So basically I’m in Russia.
First of all, I can’t believe it’s already month 10. Woah. Time flies.
This month was supposed to be in Moldova, and I guess technically that’s where we still are. But, my team, along with a few others, along with a team from K Squad, is in Transnistria!
“Where is Transnistria?” you may ask? Good question. It was mine as well. If you look on Google Maps it will look like it’s Moldova. That’s because only 3 other countries in the world recognize it as an actual country.
Apparently in the early 90’s there was a civil war in Moldova where the people who wanted more of a Soviet influence broke away and formed their own country, Transnistria. I was pretty excited to be in Moldova because they speak Romanian, a language I’m in the process of learning, BUT, the main language in Transnistria is RUSSIAN.
Don’t get me wrong, I love Russia. I’ve always wanted to go there. I had an obsession for awhile as a child with the story of Anastasia. But since my heart belongs to Romania, I was excited to have a month with more Romanian influence. But, this is the World Race. Leave your expectations behind you. We’re basically in Russia.
This month we are living with a family who has 10 children. That’s right. 10.
Five of them are away in Israel at school and the other five live at home. They are precious and absolutely adorable. We’re still not for sure what ministry will look like this month, it’s most likely going to look different every day. Our days could include teaching English, helping around the house, cleaning, cooking, helping the neighbors chop wood, garden, etc. Also there are 7 puppies that live here. They are fluffy and adorable.
Some things my mighty prayer warriors could keep in mind for me. Pray against cockroaches. Seriously. Our living conditions on the race have actually been pretty nice compared to some of the horror stories I’ve heard. This month could be the exception. I really don’t know how many cockroaches I’ve killed so far, but all I know is they were by my sleeping pad. Also be praying that we stay present here. With home 8 weeks away it is easy to get distracted with thoughts of home and what life will be like after the race. I want to be here. When else am I going to be in Transnistria again? Probably never. I know I’ll be wishing for these days back so I would rather not wish them away while I’m here.
So this is life in Russia, I mean, Transnistria. I have no doubt that God is going to do great things this month and probably have a good time laughing at us as we tackle the old farm country life.
