Stairway To Heaven

The climb was insane and I cannot express how amazing it was, I mean who would ever think that I would be falling asleep one night and waking up to views that are so pure and created by God that I was just shocked that something this great was right in front of my eyes. It's kind of like a new born child, God created this gift for you to enjoy and share with for the rest of your life and you treasure every moment of it. To see these views was raw determination. I say this only because if I wouldn't have pushed myself to move further I would have been stuck there at the base saying I can't do this but I just had so much fire inside me that was burning and it would take a lot to shut my heart down. You know your giving everything you got when your legs start to turn into jello and every step seems like more weight is added on and you have to pull on your leg just to get it to move, or even worse when you are coming down and you fall because your mind is just focused on finishing that your body just naturally gets tired while you collapse falling down the mountain. Not to be selfish but I did not do it alone, I had the guidance of my teammates to keep me from turning back. At one point I was so sick from not drinking water at one point I said this is it for me I can't take no more, after I was left behind and left with Greg I realized what am I doing sitting here I must keep going to the next level. So soon after I grabbed all of my gear took a swig of water and just started putting one foot in front of the other and I was propelling myself up that mountain. In a previous letter it talks about how I adventured snow blindness and did not make it to the top of Mount Elbrus but that does not make me any less of a person, I gave it my best shot, I just don't really know what to think of it. For an odd reason I was not meant to climb all the way to the top and I have to accept that. And after saying that I kind of realized why I was held back from finishing.

Who am I in this world? That’s a good question but can simply be answered by saying that I am who I am. I am not some person in Hollywood, my parents, or my brothers, I am Tim Heidt and I care about others around me and myself. All I need in life is what I believe and to push towards success no matter how many times I fail and even if I just succeed once that is all I will ever need in life. No is just not an option for me you just got to keep on moving even when the road starts to take some turns and there are pot holes that need be swerved but one way or another you found a way around it and that is how we keep living the lives we do, just keep on going and build desire in your heart, and just maybe you will make it out alive. You should never live life scared because you never know when your time is up and that is why I choose to do the things I do, being a risk taker is the best part of my life because I am willing to give things a shot to prove to myself that things are very well possible if you set your mind to it. I am very well proud of myself for flying all the way across the world and doing something that not many people get the chance to do, even if I didn't get to climb I still went and gave it a shot and that’s all that matters because I never gave up and I gave it a look and it was well worth my time. To this day I really do not know what I was supposed to over come. I may never know what could have been all I know is that I went, I saw, and I conquered; and my new life has begun. I am making it out to be the best life I will ever have even if I was to die soon or later, I know I would return to another life and continue the path of life.

Sincerely,
Tim Heidt (The Eagle Eye Pontificator)

Once I had kissed Kelsey goodby, checked my bags, made it through security, and finally settled into my seat aboard British Airways flight #218 from Denver to London I knew I was embarking on a truly wild adventure, what I didn’t know was it would be a life changing experience. I spent a year preparing this, and even after managing my sobriety, maintaining my relationship, holding a full-time job, going to the gym, and countless attempts to quit smoking, I still couldn’t believe that it was actually here.
I had climbed a few fourteeners around Colorado before, and I thought I had some Idea of what Elbrus would be like but, well, its hard to imagine what watching the sunrise from underneath the clouds you stand on top of everything around you, or summiting an 18,510 ft. peak is like unless you have actually experienced it. However it may sound, I learned a lot about myself, standing on the top of Europe, tears in my eyes, knowing that I had just completed the task I’d spent a year preparing for. I like to do things by myself. I pride myself on being a self sufficient person. I have a high pain tolerance and I am not easily discourage. All of this meant nothing once I hit 17,000 ft. My head was pounding, I was nauseous, I had no water, and every inch of my body was telling me to turn around. I was forced to ask for help, to swallow some of my pride and rely on those around me. I learned that there is nothing, absolutely nothing, that I cannot do if I am determined enough and am willing to ask for assistance when I get down.
The most meaningful part of the trip however was not the climb but the people I met. They invited us into their homes, and fed us even when they might not have food enough for themselves after only knowing us for a few days. I learned that even when people grow up in totally different worlds, have different opportunities and experiences, even different religious beliefs, they can still connect, even laugh and become friends, because they are human. I left Russia with a love for all humanity.
My experience with John Davis and 2xtreme has taught me to me a more loving and attentive boyfriend, a more respectful son, and more involved older brother. It has given me the drive and confidence I needed to get back into school and earn my degree.

