A Tribute to My Mother-in-Law

Buna Ziua!

Today was another great, yet very tiring day.  Most of what I wanted to focus on today occurred in the hospital and led me to have a new respect for mothers everywhere!  Seriously, caring for children is one of the most tiring, yet also most rewarding, careers there are.  Not only does it require physical contribution but emotional and even mental aspects as well.  I know it takes me great patience to not want to rip out my hair or even collapse from exhaustion sometimes while working with them.

But, today was definitely one at the hospital that taught me a new lesson in future child care taking.  At the orphanage I work with children that are toddlers to around 4 years old.  For the most part they understand what to do and what not to do when they are told.  I also don't really have the responsibility of cleaning or changing their diaper while I am there.  However, at the hospital it is a different story...

Many of the children at the hospital that are orphans are babies.  In fact, I kind of have a designated floor which has kind of come to be "my floor".  I have floor 5 as my floor because that is really the only floor I have worked on while at the hospital, other than the very first time I went where I was on the 7th.  But, the 5 floor is the best, again this is probably my biased.  It is the cardio floor so all the ones with heart conditions are sent there.  Also, this floor most always has at least 2 kids that don't have moms.  I love working on this floor and I feel like the nurses are pretty comfortable with seeing me there now. 

Like I said, today's blog is a tribute to my mother-in-law.  Other than being the mother of my wonderful Andrew, she also happened to be the mother of twins ( obviously Andrew is a twin).  So, today I had just a small glimpse into the life of those mothers with multiples and even those who had small children close in age.  It is crazy!  So a shout out to my mother in law, my own amazing mother, and all the other woman who have experienced this.  You are the so amazing, and it truly takes a strong,dedicated woman to be a mother (and just a motherly figure). 

Today I went up to the 5th floor by myself since my partner needed to visit a little boy from her room in the orphanage that was in intensive care.  So I went up there and the nurses showed me which kids had no moms.  I already new which ones because they are always in the same two rooms and these kiddos are ones that I have been seeing all week. There were three (two in one room and one in the other), but luckily the little boy was asleep because I was thrown into a surprise.  Immediately I saw what I needed to do.  The two girls were both needing their diaper changed.  They are around the same age (yes both babies), so meanless to say I was running around like a mad woman. We will just call them baby 1 and baby 2. Baby 2 was screaming, and needed a diaper change badly, while Baby 1 had soaked everything. Baby 1 also had a huge surprise as well in her diaper.  How can so much come out of such a small person? It was all spilling out everywhere! So... I had to strip the clothes and all the bedding from the bed while trying to calm the Baby 2 down.  I grabbed the nurse to take all the clothing and asked for new ones as I moved Baby 1 into the same crib with the other baby.  This was the only available space.  I then started changing Baby 1's diaper when new clothes were being fetched.  But, Baby 2 was still in hysterics so I moved to change her diaper.  Since they are always in layers of clothes it is always fun just trying to get to their diaper.  I changed Baby 2 and was slipping the new one underneath when she started pooping again!  I was like seriously?  So I had to quickly stop her as the nurse was handing me new clothes to change the other baby.  Yes, the whole time she was crying.  I finally got Baby 2's diaper changed and then had to put new sheets on the other crib and move Baby 1 back into her after putting on her clothes.  Then I had to hold Baby 2 till she calmed down (which felt like a while).  Luckily Baby 1 was in a pretty good mood today so all I had to do was entertain her while I was holding Baby 2.  PHEW!  After about an hour my partner came back and Baby 2 was already asleep.  So I played with Baby 1 and then went over to Baby 3's room where I stayed and entertained him. 
He also needed a diaper change....

Meanless to say I have a whole new respect for mothers.  I only had a taste of it and I am already tired haha.  But, today was definitely fun and I am learning alot about the kids.  In fact, Aubrea taught me something new about when kids bite and don't let go.  Wish I known that early cause that happened today.  Of course, Queenie loves to take toys just because another kid is playing with it.  And sometimes, like today, she will bite them really hard.  Today, Queenie bit Bambi on the shoulder really hard cause she wanted his toy.  Poor thing.  Oh the joys of children.  However, still living the dream and still loving life! 

