2 more days. We need to get home. NEED. Justin is making life so very difficult for everyone, including the hotel room neighbors, the tourists in Red Square... you just never know when he is going to completely lose it. It's BAD.
We're encouraged by your comments though. Thanks Jeremy Park, especially, for reminding us of the perspective we need to have. You're right. And Taseena, you betcha we're trying out the Benadryl today! :)
We're trying to imagine what life is going to look like when we get home. We've read the books, heard from the specialists, and listened to many other adoptive parents who have "been there." We know we need to keep our world pretty small at first. Let the kids learn their new home, learn a routine and hopefully settle into something normal. So there's that side of the coin....
But on the flip side... I miss everyone! I miss Sunday church service and small group. I miss taking the dog on a walk. I miss Target, darn it! :) The idea of being couped up, alone in our house makes me really panicky. Besides, I think the kids need some playmated. Justin especially needs to be reminded that it's okay to share, to take turns, to relax and have fun.
So, I guess we'll play it by ear. I hope the kids will be up for some low key visits.
As far as attachment goes... They are all doing well with recognizing us as their primary caregivers, as mom and dad. In fact, last night, Justin put his arm around me and said, "Moy Mama" then looked at Scott and said "Moy Papa." Isn't that wonderful? Of course, he was screaming 10 minutes later because Natalie touched his rolled up placemat from TGIFridays!
Anyway...attachment... Often strangers will stop and talk to them (restaurants, hotel lobby, etc.) All 3 of the kids seem to show an appropriate amount of hesitancy. When we were at the playground they all seemed to be checking back in with us every few minutes, with a glance or coming back for a touch.
So when it comes to early visits from friends and family and how to interact with them: It's okay to play and talk and give head pats or hand shakes. But for now, it remains important that Scott and I are primarily giving affection, taking care of owies and providing for their needs. This is NOT to say that we don't need or want help. As much as we have needed your encouragement and prayers the last few weeks and months, I know we still need your support.
I better get going. I could have steak and lobster for what this is costing me...
Oh. Steak and lobster........
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Papa's Perspective
Hey everybody! It's me, Scott. I hope you don't mind, but I'm going to be doing a little substitute blogging for today.
Let's start with an update, shall we? It's Sunday afternoon here in Moscow and there hasn't been any official business to take care of since our visit to the Embassy on Friday. So we've tried to fill up our weekend with a trip to a park to play (thanks for the tip, JP) and another into Red Square to take in some sights. Other than those outtings, we just try to do little things here and there to help fill up our days.
Things haven't exactly been easy for us. The kids have so many needs and Chrystal and I are trying our best to meet them all, but we are being stretched to the limit. Justin has been the biggest challenge for us. He's been tough when he doesn't get his way. Sometimes he doesn't get his way because it's not what's best and other times he doesn't get his way because we don't understand what he wants. I feel awful for him, though. Here's this boy who's about to turn 5 that was just taken from his "home" where he had many friends, a routine, people caring for him that spoke his language, a cool indoor and outdoor play area,... Now he has a mama and papa that he can barely understand and who seldom understand him, 2 sisters he was just reunited with as his only playmates, no playground to go to unless we take a long walk, a new routine and set of expectations,... I guess we should be grateful. Considering all of that, he could be a lot tougher on us than he is.
The girls have been adjusting OK. I think Natalie is really enjoying all of the personal attention she wan't getting in the orphanage. Every few seconds it seems we hear "mama, pasmatree" (which means look) and then she'll do something silly. Little Lexi's personality has been starting to come out a bit these last few days. She requires 1 on 1 defense when we're out, though. You never know when she'll just wander off or into something. That means the other parent has to zone up on the other 2 kids.
So Chrystal and I are finding a little bit of joy with our kids each day, but mostly we are just trying to survive. We can't wait to hear the captain say that we've began our descent into LA. 3 days to go. We are holding on to the fact that this is what we wanted. This is what God wanted. It's His plan.
It's a lot tougher to get down to the business center these days, but just know that we can't express enough how thankful we are for the prayers, words of encouragement, and support so many of you have given us through comments or emails over the past month. They've put smiles on our faces and have helped us press on to the next day.
Don't worry, your regularly scheduled blogger will be back next time. Doesn't she do an amazing job? Like many of you, I can't wait to read them after she tells me about a new post.
Let's start with an update, shall we? It's Sunday afternoon here in Moscow and there hasn't been any official business to take care of since our visit to the Embassy on Friday. So we've tried to fill up our weekend with a trip to a park to play (thanks for the tip, JP) and another into Red Square to take in some sights. Other than those outtings, we just try to do little things here and there to help fill up our days.
Things haven't exactly been easy for us. The kids have so many needs and Chrystal and I are trying our best to meet them all, but we are being stretched to the limit. Justin has been the biggest challenge for us. He's been tough when he doesn't get his way. Sometimes he doesn't get his way because it's not what's best and other times he doesn't get his way because we don't understand what he wants. I feel awful for him, though. Here's this boy who's about to turn 5 that was just taken from his "home" where he had many friends, a routine, people caring for him that spoke his language, a cool indoor and outdoor play area,... Now he has a mama and papa that he can barely understand and who seldom understand him, 2 sisters he was just reunited with as his only playmates, no playground to go to unless we take a long walk, a new routine and set of expectations,... I guess we should be grateful. Considering all of that, he could be a lot tougher on us than he is.
The girls have been adjusting OK. I think Natalie is really enjoying all of the personal attention she wan't getting in the orphanage. Every few seconds it seems we hear "mama, pasmatree" (which means look) and then she'll do something silly. Little Lexi's personality has been starting to come out a bit these last few days. She requires 1 on 1 defense when we're out, though. You never know when she'll just wander off or into something. That means the other parent has to zone up on the other 2 kids.
So Chrystal and I are finding a little bit of joy with our kids each day, but mostly we are just trying to survive. We can't wait to hear the captain say that we've began our descent into LA. 3 days to go. We are holding on to the fact that this is what we wanted. This is what God wanted. It's His plan.
It's a lot tougher to get down to the business center these days, but just know that we can't express enough how thankful we are for the prayers, words of encouragement, and support so many of you have given us through comments or emails over the past month. They've put smiles on our faces and have helped us press on to the next day.
Don't worry, your regularly scheduled blogger will be back next time. Doesn't she do an amazing job? Like many of you, I can't wait to read them after she tells me about a new post.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Friday in Moscow
It's Friday afternoon in Moscow. Using the internet here is almost $1 a minute, so I won't be posting much.
In an earlier post I mentioned that we affectionately refered to ourselves as The Freakshow. Uh... let's just say that we've TOTALLY lived up to our name... and then some!
