Some of Our Ukrainian Friends

These are just a few of our wonderful friends in Ukraine! The picture (which mike is taking) was taken at our friend Tonya's apartment (she is wearing purple) in May 2010. She has graciously allowed us to stay with her the last two times we were there and is a wonderful host and a wonderful friend!
Her son Victor and his wife Alice are to her left. We first met Victor a few years ago when the River Church youth group went on a short-term trip to Ukraine. He is an excellent translator and quite funny.
Anya and Richard are on Tonya's right. They recently moved to New Hampshire with their little son, Jacob, and we are very excited to pay them a visit this weekend!
Volodya is standing to Richard's right. He and his wife, Oksana, have two boys: Volodya and Daniel and they live in Uzhhorod. They may be coming to the States for a couple of weeks in October and we are so happy that we will be able to see them here before we move in January.
We are hoping that Volodya will put us right to work once we get settled in Uzhhorod :)
And that is me, annie, on the end: pre-baby.

Mike and I are going on a road trip this weekend to Mystic, CT and Nashua, NH. It's our mini-vacation before baby Hallenback arrives. And a study break for annie.
One of the last things that I have to do to complete my occupational therapy training is take the national certification exam: a $600, 4-hour exam that gives me the 'R' in OTR (occupational therapist registered). I have been studying pretty much every day (M-F) for several hours each day. I am praying that I will receive the 'OK' to schedule the exam very soon so that I can take it before the baby comes.
I would very much welcome people praying for me: most importantly, that I will pass. It is a very intimidating exam and the practice tests have been very difficult.

But, on a lighter note- very excited for Mystic Seaport (thank you mom and dad for the membership!). My mom and dad used to take us there when we were little and we have many good memories! My brother even had his wedding there:

You can see the seaport and ships in the background!