Mare vis,

Dani

Covered

Buna Ziua,

Another day at the orphanage and another day already over!  It is insane to think about how fast this week is flying.  Tomorrow is already Thursday.  When I walked into the orphanage this morning I nearly had a heart attack.  Seriously, I walked in and saw huge balls flying, children crying, and them running everywhere.  All 10 kids in Bambi 2 were out and playing.  It was insane to see all of them ,and then to have the room  be an absolute disaster. Meanless to say I didn't have time to be tired so I just go to work and cleaned and took care of all the kiddos.  It always goes pretty good until la masa.  Then...all the real breakdowns happen.  It is like children turn into little monsters at lunch time.  Granted, they are kind of forced to eat at the time, but still it is kind of crazy.  I have noticed the same kids acting up every singe meal.  Blue Diva just doesn't really like to eat so when the workers force food down her throat she get super upset.  Iggy is always crying during lunch especially.  I think he is just always really tired during then.  But, the worse is Queenie.  My goodness does this little girl need attention.  It is kind of ridiculous for her to always be that needy.  She just likes attention and then she just doesn't like to be fed or something.  Poor little girl, but at least she shows emotion!

But, as you have noticed the title of this blog is covered.  By covered, I mean covered in everything.  Everyday my scrubs get covered in everything from bubbles, boogers, drool, blood (from the occasional lip or nose bleed), and anything they have to eat during la masa.  Usually, the lunch time drenching comes from Dumpling (who I help feed alot) who enjoys splashing the soup they give them all over me.  Or...from Mohawk( who I also sometimes help during his lunch time) who has trouble eating, and holding his head up, so all of his mashed potatoes is smeared over both of us.  La masa is definitely an interesting time.  However, all of this is not including the children who love to climb all over me. 
Romania itself is also starting to cover me.  The wonderful smells from the bakery we pass everyday.  The not so good smoke that comes from all the people who smoke in Europe (yuck!).  Also, Romania has its own smell.  Not exactly sure how to describe it but it now covers me and all of my clothes.  But, despite all of the many smells that surround me I am enjoy every one of them.  I am feeling accepted and apart of this culture!  Even today when I went shopping at Kauflan a lady asked me where something was in Romanian.  I guess I blend in pretty well here or something cause people always look to me as if I understand everything they are saying.  Wish I did, but I still have a few more months to learn as much as I can! 

Love life and all of its moments.  I need to take my own advice and make every day count while I am in Romania.  Cause sadly, who knows when or if I can ever come back.  But, I am so grateful for the opportunity to be here and the support from my whole family in allowing me to come. 

cu mult drag,

Dani

Highlights of the Day

So this blog won't be too long today cause it is almost 9 my time and I still have to eat dinner!  Sadly, the only Internet access is in the other apartment, but it is better than nothing.

Anyways I just wanted to focus on the highlights of today.  It was an overall one of my favorite days here in Romania.  The first highlight happened at the orphanage.  Little Blue Diva had gone back there yesterday.  When I first entered the room, as I usually do, we had a little reunion.  She came over to me and hugged me!  Seriously, it didn't matter if the rest of my day was bad this just made it.  Blue Diva was so sweet and that little hug showed me that it was worth spending all those weeks with her in the hospital.  If only I could have like 3 hours a day with just one of the kids in my room than it would be truly wonderful. 
The second highlight occurred at the hospital.  I went up again to the cardio floor to see if any kids were up there without moms.  Two kids were, both little.  One, a boy was asleep and didn't get up till the last 30min we were there (he was so, so adorable though!).  But, there was also the same little girl that I had yesterday.  She is such a sober little thing.  I think I already described but it just breaks my heart to look at her.  She doesn't really like to be touched, I can't hold her, she has the saddest (silent) cry, and she rolls away alot.  But, today I had a small breakthrough.  She smiled! I didn't know she was capable of it.  I was just making a funny face and then blew gently in her face and she gave the smallest smile and even laughed.  I would too considering all the kids are dressed in layers of clothes and it is so hot in there.  This little gesture made me proud of myself.  I will see if I am with her again, who knows. 

But, I ended the day with two of us girls going to a "aerobics" class at the church and it was pretty fun.  It was nice to just dance around and hang out. 

cu mult drag,
Dani

Working Towards My Dreams

Another week has flown by and today was the beginning of another.  Thursday will be the month mark I have been here!  It is so crazy to think I have already been in Europe for that long.  In reality, us girls were so blessed to have paperwork done before we came because we were able to start working after only a week of being here.  Past groups had to wait weeks.  Working, especially work that bring such great joy, always makes time go fast. 