Justin is really, really frustrated with the language barrier. We (Scott espcecially), know more Russian than any other couples we've met here, but it's not nearly enough. Justin is also really struggling with getting alone with the girls. He's super possessive of everything. He wants to be first at everything. He wants the most of everything. Now, throw in the fact that we can't explain that there will always be enough to go around, that everyone will get a turn, etc, etc... He's had a very tough time. We never know when he might lose it. He's had some pretty bad (and loud) tantrums... like on our 5 hour flight from Kras to Moscow. What a nightmare!!! Passengers kept coming over to try to help translate his screams. Scott knew exactly what he was upset about (not getting the headphones he wanted for the DVD player), but once he got going... it was OVER!
The day of that flight was the longest day of my life! We were up at 3:30 am. Waited for 2 hours in the airport. Had a disaster of a flight. Got picked up in MOscow and rode in a HOT car for 2 hours. Had visa pix taken. Arrived at the hotel, only to be told our room wouldn't be ready for another hour. Had to do paperwork with our "facilitator" in the hotel lobby, with 3 overly tired, hungry, extremely grouchy kids... It was terrible. My sweet husband made a grocery store run later that night and brought me "home" some flowers though. :) What a guy.
All in all, we're hanging in there. We're getting enough rest and learning to ignore the wide eyed stares. Scott had the "best bacon cheeseburger of his entire life" at TGIFridays yesterday.
Pretty much all of the clothes I brought for LExi are too big. I have one outfit that actually fits and somehow she is either wet or dirty 5 minutes after I dress her. So, if you hear about this Freakshow family that had their youngest dressed in pj's for most of the day yesterday... yep, that's us.
The girls are definitely warming up to Scott. He's being so patient with them and doing a great job reading them and looking for moments to connect. All of them love to be held, which poses a problem when there's 2 of us and 3 of them. It's a good sign though.
Natalie continues to be a completley different girl than the one we spent time with in the orphanage. Sweet', silly, super needy.
Words we hear at least 100 time a day:
Moy! Mine
Dai! Give it
Ne Nada! Stop it
MaaaaaaaaaaaaMaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!! (ALL DAY LONG!)
So we're okay. There have been some really hard moments, but we're getting by. We just want to get home. NOt sure how the dog is going to fit into the mix. Lexi cried when she saw a cat in the play yard at the orphanage! :)
Take care all. We miss you!
In an earlier post I mentioned that we affectionately refered to ourselves as The Freakshow. Uh... let's just say that we've TOTALLY lived up to our name... and then some!
Justin is really, really frustrated with the language barrier. We (Scott espcecially), know more Russian than any other couples we've met here, but it's not nearly enough. Justin is also really struggling with getting alone with the girls. He's super possessive of everything. He wants to be first at everything. He wants the most of everything. Now, throw in the fact that we can't explain that there will always be enough to go around, that everyone will get a turn, etc, etc... He's had a very tough time. We never know when he might lose it. He's had some pretty bad (and loud) tantrums... like on our 5 hour flight from Kras to Moscow. What a nightmare!!! Passengers kept coming over to try to help translate his screams. Scott knew exactly what he was upset about (not getting the headphones he wanted for the DVD player), but once he got going... it was OVER!
The day of that flight was the longest day of my life! We were up at 3:30 am. Waited for 2 hours in the airport. Had a disaster of a flight. Got picked up in MOscow and rode in a HOT car for 2 hours. Had visa pix taken. Arrived at the hotel, only to be told our room wouldn't be ready for another hour. Had to do paperwork with our "facilitator" in the hotel lobby, with 3 overly tired, hungry, extremely grouchy kids... It was terrible. My sweet husband made a grocery store run later that night and brought me "home" some flowers though. :) What a guy.
All in all, we're hanging in there. We're getting enough rest and learning to ignore the wide eyed stares. Scott had the "best bacon cheeseburger of his entire life" at TGIFridays yesterday.
Pretty much all of the clothes I brought for LExi are too big. I have one outfit that actually fits and somehow she is either wet or dirty 5 minutes after I dress her. So, if you hear about this Freakshow family that had their youngest dressed in pj's for most of the day yesterday... yep, that's us.
The girls are definitely warming up to Scott. He's being so patient with them and doing a great job reading them and looking for moments to connect. All of them love to be held, which poses a problem when there's 2 of us and 3 of them. It's a good sign though.
Natalie continues to be a completley different girl than the one we spent time with in the orphanage. Sweet', silly, super needy.
Words we hear at least 100 time a day:
Moy! Mine
Dai! Give it
Ne Nada! Stop it
MaaaaaaaaaaaaMaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!! (ALL DAY LONG!)
So we're okay. There have been some really hard moments, but we're getting by. We just want to get home. NOt sure how the dog is going to fit into the mix. Lexi cried when she saw a cat in the play yard at the orphanage! :)
Take care all. We miss you!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Monday, June 23, 2008
Freakshow
Freakshow...that's what we've now fondly started calling ourselves. You should see the stares we get as we cruise around town. What? You've never seen 2 ragged looking Americans, pushing a wobbley double stroller, and lugging a 4 year around in a hip hammock? It probably doesn't help that Justin has taken to wearing the airplane eye mask around most of the day. :)
Their favorite book is by far, Brown Bear Brown Bear. While we were out walking after dinner last night, Natalie was all snug against me in the carrier and I could hear her singing, "Yellow duck, yellow duck, what do you see?" So cute. Even though I was dripping with sweat and my son was sitting in the front of the stroller with a blue mask on his face, I WAS SO HAPPY. I had a moment. You know, one of those moments everyone has been promising me would come.
We got the kids' passports today. We are supposed to get picked up at 4:30 AM tomorrow. Yes... 4:30 AM! I'm NOT looking forward to that... or to packing. We've added a stroller and a potty to the load. Yep, we're lugging the pink plastic potty to Moscow!
This will most likely be my last post for a while. After we get settled in the Marriott I'll have to figure out the internet cost, etc. We continue to pray for grace for the day, patience, rest, energy, communication (with Justin especially)... and an easy airplane trip!
Here's a few more pix to tide you over until I can check back.
One more try at a family picture.
Giggles with Papa!
Thank you Nathan and Christian! The DVD player was a hit last night!
Lexi loves to play in the fountain.
Yep! The Freakshow ate dinner OUT yesterday! We did great!
Their favorite book is by far, Brown Bear Brown Bear. While we were out walking after dinner last night, Natalie was all snug against me in the carrier and I could hear her singing, "Yellow duck, yellow duck, what do you see?" So cute. Even though I was dripping with sweat and my son was sitting in the front of the stroller with a blue mask on his face, I WAS SO HAPPY. I had a moment. You know, one of those moments everyone has been promising me would come.
We got the kids' passports today. We are supposed to get picked up at 4:30 AM tomorrow. Yes... 4:30 AM! I'm NOT looking forward to that... or to packing. We've added a stroller and a potty to the load. Yep, we're lugging the pink plastic potty to Moscow!
