Greetings Friends!
Our day has been another productive one, and a marvelously smooth one as well. We began our morning with crisp, clear weather in Vratsa, the morning sun spilling over the impressive vertical walls of rock. Everyone enjoyed a lovely morning walk in the brisk air. Since breakfast at the hotel was not available early, we drove through Vratsa and breakfasted at the OMV on the outskirts of town. Even eating "fast food" was delicious; the pastries were yummy. Later in the day we discovered tasty OMV ice cream after visiting the second orphanage. At the first home, one for handicapped children, we were greeted with songs from the children. They are indeed blessed to have a music director who loves them as well as music. We all joined in the song "If You're Happy and You Know It". What a joyful sound unto the Lord in both Bulgarian and southern English! Shoes and socks followed, then the orphanage kitchen staff treated us to a picnic lunch on their patio area. We munched on open faced sandwiches of cheese and a small piece of meat along with chips and drinks. Back into the vans and on to Roman and the home for "regular" orphans. Many were very appreciative of their shoes and socks. At the end we were delighted that one young man asked for 20 crosses for members of his church. Once again back into the vans and on to Sophia, the capital. Our hotel is extremely nice with large tubs and showers. Dinner is at the hotel, but across the street. Interestingly, the hotel is 3 separate buildings. We quickly freshen up and grab our materials for our evening meeting. That is all except Jeff; he stays behind in his room --- locked in!! Leanne, thank goodness, is the last one down and hears him banging on the door. She quietly whispers to Polly his dilemma, but we all soon learn of our missing comrade's problem. The desk manager quickly leaps in to action, and is soon followed by the hotel owner, and a locksmith. Much up and down the stairs and worried looks. Finally Jeff is rescued via ladder from his balcony. Lucky Jeff and Polly are now in an executive apartment that is big enough for all of us!! Love to all, Cindy
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