The 2Xtreme trip changed my life. Making it to the top of Elbrus was something I never thought I could do from the beginning. Many people told me I was never going to be able to do it but that’s one of the things that helped me make it to the top, was to prove them wrong. Being at the top of the mountain was the best feeling I have ever had and I I’ll never forget that moment. I know now that I can do anything I want if I put my mind to it. The trip has made me look at life in a whole different way, like how thw chetchen kids had gone through so many bad things but are still so happy. The trip really made me relize we really do live in the best country in the world. I never thought that I would be able to go without my family and friends for 16 days, but on the trip I made new friends who I will ne ver forget. The coolest thing about the guys on the team is their not like my other friends who tell me I have to do drugs or drink to be cool or fit in. The guys on the team are the some of the best guys I’ve ever met. I’m so thankful for John and what he does so I can do what I did, and also be able to meet kids that have gone through stuff like I have so that I am able to relate to. If I never went on this trip or if I never met John, I probably would be drinking and using drugs, but the 2Xtreme dream taught me I don’t need that stuff to feel good, I need stuff like climbing to the top of mountain to feel good. Thank you everybody that was a part of this you guys helped me be a better person.

2xtreme to Believe

Can our youngest son ever come to grips with the death of his older brother, and have a life that is meaningful to him? As parents we question ourselves each and everyday how can we help Tim? Then along came John Davis and his 2xtreme program for young adult males trying to cope with life’s challenges. The love John has for all these young men are immeasurable. So when Tim was accepted into John’s group to go climb Mount Elbrus we were ecstatic for Tim, and at the same time wanting to hold on to him even tighter. At last it was time for the group to meet at Denver International Airport and send the boys on their way. Tim had a nervous smile upon his face and a look in his eyes I am ready for the challenge. We hugged and kissed him good-bye, at the same time trying to keep our spirits up. Its 12:30 in the morning and the phone rings; its Tim calling trying to convince us to talk with John and let him continue the climb. We asked why the need to talk with John? What is the problem? Tim explains he took his goggles off for a short time and now had a case of snow blindness. All this time Tim wanted to climb Mt. Elbrus for his brother; and now he has figured out he needed to do this for him, to find out who he really is. After speaking with John Tim’s health and safety was his first priority. The decision would be day to day as to whether Tim would complete the climb. How would this decision fair with Tim, and how would this set back be handled? A few days later we were able to talk with Tim and to our amazement he was extremely enthusiastic and on his way to the orphanage to play soccer. We thought to ourselves wow he must have completed the climb; instead he said no, but that it was ok he had found the true meaning of the trip. To challenge one’s physical ability, accept the consciences for his mistake in not wearing his goggles; and most of all is thankful for who he is and what he will become. A month since Tim’s returned is vastly approaching; and you might ask how this program has changed Tim. He walks with his head held high, a smile upon his face, love in his heart for all those in need; and most importantly believes life is worth living.

John… God Bless you and your family; our heart felt thanks,

Kevin & Debbie

My trip to Russia was absoutely amazing. Climbing the mountain was a life changing expierence and I will never forget it. Everything about the trip changed the way I look at things in my life. I learned that I am mentally strong enough to achieve anything I set my mind to. I went there to summit Mt. Elbrus and, for me, there wasn't another option. Even going into it with this attitude it was the support from Wren that helped me continue to the top. There were many times that we both wanted to stop and turn around but we both encouraged each other and stayed focus on the goal. The team that I went to Russia with was a congregation of some of the greatest people I have ever encountered in my 18 years on this earth. Each and every person changed over the year we trained into better people. I can see why these guys were chosen and I am proud to be a part of it. I will never forget my team members and the people I met over there. Whether you turned around at 16,000 ft. or you summited, you had the support of everyone on the team. My situation in life is much better then it was two years ago when I was smoking and selling weed. I am incredibly proud of myself and I have John to thank for all the positive changes in my life. Without John I would either be in jail or worse. I see the world in a whole different perspective after this trip. Being able to see others cultures and experience the significant differences from our lives in America I have a greater appreciation for my life here. Much love and thanks to the 2Xtreme team, John, Rich, Zour, Reaustam, Jamie, Matt, "Hutch", Reaustam's parents, Zour's parents, the hundreds of amazing Chechnyans I met and played soccer with, and the many drivers that shuttled the team around Nalchek and Mineraly Vody.


