Smiling All The Way Back

Now That Alex is Home........

2009-08-20T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well the time is here---- to end this blog. Alex is home, and he is a member of our family so it is appropriate to do all future postings about him on our family blog over at Smiles and Trials.

Please come join us!

The adventures have just begun with our new son!

P.S. Thank you to all who made it possible to bring Alex home. Your prayers and support made all the difference in the world!

Medical Update on Alex

2009-08-19T21:36:00.000-07:00

Last week I took Alex to the doctor for a check-up and to mainly be referred up to Children's hospital. They were able to update his shot records and start the ball rolling for Alex to start seeing the necessary specialists up at Children's hospital. He had two shots that day and boy did he scream! Since it looked like he had gotten shots in his right leg before and I thought he had very little feeling in it because it is paralyzed to a certain point, I asked them to give the shots in that leg. Boy was I wrong--- Alex felt every bit of those two shots poor little guy. Thankfully, a sucker took his mind off of the pain right away and I was able to give him some Motrin in the car.

Just yesterday I took Dennis up to Children's hospital for a check-up with the plastic surgeon who also happens to share an office with the neuro-surgeon that Alex has been referred to see. When the office called to confirm the appointment for Dennis, I had asked them if the referral had come through for Alex yet so that maybe I could have both boys seen on the same day. They said no and so I figured I would be making two visits very close together.

Then surprise! When I got to the office for Dennis, they informed me that the referral came through and that the neuro-surgeon could Alex that same day after all. Praise the Lord!

Alex is thirty-two pounds-- a whopping four pounds heavier than Dennis. The neuro-surgeon said that Alex is most likely lumbar-sacral-- whatever the heck that means. I guess it refers to the location of the lesion. He let me know that he was referring Alex to the Spina Bifida clinic that is in the same Children's hospital (another praise) and that he has ordered up an MRI of his head and back, and an x-ray of his hips. He thinks Alex will walk with braces based on where the lesion is and the fact that he can stand and somewhat already walk--- yet another praise. At the Spina Bifida clinic Alex will see a Urologist and an Orthopaedist and other specialists to address his needs.

Alex for the most part seems to be taking everything in stride and his mobility is continuing to improve everyday despite having any medical intervention this far. It is encouraging to see he has such a will to be like his siblings.

I took him to have a TB test yesterday and I am pleased to see that there is no reaction like I thought there might be with most Eastern European children being vaccinated with the BCG vaccine. Dennis seems clear too.

If I had to share the hardest thing there is in caring for a child with Spina Bifida, I would have to say it is the bladder and bowel incontinence. I have been reading up on these things and have joined a few support groups--- and a few wonderful parents of children with SB have kind of taken me under their wings. With Alex being four years old already and about to start pre-school, I am trying to get Alex on a bowel management program where he can get used to going to the bathroom at a certain time everyday. Though he is more than willing to try-- we have not had much success yet--- though it is still very early in the game. We will just have to keep working on it together.

Other than what I have shared, Alex is a normal, healthy, bright four year old boy and his smile and laugh brightens up the room.

He is a joy to have around.

Alex's Adoption Video

2009-08-18T22:40:00.000-07:00

I Love This Little Boy

2009-08-15T20:57:00.000-07:00

Honestly, God has us in a pretty good place right now. Back in Ukraine, I was a bit concerned that Alex might has some behavior issues, but now that he is home and things are pretty predictable around here and he has so much love surrounding him, Alex is in every way a very loving and happy child. He is sleeping through the night and goes down really well too. He is continually trying new foods. He is picking up English. He is able to go to WalMart with me and sit in the cart and doesn't scream or cry for me to let him touch things. He will sit and snuggle with me on the couch, and he comes to me when he is hurt so that I can kiss his owie.

Today I left to go to the store and he began to cry. I promised that I would be right back and when I asked how long he had cried, it had only been for a minute or so. I left again later in the day and he only had a quick sniffle. I think it makes all the difference in the world having so many siblings to learn from.

For the last two or three days, I have been putting on a thumb sucking medicine when he goes to sleep. I was concerned about how he would get to sleep and how he would sleep through the night, but I was just as concerned about his overbite and the big callouses on his fingers. I figured I would give it a try and if he cried or had trouble sleeping I would hold off doing it until he was home for a few more months. When I put it on his nails, I explained that it would taste bad if he put his fingers in his mouth and I even encouraged him to taste a tiny bit with me. We both made faces that it was very yucky tasting-- and he even chuckled and threw his hand down. I pretended to put a little on my own fingers to be like him and I showed him that I would not put my fingers in my mouth. He nodded that he understood and he has been fine ever since. He is not sucking his fingers, nor is he crying himself to sleep, nor is he even so much as stirring in the night. He also reminded me at nap time once to put on the medicine by holding out his fingers. It was really cute. He is just utterly amazing---- and such a big boy! I think it helps that he sleeps next to Dennis every night. (And for those that want to say it is too soon---- I would agree if he was showing signs of distress and I would stop if he was, but I know from experience that the longer a child is allowed to suck their thumb or fingers, the longer it takes to break them of the habit. And I did the same thing for Jonny and Dennis-- only with bandaids because they were much younger and didn't try to pull them off.)