At the orphanage this morning is was very easy to have a bad attitude.  My weekend had, once again, been full that it didn't even feel like a break.  Plus, we all went to bed very late Sunday that waking up and caring for kids the whole day seemed to last thing I wanted to do.  On top of all that, alot of the kids in my room were grouchy.  Yes, this included screaming, kicking, crying during meals, and lots and lots of tantrums.  I even got hit in the face! 
But....
I told myself to quit being so negative.  Because today was actually a really good day!   The boys played with those Connectx block thing or whatever that are like pokie legos or something.   It was so funny watching all the things they could make out of them. They first made cell phones and then turned it into other things. The best was when they made them into razors.  One of the little boys took their creation and started "buzzing" the other little boy head. They also enjoy buzzing and brushing my hair with them. It was really funny to watch their creativity.  But of course, like with all little boys, it ended up becoming a gun, and that was what entertained them the longest.  So despite all the possible negatives, the high of my day came at the end of la masa.  I had finished feeding Dumpling when Ada, the head worker, was telling Dumpling to say bye to me.  I had already started walking out of the little cafeteria when Dumpling was waving and saying "Pa!"  Then, all of my kiddos were waving and saying "Pa! (bye)" as I left.  It made my day.  It made me feel as though they were starting to get comfortable around me and were accepting me.  I hope that my presence can bring some sort of helpful change in their lives.

One other positive thing before the hospital...
Teo (the orphanage manager) and Sara ( the guy physical therapist) both came in to check in on Bambi.  This little guy is old enough to be walking but just hasn't yet.  He can hold himself up and kind of crawl, but he is pretty clumsy and needs two hand support to walk.  So, hopefully this means something can be done to strengthen this little guy's legs and get him walking.  It would be awesome to see some progress before I leave.

So lastly, the hospital...
I went upstairs to the 5th floor like always and Little Blue Diva wasn't there!  It was actually very bitter sweet without her there.  I felt so unsure of what to do.  But, there was a new baby there.  It was so hard for me to deal with a baby after going from toddlers!  It was little girl and it was such a sad situation.  She was so tiny, especially from her waist down (her little legs did not seem to match the rest of her body).  Poor thing kept crying a very fake sounding cry like she was hardly making a sound at all.  There wasn't alot I could do.  It was very overwhelming and I will have to see if she is still there tomorrow.  But, today was reality for me because it was the first time I was with an actual baby without a mom at the hospital.  It hit me hard but all I can do right now is just be strong and try to love them.  This might take a little bit of time for me not to be so tender-hearted about these kinds of things.

But, looking back on today.  These are the reasons I decided to come on an internship.  I am hoping to become a nurse with some speciality because I have a strong desire to help people.  I always have.  I feel this is the best way for me to have a career for myself and to help others in any way I can.  So this internship has allowed me to step as far out of my comfort zone as humanely possible.  One, I am working with children...something very outside my comfort zone.  Second, as a nurse, I will be seeing many heart breaking things ,and this submersion of working with Romanian orphans is allowing me to see the hardest side of disabilities and life.  I need to become a stronger individual and I know that after this amazing experience I will be. 

Mare vis,

Dani

Tidbits of Romania

Not too much happened for me today really.  Kind of a bummer I missed out on a fun trip today but I hope we will do it again in the future!  We did, however, have church today and it still astounds me that every Sunday I have 3 hours of church all in Romanian!  But, we do have translators that speak Romanian and English so I get to feel the spirit no matter what language is being spoken.  It is a new experience having church in a foreign country but one I am glad I get to have. 

Today's blog I just wanted to share some random cultural tidbits about Romania.  Some exclusive to Iasi, some to just the hospital and some to just our apartment!

-It is basically taboo to have a window and door open at the same time.  The current could bring sickness.
-It is kind of rude to whistle or sing while eating at someone's house.
-It is also a taboo for women to sit on the cold, bare floors.  It could freeze their ovaries. 
-Pigeons seem to be the nation's bird because they are everywhere!
-There are more stray dogs in Romania than anywhere else I have ever been.
-We have gas stoves, but this also includes us needing to light the stove where we need to cook with a match.
-The toilets here aren't too strong so we have to throw our used toilet paper in the trash can.  Yep. In the trash can.
-People smoke everywhere including the hospital and while holding small infants. 
-The elevators can only hold up to 4 people and no more than 320kg.
-Romanians also say "oopsie-daisy" when kids fall or get hurt (except of course it is in romanian)
-Parascheva is the city of Iasi's saint.  She is located at a church where she her remains supposedly reside and you can even "touch her hand" if you visit. 
-The Romanian currency is called Lei or Ron and it is about 3 to 1 in US dollars.
-You can buy fresh bread for about 50 cents
-They have the best little pastry shops located all throughout the city (I am possibly biased but it is a very hard temptation on the way to the orphanage everyday)
-You can't drink the water unless you have grown up on it your whole life or the microorganisms could get you very sick
-So...we drink bottled "Apa Plata" meaning the flat (non carbonated) water.
-You have to put in a 50 boni ( like the Romanian cents) in order to use a shopping cart
-You also have to pay for grocery bags
-There are lots of little old ladies with purple hair (not quite sure why but I suppose it is better than white?)
-I have never seen gypsies before until coming to Europe.  They have a florescent colored clothing and they get a bad rap when they are really not too bad
-Most of the cars her are super nice BMW (even the charter buses and ambulances).
-But...I would rather drive anywhere but here, it is like driving in Jamaica...not alot of rules so people just kind of make up there own and let each other in.  Even if we supposedly have the walking right away they go anyways.  But hey it is still a cool experience!
-In case you were wondering.  Iasi (sorry the s does have a little comma thing under it) is pronounced "yash".  I's in Romanian have their own language...sorta...
-They are not outwardly as open as far as smiling and laughing as in America.  But, they are such nice people!  Don't get me wrong they are a happy people!
-Strangely they are more blunt and forward about what is on their minds though...
-I live literally less than 5 minutes walk from the big Cultural Palace.  I walk by a castle everyday to the orphanage!
-I also live close to the Bank of Transylvania-which is pretty neat ha ha