Brandon Aurand

The 2xtreme Dream was an amazing experience which will leave an imprint on me for the rest of my life. It is not every day that a 15-year-old boy goes to the other side of the globe without his parents. John has led me on a path which involved Mt. Elbrus. As John repeated on numerous occasions on the trip: “Can you believe it? You guys are living the metaphor.” When he said that he really meant, “The mountain is your life and you are trying to conquer it.” Personally, I walked away from this trip knowing that no matter how much work and pain you put into something, you must keep going to pursue your goal. Once climbing the mountain I literally felt like I had climbed out of my own hole and I was given a new starting point to continue my life as a happy and successful person.

Soccer with the Chechen orphans was an incredible experience. The kids made us feel like we were famous they made us feel like it was an honor to play with us. I remember shaking almost every one of those kids hands, over one thousand, some multiple times.

My life was a rock and now I feel like the rock has cracked and I have achieved that break is by putting time and effort into achieving my dreams. I now know that what lies ahead and what is inside is beautiful. John has left an enormous impact on my life and I would trust him with anything. He has led me through the right doors to happiness.

For the team: YOU GUYS ARE GREAT!


Greg -15

wow..what to say...there is so much for me to talk about on this trip...but that would take three or four days...while i was up there on the top of that mountain so many things where gonig through my head...can you make it, can you really defeat all of those problems in there heart...only to turn out you can do it four or five times...i still remember giving john my bracelet that said "anger" and telling him to through it off the mountain...that to so much out of me to know that i have defeated all my issues with anger...it also was my biggest change in this past year...i also defeated my horrible grades...even thought i didn't make it all the way up to summit, i did more than i had really expected. i felt that i had defeated all the issues in life now...but i still have more in the future that will get me...i feel like i have changed in so many ways...im way stronger in my head than i was before i left...and my courage is unbelievably high...but most of all is that i have respect for everyone now..

Wow. Where to begin? The whole trip still seems like a dream to me and I am still waiting for all of it to sink in. On the mountain, I thought it was so amazing to see what determination and courage was hiding within all of us. The most memorable moment for me was not the summit, but rather about 300 yards shy of the summit when we all stopped to regroup and charge for the summit together. At that moment, we all realized that we were going to make it, we were all goint to make it, and everyone just started crying. That moment was truly remarkable.
Once we got off of the mountain and started moving around the country a bit through Nalchik, 'Min Vody,' and Moscow is where a lot of the fun started. For me; this trip was more than just the climb and what it represented, it was also an opportunity to see how other people in different countries live thier lives and make due with what they have. Working with the Chechan kids was really a blessing. Seeing all of them in their struggle still able to smile and have fun and play around like kids should was really moving; it made me take a second look at how apprach adversity in my life. To be honest, after seeing the way people in Nalchik live, not just the Chechan kids, made me almost ashamed of how much I take for granted in my life.
Overall, this trip was not only life changing in that I was able to see what I can overcome and accomplish, but also because I was able to see that many people have had to overcome much more than I have and accomplish more with much less than I have. That is what really changed my life.

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this trip was unlike anything i have ever done before in my life. the mountain was the highlight for me, during the climb and once we made it to the summit. it was a great challenge climbing due to altitude and being inactive for a month prior to the trip from a torn miniscus. for the majority of the climb i wanted to turn around but john kept motivating me for that last 1000 ft and all the others gave me motivation to finish what we had started. at the summit i forgot all the things that had held me back while climbing, it was an unbelievable sight to watch as the clouds moved below us and seemingly all the world could be seen from that point. after the climb it was just as fun and suspenseful dealing with the locals and run in with russian athourities. other than at rustan and sauers' houses for dinner my next most enjoyable experience was when the team traveled to munich. i was seperated from the team in a church so i was able to give myself a tour of the city trying to get back to the hostle where we had stayed at. all in all this trip was amazing and something that i will treasure for the remainder of my life due to the places we went, people we met, and relationships built to last.

