Sightseeing

We had a really wonderful day yesterday. After our visit, Valentina took us to a little coffee shop called the Arabica. We had hoped that they had lunch items, but since they didn't, we just dined on chocolate cake for lunch. Calories don't count when you are in Kaz! The coffee was tasty. I think it might be one of the only places that serves brewed coffee instead of instant. We also had the chance to do some sightseeing at another Russian Orthodox Church. There were two tiny old women cleaning the floor by hand who would look at each other from time to time and giggle. It was so cute. Outside, in celebration of Christmas, was a manger scene carved into the side of a snow drift. They had painted the snow around it and it looked like a giant snowcone.
It was interesting to learn that the city name, Petropavlovsk, is named for Saint Peter and Paul. We had a good time talking with Valentina about what life was like before their independence. We truly take so much for granted in the United States. Even 19 years after independence, they still stuggle to make ends meet. The poverty is masked, but if you dig a little, you realize how little the people of Petropavlovsk really have. They walk about in fancy mink fur hats and coats and designer boots, but if you look close enough, you see that they only have two outfits that they switch from day to day. I will never again complain about not having anything to wear.
Well, we are off to pick up Karina from the orphanage and bring her to the city to have her passport photo taken. This is probably the first time she has ever been in a car (at least that she can remember). It is going to be quite the adventure for her. We are overjoyed to be able to spend the day with her.
Thank you to those of you that have been skyping and emailing us with your prayers. It is remarkable how the Lord is confirming the things that He has placed in our hearts. His Holy Spirit is touching us through each of you. What a blessing to be surrounded by such a wonderful community of believers, both here and abroad. You may not be many, but your prayers are powerful.