All in all there are so many other things I could talk about, and some I am still coming to understand. But I am loving my experience here.  Hopefully when I get my hours done for the internship I can spend a little more time just visiting different parts of Romania and the surrounding area. I will continue to keep you posted on all my newest adventures and I hope everyone has some exciting ones of their own!

Mare vis,

Dani

A Taste of Romania

Today was such a busy yet fun day for a Saturday!  Early this week I was looking forward to do nothing but sleeping and relaxing on the weekend but then all of us girls decided to get a cultural proof done for our class.  You know what, it was definitely fun and worth giving up a whole Saturday dedicated to just that.

Our proof required that we learn and make 3 Romanian dishes.  Luckily for us, we have 3 friends who are Romanian and who knows some yummy recipes.  So I am very excited to say that I have learned some new recipes I can use back at home.  We started at 10:00 in the morning by going to Kauflan, a grocery store.  Shopped for two hours and then started cooking around 1:30.  We didn't finish the dishes until about 6:30!  So literally we took shifts and cooked the whole day. 

In case you were wondering....We made:
1.  Ciorba(soup) called Supa de pui (chicken soup)
2. Ardei Umpult (stuffed peppers)
3.  Salata (just a simple Romanian-style salad)

I personally, as those who know me very well, don't really enjoy vegetables.  But, I do love trying new things and am willing to try just about anything!  I definitely loved all of these recipes especially the stuffed peppers which contained rice, pork, carrots, onions, and tomato sauce (plus some more odds and ends).  I really am loving experiencing a new country and its culture.  Trying new things is all part of the experience and if I had held myself back simply because I normally think I don't "like" something I would have missed out on something really great.  Despite the crazy, crazy experience at the grocery store the day was good.  I got a little stressed and overwhelmed and the store because I am not used to such a high degree of chaos.  I volunteered to push the cart (big mistake for someone who gets easily high strung) and got rammed by other carts, and had tons of people surrounding me on every side in a hurry to get food.  Pretty much it could have been a cultural proof by itself.  But, I am still glad I went and got to ride a taxi on the way back!  Yes, pathetic I know but I have never ridden in a taxi until I got to Romania.  And six lei ( about 2 dollars total for 5 girls) for about a 10 minute drive is not too bad when you have a ton of heavy groceries to haul back. 

After eating a few of us learned a few Romania dances.  One of them is the penguin dance and watching different dances just shows how happiness can be expressed through dance.  I LOVE dancing and this just makes me so excited to see a new side of the Romanian people as I watch them dance.

Meanless to say despite my other worries back at home I love it here.  I am loving the experience and am so grateful that I have been given this opportunity to come.  I know I was meant to be here, at this time, in this place, I hope I can really come to understand how significant that is by the end of my adventures here in Iasi. 

Cu mult drag everyone,

Dani

The Day of Cannibals

So today was another one of those crazy days!  The kids were screaming, accidents happened, and did I mention that now all of the kids in my room have chicken pox?  But something made one of the workers said to today just made me stop and laugh.  My new favorite worker, if I can have one, said this ( in English actually) "If I was a cannibal than I would choose them.  Babies, all the babies."  I know what she was trying to say and  I would too. I would still choose these kids in my room no matter what! I have grown to really love them and hope as the semester goes on I can get to know their personalities even better.

A small list of happened today:
Negative 1.  Minge was acting up again today that caused a small accident.  He was playing with Dumpling when he started getting naughty that he pushed Dumpling over.  So of course Dumpling fell on his face and came up with a huge red carpet rash on his face. 
Positve1 : But the positive thing was that it is always so nice to see the older kids playing with the older ones!

