One More Day in Odessa?

The Nutshell - As I write this post, it is 8 pm. Monday in Odessa. We had hoped to depart for Kiev tonight but could not get Yuri's passport today. 37 days in country and counting! Today started out so promising and then we hit a road block this afternoon. However, we made some headway on all fronts and are very hopeful we can wrap it all up Tuesday. We moved our flight reservations to Kiev back to Tuesday night.

Today, was a long one in the van as we criss-crossed the city. Driving and waiting. Driving and waiting, etc. Yuri was so tired (from his recent overnight) and so bored, he spent much of the time curled up in the back seat napping. Paul's knees ache from so much sitting. We like our driver Sasha, but after today, we are less enthusiastic about his van. ;-)

When will we get home? - It is likely we will have two days in Kiev for Yuri's physical exam and to process him through the US Embassy, although, we will do our best to get it all done in one day. We hope to be home Thursday or Friday depending how quickly we can get through the process in Kiev. Sorry, we can't be more specific. Everything hinges on when we are able to leave Odessa.

Thank you! - Thank you for your thoughts, prayers and encouraging messages. I think we had a break-through today and feel a degree of understanding, peace and optimism that we did not have Sunday night. There is so much more we would love to share with you now but, now is not the time.

Prayer Request - Please keep praying for us. That Renee and I have patience, understanding and wisdom. For efficiency in both Odessa and Kiev. Safe travels and for lodging in Kiev. With the current political difficulties in the capitol city, there are few hotel rooms and apartments available. Thanks!

What happened on Sunday? - We attended Sunday services with Michelle and the Weddington's at the Presbyterian church. The service was in Russian but they provide English translation via head phones. However, the sermon just happened to be preached by an American pastor in English . After church, the Weddington's and Berger's walked to Afina Mall to eat lunch at Mario's (7th meal at Mario's for the Berger's).

After lunch, the Weddington's invited Yuri to "Playland" for more arcade games. Renee and Paul walked to the Becker's apartment where we traded Renee's computer expertise for free laundry service (using machines!). Sunday evening was spent at home. Our friend, Michelle, came over and borrowed the internet while Renee and I packed. We ate supper, bloggged, checked email and passively watched bits and pieces of the movie, "Troy" with Brad Pitt (in Russian). OK, now you are all caught up with our Sunday.



Sasha and Yuri mess around after church as they wait for their parent's decision on where to go for lunch. The boys are very good friends and enjoy each other's company. Watching them interact is like watching a couple puppies wrestling. They can't leave one another alone for 10 seconds without physically picking on each other.

Interior views of renovated Presbyterian Church. There are several Americans who attend or are members. The Church will soon host a group of Americans who will be here on a two-week project working on the church building and orphanages around Odessa.