Friday update

When we first arrived at Swityaz camp, the children were shy and reserved, but with each passing day they get more comfortable and active. Everyone is having a great time despite the rainy weather, dancing hip hop, playing games, learning English through songs, going for rides in the catamarans (paddle-boats) and many other activities. Marta arrived yesterday and we are happy to have her back: she brings such enthusiasm and strong leadership. She led discussions about global issues and our personal responsibility, and the children were enthusiastic and participated eagerly, making some great Peace Posters.
Yesterday was also “mail day.” Throughout the day, everyone wrote notes of encouragement and appreciation to each other; these were shared at candle time at the end of the day. It is amazing to see how well YMCA values are taught and practiced here, and every child is given opportunities to share thoughts, feelings, and concerns with the whole group.
We also gave the children postcards from Calgary YMCA on mail day (thanks to the children at the outreach site). The children here were thrilled to read these, to see a photo of Calgary, and to imagine children like themselves at a YMCA half way around the world. They also created mail for us to bring back to Calgary, as well as a beautiful poster that symbolizes our time together here.
The camp definitely has an international feel. Besides us, there is also one American, and yesterday, a young woman from YMCA Sweden arrived. Three of the young leaders here will be visiting YMCA Sweden for a week of training in July, then the Tensing group from Lutsk will be travelling to Switzerland for some performances, and of course, Vika and Natalia are very excited about returning with us to Canada. We of course are excited for them and also can’t wait until Ben arrives...hopefully tomorrow!
We found it funny when Ivanna asked us if we were hungry the other day, because we feel that we are constantly being fed since arriving. Polina, the cook at this camp, does an incredible job of making sure that everyone has nutritious and delicious food in their bellies. The food is different than what we would normally eat at home but it is made with fresh local ingredients, which we enjoy very much. For one meal, they served fish that had been caught in the lake just 50 meters away.

P.S. Ben, we just read your update! Can't wait to see you!!!