We started by flying into London from the States. We spent 10 hours there on a layover and got to spend some time in the city. My favorite part about that was to be able to see Big Ben (the clock tower). Next, we flew over to Moscow and down to Min. Vody. which was about an hour or so to the mountain. We were on the mountain for five days. The first day we took lifts up to 11,700 feet and walked up 400 verticle feet. We slept in our tiny cabin-like huts that night and woke up early the next morning for our climatization hike. On this hike we climbed up anywhere from 14,000 to 15,010 feet. Some of us brought our snowboards and got to hit the snow the whole way down. It wasn't bad snow but it was real icy. The next day we relaxed the entire day getting ready to wake up at 3:00 a.m. It was now time for the hike. The hike for me was rewarding. It took us 9 hours to summit the mountain and everytime that I thought we were close we had another 4 hours. The way down wasn't a cake walk either. It took another 3 1/2 to 5 hours for us to get down and only a few of us snowboarded down, but only from 15,000 feet because it was too far for us to bring them to the top.. ha ha. After the mountain we got to go into a town to play soccer against kids from Russia and Chechnia (spell check). This was a lot of fun because we got to interact with the kids. After staying down there for a few days, we headed up to Moscow again. In Moscow we did some shopping and went to the Red Square. This was great because I was standing on history. Finally, we left and went to Munich, Germany. This city was amazing. Most of their transportation was done on electric trains and buses which made getting around easier. By now everyone had had a trip of their life. I know that I did. I was able to grow as a young man and improve things about me that will help out in the future. Thank you to all of you that prayed and supported us on our trip. We barely had any problems and and we appreciate all that you did.

Hey gang, This is Rich Collins. I was one of the leaders on the trip. I've known John for a number of years and participated in the 2xtreme Peru trip as a leader. He asked me to come along on this trip as extra support on the climb and of course, who could turn down a climbing trip to Russia.

This trip was much different from the Peru trip for me. I moved to Pennsylvania from Colorado in the Summer of 2005 to be near my wife's family and to attend graduate school to earn my Masters Degree in Counseling (John played a huge roll in encouraging me to take the step from being a climbing bum to earning an advanced degree, but that's another story for another time). On the Peru trip I was very active w/ the team. I planned and led training weekends and was able to build strong relationships w/ the guys on the trip. This trip was different in that I had never met the guys before I met up w/ them in Russia. I had no idea of their personalities, attitudes, or their experience level. Since they had been a team all year and had been through some tough experiences w/ each other I was unsure of how they'd respond to having to adapt the group dynamics to a new member and a new personality.

The guys were awesome! From day 1 when we met at the base of Elbrus they included me, listened to my opinion and voice of experience, and acted like I'd been w/ them from the beginning. This speaks volumes to me about how much they've grown. Young men, in general, have a very difficult time opening up to strangers. Trust is a huge issue and the masculine competitive nature we as men struggle w/ can impede honesty and openness. Maybe it was each of them being thrust into a foreign experience where their comfort level and need for each other was at a place it hadn't been before, maybe they've lived through experiences where they've seen the futility of displaying a facade and acting out of pretense, or maybe honest and personal communication has been modeled for them. I'm sure it was a combination of those and other factors. Whatever the reason, the guys were open w/ each other and honest w/ themselves throughout the whole trip.

The mountain was harder than I expected. I've spent a ton of time in the mountains. I was an instructor for the Colorado Outward Bound School for 5 years, guided for a Young Life wilderness program for two years, was a Ski Patroller for 5 years, and have climbed and skied religiously. Getting on a mountain the size of Elbrus, even though I've been on them before, always shocks you. In photos and in views from base camp the mountain looks easy. It is one of two moderate looking peaks and the route is straight forward.

The simplicity is the source of the difficulty. On technical climbs you have things to distract you from yourself. When you have to be alert and focused on where you are placing your next piece of protective equipment, where you will swing your ice axe, or how stable your foothold is the adrenaline and focus takes your mind off of how your body is hurting. I've said many times that mountaineering is a masochistic pursuit. There are moments of ecstacy and adrenaline but they are greatly out numbered by hours of pain and suffering. The reward is internal. Climbing mountains changes us. It changes us quietly. We are forced to test the limits of our endurance. The struggle, for me anyway, is more mental than physical. My body is screaming, my lungs are burning, my heartbeat is pounding in my head so loud and so fast from the exertion and altitude that I'm sure my climbing partner can hear it. The lack of oxygen and constant state of hyperventilation make me feel as if I'm going to vomit and I lose my appetite and desire for water. I count breaths, count steps, set attainable goals (OK, I can make it to that next rock outcropping w/out resting), and dream of my sleeping bag and a good book.

Why? What makes it worth the effort and pain?

