I brought in over here!! Oh well...next year we will see! I have to go, but I will tell you the story of the water next blog! till then...

Mexican Food Ukrainian Style

I have to first state that this post is late in my trip. I will get on the internet again soon and catch up on the beginning of my trip...you that have followed me on FB know the trouble I have had with wifi....agggghhhh! So...today on this fine Sunday afternoon we will discuss Mexican Food in Ukraine. Specifically at Melrose. Melrose is a restaurant fairly near my flat that is "American/Japanese/Mexican/Italian" foods. I can only comment on the alleged Mexican food. We ordered: quesadilla's, nachos, tacos, and burritos. Also chips and hot sauce. Being from Texas I am somewhat of a foodie where Mexican food is concerned. Well...the chips were corn chips much like Doritos Nacho Cheese variety. The hot sauce came in a teeny tiny little sauce cup...weeellll...being from Texas...that was a little bit of a surprise that they gave such a small amount of sauce...but... The lime on the side of the sauce made it much better. It did have a baby nip to it, Rick would have hated it, it had too much tomato flavor. Almost like tomato paste flavor, but not quite. The tacos were decent. They actually had corn torilla's in the taco shape. The put quacamole and pico de gallo on the tacos. I just happen to know how to make both of those...and...if I do say so myself...mine is much better. The quac has either sour cream or mayonaise in it. So, what else can I say about that? The pico has almost no onion, no cilantro, and the peppers are banana peppers so they are sweet. Not too bad...but refer to the third sentence in this paragraph. The burrito's were made with grilled meat, very tasty, and sour cream, 2 kinds of cheese, candied onions, bacon, pico (see above paragraph) rolled up in Armenian lavage, pretty close to a tortilla. All in all...very tasty. The quesadilla's were fabulous. They were actually cooked in a tortilla shaped piece of lavage. Very good quality tortilla. The meat was grilled, they added sour cream, quacamole, pico and cheese. I prefer mine cooked a little more, but these were delicious. Now the nachos...well...they tried, but I'm not sure where they got their recipe. They came out in a bowl. Chips with unmelted cheese sprinkled on top. There was sour cream, pico, and quac on the side of the bowl. And they had some salsa that Rick would have HATED. It actually was catsup mixed with I don't know what to make a salsa consistency. It was awful! I did not even try them, I had eaten some of those same chips earlier so felt no need to explore the "nachos". All in all Melrose gets a 5 for their Mexican food. I do remember this is Ukraine...and in all fairness...there are many Mexican restaurants in Texas that would not get much higher than a 5 in my Mexican food meter. So, come on over to Ukraine and try the Mexican food at the Melrose Cafe!