The moon shone a bit brighter that night (Alternate title: No moonshine here)

The Interlink team has recently attended a couple of soccer games here in town. 5 girls from Savva orphanage and another 2 from Saramoldeava play on the Taraz girls team. Last week they had a tournament so we went to cheer them on. Last Thursday night we took them out on the town for a lot of firsts!

Their first time in a real restaurant where the silverware was set, the waitress poured your drinks, and you got fresh plates for the second course!

The first large fish tank they’d seen. We named the fish. I was a fun, small orange one, who was talking a lot and making kissy faces. Sara was a hooligan fish all fancy stripes that kept attacking one we named Beth! Ken was huge with big eyes and kept floating backwards. Olya was the fattest one of them all!

The first time they’d been roller blading! And of course, if you’ve ever seen anyone learn to roller blade, this was HILARIOUS! The girls were incredibly excited. They were finally getting to do what they’d only ever watched others do! A special surprise was when Akim showed up. Akim is one of "my boys" from Savva orphanage who is now living with his sister in Taraz. He had a LOT of fun harassing the girls with his speed and expertise!

I just love sharing all these firsts with them! And the total sum of this amazing night for the girls? $50. That’s it. $50 and a few hours of time for a night they’ll never forget!