Negative 2: Queenie, who is always up an about everywhere, tripped something and also fell on her face.  She came up with a bloody lip and nose that I had to quickly clean up.
Positive 2: But right before that she took a few steps all on her own towards me!  I think she just likes staying comfortable when it comes to waking because she can walk just fine, she just always wants something to support her just in case.  But this time I got her going and she walked a about 2ft from the table she was holding on to towards me. 

Negative 3: Like I mentioned all of the kids had chicken pox so they are having rubbing alcohol put all over them to keep the bumps from burning/itching.
Positive 3: But at least it is better to have all of them get it over with all at once instead of increments.  Plus at least this sickness hasn't dampened their spirits. 

Overall a very good day!  Little Blue Diva is always full of surprises.  I brought a random plastic pumpkin and a black, fuzzy wire to play with and she was set with having fun.  It was also funny when the nurse asked her "unde mama" Diva pointed to me!   I just laughed it off because this at least means that I am doing my job by being consistent in seeing her.  Of course pretty much any woman that takes care of the kids is called mama at the orphanage.  But I hope to continue learning so much about this place can't believe that next week I will have been here for a month!

Mare vis,

Dani

Small and Simple Things

"Now ye may suppose that this is foolishness in me; but behold I say unto you, that by small and simple things are great things brought to pass; and small means in many instances doth confound the wise. (Alma 37: 6)"

The cultural of Romania is made of simple, yet wonderful things.  The more I am here, the more I realize how profound small things can be.

In the orphanage, the simplest object can make a child's day.  I have learned that those expensive, brand-named toys are not necessary when it comes to the happiness of a child! Balloons, bubbles, balls.  Those three things are all that is ever needed to bring a smile (not to mention calm them down) to a kids face.  Today, there were several instances where the kids were just having one of those days.  All of the boys and Queenie were out, so this consisted of crying, taking eachother's toys,  and hitting one another.  But, there were those moments were I was able to take control of the situation.  Getting ready for Masa is always a problem with the kids getting antsy and upset out of hunger.  So I simple reached up to the highest shelf and grabbed the bubbles.  Instantly, I had four little boys staring at me in awe.  They calmed down and focused there energy on popping the bubbles.  Bubbles are just small, simple things but it can make a crying child become a little cherubim. 

I also realize that those simple actions make my day as well.  For instance, my goal everyday is to get a smile and laugh out of Bambi.  I had read in his profile that he usually doesn't due to him seeming emotionally detached.  But, when I blowed those bubbles he was all giggles and smiles, climbing up towards me to get a better reach.  Those smiles make my day worth it.  Mario, sort of our facilitator, said "I don't care how many hours you work, I care more about what you do when you are with those kids.  If you can just make their day little better than all is worth it."  I try to think about this when i approach every situation.  Because even when I am frustrated and exhausted because of them climbing or hitting me, those little moments make my day.  So I hope that I can live up to making their day out of small and simple things.

Also, Little Blue Diva is still in the hospital but I still see how profound simple toys can be in entertaining her!  She was fascinated just from me blowing my bubble gum!  She sate in awe trying to copy my ever movement hoping that gum would magically appear in her mouth.  I have realized that I don't need things like books or even regular toys.  She finds such happiness in a baby wipe.  Every time I see her, her face lights up and she points to my backpack.  She knows inside is a baby wipe for her to use.  From there she cleans herself, the book, and then proceeds to try to make a diaper for her stuffed bunny.  Just seeing her fascinated by something so simple just makes her adorable.  She definitely wears me out, but getting a smile and laugh from tickling her makes me know that everything I am doing is worth it.

Romania is a simple country.  If you are looking for a flashy, touristy country, Romania is the last place you would want to visit.  There is not alot to attract those looking for alot to do. But, I have fallen in love with the simplicity of it all.  Overall, people are poor and there are not alot of "attractions" , but the people are so nice and understanding that you realize you don't need alot to be happy.  The food is good and the culture is rich with history and cathedrals that you find the daily walks help with getting to know the culture of Iasi.  I know I was meant to come and serve here in Iasi.  I am still frustrated with the language barrier and from exhaustion.  But, I know these kids are worth every second of it.  I hope just by being there they can realize how much I love them.  It only takes those simple things to make there day and their simple reactions make mine.  Right now I can't say that I know great things will happen because they probably won't.  Most of these kids won't be adopted or even fostered.  They will probably end up being in an institution for the rest of their lives.  But, I do believe that my being here will allow them to know that there are at least people who do care about them.  I want to make them the best they can be.  Perhaps someday I can share how my experience in Romania has allowed me to become the best I can be. 

