Backyard Blessings: Day 15

Another new experience today for Vladik.

He, Rick and the boys baled straw for about 3 hours after lunch. They were in the field behind the house and I kept going out, making sure he was ok and checking to see if he was ready to come in, and each time I got a very firm shake of the head. It's not nearly as hot today-- which is a good thing. Baling is MOST unpleasant when it's 90+ degrees outside with 80% humidity and no breeze. UGH!

Vladik will probably be sore tomorrow. He was helping Joe pull bales- and they weigh about 45 lbs. a piece.. and they loaded several wagons.

Some time later, one of Rick's brothers-in-law came to help bale and brought 2 of his kids, girls.
Vladik met them swimming a couple of weeks ago.

After everyone piled back on the wagon... all 7 of them; it was a little too crowded, so all the kids climbed up on top of the bales and rode while Rick and John pulled and stacked the bales.

When all the kids were tired of baling, they played hide and seek for an hour- or more- until supper was ready. I loved hearing their squeals of laughter... giggling while they were hiding... and screaming with surprise when they were found.

Joe's dentist appointment was this morning, and I think it helped Vladik to see what an "American" dental cleaning was like. Host kids are often terrified of going to the dentist here in The States because of previous experience with dentistry in Ukraine. I'm told novacaine is not commonly used. Anyway, I think it helped him to see that Joe wasn't scared or in any pain, and he was very interested in the "treasure" Joe got to pick out of the drawer when the appointment was over. Vladik's appointment is the 19th.

Dr. Garrison saw our big article in yesterday's paper and has offered his services for Vladik at no charge. YAY! And THANK YOU DR. GARRISON!!!