Alex and Anna have so much fun together. She is a wonderful big sister to him.

Alex loves to take baths. He understands so much more than Dennis does. When I say that bath time is over, Alex doesn't whine like Dennis does. He understands that he will have another bath tomorrow.

A fellow adoptive mother and blogger sent my two little boys these adorable towels. I think they are awesome-- both the towels and the boys!

Alex and Dennis encourage each other to do things. At first, Alex was not to excited to get into this floaty, but when he saw that Dennis was getting in one too, he wanted to get in his so that he can be like Dennis.

Open to Suggestions

2009-08-14T14:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, okay, I am stumped. Can you imagine-- me, Christine, stumped?

I am ready to start making Alex's adoption video and I can't find "the perfect" song.

Please, please, please give me some ideas.

Many thanks ahead of time!

All About Alex

2009-08-12T20:59:00.000-07:00

Alex has been home for six days now and there is no way this child is ever looking back. Out of curiosity I have asked him a few times if he wants to go back to his groupa either by mentioning it or showing him a picture. Alex has no desire whatsoever--- and though its not like he has the choice anyways, it does make me feel good that he doesn't want to.

I have him off the medication that the doctor had given me to calm Alex down, and John and I have no plans to put him back on it. He is such an amazing, good, smart little boy that listens and behaves great without it.

Tomorrow I am taking him to the doctor to get him checked out. They will most likely update his immunizations and refer us up to the Children's hospital. I am curious to see how much he weighs. I will be asking the doctor to fill out a form for a handicap parking permit. Alex is a big boy-- much heavier than Dennis and walking long distances with him will be challenging at least in the beginning.

We are all getting used to calling him Alex instead of Alosha or Alexsey and earlier today he actually responded to his name being called. He answered from the top of the stairs, "Stoh Mama!" It was cute.

Alex loves the water. Whether it is the pool or the bathtub, his face lights up when I mention, "Coopatza?" "Da!" he says as he gives his head one good shake.

Overall, I couldn't be happier with how all of us are adjusting. Alex loves looking at pictures on the wall and thinks it is really neat that he recognizes his family. I feel bad for not having more pictures of him up on the wall yet---- something I plan on doing next week.

The Update You Have Been Waiting For!

2009-08-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

WE ARE HOME!

We were warmly welcomed by Daddy and all of the kids at LAX around 4:00pm!

Alex slept through the night. He had no problem sharing a bed with Dennis and even though it is hard to tell-- they are holding hands!

We Are in Kiev!

2009-08-06T03:27:00.001-07:00

We made it to Kiev! What a relief. The train ride was exhausting. Alex literally running on empty because of not taking a nap that day and it being nearly two hours past his bedtime, I did the unthinkable and told him that he could not play with the light anymore because it was time for bed. Immediately he started crying-- and loud, but I knew we both needed some sleep. He was a mess--- crying louder than ever-- fingers in mouth--- snot running out of his nose--- yelling how he didn't love me and how he didn't want to sleep. Probably having my arm across his stomach to keep him from sitting up didn't help, but it sure tired him out even more. I eventually started singing in Russian the words, "I love you.... always...... truth." I kept whispering that in his ear and Praise the Lord, it worked and he fell asleep within five minutes.

I laid teetering on the edge of my mattress on the top bunk----- staring at my new son.

God, he is beautiful. I could smell his wet, sweaty hair....... and I could hear the cutest little sucking noise. Alex had two of his fingers in his mouth sucking them ever so sweetly while he rubbed together the corner of the blanket between his other thumb and index finger.

So my son sucks his fingers. Nice to know. I must have stared at him for an hour watching him sleep before I drifted off to sleep myself. Since the window was open all night, I nearly froze, but I didn't dare move to cover myself up with a blanket.

As soon as we got off the train, we headed to the Embassy and then over to get Alex's medical done. Is it alright to say here, "What a joke!"

For $110, I listened to a doctor recap what I already knew. The only new info she told me was that his medical mentioned him fracturing his hip bone when he was younger. That's it. She couldn't even tell me which side it was or at what age it happened.

