Lost in a Time Warp

I seriously feel as if somehow I was dropped off into the 1950s. Even some of the cars could have possibly been made in that time frame. Have you ever seen the movie "The Christmas Story"? Well, that is the type of town we are staying in. You will see everyone pulling sleighs with their children or groceries on them. When you go to the grocery store here you have to purchase bags to take your items home in, most people bring their own. Our taxi driver (who is very nice by the way) seems to know everyone! Today while we were stopped at a train track he rolled down his window and another gentlemen walked over extending his hand for a shake and then said "privyet" (hello) to Todd and shook his hand as well. Everyone knows that we do not belong here. Not because we are American's but because we do not live in this town. They have accepted us and are now used to seeing us at the diner, grocery store and walking the streets. For two days straight we have had the children with us while walking around town and I am pretty sure they have figured out by now why we are here!! Now, to discuss smells!! When you walk into the front door of our apartment building you are hit with the wonderful smell of very strong cat urine and then a hint of sewer!! Today we had the kids stay for a few hours in the apartment. We love our children dearly, but quite literally, they STINK!! They are back at the orphanage now and our apartment still smells. Please note that they only shower once a week(if that) and I believe that is on Friday's. I am not sure how often their clothing is washed but I will tell you that we have seen them in the same clothing since the day we first met them. Today, Alison took off her boots and her tights were totally black on the outside!! I so cannot wait to get them bathed and in clean clothes!! On the bright side, I got both of them a spinning toothbrush and when they seen them they could not wait to brush their teeth! So at least for today, I know their teeth are clean and fresh!! We went to our diner today with the kids and Jayson took it upon himself to order our meals! He is so funny!! We had a greek salad, borsch soup, some type of battered pork and wedged fries! It was pretty good!! They were acting up a little at the diner and we had to get on to them several times but I think they are just so excited to be out of the orphanage, away from their teachers that they are unsure what to do with themselves. Well, day 10 down only 9 more to go!! Dosvidania for now! Todd & Lori