So everybody like always, Mare vis (dream big!),

Dani

The Day of Birthdays

I am so proud of myself for keeping up with this blog.  I completely plan on writing everyday for 3 reasons.  One, I am required to for part of my credit.  Two, for perhaps the benefit of others that I may answer the questions about my whereabouts.  Last, so that one day I can look back and be so grateful I put down my detailed thoughts.

Today was a great day at the orphanage.  There were three birthdays.  I was unaware of this because I wasn't expecting it so when the Bambi rooms got together there was cake, presents, hats, and even balloons.  Two of the kids were from Megan's rooms (the older Bambi Girls room, though strangely enough both kids were in fact boys). The other was Minge from my room!  He turned 4 today and this little guy loves attention so he was just so excited to blow out a candle and receive a brand-new plastic, toy truck.  So for masa (snack time) the kids all got to eat some yummy cake.  Also, all my kids today go their faces painted!  It was so cute, I was surrounded by a bunch of little cat faces, one pirate, and one butterfly.  The workers loved it;they were taking tons of pictures of all of them( something we were told NOT to do).  Hopefully the ones Teo took from the birthday party I can get a copy of.  But, I am trying to be respectful by not posting pics of the kids or orphanage due to privacy laws.

The hospital today was also good.  Honestly, the hospital is very hard on me because I feel so tired after being worn out by 10 kids early in the day.  But then to go and entertain/take care of Little Blue Diva is very, very exhausting.  She is at that terrible two stage so there is lots of whining involved with taking care of her.  However, the days are going by fast, and I know I will be so grateful for every experience I have had while I am in Romania.  

Mare vis,

Dani

Tootsie

Another day and still more experiences!  Every new day is bringing more and more surprises. I just finished talking to Andrew when he made me aware I haven't even discussed my experiences at the hospital!  So, this post will be dedicated completely to that..

The hospital, if you can even call it that, is something I have never experienced before.  Never again will I complain about the hospital conditions in the U.S.  On the outside it is a huge building with several floors inside.  After talking with the girls we believe that this children's hospital is dedicated to those with little income and perhaps bad or even no health insurance. Several of its patients are gypsies.  Kids are free to roam the halls and smoking is found in every open area inside the hospital.  One of the girls described some of the floors looking like something out of the Holocaust. Needless to say, I hope to never get sick because this would be the last place I would want to be treated.

But... I can't bash this place because I know they are doing the best they can.  With the bad there is always some good.  For instance, most of the staff is more than willing to allow us to do our service in the hospital!  Also, they are pretty chill in allowing visitors and in leaving a bed so the moms can stay overnight with their child.  But, the nurses know we are just wanting to help and are more than helpful in welcoming us to take care of the kids.   

We work at the hospital everyday after the orphanage from 2-5pm.  Upon arriving, we normally know which rooms are needed to be visited, but if not we are to ask "Are there any children without moms?" (but this is of course said in Romanian).  The nurses show us the rooms and from their we are to change diapers, help feed if needed, and just entertain the kids.  This hospital is a place where many unwanted infants are left.

I, however, have been with a single girl since we have been working.  Little Blue Diva has been the hospital for about 5 days on the Cardio floor.  She is quite the handful but it is wonderful to have the one on one time in really getting to know her!  Today, was the first day I really changed an interesting diaper.  You might ask why I labeled the title tootsie.  Well, after today I might have to change her name to it.  This little one kept farting, Aubrey (who was with an abandoned baby in the crib next to me) and I could not help but laugh as she kept doing it.  I gave ten minutes to get it all out before I changed that horrid diaper!  Poor thing...but today was a good day to be with here.  She was still a little sassy but when I first go there she was sleeping and after she really was very smiley and happy I was there.  She seems to be getting better the more I visit her. 

So everybody, be thankful for the things you have because there is always somewhere that is worse off!  To end on a good note...despite getting pretty tired I am enjoying learning the culture and spending my time in the service of others.  But I am sure I get the better end of the service because they are already giving me so much more than I am sure I give them. 

Mare vis,

Dani

"Brothers across the river"

Hello everyone!

So I just got back from the Republic of Moldova. Romania's, Iasi in particular, brothers across the river. Moldova was once part of Romania but the Russians took it over way back so they now speak both Russian and Romanian.  Pretty interesting stuff!

We had such a great opportunity to attend a district meeting for church.  Everyone met at 6:00am in front of the Cultural Palace and we made the 3 hour drive to Moldova.  It was really ,really early but everyone that could make it had a great time attending such a spiritual meeting.  One of the most intriguing aspects of this meeting was the fact it was conducted in 3 different languages!  At one point a speaker was speaking in English and two translators, one sister missionary speaking Romanian and one elder who spoke Russian, translated sentence by sentence to the rest of the congregation.  It was so cool to be a part of knowing that the church is the same no matter what country or language it is in.

