Neighborhood Snapshots_day10

Added a few neighborhood pictures (from the snowy days). The first is of me standing at the top of the hill by a path that leads down to the village shopping area. The second is of our apartment facade, not so much to look at, but very nice inside. And the third looks like just a street shot but the building you see is important as it is the headquarters for the Black Sea Fleet of the Russian Navy. We often see sailors and officers in uniform walking the same paths as we do.

We had more fun at the orphanage today and as always were thrilled to see our girls. They give us such a warm welcome each time we visit it makes us beam with joy. It was easier to walk to and from today as we've had a break in the weather and most of the icy, snowy, slushy walkways have melted away. It has been a challenge keeping our balance on the ice and we've both been known to give out a quick or sharp cry as we've slid precariously while thankfully remaining upright. They don't use salt to help with the walkways so that makes it tricky, though we've only seen one person fall so far, and most walk with much more confidence than we do!

A fun anecdote from several days ago with the girls: it was the day we came later in the afternoon and about 1/2 way through our time together dinner time was announced. We suggested that perhaps we should leave. A clear and resolute "No" was communicated so we sat back on the couch ready to relax for an expected 15-20 minute break at a minimum. Boy were we surprised when about 7 minutes later they returned, ready to resume UNO with gusto!! We hope they didn't get a stomach ache on our behalf but it was flattering:)

On the way to the orphanage today, David stopped at the market and negotiated a "big buy" of beautiful oranges as a gift for all the children of the orphanage. His favorite vendor wasn't there unfortunately and the next fellow just couldn't understand such a large purchase. But luckily the merchant in the next stall, a bright-eyed and intuitive Ukrainian woman, quickly understood and made the purchase fun and easy. We gave the oranges to the caregivers and they shared them with the children so we didn't see the kids enjoy them but we were assured that it was a special treat for them.