{ups and downs}

This week I had a bit of a heavy heart. I keep seeing things that just physically hurt my heart to think about. I met a girl my age who could barely walk because her feet were so swollen and frostbitten- she had nowhere to live and had been sleeping outside for weeks. I see teenagers who can't read or write. And everywhere I see kids who deserve a family- and I can't do anything about that.

One day this week I sat with a 20 year old girl, who is attending university while still living at the orphanage. She is learning English and she wanted to read bible passages with me. We went back and forth sharing verses that we liked in both Romanian and English. She shared with me this verse out of Isaiah 49:15-16  "Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne? Though she may forget, I will not forget you! See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands" ... Hearing her read that was intense.  She was forgotten by her mother, she was orphaned and left alone as a vulnerable baby.  But she knows she is loved by her heavenly Father.  I was so amazed at how she drew comfort from this verse.  A girl who has every right in the world to be angry that she was abandoned by her family, finds comfort in the Lord through his Word. It blew me away.

In this season of Christmas, I am amazed at the blessings God continues to pour out. I am missing home very much, but very thankful to be here with my kids.  Just to spend time with them is a gift!  We are preparing for Christmas parties and gift-giving at all of the orphanages, and there is excitement in the air!

the cuteness is just ridiculous

steven with some of the boys during character education class

art time at preschool!

the cuteness continues

We also have been out and about in the city!  We went to dinner and a movie this weekend and had a great time.  We helped pick out a Christmas tree and got to see Santa Claus (Mos Craciun.)

We also visited this beautiful church where the head and heart of Dracula is said to be buried.

We are loving our time here so far.  We are learning a lot, about the language, culture, history and people of Romania.  We are blessed to be here living our dream and thank you for your prayers and support!