This will most likely be my last post for a while. After we get settled in the Marriott I'll have to figure out the internet cost, etc. We continue to pray for grace for the day, patience, rest, energy, communication (with Justin especially)... and an easy airplane trip!
Here's a few more pix to tide you over until I can check back.
One more try at a family picture.
Giggles with Papa!
Thank you Nathan and Christian! The DVD player was a hit last night!
Lexi loves to play in the fountain.
Yep! The Freakshow ate dinner OUT yesterday! We did great!
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Naptime!
Naptime, sweet naptime!
The kids are all napping... all 4 of them. Poor Scott is so tired today!
The stroller has been a huge hit. They all love to be in it. Add one Ergo baby carrier and we've got everyone safely corralled and we can hit the town. Okay, so we've stuck close to home (that's what I've been calling our hotel room these days). Yesterday we did manage to stop for popsicles, which they devoured with sticky enthusiasm. Rookie mom here forgot to bring the wet wipes, so we washed our hands in the fountain! Not so much a rookie that I don't know how to improvise! :)
We've eaten all of our meals in the room. Lexi barely eats anything. Natalie will eat most things. Justin eats absolutely everything, including everyone else's leftovers! I'm so proud to be feeding my children meals of lunch meat, instant mashed potatoes, top ramen, and yogurt! Throw in a banana here and there and we call it a well rounded meal!
An update on our itineray: We are supposed to get the kids passports on Tuesday (That photo session was fun.) We leave for Moscow early Wednesday morning. It will take us 7 days to do what other agencies are getting done in 3 day (not bitter or anything). Then we head home Wednesday, July 2. It's getting closer!
Gotta get back to do some laundry before everyone wakes up. Thanks for the comments. We're always so excited to hear from you.
The kids are all napping... all 4 of them. Poor Scott is so tired today!
The stroller has been a huge hit. They all love to be in it. Add one Ergo baby carrier and we've got everyone safely corralled and we can hit the town. Okay, so we've stuck close to home (that's what I've been calling our hotel room these days). Yesterday we did manage to stop for popsicles, which they devoured with sticky enthusiasm. Rookie mom here forgot to bring the wet wipes, so we washed our hands in the fountain! Not so much a rookie that I don't know how to improvise! :)
We've eaten all of our meals in the room. Lexi barely eats anything. Natalie will eat most things. Justin eats absolutely everything, including everyone else's leftovers! I'm so proud to be feeding my children meals of lunch meat, instant mashed potatoes, top ramen, and yogurt! Throw in a banana here and there and we call it a well rounded meal!
An update on our itineray: We are supposed to get the kids passports on Tuesday (That photo session was fun.) We leave for Moscow early Wednesday morning. It will take us 7 days to do what other agencies are getting done in 3 day (not bitter or anything). Then we head home Wednesday, July 2. It's getting closer!
Gotta get back to do some laundry before everyone wakes up. Thanks for the comments. We're always so excited to hear from you.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Finally...
Hi Everyone... so, nothing much new here... same old, same old... just enjoying our relaxing vacation in Siberia.......
Have you all been dying for post?! :)
Sorry for the delay. We've been just a teensy bit busy these last couple of days!
First of all, thank you to everyone who has been praying for us and encouraging us. We are so blessed by your support. In a nutshell, things are really good. We're tired, of course. But the kids are doing better than we even imagined. Natalie has completely turned a corner. From the minute we loaded them into the van, she snuggled up close to me and has wonderful ever since. Actually, she's been the easiest by far. Yesterday, she said, "Ya tibya loobloo..." I love you. Can you stand it?!
Wouldn't you know... Justin has been the most challenging. I think he's really frustrated that we can't understand him. That's really hard for all of us.
Lexi is doing well. She pretty much just goes with the flow in general. Poor little thing coughed all night though. She is always stuffy and congested. I can't wait until she can breath!
We're all doing well, really. The hotel room is already getting boring though. We bought the cheapest double stroller Russia had to offer and took a long walk around the courtyard today. Scott and I have each already broken a piece off of it. It only needs to last us 10 more days! :)
I am finding that it is very difficult to find time to take pictures, much less get good ones of all three! :) So here's a few and I'll keep working on it.
Have you all been dying for post?! :)
Sorry for the delay. We've been just a teensy bit busy these last couple of days!
First of all, thank you to everyone who has been praying for us and encouraging us. We are so blessed by your support. In a nutshell, things are really good. We're tired, of course. But the kids are doing better than we even imagined. Natalie has completely turned a corner. From the minute we loaded them into the van, she snuggled up close to me and has wonderful ever since. Actually, she's been the easiest by far. Yesterday, she said, "Ya tibya loobloo..." I love you. Can you stand it?!
Wouldn't you know... Justin has been the most challenging. I think he's really frustrated that we can't understand him. That's really hard for all of us.
Lexi is doing well. She pretty much just goes with the flow in general. Poor little thing coughed all night though. She is always stuffy and congested. I can't wait until she can breath!
We're all doing well, really. The hotel room is already getting boring though. We bought the cheapest double stroller Russia had to offer and took a long walk around the courtyard today. Scott and I have each already broken a piece off of it. It only needs to last us 10 more days! :)
I am finding that it is very difficult to find time to take pictures, much less get good ones of all three! :) So here's a few and I'll keep working on it.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Halfway Home
Halfway home.... that's how I'm thinking about where we are right now. Yesterday marked the midpoint of our trip.
2 weeks down
2 weeks to go
2 days until we pick up our children
Scott and I were talking today about how we miss home. The thing is, we aren't returning to the same home that we left behind.
I keep getting this overwhelming feeling that NOTHING will ever be the same. Which I know is supposed to be great, right? Nothing ever being the same, means that we finally have our children.
It's hard feeling these 2 things at the same time. Just wanting to be HOME. The home, the life, I know and love. And wanting to hold these children, love them, protect them, laugh with them, tuck them in at night safe and sound.
I know, in my head, that these worlds will combine. I know that these emotions will meld together. People do it all the time, whether biologically or through adoption. I know people do this all the time.
But I've never done it.
2 weeks down
2 weeks to go
2 days until we pick up our children
Scott and I were talking today about how we miss home. The thing is, we aren't returning to the same home that we left behind.
I keep getting this overwhelming feeling that NOTHING will ever be the same. Which I know is supposed to be great, right? Nothing ever being the same, means that we finally have our children.
It's hard feeling these 2 things at the same time. Just wanting to be HOME. The home, the life, I know and love. And wanting to hold these children, love them, protect them, laugh with them, tuck them in at night safe and sound.
I know, in my head, that these worlds will combine. I know that these emotions will meld together. People do it all the time, whether biologically or through adoption. I know people do this all the time.
But I've never done it.
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Mixed Emotion
Phew! We're tired.
