they’re really here! {june 2016}

It is with the fullest heart that I’m excited to share this update with all of you.

The last three weeks have been a whirlwind, to say the least.  For those of you who have walked life closely with us, thank you all for your prayers and support.  We truly have been humbled by the support team and community that God has given us.

All SIX GIRLS are officially in America!  They all are living with their first host families, and are starting their jobs as camp counselors this week.  They had their first casserole, at their first blueberries, saw the beach for the first time, have had more hugs in the last 10 days than they’ve had in their lifetime, and are all overjoyed that they have the opportunity to be here.

In the heat of orientation, our hours were busy with social security offices, meeting our families, job preparation and orienting the girls to life in America.  I can’t even begin to share what a gift it has been to have Dana and Aika back this summer.  Their insight and support has been invaluable.

And we are praising God for the gift of the coordinators!  Their tireless efforts of loving these girls and these host families well continue to amaze me.  Katie and Summer have been the greatest gift to all of us this summer.  Between making meals, driving, seeking intentional conversations and hours on their knees in prayer, and so much more….I can’t even begin to describe how thankful I am for them,

How to describe the last ten days in one short email?  Well, for starters, we’ve listened to more Justin Beiber in the last ten days than I have in my entire life.  Apparently Beiber is big in KZ- because these girls could quote every lyric of every song for you.  The girls are also huge fans of selfie sticks- and we have to add about 30 minutes on to every trip to account for the photo shoot that will inevitably happen.  They are also mean card sharks and get nice and competitive during a game of Mafia.  The laughs have been many and the connections have been sweet.

On behalf of the entire Greatest Exchange team and family, thank you.  Your partnerships and prayers made so many dreams come true.

With more love and appreciation than I can put into words,
Kelly Ray
kelly@greatestexchange.org