First week as Lithuanians

"Labas"

Our church building
Dinner at home
'Bag milk'
Old Town Vilnius
Ice cream stop


Famous 'Gates of Dawn'

Ice cream stop

Beautiful church
Walking the streets of Vilnius
One of like two kid-friendly restaurants, aside from McDonalds
This is what we got after asking for water for everyone. A sip each?
We had an absolutely fabulous week #1 here in Vilnius. I am already thinking that two years is going to go by way too fast. The days consisted mostly of apartment hunting, walking, bribing Bradly with ice cream, walking, sweating, visiting churches, playing at the parks, and definitely more walking. As our car is still in the shipment process we are set to use our feet for transportation. We have taken a taxi and trolley here and there, but since it is summer time it's nice to get to see the town while we stroll. Unfortunately, it is summer time! So, sweating to death comes with every move we make, or don't make. We are certain that this will work better than the south beach diet... That is really my only complaint thus far- the heat- well, and the four flights of stairs that is part of our daily living experience!

The kids are feeling quite at home here. We stick out ridiculously with our little troop and Brads makes sure that everyone who doesn't see us can at least hear us. The only phrases I really need to know in Lithuanian are "sorry", "excuse us", and "sorry". That will get me by as I travel around with three children. We attended our new branch today which was an experience for all. We are fortunate enough to have the biggest primary in the country- 10 kids, and to have quite a few members that speak enough english for us to be comfortable.

Lorenzo is realizing how important it is that he learns the language so as to be able to communicate with new friends. Our shy little man is learning lots as we force him to relocate so often. His desire to become a part of things is helping him overcome his fears of change and new situations. It is truly amazing to see him grow in this regard. He's all set to go to class by himself next week, per his request. He loves to see the "trollers" (stroller and trolley) as they pass, fascinated at how they run along cables. He' s so happy that we can have white bread, and loves the pourable yogurt.

Brads is our one solid, never changing child. She'll stay and play when she wants or she'll stamp and throw a fit if the need arises. Lithuania, or no Lithuania, she is adjusting just fine. We have stopped on the street for ice cream just about every day this past week since she's done so well to go house hunting and walk. She is wondering why we didn't get to stop on Sunday, though. We are supposed to have it every day now, and she saw another man get some on Sunday, so why can't we? And, since we are on the topic of Bradly questions- how exactly do we talk to Jesus? "But, we don't have his phone number." She is also certain that every church we pass is a temple where we get married. We aren't sure how she'll do when we go back to the states and no longer have 'bag milk'.

Jamus finally figured out how to crawl in the forward direction this last week, and has broken two more teeth (no more vampire look) for a total of six now! He absolutely loved church today with all the people dawdling over him. Lorenzo continues to be his most favorite person.

Chris is so excited to be back. He is realizing how different it is with a family. Jumping on a trolley is a much bigger and longer process than when he was a lone missionary. Definitely fun for me to get to share this experience with him. I am truly loving it here in our new home.