We followed our usual route to see Justin this morning. I know we live in LA, but the traffic here is like nothing I've ever seen. Our driver, Sergei, is SO NOT opposed to using his horn and giving everyone the business if they get in his way. Sometimes I just close my eyes and go to my happy place... which at this point is anywhere that the people shower regularly and use deodorant! ;)
Sergei... he's a softy at heart, though. You should see him with our girls and the other little ones in their orphanage. He has at least 30 best friends grinning and waving everytime we arrive.
Justin has been pretty much par for the course. We were greeted with a hug, including a little extra neck squeeze for good measure. We were inside for a while, playing guitar, drawing, racing cars. After a while we decided to go outside. He ran to his little locker, stripped down, and donned a handsome outfit of turquoise tights, striped shorts, a ratty brownish sweater, and a jean ball cap... and he was as cute as ever.
We started to walk around the grounds. He led us to a gate, which was locked. Then he moved toward another gate. We realized that he thought we were taking him out of the orphanage... taking him away. Only 3 more days, son. The day is almost here.
We broke out a bag of gummy candies. He immediately took one for himself, gave one to me, and one to Scott. Then he grabbed the bag and ran to the play yard to distribute them to all of the other children. I'd like to say that our boy is just so sweet and loves to share with others...maybe he is, but it is also clear that there is a sort of protocol around here. We saw it with the girls too. You share when you have many (Natalie is still working this one out). If you want something another child has, you should bring an item to trade. The trade isn't permanant. It lasts only until one of the children is ready to take their original item back. This is life in an institution. This is the life of our children.
Now, I report on our visit with the girls with mixed emotion. Natalie came in first. Sat with Scott and I to look at a book, but she was pretty much numb. Looking toward the book, but not engaged at all. We stay with her, keep talking, keep touching, but also give her a little space when she comes in like this. It takes her a while to relax. Later in the afternoon, we took the girls outside. I gave Natalie, what must have been, her first piggyback ride. She wasn't sure what to do or how to hold on at first. But once we got going... the smiles, the laughter. It was music to my ears. I finally had to take a little rest, "Mama oostala!" (Mama's tired!) Later, we had Lexi and Natalie sitting together, face to face, on the same side of the teeter totter. Scott pushed it and I stood beside them moving up and down as they did. I made faces and stole little kisses. They both did a great job at making and maintaining eye contact with me. About that time it was time to go. Natalie ran off and grabbed our backpack. I knelt down beside her to see if she would relax for a hug or kiss. She stood still for just a second, looking at me and smiling. Then she covered up her face in her hands... but I snuck in a little hug and kiss anyway. Lexi had already disappeared halfway across the play yard. She saw her group come out and was ready to join them. I don't know how she's going to do when it's time to take them from the orphanage. She calls every worker mama (as do the other children). When she's done being with us... she's done. We'll see...
As the girls open up to me, they sometimes become a little more hesitant of Scott... which is why I say today came with mixed emotion. We know from talking to other adoptive parents who've been through this, that it's normal for kids to attach primarily to one person at a time (Not that this is attachment, but at least it was a little something). He's being such a patient papa though. Even though it's hard when your children don't want to hug you or snuggle with you or let you hold them. I know it won't be long before he is those little girls' best friend. Like the rest of this adventure, the journey to get there won't always be easy.
We followed our usual route to see Justin this morning. I know we live in LA, but the traffic here is like nothing I've ever seen. Our driver, Sergei, is SO NOT opposed to using his horn and giving everyone the business if they get in his way. Sometimes I just close my eyes and go to my happy place... which at this point is anywhere that the people shower regularly and use deodorant! ;)
Sergei... he's a softy at heart, though. You should see him with our girls and the other little ones in their orphanage. He has at least 30 best friends grinning and waving everytime we arrive.
Justin has been pretty much par for the course. We were greeted with a hug, including a little extra neck squeeze for good measure. We were inside for a while, playing guitar, drawing, racing cars. After a while we decided to go outside. He ran to his little locker, stripped down, and donned a handsome outfit of turquoise tights, striped shorts, a ratty brownish sweater, and a jean ball cap... and he was as cute as ever.
We started to walk around the grounds. He led us to a gate, which was locked. Then he moved toward another gate. We realized that he thought we were taking him out of the orphanage... taking him away. Only 3 more days, son. The day is almost here.
We broke out a bag of gummy candies. He immediately took one for himself, gave one to me, and one to Scott. Then he grabbed the bag and ran to the play yard to distribute them to all of the other children. I'd like to say that our boy is just so sweet and loves to share with others...maybe he is, but it is also clear that there is a sort of protocol around here. We saw it with the girls too. You share when you have many (Natalie is still working this one out). If you want something another child has, you should bring an item to trade. The trade isn't permanant. It lasts only until one of the children is ready to take their original item back. This is life in an institution. This is the life of our children.
Now, I report on our visit with the girls with mixed emotion. Natalie came in first. Sat with Scott and I to look at a book, but she was pretty much numb. Looking toward the book, but not engaged at all. We stay with her, keep talking, keep touching, but also give her a little space when she comes in like this. It takes her a while to relax. Later in the afternoon, we took the girls outside. I gave Natalie, what must have been, her first piggyback ride. She wasn't sure what to do or how to hold on at first. But once we got going... the smiles, the laughter. It was music to my ears. I finally had to take a little rest, "Mama oostala!" (Mama's tired!) Later, we had Lexi and Natalie sitting together, face to face, on the same side of the teeter totter. Scott pushed it and I stood beside them moving up and down as they did. I made faces and stole little kisses. They both did a great job at making and maintaining eye contact with me. About that time it was time to go. Natalie ran off and grabbed our backpack. I knelt down beside her to see if she would relax for a hug or kiss. She stood still for just a second, looking at me and smiling. Then she covered up her face in her hands... but I snuck in a little hug and kiss anyway. Lexi had already disappeared halfway across the play yard. She saw her group come out and was ready to join them. I don't know how she's going to do when it's time to take them from the orphanage. She calls every worker mama (as do the other children). When she's done being with us... she's done. We'll see...
As the girls open up to me, they sometimes become a little more hesitant of Scott... which is why I say today came with mixed emotion. We know from talking to other adoptive parents who've been through this, that it's normal for kids to attach primarily to one person at a time (Not that this is attachment, but at least it was a little something). He's being such a patient papa though. Even though it's hard when your children don't want to hug you or snuggle with you or let you hold them. I know it won't be long before he is those little girls' best friend. Like the rest of this adventure, the journey to get there won't always be easy.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Top TWO Signs We're Parents...
We don't really have a top 10 yet, but here's today's top 2 signs that we must be parents:
#2 Scott had a bunch of snotty tissues in his pocket at the end of the day
#1 Chrystal got peed on! (I'd say that is a serious initiation!)
