Tuesday and Thursday night's each of our families went to the home of a Ukranian family for dinner or dessert. Our desire was to get to know local believers from the church individually. This was a very good time and all of us remarked at how fast the time went and how bad we felth having to leave after it seems like we just got started talking.
I have included pictures here from the Wynalda's visit to Yuri, Olga and Eula (Julie)'s house. I hope to get more pictures from the visits of other families later.
Yuri and Olga have a very nice flat in a building near the church. Yuri had just finished remodeling it weeks before our arrival. I believe we were the first guests they have had into their new home!
The Ukranian families are tremendous hosts. Olga took the day off of work (her first in seven years) to cook for us all day long. We are so thankful for their hospitality.
The couple have worked for many years non stop to afford a down payment. They work long days and grandma spends a great deal of time with Julie/Eula. Eula is 10 - just about Bailey's age. Eula and Bailey had a great time together.
Here is a picture of our kids with Eula (Julie). It's amazing to watch your kids play with people who can't speak the language but still communicate with each other and become friends.
The food was both beautiful and delicious.
It was explained to us at dinner that the feast we had is not typical in Ukraine. They said they prepare like this for a visit about once per year. We are very honored to have been their guests.
As you can see, the food was spectacular!
We brought small gifts from home for our hosts to show them we are thankful for them and will be praying for them and their church. Yuri has a small scar on his face from playing hockey. When he received a Red-Wings shirt from us he thanked us.
Hockey is something that is popular in the north. Odessa (where we are) is in the south and it is too warm here for hockey.
Generally we have found most of the Ukrainians eager to wear an American t-shirt (at least with us later in the week). Some things are similar the world over. It seems nearly all humans like respected brand names and things with a good reputation. Fortunately I will never have to wear anything from Ohio state they don't qualify....
(Ok, that one was for Steve Gibson, Pastor Samra, I'm sure, will concur..)
Hey All, You're in the home stretch and so far I've not heard of any injury or sickness. Praise God from whom ALL Blessings flow!!! Love, Dawn
ReplyDeleteThqnks, Dan, for all the co9mments and pictures. Much appreciated. It looks like you all had to much fun at the beach. Shirl Snoeyink
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