As I said before, the reward is internal. When you sit on the top of a mountain you gain perspective. We gain perspective on how significant we really are and on how small our problems are. We understand ourselves better. Our limits aren't as narrow as they used to be. There is a quiet strength that wells up w/in us. It is difficult to notice, but obvious once recognized. We aren't the same people. We've wrestled w/ ourselves and with something greater than us. We've found strength and fortitude that we didn't know that we had. We've learned that the easy route isn't always the best route. We've become more confident in ourselves. We're more in tune w/ those around us. In John's words, "We've lived the metaphor". The mountain is a metaphor for life. For our struggles. Just as we can't describe to people what it is like to wrestle w/ addiction or deal w/ a dysfunctional family we cannot describe to people the true nature of the struggle w/ ourselves on the mountain or that moment on the mountain top. We can give them glimpses but they won't understand wholely. The reward, and resulting change, can't be described, only seen.

They guys ability to reach into their guts and will themselves up the mountain is something that I will never forget. It really took more strength than anyone who hasn't climbed can imagine. I am incredibly proud of them, not only for their performance on the climb, but for the commitment I saw of them supporting each other, working out their problems and differences individually and as a group, and their behavior on the trip as a whole. It was amazing to see how much the trip meant to them. Watching them break down as they read letters of encouragement on the night before the summit bid blew me away. I know that had a huge impact and I pray that the things written on paper are now words spoken since they've been home.

I've got to go to work. If any of you guys want to e-mail me pics or tell me how you're doing I'd love to hear from you. richheathercollins@yahoo.com

Rich

First of all Wren wrote this to be read to the guys on Pizza night...

Dear Homies and 2Xtreme team,
Well, as you all know I am off to school for qutie a while and have no clue when I will see you guys again. I hope it is soon though! I just want to tell you guys that this trip changed my life and I'm glad that my life changed with you guys I wouldn't have wanted to do it with anybody else. Congratulations to everybody for conquering their mountain and achieving your own goal.
No more time, have to get on the plane - LOVE YOU ALL TONS!

John also asked that he write for the Blog final thoughts and he ran out of time, but left me with his words.
Wren, expressed more then once that it was an experience of a lifetime for him, he never would have dreamed this could happen for him! And how very grateful he was to the folks that scholarshiped him, to John and the Board for the opportunity and to me (his Mom) for saving and scraping together the mullah for the equipment he would need. His heart overflowed with gratitude.

He was so clear that it took every part of his being to climb that mountain - and to make it to the top was truly the hardest thing he has done - he shared that it was a lot of self talk, encouragement from his teammates, setting his mind to the next 5 steps, hearing our letters of encouragement and sheer will power - He was asked what he learned about himself by his sponsers and friends and his response was " that I have the strength and determination to overcome the hardest things in life and I now know that I can set out any goal for myself and I can achieve it...I didn't really know this before, and it seems like it improved my self esteem."
I asked when he called the day before the climb what has been your most memorable experience on the mountain so far? " My talk with John." this was followed by tears.

Wren's pictures were awesome and as he showed us the slide show he had wonderful pictures of the Russian family he shared meals with - he described the incrediable generosity and bountiful table that was set before them and expressed sadness that the tradition is for the Mother to prepare all day for the meal and then not to be allowed to share in the meal. He seemed to have great respect for the differances in cultures. He enjoyed connecting with the Russian people, the team, the volunteers for Athletes in Action and most of all the Orphans.

He felt the work with the Orphans was the most motivating and life changing part of the trip - his heart shined and his desire is to check out how to become involved in Athletes in Action and go back to Russia - He was very moved by the volunteers he met and loved being with the kids!

He enjoyed the food, the culture, the art and the architecture especially enjoyed the Russian flea market, Munich was green and clean... and the adventures and challenges given in Germany -

Needless to say this stirred Wren's desire's to travel, volunteer and have many more adventures and life experiences with John!

Thank you to John, the team, Valerie and all who made this possible for Wren!

Hello loyal readers

Thought I would update you on the big arrival. The guys were greated at the airport with signs and balloons. Some wore furry traditional Russian hats. Others wore big smiles. We all hugged one another, greeted Brandon (the photographer on the trip) who was capturing the big arrival on tape, thanked our fearless leader, John, and headed off to food and home.

Brandon P. never stopped talking at dinner. He was on a "high" ( a legal one ) and spilled over with stories about his adventure. He read us his journal (required by John) and would elaborate on each days entry. He asked that I make him one of my famous scrapbooks, which we will work on this summer together.

Living with a dozen young men isn't all it's cracked up to be but the awesome sure outweighed the negative. I am hoping the boys will get on this blog and share a few stories. We are gathering at our home on Monday night for an evening of story sharing. When the video is finished we will gather again and have a movie night.

Brandon has already developed his film to share with grandma and grandpa and our family tonight. Brandon said it was evident that God was there in every step, opening doors, and protecting the guys on their trip.

