Hi From Voronezh

Hello from Voronezh, Russia. It's Wednesday evening here, and this is the first real chance I've had to get on the Internet. We work so late each evening that we can't make it to the Internet cafe in the hotel before it closes. To get on, we would have to walk quite a way down to another cafe, but it isn't in the nicest part of town, so we don't go there all the time. This evening we were at the "You are not alone" Club, which is a transition center for orphans that have left the orphanage due to their age. The are legally considered adults, but many of them have never learned many of the life skills that we take for granted, like how to wash clothes, cook food, or even find a decent job. The club gives them a place to make friends, learn life skills and perhaps even train for a job.

I have also been involved with a construction project at one of the local churches. We have been digging a place for the "parking lot" and building a fence along one side, which involves moving a lot of sand and gravel. It's hard work, but it's great to see a tangible result from the work.

Nickie and I are doing great, and are really enjoying our time here. We'll try to post more over the next few days. Check back soon. : )