Perhaps bringing the girls apple juice wasn't the best idea. They tell us that Lexi is potty trained, but we know that means she's on a strict potty schedule. Throwing random juice boxes into the mix didn't fare well today. That's okay. It actually provides a nice little bonding time for us (the snack time, not the pee pee time). We have the girls sit on our laps for drinks or snacks. It's quiet. Usually they gently ask us for more. We've had to work on the gently part. It started off as, "DAI!" Which means GIVE. Then it was "MAMA, DAI!" Now they seem to realize that there is plenty to go around. They share with each other. They'll share with us. It's just nice.
Today was one of our best visits with the girls. Nothing major to report. They just seemed much more comfortable. Baby steps, baby steps.
#2 Scott had a bunch of snotty tissues in his pocket at the end of the day
#1 Chrystal got peed on! (I'd say that is a serious initiation!)
Perhaps bringing the girls apple juice wasn't the best idea. They tell us that Lexi is potty trained, but we know that means she's on a strict potty schedule. Throwing random juice boxes into the mix didn't fare well today. That's okay. It actually provides a nice little bonding time for us (the snack time, not the pee pee time). We have the girls sit on our laps for drinks or snacks. It's quiet. Usually they gently ask us for more. We've had to work on the gently part. It started off as, "DAI!" Which means GIVE. Then it was "MAMA, DAI!" Now they seem to realize that there is plenty to go around. They share with each other. They'll share with us. It's just nice.
Today was one of our best visits with the girls. Nothing major to report. They just seemed much more comfortable. Baby steps, baby steps.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Monday
It's 5:30 pm here. We're back from our day of visits. On the days we make two visits our schedule looks like this:
9 am Go see Justin (It's about a 20 min drive)
11:30 Finish up visit and head back
Noon - 2:30 Lunch, Blog, Walk around downtown Kras, Rest, (or recently, wash socks and underwear in the sink... there's nothing like putting on a pair of crunchy, air dried underwear!)
2:30 Go see the girls (about a 30 min drive)
5:15 Finish up visit and head back. (It usually takes a little longer to get back to the hotel due to traffic)
6:15 Dinner (We've been meeting up with another American family we've met. They're from Pleasanton!)
10:00ish Bed
Anytime between Midnight and 3am one of us might wake up. If so, we'll check out Euro 2008. That's when the games are on here, live.
Doing 2 visits in one day is really, really emotionally draining. It's especially hard with the girls, since we're trying every little "trick" we can think of to try to engage them. Every visit has had it's ups and downs. Last time, Natalie didn't even want to come in the room, but this time she didn't hesitate as much. She kicked the ball with Scott for a while. She let me catch her as she came down the slide... well, twice. She smiled and giggled, then it was as if it became too much for her, feeling happy, that is. Little does she know, we're not going anywhere. We'll wait. We'll keep trying. We know she's in there.
Lexi loved blowing bubbles today. Usually it was blowing... sometimes it was spitting into the wand! :) We brought juice boxes today, which were a hit with both of the girls. It was very clear that they didn't have a lot of experience using a straw though. Interesting.
Lexi was definitely on the verge of a tantrum today. We were playing outside and her "group" came out to the little playground next to us. She decided that was where she wanted to be and was NOT happy to be led back to her boring, non Russian speaking mama and papa. I can't remember if we distracted her with the juice box or trail mix (the girl loves snacks), but eventually she settled down.
Our visit with Justin started out like it usually does. Just the 3 of us (with our facilitator on the side making her phonecalls). We were outside today, mostly swinging, on the jungle gym and slide too. A little while later, his playgroup came out. There were about 15 of them... Suddenly, 15 little ones, ALL calling us mama and papa. It was about the most heart breaking thing you've ever seen. At one point, I was knelt down, watching Scott and Justin, and I felt this little hand come to rest on my back. Beside me, stood the most pathetic looking little boy. He just wanted to be held. So sad.
It was interesting to watch Justin once the others came out. He was a little possessive of us. He didn't really want to share the toys we had taken out for him. Scott reassurred him in Russian, "We are YOUR mama and papa, forever." This seemed to help. He shared when we asked him to from there on out.
All of the kids took off their shirts and folded them up on a little picnic table in the play yard. Not sure if that was a get some sun thing or don't get your clothes dirty thing! By the way, Justin has been wearing the exact same outfit all 4 times we've seen him.
We are planning on visiting Justin again on Wed and Friday. We decided we'd see the girls Tues, Wed, and Friday. Saturday will be Gotcha Day. In adoption speak, that's the day we pick them up from the orphanage. Then it's 4 more nights here in Kras and 7 more nights in Moscow. It's the trip that never ends! We've met one family here that is completing everything in 3 weeks (versus our 4). We've met 2 other families that have decided to fly back to the States after court, then return to get the kids when the 10 days are up. However! We've met one other family who has a 32 day itinerary. At least there's someone here longer than us!
Better be going. It's so hard to sum up what the visits really feel like, but hopefully we're giving you a little glimpse.
9 am Go see Justin (It's about a 20 min drive)
11:30 Finish up visit and head back
Noon - 2:30 Lunch, Blog, Walk around downtown Kras, Rest, (or recently, wash socks and underwear in the sink... there's nothing like putting on a pair of crunchy, air dried underwear!)
2:30 Go see the girls (about a 30 min drive)
5:15 Finish up visit and head back. (It usually takes a little longer to get back to the hotel due to traffic)
6:15 Dinner (We've been meeting up with another American family we've met. They're from Pleasanton!)
10:00ish Bed
Anytime between Midnight and 3am one of us might wake up. If so, we'll check out Euro 2008. That's when the games are on here, live.
Doing 2 visits in one day is really, really emotionally draining. It's especially hard with the girls, since we're trying every little "trick" we can think of to try to engage them. Every visit has had it's ups and downs. Last time, Natalie didn't even want to come in the room, but this time she didn't hesitate as much. She kicked the ball with Scott for a while. She let me catch her as she came down the slide... well, twice. She smiled and giggled, then it was as if it became too much for her, feeling happy, that is. Little does she know, we're not going anywhere. We'll wait. We'll keep trying. We know she's in there.
Lexi loved blowing bubbles today. Usually it was blowing... sometimes it was spitting into the wand! :) We brought juice boxes today, which were a hit with both of the girls. It was very clear that they didn't have a lot of experience using a straw though. Interesting.
Lexi was definitely on the verge of a tantrum today. We were playing outside and her "group" came out to the little playground next to us. She decided that was where she wanted to be and was NOT happy to be led back to her boring, non Russian speaking mama and papa. I can't remember if we distracted her with the juice box or trail mix (the girl loves snacks), but eventually she settled down.
Our visit with Justin started out like it usually does. Just the 3 of us (with our facilitator on the side making her phonecalls). We were outside today, mostly swinging, on the jungle gym and slide too. A little while later, his playgroup came out. There were about 15 of them... Suddenly, 15 little ones, ALL calling us mama and papa. It was about the most heart breaking thing you've ever seen. At one point, I was knelt down, watching Scott and Justin, and I felt this little hand come to rest on my back. Beside me, stood the most pathetic looking little boy. He just wanted to be held. So sad.