The climb was the hardest thing he has ever done. He said that just when they thougtht they were at the top, another peak was yet to come. It pushed them. It challenged them. It grew them up. And when at the summit, he said he was so exhausted and proud of himself that he and the others just cried and took it all in. (What an awesome God we have

Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers
Randy and Lynette

Dear Parents, friends and family.

In just a few minutes we are leaving Munich, Germany for our travel to be with you after 17 days abroad. We have had a great breakfast at the hostel and are making our way to the train terminal for our first flight to London for a short layover and then on to Denver.

We had a fabulous day in Munich yesterday. We had a great game of ultimate frisbee at the largest park in Germany. Lunch was fun in one of the many markets around some 12th century churches and administrative buildings. Dinner at a very traditional german hall. And of course ice cream/gelato. Feel free to ask Leif how much ice cream he consumed in 24 hours. The ice cream shop called him by name each time he walked in!

We are all ready to come home and share all of our stories. I can not thank you all enough for your daily prayers and support. Every day someone would remind us all about just how much our families love and support us. This adventure has been spectacular. Thank you all for making this trip a reality for each of your young men and for really showing them how much you believe in them. We are blessed, loved and grateful.

SEE YOU IN DENVER!

Love You,

John

Families,

I did hear from John last night. All is well in Germany and the team is doing great.

Valerie

Hey everyone!

We successfuly left Moscow! I am writing from a youth hostel in the city center of Munich. I pulled a big surprize on the guys by informing them at the Munich airport that they were 100% responsible to find our accomodations, transportation and figure out our activities for our time here for the 48 hours. To my delight they got it all done. They were put into three teams and given a budget. They did go over a bit on the budget for housing but they decided to not have a glorious dinner and opted for Mcdonalds in order to get back to the daily spending limit. They have learned so much on this trip about traveling and safety and being a responsible traveler. The big lesson for today is that they could take care of themselves internationally and find what they need to survive. And do it all on a tight spending limit.

Today we are going to a huge park to play ultimate frisbee and do some personal interviews for the dvd and then the guys will have some time to shop and hang out prior to our departure home on Wed. They are all excited to return home. They have a million stories for you. They are all exhausted too!

We depart from our Hostel in the morning and we look forward to seeing you at DIA.

Thank you so much for all your prayers and support.

John

Hello from Moscow!

We had a full 6 minutes on the phone with Brandon P. this noon. He caught us on the cell phone on the way back from a soccer tournament in Boulder. The guys got to Moscow and were split up into different taxis. None of them had translators and they accidently were split up on the road. They were all a little nervous for a while but all ended up at the same hostel. I told Brandon to be aware there are lots of theives in the hostels but everyone I talked to said that people really enjoy the experience. Be careful! He said they were already aware of that and being very careful.

They took the underground Metro around Moscow and walked about 6 miles around town today. He said they went to St. Bastil in the Red Square. St. Bastil's has been there since the 14th century. They have been in awe of the history. He informed us that Red Square was famous for the televised broadcast of Russian tanks with bombs strapped on top during the 1940's. (He said we may not remember ,but that grandma and grandpa would. Thank you Brandon for that acknowledgement of our youth That event spurred on the "Red Scare".

They went shopping in the largest Russian flea market and ate at Moscow's Hard Rock Cafe! He said it tasted so good to have American food like burgers. They will fly to Munich tomorrow.

All are healthy but Bryce has a slight cold. Nothing serious. Everyone has lost weight. (some didn't have much to lose) Brandon P. said they are tired. He said this trip was just the right amount of time. Any longer would have been too long and any shorter would not have been enough time to experience everything they wanted to.

John has been sending them into town in teams to find out where they have to go next in their own sort of "Amazing Race" it sounds like. Brandon said they TRY to find someone who speaks English but that doesn't happen often. They are learning the basics in Russian: Thank you, Good bye, Hello etc... (Probably using some primitive sign language as well.)

They all send their love and can't wait to see everyone at the airport on Wednesday.

That's all folks! (Like that doesn't date me
Lynette and Randy

Bryce called a short time ago to say the team is in Moscow. All are doing well. It was about 2 a.m. local time when he called. They arrived in Moscow earlier in the evening. They loaded into three taxis to head from the airport to the hostel. This had its own challenges as they have found getting around in Moscow a bit more difficult due to language barriers and not having local contacts to help them. The first hostel they tried was full, so they eventually got all three taxis to a 2nd hostel which had space available. After getting settled they went out for an evening meal and found that Moscow deserves its reputation as an expensive city to visit and live. They will be in Moscow another night and then begin their return trip. Bryce mentioned how it's hard to believe they have been gone almost two weeks. It's gone very fast. That's until they think of friends and family back home. Then it seems like a very long time.

