Borderline

As we were studying in Nathan’s room last Sunday afternoon, Nathan’s host parents said to be ready to leave in 30 minutes! We’re going to the border!

So, Nathan’s host parents, his 28 y/o host brother, 25 y/o host sister, and 4 y/o host sister and we mounted into their Huyndai for a 25 minute trek to the Russian border for a picnic. Packed with mutton, rice soup, boiled potatoes and carrots, beer, soda, and dishes, we showed our special permit to the armed guards and walked up to the magnificent park overlooking the Selenge River and the border.

Nathan’s family and us pause lunch for some cheesing. Front row: Begsuren, Leslie, Nathan, Bulgaa. Second row: Orangoo, Davaasuren. Third Row: Anu.

In the background is Russia. In the foreground is us in Mongolia with us in it.

There is actually a buffer zone between the countries here, so while we approached the guards at the Mongolian border gate, the actual border is at least a kilometer up the road.

Russian border with guard tower: On our way down from a wonderful lunch at the Border.

The trip back was a bumpy good time.

In Other News
In other news, we got a bunch of GREAT mail this week. Nathan got a care package with goodies for his host family and him, complete with lovely note from his mother. Oldest brother Ryan’s letters continue to arrive in much appreciated fashion. Nathan continues to love his Batman, self sealing envelopes and the sentiments.

Leslie finally got the package her parents sent at the beginning of June with candles, books, shoes, nuts, etc. We were starting to wonder. She also got a nice letter from her mom with some priceless niece and nephew photos.

We also got an awesome postcard from friends Zach and Amy from their trip to Colorado, which made Leslie’s week. It was also a good conversation starter with some folks from General Denver’s old stomping grounds.

We also lost a trainee this week, one of Leslie’s crew who had to go home for family reasons. Leslie misses her a lot, hopes everything turns out well, and hopes she’ll be able to return Mongolia. Erica, you’re missed, but thanks for leaving the baby wipes.

It was a long week full of frustrations, heat and mild sickness, but we keep getting positive feedback on our progress and assurances that we, in particular, are going to love our placements. Only a couple more weeks of training to go.