Today is the end of our 20 day stay at the Hotel Berdyansk. The 4 walls were closing in. The girls love to come over, but the room just seemed to get smaller every time they came. Today we moved. We are living in an apartment in a church that was founded by Ernie and Anna Smith. We have a living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom that has a washer in it, a real long wide hall way, and a storage room (big enough to be another bedroom). We are living 1st class and I am loving it. Today we used the day to move and get settled in. We had lunch with our friends which included workers from the church. It was awesome, half spoke English, half spoke Russian and there was no one who spoke both to interpret. We all seemed to understand each other and we were all laughing. I can't wait to bring the girls over on Thursday. We can now cook and have projects to do instead of watching DVD. There is also space outside, we are in the outskirts of the city. Paradise!!!
We had a real encouraging phone conversation with the embassy today. The man who is on our case was willing to work with us and see where we can go with our case. He spoke real clear English which was helpful. Up to this point the people that we have spoken to have been Ukrainian and have the mindset of their country. This man is American and has our mindset. There can be grace in the Law. If there is one thing that I pray for this culture, is not to fear the law, but use the law as a tool and not a weapon. The embassy was also encouraging about the change in government. It is a younger administration, we are all hoping it will benefit orphans and the adoption process.
Once again I thank you all for your prayer, comments and support of our journey. We are so blessed to have such good partners in our journey. We know that there is prayers out there for us, because we see, feel, and are comforted by them. Continue to pray for our Marina to come home with us, both of the children are miracles to us.
You are probably all settling in after the New Year getting back to old routines. I just offered to help out with the Christmas get together at the church. We are right in the middle of holiday season out here. One part of me says it over and the other part says, there is more to come. Interesting concept.
Remember to pray for a miracle, thanks,
Fran
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10 comments:
I'm so glad your in more comfortable surroundings. The extra room will be nice. We'll keep praying. He has reminded us so many times during our journey that He is the one who is in control. I can't wait to see how He works all of this for His glory!
I check your blog several times a day and pray for Marina and those in Ukraine who have the power to allow her to come home. This is crazy stuff - you wanting to bring two teenagers into your life. Bureaucrats tossing the "playbook" out the window and just looking at what is best for a kid. A kid being adopted - not cause of anything she did, but just cause you love her. Yep, sounds like the kind of thing our crazy God will be all over - can't wait to see what He has in store! Oh - and your new accomodations sound great! Perfect place to do the happy dance when God finally topples that mountain (he's already moving it!!)
Hey guys! Thanks for the constant updates. We're continuing to pray. Glad you got some new hallways to run around in. Cool that you're around believers as well as they will hopefully be a blessing to you all. Take care and God's blessings on the remainder of your trip.
I'm hoping this new, younger administration is in place when we head over sometime in the coming months and that they're favorable towards our case! Did they happen to say when the new government steps in?
Fran and Rick:
Your diary of this fantastic journey is wonderful. It is so nice to read your day-by-day happenings and follow you as your family grows and your dream comes true. You have been lifted up in prayer by us. Happy New Year to all four of you. Enjoy you second Christmas. We can't wait to meet your daughters.
PS: News from the States...It has finally turned cold. We had a very light snow shower this morning and wind has been harsh. The Redskins won their game over the Cowboys. The Iowa caucus is tomorrow. Also, three things---the Christmas Concert was awesome once again; The Shoemaker stole our hearts; The Angel Tree dinner was very nice. We miss you. See you soon
John and Sarah
How nice that you can be in an apartment and look forward to projects with the girls. In my family, we celebrate Christmas twice, too:) The Christmas tree is still up in my house and I am enjoying the holiday spirit. Continuing to pray and think about you.
Love,
Iryna
Hope the embassy can be of help and get that ball rolling. We'll continue praying for God's intervention on Marina's behalf. Can't wait to see what He'll do to bring glory to His name!
So happy to hear positive information. Here at the "home base" of exercise we are hoping and praying for a miracle. Keeping up with every word we receive from you. May you continue to be blessed.
Your blog has been incredible to read both as a story and as a spiritual journey. We are praying for the perfect ending to this story/journey. God is in control! We will see ALL of you next summer!
Just found out about your blog today, and Marie & I will keep you guys in our prayers. Surrounded by Rick's beautifully-crafted cabinetry, wishing you a Christmas miracle ~
I hope your news continues to be encouraging! It's nice to have some people one your side who can help make things happen. Your apartment sounds very nice and in a church, too! I hope you and the girls do enjoy it! It's great to see how God is moving in your lives. Our prayers continue to be with you and for a miracle called Marina, to come home with you. Happy New Year!
Debbie & Dale
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