Operation Squirrel

Operation Squirrel
Translation in Russian to something like "belchka" or the crafty, wiley character that is ready to take on anything that comes it's way. (according to Erik)

When I spoke with Erik this afternoon (11:30 PM Kiev time) he asked me to send out this request to you for moral support and prayers.

The scene: Erik and Heidi in Kiev with their 4 kids for the first time, pretty much on their own (thank goodness not entirely).

The background: With little to no bonding time, nor Russian language learning time (all of which were on the agenda, until derailed by the antics pulled by the Internaut Director and the caring, caregivers), Erik and Heidi find themselves with the immediate need to keep the kids rounded-up and safe in the city's largest park, while giving them their new-found freedoms. Along with other instant-parenthood challenges confronting loving and caring couples.

Earlier Today in Kiev: While traveling and performing all the necessities of life on the road, and in a hotel in the big city, the kids had a major melt-down. Many of the toys and gifts they've provided wound up on the floor in shreds or broken, amid the torrent of cries, screams and other "acting out" activities. Teachers to the rescue! Fortunately, they were visited by two teachers from the prestigious International Elementary School (where all the state officials and dignitaries send their children). Sergei and Olga arrived on the scene just in time to diffuse, soothe, and calm the young band of rebels. (Apparently Christina was the leader of the rebellion.)

Tonight at the Hotel: Organization is now the rule. Instigators (the girls) have been separated from those who are cleaning up the messes made earlier and seeking ways to repair broken electronics (the boys). Bonding has an opportunity. Bedtime has come late however.

Tomorrow at the Airport: Joined by Max, they will be boarding a 12:10 PM flight. Erik and Heidi will be accompanied to the airport by Leysa (Ben Robinson's sister-in-law) and Ben Robinson (Heidi's cousin), for whose help, they are most thankful.

Here's where your prayers would be most helpful:

1. To avoid any kind of public display of dissatisfaction on the part of the children.
   
2. To have the officials avoid having this become a problem.
   
3. To encourage the airport to provide an expediter who would get them through the system with ease
   
4. To ensure a safe flight that provides a sense of awe and wonderment for children who will soon see what the wonderful world they are about to enter.
   
5. And for continuing to provide Erik and Heidi with the composure, intelligence, perseverance and faith to be the excellent parents we know they will be.

Thank you.

Erick Wand