We have had a wonderful time visiting with students, teachers, and the administration of the school where we have been visiting.  We have spent three full days talking with students who are learning English.  They are very bright and full of dreams for the future.  

We got in on a birthday celebration for three staff members. The spread of food was wonderful.  No fewer than 20 people were packed into the small teachers lounge enjoying wonderful food and toasting the three who had birthdays.  Of course it was the responsibility of those with birthdays to provide the food-see picture.  There has been great food and lots of tea.  

Mark, Becky and Tami have really enjoyed the interactions.  I am so grateful that they came with me.  They have had a ton to offer and I just get to take pictures and revel in their expertise, friendliness, and genuine interest in the students.  What fun!

 

Off to Cooler Places

Friends, I get to visit some parts of Russia and then venture to Hungary. These next couple of weeks should be full of lots of motion; seeing things/places, meeting new people and processing all I see. I will have some companions for the first part of the trip. So in the not-so-bright and early(3am) we will begin the first leg. Unfortunately that first five hour trip has each of us wedged in a middle seat. Not all of four of us in one middle seat...but spread out. Fortunately the transatlantic part we all get window or aisle seats.

This will be my third time to Russia-but spread out over about 20 years. I am looking forward to seeing what has changed and what still seems the same. Keep us in your prayers.

Did I mention it is supposed to be about 35 and snowy when we arrive?

Shawn