Tuesday, August 23, 2011

A Fresh Breeze is Blowing!

    Today was a wonderful day here in Latvia....sun was shining, breeze was blowing and my sweet boys were smiling.  It feels like fall in America here in Latvia.  We walked around Old Riga and shopped for our friend Kevin some Latvian shoes.  We had lunch at Double Coffee and enjoyed the street music and beauty of this amazing city.  Tomorrow will be our first court here in Riga.  Afterwards, we will go to David's orphanage for a short visit. It will be a nice time for David to see his friends. 
   We have just arrived home from dinner with his friend Alex.  We met at McDonalds and enjoyed some time talking together.  We had some presents to give Alex from his host mom and dad.  It was such a sweet time and I love getting to spend time with these kids.  God is doing such a huge work in each of their lives and it is truly powerful to be a part and share in His plan.  I serve a mighty God who is ever present!!!  I know that He is the one whose hand has guided this journey.  I will never cease to praise Him for he has heard the cry of these orphans and has provided the means to help them.  Please pass on all the info about each of the hosting programs.....(Christmas hosting will be soon!!)
   Here are some pictures of our fun day....













Monday, August 22, 2011

Latvia Oh Latvia......

Dear Friends,

    It has been a while since I last wrote in our blog....., but life has truly changed in the house of Kilgore!!  We are now a family of seven and wow the dynamics of a house with four teenagers and one middle schooler.  It is enough to truly yell.....Calgon take me away.  I remind Mike constantly that I told him when we first got married that I wanted 6 children.  He should be thanking his lucky stars that God changed it to 5!  Ha! Ha!  Although there are moments when my mind is overwhelmed with responsibilities.....I have never been more satisfied and sure of my role as a mother.  God brought each of these special blessings to me for 5 different reasons.  I thank him constantly for His provisions and His amazing love. 
    Yesterday, we arrived in Riga, Latvia to complete our adoption.  This is our second of three trips and one of the most important as this trip finalizes the adoption portion of the process.  We will attend court on Wednesday and Thursday and fly home on Friday.  Last night when we arrived exhausted from a long journey....Latvia was in celebration of 810 years.  The city was illuminated by fireworks and excitement in the streets.  I was reminded of the beauty of this city and the strength of the Latvian people.  I am so thankful to be given the honor of sharing in the heritage of my boys.  I love them both so very much and I am so thankful that I have this opportunity to understand their culture. 
    We are staying in an apartment that belongs to a local pastor here in Riga.  He is a wonderful man and has been so helpful.  I will forward his information to anyone who is interested in renting an apartment for their adoption trips.  I will take some pics of the apartment and post later for everyone to view.
    As for now, we are off the get something to eat and shop at Rimi (our favorite grocery store).  I brought both my Double Coffee and Cili Pica discount cards......you know you have to coupon even in Latvia!
    Looking forward to our court dates and praying for our family at home.

Ata'....for now

Penny