The Simple Things In Life

Don...

Today we went to the market to purchase a few simple items that most American kids take for granted. These kids have a need for personal care items. We purchased bunches of it for as many kids as come by our room. They were so very happy to get these items. It kind of feels like trick or treat with shampoo, soap, and toilet paper instead of candy.


Today is Roman's 14th birthday. He said he has never really had a birthday party. We have a few small gifts for him. Not too much though because the other children may feel left out. They really don't have much by American standards. 

Roman just came in the room. Its 8:30am here and we gave him a simple pair of socks. We got a big smile for that. Yesterday we gave him a brand new soccer ball. He insisted that I go outside and play with him. I did. Oh my heart! I can't stop him from moving the ball around me (like I'm standing still) so when he makes his move to the left or to the right, I just grab him and don't let him go around me. He loves to get this kind of attention. While we were playing, my wife said to look over at the windows. Little heads were popping up all over the place. Maxim, the little boy we gave the jacket to, was just staring and staring out the window.

I wonder if I can find him a soccer team for him to play for in the U.S. 
I don't think that will be a problem.

Before we met Natalia,  Rocky saw a photo of her on this swing set in the play yard at the orphanage.  We both thought how cool it was that we were in the very same spot watching her play on the very same swing while sitting right beside her. She loves to swing.

This is a very special moment.

Last night we had a little dinner in the apartment and when we finished the kids got up, picked up the dishes, washed them, and wiped down the table. I could get used to that.

We are headed out for the market today to try to find more personal necessities for the kids who need things at the orphanage. 

The purpose of this blog is not to ask for money. If you feel compelled to make a donation, we will purchase some pencils, pens, paper, deodorant, perfume, and toilet paper. There are over 200 (hundred) orphans here and all are in need of such things. The girls love to have perfume. Several of the children need warm jackets and socks. There is a place here on the blog for donations. Just look to the right side towards the top of the blog. God will bless you. Plus, it will really, really feel good to help. If you do this while we are here at the orphanage, you will get to see the gifts being handed out. Just follow the blog over the next several days.

Off to the market and the birthday party.