Professor Melissa!

We had only been here a few weeks when Melissa was asked to help teach a seminar on women's ministries at the Bible institute here in Kiev.  It was a great opportunity as women's ministries is a relatively new concept here. 

Teen Challenge Picnic

We recently attended a TC Ukraine picnic at the "beach" of the Dnipro River in Kiev.  The staff as well as former, current and prospective students were in attendence.  Sergey and Mariana Glushko, directors of TCU, hosted the event.  A great time was had by all.  Ukrainians really know how to lay out a spread!

Mia's 3rd Birthday

How is it possible that our baby who it seems was just born a few months ago just turned three?  Mia, you are growing up, my baby!  And way too fast, too!  Check out the make-up.   

Another addition to our family

For several years now, we have lived in places that would not allow us to have a pet.  One of the desires of Brenna and Micah's heart was to live in a place that would allow us to have a dog.  The Lord provided us with a beautiful home (see separate post), and we were able to finally purchase a dog.  Meet the newest member of the VanMeter family...Chelsea!

Our New House!

God is so good!  He provided us with an 1800 sq ft home with 4 bedrooms and 2 baths, all for a good price.  Best of all, it is in a great location in the city close to the kids' school and our TC office.  We have been told by several people that we were lucky and got a steal.  Luck had nothing to do with it.  To God be the glory! 

This would make a great TC center!

Kevin, Sergey, Ghenna, Maxim and I recently drove 100km east of Kiev to look at property for a possible new TC center.  To be honest, I wasn't expecting much, but this turned out to be a great piece of land.  Two small houses and a couple of hectares would be a great start for a new center!  We prayed that God would give us this land to reach a multitude of souls who are walking in darkness and bound in addictions.  Will you help us pray?

Fresh goat's milk from the babushka!

While looking at property for a new TC center in Ukraine, we were invited into the home of a babushka in the village.  It was like stepping back in time 75 years!  The house was small, the furnishings simple, yet I thoroughly enjoyed the warmth and hospitality of our host.  The yard was filled with chickens, rabbits and goats for food and barter, and we were offered a cup of fresh goat's milk and bread.  Not wanting to offend our host, we gladly accepted.   After praying over her, we said our goodbyes.  It was a great day I will not soon forget!