Kent & Jodi

Good Afternoon Everyone,



Debbie was left a message on her cell phone from John stating they are having extreme difficulties contacting us with the satellite phone, and communications have been spotty at best. They are traveling to Mineral Vody today to catch their flight to Moscow. Once they are in Moscow they are hoping communications will be better. John said all the boys are doing great and had a great time with all the kids at the orphanage. He said there were over 500 kids there, and the boys had a great time inner acting with all the kids. So far only some minor medical concerns, but all those involved are doing much better. It sounds like this trip is looking like life changing for all the boys. Isn’t that what the main goal of the trip was all about anyways; to show our son’s the positive side of life and how the choices they make will make a difference in their future. Treasure all these moments, always remember to let your son know the positive things he does; don’t have any regrets that you should have talked or inner acted with your son’s activities for one day God has a plan for us all. Don’t get caught wondering why I didn’t talk with my son more.



Relax and enjoy the week-end, our son’s would want us to,



Kevin & Debbie Heidt

Dear Valerie, Parents and Kelsey--

I received a call from John and was able to talk for almost 20 minutes! Greg was not available but just listening to John recount their experiences brought me to tears (not such a good thing as I was with my 17 yr. old at the mall. There is so much to share so I will start with trying to convey how proud John is of these boys. They are truly a team of hearts and souls that have touched the lives of others; some who have never embraced an American. By embracing, I mean the boys have repeatedly been invited into Russian homes to eat, socialize, and sleep. This reaction is not customary among the Russians. Americans who live there for years have said that the treatment of the team and how they have been welcomed is unprecedented!. It has taken 2-3 years for some Americans to be invited to a Russian friend's home to share a meal—let alone sleepover.

The translator interpreted a story one of the Russian mothers wanted to share with John— I hope I remember all of the details. There are two doors. When you open each door and walk through, you will find one room that is welcoming; the other room, dark and uninviting with spider webs. Most people enter the room that is warm and comfortable-- not John. He selects the door with the dark and imposing room. What John finds there is more significant--he finds people like our boys who are loving, compassionate and know what is important in life. She said when American high schoolers climb Mt. Elbrus, the Russian community pretty much ignores them, such was not the case with the team. She communicated her admiration for John's work and for the boys for what they have accomplished.

John said that we will not recognize our boys in that they have grown in so many ways. One of the elements of growth he has witnessed is how they have developed respect for others.

As a parent of a team member, I thank you all for allowing my son to take this journey with your sons, boyfriend and husband. Several months ago when I had the opportunity to meet the team, I commented to John that he was so lucky! I could tell that these boys truly cared about eachother and that they clearly loved John.

To Valerie, thank you so much with all of my heart. Without your commitment to John’s occupation and his passion, there would not be a dream team on a trip of a lifetime!

Much love,


Carolyn

Hey friends

John gave me a call at 1:45 our time. He appologized for Brandon missing his call to us last night. I guess the satalite phone was promised to work 85% of the time and is giving about 10%. They can see the satalite go over head often but because of cloud coverage they can't make it work. They are also in an extremely remote area now that they are off the mountain. Also the guys are not always together and have split up into groups in town. He isn't always with the guy whose time it is to call, as was the case last night for Brandon P.
Here is the scoop.
They chose not to go to the Black sea due to a couple of reasons. Reason #1 they took an extra day on the mountain due to the time it took to get down. Reason #2 it takes 2 days to travel to the Black sea. Reason #3 they were invited to stay and eat with the families of their mountain cooks. This was an amazing opportunity. One of their translaters said that he had been in Russia for 3 years and has never been invited over for dinner. They have been invited into two homes now. One of the women commented on how happy she was to see what good the guys were doing there. Their hearts are being softened as they touch others and impact lives.
The dance was awesome last night. There were over 1000 people in attendance. This is a cultural event dated back 300 years. It was the place young men and women would meet one another. The russian people were dressed in traditional garb (including their mountain cook) and danced, without touching one another as a way to meet.
Our Brandon P. took the opportunity to dance along with the men. He was met with much laughter. (That doesn't surprise us)
The community service projects went well. There were 500+ kids in attendance. They are due to play some basketball later. (Hopefully they will do better at B-ball than they did at soccer)
There was another highlight that some of the guys were able to participate in. Leaf, Brandon A., Joey, John and Bryce were able to go to an orphange. ( The others stayed to do laundry and take naps) They weren't able to all go due to the size of their group. They orphans are 4-years-old and are raised by women. When they saw the men, they cried. They never see men. It was very emotional for the guys. The children had all been abandoned and it was sad.
All the guys are doing GREAT!! They are all healthy and feeling well. Exhausted, but well. Brandon P. said he is going to need a vacation after this is over. They are staying busy.
Now for the next few days, it will be nearly impossible to guarantee the satalite phone will work. After today, there will not be any translators to help John with the pay phone situation. He may not be able to reach the parents he was scheduled to call. He apologizes for this but it is unavoidable.
Know they are ALL thinking of their families. They send their love.
Expect great things in the future out of these young men and their life-changing adventure.

