dream outloud

Okay, back to the normal journal entries. ~c

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Armenia, October 23, 2009

Crazy day, and yet not super exhausting.

So, after seeing the big building (which really is ridiculously huge - even by American standards) - which is coming along nicely, and has incredible views and awesome stair cases - we sat down for a cup of sourge and prayed for a while. Which was really good. Then, we made lists of what we need to do and made a "plan" of sorts. Next, we went through the tool shed, and took an inventory, and made a list of supplies we need to various jobs on the ARM grounds.

We went to the hardware market (AKA "Home Depot Plaza") with Hayruit acting as chauffeur, and bought all the supplies. Oh! But wait! Before that, we met Laurie's Armenian teacher's sisters in the square outside the Marriott to give them some gifts from their sister in America. They were super sweet, and warm and friendly, and very excited. Okay - carrying on...After the Home Depot Plaza (where we got painting gear, found a really big crowbar!), and other tools), we went to the bookstore so Laurie could get language books.

Next, it was off the Yerevan orphanage, which took an hour to find. We were told it was called "Harvard" orphanage. So, that's what we were asking directions for - but we'd all been to this orphanage before, and knew that we were going the wrong way. Hayruit was super patient - a true juju - and awesome, and didn't just give up and say, "we're going home". So, eventually, when the rest of us where ready to give up and go home, Otto kept saying, "I think we're getting close - this looks right". And he was right! We saw the peak of the playground we'd built last time we were there and erupted in wild cheering and back slapping.

They received us with open arms, and smiles. The playground still looks good - no repairs needed. We'll need new swings, but that can wait. "Rich Blue", and "Mario" were there, and tomorrow, we're going back with gifts and icecream.

Tonight we had a great dinner, and now - Bed Time!

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I'll continue my Armenian Adventures on Monday - have a great weekend! ~c