Traveling to the Orphanage

We thought that we would start by telling everyone how we go about getting out to the orphanage.  While it is well worth the trip, it is quite a trek.  We begin by walking down to Independence Square, from there we go down and pass through the underground mall where we then catch the Metro (subway); we have now walked over a mile.  Next we pass through these very heavy doors where if you are not careful they will swing back and knock you out.  We then enter the subway by taking an escalator.  This is the longest escalator we have ever seen  and Katelyn loves it. It goes down very quick, very steep and from the top you can't see the bottom.  The subway ride takes about 20 minutes.  Next we go to the bus stop where we wait for the #255 bus.  When the bus comes it is usually hot inside and packed with alot of people and many times there are not any available seats.  This bus ride takes about another 20-25 minutes followed by another 5 to 10 minute walk to the orphanage.  The entire process takes a good hour or more each way.  At this time we are planning to visit the orphanage 4 -5  days each week. 

The bus we take from the metro to the orphanage. 

The bus stop in Novoselki, the suburb where the orphanage is located.

Walking through the neighborhood to the orphanage.

Entrance to Cradle of Children's Hope.

All the trees in and around Kiev are painted white on the bottom.  We are told this is to stop ants. ?

Today, because the children have now been taken out of school, we had our first homeschool day.  They were both excited to do school with mama and did very well.  We are starting with the basics: ABC's, 123's and learning to write their names.

It is wonderful to be getting to know their personalities and Katelyn loves having a sister and little brother.

Both Alena and Caleb love to play with Katelyn. What a joy to watch them begin to bond as siblings.