Contacts...Not the Ones You Put in Your Eyes...

Well, the sun is out and spring has arrived in Vladimir!  The last few days we have been outside with light jackets and no winter boats!  The smell of the fresh air is amazing and such a welcoming scent.  I might start hanging my cloths outside on the balcony to dry!

This past week, I was able to go on a walk with a friend!  Philip helps out at an English club once a week on Thursdays.  This lady and her friend started this English club.  I met "A" last fall, but recently have been able to spend some time with her!  Her and her family came to our Easter celebration a few weeks ago.  It was great to meet her family!  She was interested in knowing more about our church!  We met in the park by our house and walked and talked for over an hour.  Then on Friday, she invited me to go shopping with her and her friend.  We went and ate lunch at a restaurant I have never been to before.  I had some traditional Russian salad and a soup made from pickles.  It was actually quite tasty!  Then we hit the mall and bought a few things for our kids...and maybe ourselves!  It was a lot of fun!  On Saturday night, she invited Philip and I to do something with her and her husband.  We quick found a babysitter and ended up enjoying dinner together at a local pizza place.  We all had a very enjoyable time.

Vika is still coming to our small group each week.  It has been nice to be in a regular rhythm of studying the Bible together.  She always asks questions.  She has recently mentioned that her parents are not very thrilled with her coming to read the Bible.  They think it is some kind of sect, which is what probably many older people may think.  But we assured her we are not, and even told her that the Bible we read together (the one she owns) is approved by the Orthodox church...this should put her parents to ease a little.  Anyway, keep praying for her.  She will leave at the end of the month to do a study program in the States.  Pray for Vika as she goes to live on her own in a foreign country.  Pray for her to meet some believers in her area so that she may continue in learning, seeing, and hearing about the Lord.

Tomorrow I will be going with our language tutor to get a free massage!  What?!  I know, right?  I must have the best tutor in the world...oh and the best husband in the world since he will be watching the girls...again:)  I'll let you know how it goes!

Thanks for your prayers for us.  We are continually seeking the Lord as He uses us for his purposes here in Vladimir!

Blessings,

Philip, Kara, Adalynn, and Gwen

p.s.  I mentioned so long ago (back in the fall)  that I met a mom on the playground named Yulia.  I happened to see her yesterday for the first time since returning in January!  I was happy to see her!  We briefly talked about the weather and how nice it was to be outside again.  I have seen her on the playground since, so I am excited to talk more with her.  Please pray for opportunities and boldness.