The meeting lasted 2 hours and then we made a little trek to a park to eat lunch before leaving back for Romania.  We had some good pizza and even got to see a little of fair, something of a happy protest for Moldova's independence.  I am not sure but people were selling things and playing music.  But, we eventually made our way back, getting stopped at customs, and driving home.  Yes, I am adding lots of awesome stamps to all the places I am visiting!  This is only inspiring to fulfill my dreams of traveling all of the world.  Romania and Moldova are only the first of many cultures I hope to experience in my lifetime!!!

Another busy day, and the whole weekend itself just flew by.  But, tomorrow is work again but it will be great!

Mare vis (dream big),

Dani

Dani + 10 ?!?

Today started off as pretty slow day...which is pretty nice since the weekdays are crazy! But, at 3 pm we went to a relief society activity for our church.  It was sooo long, but so worth it!  We were fed dinner there like no other.  It was a huge feast and the food just kept coming and coming.  Everything during it was translated from Romanian to English but I still felt such a strong spirit.  Also, my birthday was two days ago so all of the sisters sang to me in Romanian.  It surprised me but it just made me feel so loved by all of them.  It was unlike any birthday song in any language I had ever heard, it kind of started out as the tune to she's a jolly good fellow.  Then I was further surprised by one sister hugging me and singing Happy Birthday in English and calling me her darling.  I loved it!  I love the branch and can't wait to continue to get to know them because I already feel like I have a family away from home.


So, since today was kind of slow and the Moldova experience is not until tomorrow I wanted to tell you about the kiddos in Bambi Boys.  They are protected under child protection laws so I won't be able to post any pictures and have created pseudo names for them, but I am sure you will still come to know and love them as I have!

First off the girls in my group:

My little blue diva: yes, this is the name I made up for her.  One she is very blue due to a serious heart condition and two because she is such a little diva!  She is 2 1/2 years old and just the tiniest little thing.  But, she has the personality of a giant!  She doesn't talk a ton but since she is my little diva her favorite thing to say is "Nu!" Nu, nu, nu, nu...If you touch her when she doesn't want to be touched or give her a toy she doesn't want that is all I hear! But, because of her condition it is better to have a personality like that. When she does smile her adorable smile you forget all of her diva side.  She is in the hospital right now getting some tests done for her up coming surgery so it is wonderful to have one-on-one time and really get to know her!

Queenie: this is actually blue diva's younger sister.  She is a year younger but is slightly bigger than her.  She has this adorable curly brown hair and is just starting to walk with support.  She also has a heart condition, though less severe, but if there is someone who wants attention more than Blue Diva it is Queenie.  She is a doll though and i am loving getting to help her walk around and feeding her everyday for lunch!

Bug: She really is just as cute as a bug!  She is almost 4 but can't walk or talk, but her smile just speaks for her!  Often I don't get to see her cause she is kept in the crib alot but she loves her binkie and getting any sort of touch and play time from her seat.  I am getting to know her better and just love getting one of her adorable smiles out of her

My little Boys:  the majority of the group obviously but I just adore all of them.

Mohawk: Kind of manly name for such an adorable, sweet little boy.  But, he has the most awesome hair!  It just stands straight up like a mohawk! This little guy is also almost 4 years old.  He can't walk or talk and they think he might be blind/deaf but he has the sweetest laugh!  He is so happy-go-lucky that the slightest touch will just make him bust up laughing.

Minge: this means ball in Romanian.  He is about 3-4 and just came from a foster family a few ago.  But, he loves balls!  He is content to run around throw balls everywhere.  He is a smart little guy but so wild.  But, boys will be boys, right?

Lucrez:  this means I work in Romanian.  I call him that because he is just the best little helper!  Everyone in the orphanage love this little guy.  He is 7 years old and completely normal.  He is always helping the other little ones by pushing them in their chairs for snack/lunch and just loving them by playing with them.  He is a joy because he just talks and just wants to be played with!

Sunshine: I was originally going to name him Aubrey because of his light auburn hair and fair complexion ( and I thought he was girl)but then I realized she was a he.  It is hard to tell ok?!  He is only about a year old, and is just always so content and happy.  He is completely normal as well but there just aren't any foster families right now.  He is so fun just to watch starting to hold himself up and walk that any smile he has is contagious. 

