The other day as we were at Saramoldaeva picking up children for our monthly birthday party. We came upon a girl that was supposed to attend. She informed us that she would not be coming. When asked why, she responded that her mother was coming to the orphanage to visit for the first time in nine years. She told us that her mother had recently been released from jail and was going to come to see her. We congratulated her and told her we would bring her some cake and pizza from the party. She had such a look of hope and anticipation in her eyes as we left her there waiting for her mother to arrive. After the party, as we followed through on our promise to her, there was no need to ask if her mother had come. Her eyes told the story of yet another disappointment, although she tried to smile in the midst of it all. It is amazing to watch the hope that still lives in these children's eyes despite the many disappointments during their short lives.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
January Birthdays at Saramoldaeva
On Saturday we celebrated birthdays with two children from Saramoldaeva. Each month, we take the kids from Saramoldaeva that have a birthday to Ken's house for a party. We watch a movie, eat pizza, have cake and ice cream, give gifts, and play games. We have an opportunity during this time to get to know the children on a more individual level. It also gives the children a chance to get away from the orphanage setting for a few hours, be in a home, and celebrate their birthday like a child that has a family. Each child gets to invite a friend to the party. We hope you enjoy the pictures and that they are able to convey the wonderful time that we had! 
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)