Monday was another in a series of good days. The weather has been cold the past week. A local Ukrainian woman at church on Sunday commented how strange it is to be colder in Spring that it was in Winter. While overcast through most of the day the skies were withholding any precipitation. So Susan and I went for a walk along the Psel River which passes about a city block from our apartment. With its slow-moving waters and tree-lined banks it provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the nearby streets of the city center. We wish we had ventured along this path sooner. The surrounding civilization is shielded from sight and hearing. The broad, swept path is an easy stroll with no concern for dodging the people, debris or potholes that populate the city sidewalks and roads. The odd fisherman (not all were odd) could be seen with his simple rod and line dipped in the calmer water, while a trio of ducks paddled to shore. Birds were chirping; otherwise, silence, serenity and appreciation for nature.

We visited the children at the school with the primary purpose of determining what clothes they would need to tide them over until our arrival in the US. Among the three of our children the only item they possess is a sweater that belongs to Stan. He, of course, has outgrown everything we sent with him eighteen months ago.

The reality of leaving for the US seems to sinking in with the children. We talk more of the family and life at home and how it will be with these children there. They are all a delight to us. Toli has been one pleasant little guy this past week. Stan is helpful and tries to keep things positive with his sense of humor. Dasha is also helpful and trying her English a bit more. She continually expresses her concern that her departure will be delayed by the Russian. Natalie assures her, however, that all is being done to get her out of here as soon as possible. We have heard nothing to keep us from hoping for a simultaneous departure for us all.

Susan asked the children what they would like to do musically when we get home. Dasha wants to learn to play the guitar. We warned her of the possibility of swallowing a guitar pick. Stan wants to continue playing the trumpet. Toli wishes to play the piano.

We enjoy good health. We miss the family, the mountains and what we are certain is warmer weather in Utah; but we know there is an end almost in sight here. We are comfortable with the confines here and adapted to the brown water - or no water. Susan has discovered an abundance and variety of Ukrainian dark chocolate with interesting fillings, so she can abide awhile longer.