More Children!

Like many parts of the world, the economy is more than a mess in Latvia! Banks are repossessing farm machinery and even cattle! More than one farmer has decided to end his life. For many there is no hope. In the past couple of weeks, the Zvannieku family has grown by two teens. Both mother and grandmother disowned one and another was also left with no place to live. All hope was lost. Local officials asked that the girls be allowed to stay at Zvannieki. Even though all rooms were full and money to feed the existing family was at an all time low, these girls were welcomed into the family.

Zvannieki is indeed a special place! There seems to always be room for one more. The children and youth already part of the family understand and are prepared to make adjustments and even give up their own bed for a newcomer. God's grace in action! More water is added to the soup and all are fed.

Thanks be to God for supporters of Zvannieki. With the last donation food was purchased - nutritional value of meals improved by being able to afford to add protein to the children's diet. It maddens me that children in my daughter's school throw away part of their lunches, because they don't like it! And we don't like leftovers... I would like every fussy eater to spend a week at Zvannieki as a wake-up call to how fortunate we are!

Please don't forget to help those suffering in these economic times - and if you are suffering, do not give up hope! There are many good and caring people in the world!

Hats, scarves, socks, sweaters, vests and mittens... The children and youth are surprised by love – the love of those who live a continent away, or next door – love that arrives in parcels. Parcels that include cocoa, peanut butter, underwear, socks and HATS and scarves and vests and sweaters – knitted just for them! A labor of love.
A special gift of time and love that enfolds and warms the children and youth. You are special if someone takes the time to do something for you. You must be special if a gift is sent for you. Wrapped in a shawl who’s every stitch contains good thoughts and wishes. Warmed by a hat full of blessings. Adorned in a top that makes you feel special. Feet warmed by love. Love, care and concern for youth who are used to being ignored, or even worse, abused.
Thanks to all supporters and well wishers! Keep those needles clicking and the wishes rolling!

Spring?

While the temperature in Cleveland is gradually rising and signs of spring are sprouting - that is not yet the case in Latvia. The children at Zvannieki are still enjoying winter. An important aspect of life at Zvannieki is fresh air and exercise. At every opportunity children are outdoors – simply to play or have extended walks. The pictures show the woods around Zvannieki. One trail is 4km long – even the smaller children walk that.
The children’s imagination is also engaged – while walking they look for the nymphs and gnomes of the woods. Sometimes a glimpse is caught of them as they go about their work. Other times a house is built for them. The walks and fresh air improve the children’s appetite and aids them in getting a good nights sleep, not to forget the benefit of working off energy that otherwise would make for a very loud house…
Fresh air and exercise – sounds like a good idea. Maybe I’ll get some.
P.S. Thank you Linda for your pictures!

Happy Birthday

It has been some time since I last wrote. Life is good and ever changing! I write these lines from Cleveland, Ohio where I am now living. Distance separates us from our Zvannieku family, but they are and always will be close to our hearts.
These pictures capture a special moment - it is someone's birthday! Family and friends have gathered for a late summer concert (August 2008). At the close of the concert the Birthday tradition is enacted. Take one thick blanket, have everyone grab hold of it and invite the Birthday child to lie down in it (The older the Birthday 'child', the more persuasion is needed...). The person is cradled, sung to and if brave enough thrown into the air as many times as they have years. Children cannot wait for their birthday - for this moment. Presents are secondary - this is the moment! Cradled and surrounded by love, well wishes and music! Happy Birthday!