It was interesting to watch Justin once the others came out. He was a little possessive of us. He didn't really want to share the toys we had taken out for him. Scott reassurred him in Russian, "We are YOUR mama and papa, forever." This seemed to help. He shared when we asked him to from there on out.
All of the kids took off their shirts and folded them up on a little picnic table in the play yard. Not sure if that was a get some sun thing or don't get your clothes dirty thing! By the way, Justin has been wearing the exact same outfit all 4 times we've seen him.
We are planning on visiting Justin again on Wed and Friday. We decided we'd see the girls Tues, Wed, and Friday. Saturday will be Gotcha Day. In adoption speak, that's the day we pick them up from the orphanage. Then it's 4 more nights here in Kras and 7 more nights in Moscow. It's the trip that never ends! We've met one family here that is completing everything in 3 weeks (versus our 4). We've met 2 other families that have decided to fly back to the States after court, then return to get the kids when the 10 days are up. However! We've met one other family who has a 32 day itinerary. At least there's someone here longer than us!
Better be going. It's so hard to sum up what the visits really feel like, but hopefully we're giving you a little glimpse.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
So You Think You Can Dance?
Here's a little video of Saturday night's entertainment in the town square. It was amazing!
We went for a walk on Sunday afternoon. It was a beautiful day.
We went for a walk on Sunday afternoon. It was a beautiful day.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Happy Birthday Krasnoyarsk!
June 12 marked the 380th birthday for Krasnoyarsk and WHOA! What a party! Parade, stage shows, dancers, music, fireworks at midnight, and PEOPLE! People everywhere! Shoulder to shoulder, lining the streets, morning to night. For a while, I stood looking out our hotel window. We are on the 7th floor and have an excellent view of the town square. I had this moment, a sudden connection, and for a split second I didn't feel half a world away. I saw a little girl dancing on her daddy's feet, another twirling in circles wearing a pink party dress. Babies being pushed in strollers. Families everywhere. And young people, teenagers. Boys strutting around in packs. Girls, in pairs, arm in arm, leaning in, giggling. The city was filled with all kinds of people, young and old, out, enjoying their city's holiday. Laughing, indulging themselves.
So, I had this moment, watching the people, the families, and I didn't feel quite so far away... I didn't feel quite so different...
... at least, not from 7 stories up.
So, I had this moment, watching the people, the families, and I didn't feel quite so far away... I didn't feel quite so different...
... at least, not from 7 stories up.
Afternoon with the girls
We just got back from our 3rd visit with the girls. The day started very similar to yesterday. Natalie arrived to the room first, and actually, she wouldn't even come in. Head down, grasping to her caregiver's hand. She wanted her sister. So, off they went. Back down the long hallway. A few minutes later, as I watched through the doorway, they were back. Together. I met the girls at the door and Lexi had no problem taking my hand and coming right in. Natalie held Lexi's hand too, easing her way into the room.
It was slow going with Natalie at first, but she actually did much better as the afternoon went on. The camera was our common ground. She enjoyed scrolling through the pictures of her brother, but I noticed that she seemed to move very quickly through the ones of herself and Lexi. We videotaped ourselves and watched it back. She enjoyed this too. From that moment on things relaxed. She said "mine!" a lot less. (Yesterday, it was the word of the day) Natalie even sat on my lap for quite a while and let me move her fingers on the piano. She seems to enjoy music, like her brother.
Lexi... silly little thing :) She's talking so much more than when we were here on our first trip. She has a raspy little voice, probably because she is constantly congested. She is generally happy and content. She comes to both of us. Doesn't mind being held. I even coaxed her into kissing me on the cheek goodbye. (I didn't even try with Natalie. We were glad to get a wave goodbye this time!) By the way, her outfit was much cuter today!
Well, gotta get going, the business center is closing for the day. We won't see the kids until Monday... 2 days of no visits.
Until Zaftra!
It was slow going with Natalie at first, but she actually did much better as the afternoon went on. The camera was our common ground. She enjoyed scrolling through the pictures of her brother, but I noticed that she seemed to move very quickly through the ones of herself and Lexi. We videotaped ourselves and watched it back. She enjoyed this too. From that moment on things relaxed. She said "mine!" a lot less. (Yesterday, it was the word of the day) Natalie even sat on my lap for quite a while and let me move her fingers on the piano. She seems to enjoy music, like her brother.
Lexi... silly little thing :) She's talking so much more than when we were here on our first trip. She has a raspy little voice, probably because she is constantly congested. She is generally happy and content. She comes to both of us. Doesn't mind being held. I even coaxed her into kissing me on the cheek goodbye. (I didn't even try with Natalie. We were glad to get a wave goodbye this time!) By the way, her outfit was much cuter today!
Well, gotta get going, the business center is closing for the day. We won't see the kids until Monday... 2 days of no visits.
Until Zaftra!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
First Kiss
We went to visit Justin this morning. Another good visit. When it was time to leave, he took both of us by the hand. We walked downstairs to the front door. He first turned to give me a hug, then before let go, a kiss on the cheek... Time froze for just a moment. We've given him lots of hugs and kisses, but this was the first time he initiated it. Scott got his big hug and kiss right after. It was very special.
We leave in a few minutes to see the girls. Hoping for little breakthroughs with them... and less obnoxious outfits ;)
Have I mentioned that I love our family? I can't wait until we can all be together.
Next post I'll have to tell you all about the huge holiday celebration here yesterday. It was wild!
Off to see the girls! Pa ka! (bye!)
We leave in a few minutes to see the girls. Hoping for little breakthroughs with them... and less obnoxious outfits ;)
Have I mentioned that I love our family? I can't wait until we can all be together.
Next post I'll have to tell you all about the huge holiday celebration here yesterday. It was wild!
Off to see the girls! Pa ka! (bye!)
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
One Week Down... Three to Go
It's Thursday morning in Kras. Today is a city holiday, so we won't get to visit the kids. Outside our hotel is a sort of town square. We can see a carnival being set up and it looks like there may be a parade later. It's one big party around here!
We've now had 2 visits with the kids.
The first time we saw Justin, he literally ran to Scott and jumped in his lap. He hugged his neck and didn't let go. Justin gives great hugs :) Our time with him has been fun, very interactive. We play ball, sit and color together. Yesterday, he put on a little recital for us, playing an accordian, horn, and guitar. In fact, when we came in, it was music time. About 25 little boys and girls, sitting in rows of chairs watching a sing along on TV. When Justin saw us, he sat up a little straighter, sang a little louder, and was very intent on showing us what a good boy he was. Every now and then he'd steal a glance in our direction. He got the cutest little grin on his face, but was soon back to showing off. It was really cute.
During court, Justin's orphanage director spoke about him and the 4 months since we've seen him. She said he always spoke of us and told the other children that he had parents that were coming back for him. She said, even when the other children scoffed and told him no one would come for him, he insisted that he had a mama and papa. He said,"Now I have a father who will protect me." I KNOW!!!
