Last Morning!
I have had a blessed week here in Smolensk. Each night over the last week, I was welcomed into a friend’s house as a dear family member. I was given very taste food and had a great talk with each family. Everyone said hello to my family and friends. Thanks you for sharing me for some time but knows you are happy to have me back. Sasha (girl) mom asked that you would share me again sometime soon!
Thursday night was my last class with my younger students who sang "We Wish you a Merry Christmas" in Russian and English. The parents came in after the class to give me gifts, artwork by the children and the best - words of thanks. The parents told me at first some were a little scared having someone that can’t speak Russian teaching the children but after each class the children would be so happy and have learned so much. Anton’s mom said I really made Anton enjoy learning English and she knows that I enjoyed it because you can see it in my kind eyes! Anton who always makes me smile. He told me, he will come with me to American so we can keep learning English!
On Friday, Helen spoke with Anya’s teachers about her being able to miss school for the day so she would be able to see each other. It was a peaceful way for us to say our good-byes. Most years it’s a very crazy good-bye that doesn’t feel that we had closer! Later on Friday, the youth group came over to say good-bye! It was so great to see everyone before leaving. We talked about everything that has happen over the last couple of months and what the youth would like to happen in the year. The group is still going to meet with Helen as much as it can!
I have packed my bags and will be leaving soon for the train, which will take me to Moscow. My flight is on Sunday morning so I will be back in the USA on Sunday night! At this point, I will be at my parent’s house until I get a phone and car. Please keep in prayer the mission here in Smolensk, my travel back to the USA, and getting a job. Thank you for all the emails of love! I hope to see you all soon! <>< JulieJ
ps i'm sorry that i didn't have time to write everyone back!