Iggy: this one was hard to come up with a name because he is just so hard to explain!  He is just a tiny little guy about 2 1/2 or so.  I am not sure quite what is wrong with him but I do know he has the most beautiful eyes!  He loves to play with the other kids, especially the littler ones who he likes pushing in their baby play seats.  I called him Iggy as well because he loves to do these cute little handstand things that remind me of a lizard or something.  He is just so cute.

Bambi: yes one of them I had to name bambi.  I am just in love with this little boy!  He is 19 months old and just reminds me of a baby deer.  He has this dark hair, big doe eyes and just plain adorable.  This little guy also seems to be struggling with walking.  My goal with him is just to walk together about 10-15 minutes everyday. He needs full support and he walks kind of like a baby deer when they first are trying but I know he is on the verge of it!  He is more quite but his laughs and smiles just make every effort worth it.  Like all the others he just wants to be loved!

Dumpling: this is the one you would recognize out of the group because he is just a CHUNK! He is so, so cute.  He is only about 15 months old but he learned to walk over the summer and now he walks everywhere.  He loves to carry balls around and just sometime turn around in circles.  He has the cutest laugh with his chubby cheeks just smiling away. Like alot of the them I am not sure what his disability is, I am pretty sure it is a heart problem as well, but I don't see any of these problems cause they are all just my little kiddos!

At one time their are about 6-7 so it can be alot but they are such a joy.  I am loving working with them and just getting to know them!  When they call me "mama" I feel a little sad cause I wish they had a permanent one but happy also because I know they are coming to accept and get to know me.  The more I am there, the more they are becoming comfortable with me to where I can just hug them and play with them. 

Well, everyone have a good day.  Hopefully more about the Moldova trip and of course my adventures in Romania!

with love,

Dani

"Lets talk about you and me..."

Buna Ziua everybody!

So due to everyone's much appreciative interest in my current happenings, I am starting a blog! 

Where do I even begin? I think I will take it one step at a time and just talk about my day.  Today was actually a great day at the orphanage!  To start off in explaining everything...there are 7 of us girls here doing this internship program.  There are 5 different rooms in the orphanage and 2 rooms at apartments.  Just last week on Saturday we chose which rooms we would be in for the remainder of the semester.

I actually got my initial second choice, but you know... it is now my first choice.  I love it!  It is called Bambi boys (Bambi room 2).  So yes there are pretty much all boys, but also 3 girls, and they range in ages from about 1-3 years.  I have the best room, but of course I am being biased...

More about the children in later posts, but I wanted to share the experience that is one I will never forget today!
You might be wondering about the title of this post...and with good reason because you might recognize it as lyrics from a song...of which I did not put the actual main lyrics in.
So on with the story...

My usual day starts out with me walking to the orphanage and going upstairs to my assigned room.  When I get there, there are only about 3 kids up at a time.  Around 10 is when snack time in and that is I help feeding.  More kids are up by then but out at a time there is only 6-7 kids. Yesterday I had the great pleasure of taking a few of the kids outside to play but today I was asked to stay inside and watch two of the kids who were up.  It turned out to be a great day! It is always awesome to have alone time with the kids and to just get to know their individual personalities and needs.  One little boy is struggling to walk, despite being about 20 months old.  Normally, the workers are a little hesitant about getting the kids out of the baby walkers they put them in, but when they left that is just what I did.  I spent some time with these little boys just helping them walk and strengthening their legs hopefully.  It was awesome to have a smaller group and give them the attention they crave!

But...the memorable incident occurred just before lunch.  The workers (there are 2 main ones) like getting the kids ready for lunch about 15 minutes before noon (which is when I leave right after lunch) by just putting cloths over them and placing the smaller ones in rolling chair things. There is usually music playing, but only the most popular ones from the regular radio.  And yes...most all songs they play here are in English.  I think it is like that in alot of places in Europe.  So, while we were waiting a song came on and one of the little girls in the chair was crying but then starting shaking to the music.  The worker started to say "Bravo!" and wanted to get her to dance more.  I have never seen this side to Ada (the main worker) because she just started busting out happy dance moves and getting all the little ones to start dancing.  She turned up the radio and I grabbed one of the kids to dance.  Everyone was dancing and having fun when I started to really listen to the song being played.  To my horror I prayed Ada didn't understand these words in English and that the kids would never repeat this song.  "Lets talk about sex, baby...Let's talk about you and me.  Let's talk about sex! (which repeats about 15 times during the chorus)"  This song is horrible but it was just so funny seeing all the little ones dancing and Ada dancing with them!  I couldn't help but laughing after at the whole situation and this song.  It seriously was just an overall good day and it even continued when I got to see one of my little girls who is in the hospital hoping she will be done with the testing very soon. 

Well this is all for now!

Cu mult drag (with love),

Dani