Our time with the girls has been good, but with a few more challenges. They definitely know we are mama and papa, and that we are there for them. Natalie, however, is a tough little cookie. She starts off very independent, not even making eye contact, not very responsive to us. However, as the visit progressed, she warms up and plays and talks to us. It is very clear, though, that she likes to be in charge. I just keep thinking how this poor little thing has built up a wall to protect herself. As long as she dictates how things are going, she's fine. Otherwise, she starts to withdraw. There's lot of glimmers of light though. She lets go a little... laughs, relaxes. We look forward to seeing what the upcoming visits bring.
Lexi has really relaxed and is much less shy than on our first visit. She's generally happy. Still a little wary of Scott if he moves too fast. You should have seen the outfit they had on her yesterday... Bright yellow bow (giant size, of course) purple dress that barely covered her belly, bright green tights that were much too small (they kept falling down, revealing her little tushy), and bright red and yellow sandals. Yikes! "What have you done to my baby!?" I thought :)
The girls are very sweet to each other and love to play and tease. I love that they have that bond. I hope they will allow us in soon.
I better be going. We LOVE getting your comments and emails. Please keep them coming. It encourages us and helps us feel a little less homesick. One week down... 3 more to go!
We've now had 2 visits with the kids.
The first time we saw Justin, he literally ran to Scott and jumped in his lap. He hugged his neck and didn't let go. Justin gives great hugs :) Our time with him has been fun, very interactive. We play ball, sit and color together. Yesterday, he put on a little recital for us, playing an accordian, horn, and guitar. In fact, when we came in, it was music time. About 25 little boys and girls, sitting in rows of chairs watching a sing along on TV. When Justin saw us, he sat up a little straighter, sang a little louder, and was very intent on showing us what a good boy he was. Every now and then he'd steal a glance in our direction. He got the cutest little grin on his face, but was soon back to showing off. It was really cute.
During court, Justin's orphanage director spoke about him and the 4 months since we've seen him. She said he always spoke of us and told the other children that he had parents that were coming back for him. She said, even when the other children scoffed and told him no one would come for him, he insisted that he had a mama and papa. He said,"Now I have a father who will protect me." I KNOW!!!
Our time with the girls has been good, but with a few more challenges. They definitely know we are mama and papa, and that we are there for them. Natalie, however, is a tough little cookie. She starts off very independent, not even making eye contact, not very responsive to us. However, as the visit progressed, she warms up and plays and talks to us. It is very clear, though, that she likes to be in charge. I just keep thinking how this poor little thing has built up a wall to protect herself. As long as she dictates how things are going, she's fine. Otherwise, she starts to withdraw. There's lot of glimmers of light though. She lets go a little... laughs, relaxes. We look forward to seeing what the upcoming visits bring.
Lexi has really relaxed and is much less shy than on our first visit. She's generally happy. Still a little wary of Scott if he moves too fast. You should have seen the outfit they had on her yesterday... Bright yellow bow (giant size, of course) purple dress that barely covered her belly, bright green tights that were much too small (they kept falling down, revealing her little tushy), and bright red and yellow sandals. Yikes! "What have you done to my baby!?" I thought :)
The girls are very sweet to each other and love to play and tease. I love that they have that bond. I hope they will allow us in soon.
I better be going. We LOVE getting your comments and emails. Please keep them coming. It encourages us and helps us feel a little less homesick. One week down... 3 more to go!
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
It's a Beautiful Day in Krasnoyarsk!
We just got back from court and it's official! The judge said, "Da!"
Everything went so smoothly. Court was serious, about an hour and a half, lots of questions. Scott had to stand up in front of the judge and do most of the talking. He was awesome! Our facilitators here prepped us really well, so we knew mostly what to expect. There were 10 other people in the court room: Judge, prosecutor, secretary, translator, our facilitator, 2 orphanage directors, 2 ministry of education reps, and one mystery lady in the corner.
Now we have our "waiting period" (oh? NOW we're waiting... Hmm, what have we been doing for the last 3 years?) Then we get to take custody. We're told it will most likely be on Saturday, the 21st. We won't be able to post good pictures of the kids until then.
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers, especially while we were in court. A special thanks to those at Covina Valley and Scott's Dad, who are our paperwork heroes!
Everything went so smoothly. Court was serious, about an hour and a half, lots of questions. Scott had to stand up in front of the judge and do most of the talking. He was awesome! Our facilitators here prepped us really well, so we knew mostly what to expect. There were 10 other people in the court room: Judge, prosecutor, secretary, translator, our facilitator, 2 orphanage directors, 2 ministry of education reps, and one mystery lady in the corner.
Now we have our "waiting period" (oh? NOW we're waiting... Hmm, what have we been doing for the last 3 years?) Then we get to take custody. We're told it will most likely be on Saturday, the 21st. We won't be able to post good pictures of the kids until then.
Thanks for your thoughts and prayers, especially while we were in court. A special thanks to those at Covina Valley and Scott's Dad, who are our paperwork heroes!
Sunday, June 8, 2008
Our River... Our Rock
It's 8:20 am, Monday morning here. Back at home, 5:20 pm, Sunday night.
In 10 minutes, we leave to see the kids. We're anxious, nervous... We wonder if they'll remember us, how different they will look. It feels so close.
Yet, there is still an obstacle. For as smoothly and peacefully as trip 1 went, little things about this trip seem to be threatening a fight at every corner. We were just told yesterday that one of our documents was unacceptable, a document from our school district. We have scrambled, emailed, and called the many people who we know will help us (sorry it was so early everyone). Now, we can only wait, but we believe we have the necessary document coming, perhaps with only minutes to spare.
This morning, I woke up thinking about the Isrealites journey into the Promiseland. A journey indeed. Long, difficult, a test of faith even for the most faithful. But God always provided. He had chosen these people. He made them a promise. Even as the people were right on the edge of taking their promised land, God still reminded them that He and He alone would complete the task. He would receive the glory for any victory. So God stopped the flood waters of the Jordan River and the Isrealites passed. They collected 12 stones from the riverbed to remind them of the moment. They set up a memorial, to remind them who was really at the heart of all things past, present and future.
Joshua 4:24 "He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful..."
Today, we will cross a literal river to reach the children. I will remember how the Lord parted the Jordan, so He could bring his people one step closer to the PROMISE.
I picked up a little rock this morning... to carry in my pocket... to remember our PROMISE.
And then... well, then, came the walls around Jericho.
In 10 minutes, we leave to see the kids. We're anxious, nervous... We wonder if they'll remember us, how different they will look. It feels so close.
Yet, there is still an obstacle. For as smoothly and peacefully as trip 1 went, little things about this trip seem to be threatening a fight at every corner. We were just told yesterday that one of our documents was unacceptable, a document from our school district. We have scrambled, emailed, and called the many people who we know will help us (sorry it was so early everyone). Now, we can only wait, but we believe we have the necessary document coming, perhaps with only minutes to spare.
