So things go according to God's plan and not my own

This is something I have struggled with over the past week and a half or so as 

we got some of what we needed when it came to design plans, 

but not nearly all of what we expected and anticipated. 

So this past week was the first week for the design workers here in Ukraine to really begin fixing, exacting and clarifying what I was given so the house will fit properly on the plot of land, needing to be precise so the next step in the design processes could begin. 

The house ended up being too large on a few sides, 

so a meeting tomorrow may help answer some questions.

the front and back color elevations

a rendering of Stephen's home

Back in Ukraine and putting my hand to the "hoe" not the plow, but close. Sasha, Nadya and I worked out on the garden plot of Stephen's home today clearing weeds and watering the 20 or so fruit trees, most of them having been transplanted. (apple, pear, plum, peach, apricot, and cherry)

There are 10 grape vines as well, planted around the back area where there will be a trellis and garden swing. In the process we found 6 poppy plants and a few wild daisy plants we'll move into a flower garden area. Oh, the other finds were 3 self planted walnut trees, so were keeping them in case the one we've planted as the center of the garden is just a tad larger than a stick, if doesn't make it. 

We've not got enough room for all of them, unfortunately. 

Sasha has spent a lot of time filling out documents and paper work, sitting in offices, waiting in lines. 

Everything for the property ownership needs to be registered correctly so we don't run into problems in the future. I'm very grateful that Sasha is willing to go the extra mile to make sure the certification happens as needed, 

I just don't know that would have the patience he does.

I've been working closely with the architectural firm, eMi (Engineering Ministries International) here in Colorado Springs. We are close to wrapping up the design plans for Stephen's home. Once complete I'll pass these off to Sasha to submit to the architect in the Darivka region with a prayer and the intent that she will approve things rather quickly so we can get working on building the foundation an basement this fall.

The exterior entryway took a bit more work to get completed. 

It came out looking very pretty and safe for all who'll use it.

Finishing the front entry of the church

that is now handicapped accessible

Inside the church looking out at the entryway and front door

Entering the church

Finishing the insulation process, the outer layer of plaster that is applied.

From the road

The finishing work out at the church is what's been able to happen through

these cold months. The first indoor bathroom at the church is now working. 

I can say this with confidence as the outhouse is no longer standing.

BEFORE

AFTER

Much of what has been progressing out at the property lately, doesn't include pictures. It's document after document that has to be filed here or there. Sasha's spent much time going back and forth between many of the same offices as forms have to be perfect to be accepted. The good news with all of this documentation that's been submitted is a significant step in progress. 

Stephen's home property is now officially owned by PROMISE, 

our Ukrainian charitable organization

YEAH!

Sasha, project manager, & Rex, architect, with eMi

Engineering Ministries International(eMi) out of Colorado Springs, CO is partnering with us

to help in creating handicapped accessible floor plans and layouts for the rooms of Naomi's and Stephen's homes. Rex spent 3 days waiting in Istanbul for the fog to clear so he could come to Ukraine.

When Rex finally arrived we were down to less than 48 hours to do a whole lot of planning before he had to hop in his next plane. Gracious and willing to do whatever it took, we spent lots of time talking, planning, dreaming and praying the Lord would bring wisdom so we can do what will be best for 

the young men and women who will be living in these homes.