We're home!

Returning home from our Russian home is always bittersweet . . .

The whole team arrived in Indianapolis last night without a single travel glitch, safe and sound, to many hugs and kisses from the families who missed them. We had a great time, we learned and laughed and hugged as much as we could. We dug in to the Sovietsk community, visiting schools and tech schools, connecting with local supporters, even earning a major feature on Kirov region news. We saw how our investment is paying off, inspiring more local people to invest in Sovietsk as well. We saw how individual sponsorship touches individual kids, and how program sponsorship touches the orphanage community. We saw how this year's sponsorship improved the atmosphere--an updated hallway and bathroom, cozy drapes for the children's rooms, little things here and there that make a big difference. We supplied textbooks, school supplies, garden and sports equipment, winter gloves, and lots of fun treats sent from all over the country. We worked, played, adventured, and were treated to the finest hospitality on earth. We didn't say goodbye, we said see you next time.

Seeing hard work pay off in the form of truly changed lives is encouraging to the core. Sponsors and pen pals, I'll be sending photos and information about your special children in the next few weeks. We also learned of many more needs and gained a better understanding of some of the challenges our children face. I can't say enough about the people who came along with us--I am so thankful for our invested and creative team of travelers whose wheels have been turning all week and who are excited to broaden the web of support for these kids. Stay tuned--there is so much more to come.

The stories will unfold bit by bit, and we are excited to share with you! You'll hear about each of our special programs, more details about the kids and their needs, and more about the Sovietsk community. You'll hear about all of our wonderful surprises--teachers getting to teach lessons, our nutritionist learning and sharing with the orphanage nurse, professionally-oriented conversations about our kids, and all of it filmed by an award-winning director for a special documentary. We'll share how to make vetrushki, how to play banana, and what to expect if you're ever at a potato festival. You may hear from some of our other travelers as well--fresh perspective is a beautiful thing!

Especially, you will hear a resounding THANK YOU from the people of Sovietsk, and from Ben and I, who are so honored to represent you and bring your love to them. The impact of another year of sponsorship hit us squarely in the face--there is no question that all of your love, support, and generosity is changing lives. We are so inspired to do even more--so please, continue to join us along the way.