Safely In Kiev! Oct. 14

Greetings to you all from Ukraine!

I've included a picture of John and I, sitting in a McDonalds, overlooking the runway in the Frankfurt, Germany airport. Do we look as tired as we felt? We were very glad to be out of a plane. This airport is very, very large. You're right Della, we wouldn't want to leave this one and try to get back in!

John and I made it safely to Kiev, Ukraine today - right on schedule. We had a difficulty or two, but God is good and we passed through without missing a single flight. We were thankful Sergiy had made arrangements for us when we arrived. We were able to get through the airport with no trouble, with all our luggage. It was so good to meet him in person for the first time.

Kiev is an old city (approximately 1,500 years old) with lots of trees, shrubs and grass. There is interesting archetecture, statues and history throughout the city. Many buildings are crumbling and falling apart, but the people are used to it and are very proud of their city. Sergiy says there are about 5 million people.

The driving is CRAZY! In Kiev, the drivers make up the rules. There could be 4 cars across in the space of a two lane road - and that's only for going one direction! There are cars in the other lanes going the opposite direction! And they park anywhere, including the sidewalks and double parking. We are so glad the driving is up to someone else! We are happy to leave this part to others.

I've attached some pics of our apartment here in Kiev - it's a one bedroom with a living room, kitchen and a small blue tiled bathroom. Altogether, it's about 500 sq ft. This is very common living accomodations. My family would have a hard time fitting in here! lol

Thank you for all who have prayed fervantly for us - God has answered your prayers. This trip had so many chances for disaster, but He protected us and kept the process moving along.

John and I have also been blessed by our congregation. They had a apecial love offering ($700) collected on Sunday before we left - we can't tell you how much this helps! We have struggled to collect the funds needed and this love offering is a great encouragement to us that God will contnine to supply all we need. Again, thank you.

We have been up for more hours than we can count. It's Wednesday night here and we are trying hard to stay up until "bedtime" to combat jet lag. We managed to catch some sleep on the various flights, but not much. Please pray for endurance and quickness to adapt to the time change. Our appointment Sergiy says, is at 12noon tomorrow. We are praying we will be granted approval to start seeing both girls immediately, not one at a time. It looks like we won't be able to see the girl(s) until next Monday. Sergiy is doubtful we can get everything done and on the evening train tomorrow night so we could see them on Friday. Still, we'll pray this happens. Tomorrow will be a very busy day.

To our kids - we love you and miss you terribly! You are just as brave and courageous as we are. We are proud of you. Be a witness of Him who send us. Hugs and kisses to you.

All our love,

John & Jenn