Remodeling Coming to a Close

Hi everyone! I thought I'd give you a quick update on my apartment.  While I was at Savva, Josh and Adam worked to install the linoleum in my living room and entryway.  They also installed light fixtures, trim, and some new shelves in a couple closets.

After Savva left Becky and I walked through the house deciding where each piece of furniture should go.  Then, while I had a meeting they moved all my furniture for me and did a round of cleaning.

Today, I had an air conditioner installed.  It was a bit of a funny sight watching a Kazakh man (tall for here) lay on my window sill out my fourth story window making sure the outside unit was properly installed below my window.  Tonight will be my first night sleeping under my air conditioner.

I have been so blessed by friends who have come halfway across the world and helped with in so many ways.  I am especially thankful for all the work they did on my apartment.  I certainly could not have done all of this without them.  We have some cabinets to move in tomorrow and a couple more finishing touches, but the work here is primarily done.  Now they are moving on to other projects at the office and the team house.

Here are some pictures of my completed living room and some light fixtures.

Savva Graduation

Yesterday, I had the opportunity to be at Savva Orphanage for their graduation ceremony.  I felt like a proud mom who had 26 children graduating.  So many of these children I have known since they were just starting school.  Now, nine years later, they are graduating from the 9th grade and moving on to the next stage of their life.  

I was struck by their child-likeness.  They were so excited to graduate, yet terrified at the same time.  This fall, their entire life will change.  They will be separated from friends and sent to different boarding schools around the country.  They will study a trade that they have not chosen and will be influenced by those that have gone before.  There are so many bad choices that are calling their names.  They don't see a lot of graduates going before them setting an example of success.  They are an easy target for those who are looking for someone to influence.  

I remember how hard the transition to University was and I can think back on all the people in my life that were supporting and encouraging me through that time.  The staff at the orphanage try their best to prepare them for the future and give them support while they are away at college, but there is only so much you can do when there are so many students graduating each year.  I remember the fear that I dealt with as I prepared to leave my family, knowing full well that I would be back for holidays and would never not have a place at home.  When I think about these kids and the fact that many of them will be leaving the only home they know and will never return (except for day visits), it is a bit overwhelming.  I can't even begin to imagine being in their shoes.  

So, needless to say, I've struggled with a wide range of emotions these last few days.  Joy as they finish well.  Apprehension as I look ahead at what their futures could hold.  Pride as I see the kind of young men and women they have become.  Sadness as I remember the fun times we have had for years during summer camps and monthly visits and knowing that I won't ever play soccer with them again or celebrate their birthdays at Savva.  Excitement to see what their futures could hold.  Doubt as I wonder how much of a difference we actually make.  Pain when I see their individual hurts and insecurities.  Thankfulness for the times I have had with them.  

I choose to end on thankfulness because I am learning how my perspective shifts as I remember to be thankful.  I am so blessed to be able to be here and allow these children to build into my lives.  I am grateful for the moments I have had with them over the years.  

A Day of Rest

Life has been pretty busy recently.  I had a great time with the Ulan delegation.  It was fun to spend time with them and be able to see the kids at Ulan again.  They did a great job and I think the staff and kids had fun and built deep relationships.  Three days after they left, the Savva delegation arrived.  It was so fun to see many friends who have been here before.  They were only in Taraz one day before they headed off to Merke (about 3 hours away) for camp.  I will be going out to Savva for parts of three days starting tomorrow.  It will be fun to spend time with the delegates, kids, and staff.  I am also looking forward to attending graduation and playing some soccer!

Yesterday, the team that is here for the summer took the day to enjoy the beauty of Kazakhstan.  We went to the mountains for the day.  Our time included some rest, hiking, and even some Canasta playing.  It was fun to have others here to share the joy of a restful day.

My apartment remodeling is coming along.  Becky and I went to the bazaar and purchased light fixtures while Josh and Adam installed the linoleum.  This adventure included trying to carry a 6 foot piece of metal through the crowded aisles of the bazaar.  Thankfully, no one lost a head, although there were a few times where it could have been a real possibility.  :)  The bulk of remodeling should be finished this week.  It will be nice to have my apartment put back together.  I am looking forward to thinking through how I can best decorate and organize the furniture and other items that I have.  I'm thankful that I will have help with this as I don't always enjoy trying to figure out what might look best.

Below are some pictures from our day in the mountains for you to enjoy!  If you want to see more you can go to this link.