Another day in Perechyn

Thursday, September 18th

Today we basically did more of the same – sifted sand, ate and helped with Bible school. We did find time to take an hour walk through the neighborhood to take photos. Jennie, Dan and I were the daring three. On our walk we talked to a lady who happened to see us walk by her house. Jennie speaks enough Russian to communicate with her but when I told Dan in English he couldn’t photograph two young ladies who were walking by, she laughed. Apparently she understood at least a little English. We were also able to interact with some workmen building a chimney and some teenagers playing soccer.

The children in Bible school continue to amaze me. They keep coming back to do American crafts in a language they don’t understand, listen to a story in a foreign language and participate in a song – still in a foreign language. They get rowdy, just like all children, but settle down almost immediately when told it’s time to be quiet. I can’t imagine my grandchildren behaving so well. They are beautiful children and I am truly blessed to have been allowed to observe them – and pass out the candy as they left for home.

Tomorrow we go to the Trans-Carpathian Museum to learn something about the history and the people of this part of Ukraine. We will probably do some shopping and get some rest before going to the soup kitchen at the Methodist church to help or observe, depending on what they will allow us to do. No doubt it will be an eye opener for us, but at least it’s not sifting sand.
Lest you sense some complaining about the sand, forget it. We were happy to be doing whatever we could to help get the church built and the only moaning you’ll hear from us is from sore muscles and joints. We are tired but happy people tonight.
Gene