Families:
I talked to John about getting the group together for dinner to share their thoughts with all the families while they are still feeling the excitement. We are considering Monday night, June 18th at our house at 6:30 pm. I know my parents wanted to come too. Feel free to invite any grandparents that want to come. Let's do a pizza party. It is easy. Everyone could bring $ for pizza and bring a 6pack of soda.
Any sooner, they are going to be exhausted getting over jet lag, and that weekend is Father's Day.
Then, after the video has been assembled and edited (could be a while he has filmed hours and hours) we will get together again to view it. (Maybe at our church to fit everyone in with a big screen)
Email me to let me know if you are able to come and how many will attend.
p.s. John may or may not be able to be there but told me to go ahead and do it. (I leave that Wednesday for a week long trip)

Waiting with anticipation for their return,
Randy and Lynette Pickering

HEY EVERYONE!!!! John just called at 1:52 p.m. from Malacheck, Russia - left a message on my cell because I had it turned off for class. )(*&($$#(*$#!!!!

Anyhow - everyone is doing fantastic!!!! He apologized for not having Eric make a personal call BUT - the boys are living with three different families at the present time in a remote mineral springs area that is very popular with the Russian people. They are very safe!!! Lack of reception makes it almost impossible to have them make a personal call. All the boys are loving the food. Last evening they were treated to a "home-cooked" meal from the parents of one of the cooks on the expedition. The parents spent time with the group saying what a pleasure it was to have foreigners in their home. It rarely happens and they were so glad to be able to share.

They have seen 500 children in the last few days - have played lots of soccer and have had fun. They painted a garage for Athletes in Action.

They leave Mineraly Vody (mineral water) tomorrow (? Friday or Saturday) and that's where the message cut off. Sorry.

Hope all of you are well!!! Merry Snyder

I recieved an e-mail from Bryce today. He said that they hadn't been getting any reception in Nalcheck, but everyon is doing just fine. He said that he is sad to be leaving his new friends in Nalcheck, but misses home too. He also mensioned the exceptional cooking of their hosts, and said that he wants to revisit. All in all, it sounds like they are still having a ball!

Hey all

We waited all night for our assigned phone call from Brandon P. They must have been busy or thought because he called the other day that he didn't need to call on the 6th. Hope someone hears soon.

Lynette and Randy

Wait! Take a deep breath, it's not as bad as it sounds! John's posting let the cat out the bag ---the Chechen players are agreesive and rather good, to say the least. According to Tim and Nic, they are among the best players these American varisty soccer players have ever played against. The soccer field is really a concrete basketball court with a wire fence around it. The stadium was packed--- everyone wanted to see the Chechen vs. USA match. When the Chechen team scored a goal (which was often) the stadium roared and the whole town could keep score!

Nic's injury provided him with an unforgetable experience. In addition to the details John shared, the Russian police came to the hospital because a foriegner had been injured and they wanted to see if Nic was going to press charges. Nic declined as it was purely accidental. However, the police remained at the hospital with Nic. (We all know how much teen boys adore the police. After Nic suffred through the cartilege realigment, the police wanted to take Nic to the police station to fill out a complicated form with his statement. Fortunately, John's russian speaking colleagues convince the police to let Nic complete the form in the hospital parking lot. Nic now has a photo of him with a Russian policeman standing in front of the police car. Nic is wearing the policeman's hat. Parents, eat your hearts out:-)

The team is doing amazing ---- everyone played in the soccer tournament. The next several days sound great with more soccer, field-day type games, cultura; events and community service.

Sounds as though our boys will be returning as young men --- thank you all for sticking by them and for loving them enough to let them go.
CJ Juleff