This morning, I woke up thinking about the Isrealites journey into the Promiseland. A journey indeed. Long, difficult, a test of faith even for the most faithful. But God always provided. He had chosen these people. He made them a promise. Even as the people were right on the edge of taking their promised land, God still reminded them that He and He alone would complete the task. He would receive the glory for any victory. So God stopped the flood waters of the Jordan River and the Isrealites passed. They collected 12 stones from the riverbed to remind them of the moment. They set up a memorial, to remind them who was really at the heart of all things past, present and future.
Joshua 4:24 "He did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful..."
Today, we will cross a literal river to reach the children. I will remember how the Lord parted the Jordan, so He could bring his people one step closer to the PROMISE.
I picked up a little rock this morning... to carry in my pocket... to remember our PROMISE.
And then... well, then, came the walls around Jericho.
Hey...it's in rubles!
Although we are decent at math (well, Scott's okay), it's still sometimes hard, in the moment, to figure out what we are spending on things. For example, I am pretty sure I ordered a $7 bottle of water with lunch yesterday. If the price of something is, say 375, we try to do the quick ruble-to-dollar calculation in our heads, but sometimes the numbers start running together. So our new motto is, "Hey, it can't be that much...it's in rubles!"
By the way, the conversion is about 23 rubles to 1 US dollar. We got a great deal on our 2 nights in Moscow, just 22,224.80 rubles...You do the math.
By the way, the conversion is about 23 rubles to 1 US dollar. We got a great deal on our 2 nights in Moscow, just 22,224.80 rubles...You do the math.
"Great! Now I have to get back in the map!"
We thought it would be a great idea to do our souvenir shopping on Saturday...our last day in Moscow, before we return to the city with 3 kids. We wanted to pick up some thank you's for the many people who have been so helpful along the way. Well, 2 subway rides, at least 5 miles walking, and about 3 hours later, we returned to the hotel empty handed. Lost on the streets of Moscow...pulling out our little map...trying to decipher the Russian street signs.
It felt like the London trip on Friends, when Joey said, "Great! Now I have to get back in the map!"
We thought we know right where we were going! Not sure how we missed our destination. So, sorry folks, no cheap Russian souvenirs for you! Hopefully the 3 Russian cuties we're toting back will make up for it.
It felt like the London trip on Friends, when Joey said, "Great! Now I have to get back in the map!"
We thought we know right where we were going! Not sure how we missed our destination. So, sorry folks, no cheap Russian souvenirs for you! Hopefully the 3 Russian cuties we're toting back will make up for it.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Safe and Sound... Medicals Down
We're here!
It was a pretty uneventful 13 hour flight. We got a little sleep on the flight, but were able to do a fair amount of catching up last night. Today we had our 8 doctor medical visit. We actually only counted 7 doctors... maybe it's a translation thing. All went well, except we were told that our lab work (which we had done at home) was too old. So, once again, we had blood drawn, peed in a cup and are awaiting the results. Still hoping we haven't contracted any unexpected diseases in the last 3 months... or tried any new drugs. We pick up the results tomorrow (Saturday) and leave for Kras on a 9pm flight. We should be able to update again once we're in Kras.
Dasveedahnya!
It was a pretty uneventful 13 hour flight. We got a little sleep on the flight, but were able to do a fair amount of catching up last night. Today we had our 8 doctor medical visit. We actually only counted 7 doctors... maybe it's a translation thing. All went well, except we were told that our lab work (which we had done at home) was too old. So, once again, we had blood drawn, peed in a cup and are awaiting the results. Still hoping we haven't contracted any unexpected diseases in the last 3 months... or tried any new drugs. We pick up the results tomorrow (Saturday) and leave for Kras on a 9pm flight. We should be able to update again once we're in Kras.
Dasveedahnya!
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
Last Minute... Who Me?
In an effort to avoid a blog readers rebellion, I figure it's about time I finally posted!
It's been a busy 2 weeks trying to get ready for the trip. Packing for 4 weeks is not easy. I must admit that there are more power bars in the suitcase than socks. We've also had some document drama. It wasn't until about 1 pm Tuesday that I had our final document in hand. We're hoping all of the paperwork will be acceptable to the judge.
So here's our itinerary:
Wed. June 4- leave home
Thurs. June 5- arrive Moscow
Fri. June 6- Medical exams in Moscow (for us)
Sat. June 7- leave Moscow
Sun. June 8- arrive Krasnoyarsk
Mon. June 9- see the kids... I can't believe it's been 4 months!
Tues. June 10- court... lots of prayers please (it will be Monday night for you)
10 day waiting period before we get to take custody of the kids (not sure exactly what day that will be)
Wed. June 25- leave Kras... our first meltdown - I mean airplane ride as a family :)... 5 hours, wish us luck
Thurs. June 26 - Tues. July 1- Visa appointments, US Embassy appointment, kids' medicals
Wed. July 2- arrive home (13 hour flight)
Keep in mind that Moscow is 11 hours ahead and Kras is 15 ahead. We'll be able to email and update the blog while we're in Kras, so if you haven't given up on me, be on the lookout for new posts. Thanks for the encouragement over the last few days. We appreciate everyone's generous offers to help us out with last minute details. Keep us in your prayers, especially during court. I'll be in touch.
I can't believe this is the last night in my house with just the 2 of us... weird.
It's been a busy 2 weeks trying to get ready for the trip. Packing for 4 weeks is not easy. I must admit that there are more power bars in the suitcase than socks. We've also had some document drama. It wasn't until about 1 pm Tuesday that I had our final document in hand. We're hoping all of the paperwork will be acceptable to the judge.
So here's our itinerary:
Wed. June 4- leave home
Thurs. June 5- arrive Moscow
Fri. June 6- Medical exams in Moscow (for us)
Sat. June 7- leave Moscow
Sun. June 8- arrive Krasnoyarsk
Mon. June 9- see the kids... I can't believe it's been 4 months!
Tues. June 10- court... lots of prayers please (it will be Monday night for you)
10 day waiting period before we get to take custody of the kids (not sure exactly what day that will be)
Wed. June 25- leave Kras... our first meltdown - I mean airplane ride as a family :)... 5 hours, wish us luck
Thurs. June 26 - Tues. July 1- Visa appointments, US Embassy appointment, kids' medicals
Wed. July 2- arrive home (13 hour flight)
Keep in mind that Moscow is 11 hours ahead and Kras is 15 ahead. We'll be able to email and update the blog while we're in Kras, so if you haven't given up on me, be on the lookout for new posts. Thanks for the encouragement over the last few days. We appreciate everyone's generous offers to help us out with last minute details. Keep us in your prayers, especially during court. I'll be in touch.
I can't believe this is the last night in my house with just the 2 of us... weird.
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