The Ukraine

There is so much to say about the Ukraine, but we just cannot do it yet. We have to recover, get organized, and process everything. We will post stories and memories as time permits. Most likely, they will come in pieces. So, if you're interested, keep checking back. They're coming. And don't assume that nothing new is coming...there's a lot to tell over time.

We spent our time at the Jonkoi Orphanage in the town of Dzhankoy. Find the Black Sea on the map. The Crimea is the peninsula on the north part. We flew into Simferopol which is at the bottom of the peninsula, and then drove up to Dzhankoy located at the top of the peninsula, before you get to the mainland part of the Ukraine.

For now, I'll post these photos of the orphanage



and this photo of my friend Artyom.





He lost his mother at three and doesn't know dad. He and his brother are both at Jonkoi Orphanage, but both have a great spirit. Artyom and I became very close this week, and we will write to each other to keep in touch. He apparently is a troublemaker, but I saw a really nice boy who wanted my attention. I loved getting to know him a bit and seeing his smile each day. I purchased Artyom a sweater and some new shoes while we were there so he can stay warm and be comfortable. He wrote me a really nice letter thanking me for everything. It was nice to see that he had some hope.


Unedited and unorganized photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/dcourtine