All the while we were running around, I had to endure Alex calling every woman he saw Mama, reaching out to every stranger, and taking every chance to test me. I couldn't wait till we were done and could have a down day with just him, Julia, and I. That evening, we met with another adoptive couple who has a five year old with Spina Bifida and was in Ukraine adopting another child with SB. I weighed the risks of Alex acting out even more verses me getting alot of my questions answered by parents who knew first hand about SB, and I thought that talking to parents who have first hand knowledge about raising a child with SB was worth the risk of Alex acting out for a little longer. So, we walked to McDonald's.

Even after nearly polishing off a whole double cheeseburger, fries, and some of my coke, Alex was still acting hungry. I had to say enough is enough---- I knew that he was smart and would soon realize that food would continually come and that he didn't need to gorge himself.

After we all ate, we parted ways, and as we saw our apartment in sight, Alex started crying and acting up. At one point he was calling me, "Te Ca-ca!" Lovely-- my son has a potty mouth.

At this point I knew that I had to be very firm with him--- and I was. In my broken Russian, I explained to him simple rules--- and once we were back at the apartment he tested me to see if I truly expected him to follow those rules. Yup, I did.

That night, he went to bed better than he did the prior night on the train. And he woke up well-rested.

To pass the time, Julia and I made up anything and everything. I had bought a cheap little doctor kit that had tweezers, so I ripped up little pieces of paper and showed him how to pick them up with the tweezers. He thought that was alot of fun..... I thought, "Cool, my son is practicing his fine motor skills."

After we ate lunch and Alex rested for half an hour, we took him for a walk down by the river.

He was only a little upset that I wouldn't let him crawl by the water.

He loved looking out the window with Julia and yelling at the machinas!

Before bed, we gave him a cool shower in hopes that he would sleep better. In Kiev, our apartment did not have air conditioning-- and it was hot and humid.

Once Alex fell asleep, I took a picture of his adorable little feet that only a Mama could love.

The plane ride home went better than expected. The hardest part was our five hour layover in what I think is the dumbest laid out airport----Amsterdam. There was not enough seating at our terminal and we had to go through security after we had our boarding passes. But on the plane, Alex did great. In fact, he slept nearly 7 hours on the second stretch. It was wonderful.

Leaving for the Train

2009-08-04T09:05:00.000-07:00

Today has been a whirlwind. Lots to blog about, but I don't have time to write a book.

I'll try to sum up my day the best I can in one or two sentences.

Before we took Alex from the orphanage, the doctor came up to us and told us that Alex is taking medication (just right now) twice a day to calm him down----- and she gave me enough medicine to get us home. I would normally be totally against this----but........

he needs to calm down.

And you think you had it hard John, traveling with Dennis----phish!-- that was a breeze. Julia and I have already discussed our strategy and tag-team sleeping. One way or another--- we are coming home!

Train tonight and plane this Friday. Did I mention we have to leave for the airport at 3am?

Alex is With Us!

2009-08-04T03:17:00.000-07:00

Today we took Alex from Antoshka. It was bittersweet.

But, before we left, I made sure to get pictures of Alex's whole groupa.

And his best friend Leeza.

Then we came in quickly feed him lunch and get him dressed into the clothes we brought him.

He ate a broth like soup, mushy rice with carrots, and eekra which is an eggplant stew.

While he was eating, I took pictures of where he slept. His bed was the one with the blue blanket. Notice the word "was"?

Before we left, we gave the kids their toy phones. They loved them and could hardly believe that they didn't have to share!

One caretaker named Nadya had a very hard time-- as did Alex. They certainly seemed to have a special bond. She cried and nearly followed us down the stairs. She was so sweet. I guess I am to blame for her tears---- when I asked if I could trade an extra piece of clothing I brought for the undershirt he had been wearing is when she started to cry. She completely understood why I wanted it--- and I have it!

We walked home and gave him a bath, and now we are resting. I really should go. :)

Getting Alex in the Morning!

2009-08-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

Today was a busy day! We did tons of running around getting all of the necessary paperwork like the court decree, new birth certificate, and Alex's passport. We had to drive to Slovansk first to get the birth certificate, and then drove all the way to Donetsk which is an hour and a half long ride each way. Not only was the car ride hot and bumpy--- but we had to change two flat tires too! But everything got done-- praise the Lord and we all ate at McDonald's afterwards! What a treat that was! Still.... I couldn't bring myself to buy ketchup so my fries were a little dry. But I washed them down with ice cold coca-cola.

Here is where we had our first flat tire changed.

This is where our driver changed our second flat tire on the side of the road.

Yes, men carry purses in Ukraine-- especially in the bigger cities like Donetsk.

On our drive we saw miles and miles of sunflowers. It was hard to believe that any country could eat so many seeds. Later, I found it the sunflower seeds are squeezed for their oil--- there are no olive trees in Ukraine.

Here we are driving back into Kramatorsk.

By the time we got back to our apartment it was too late to go and sign the paperwork so we could pick-up Alex----- but it is on our to-do list first thing in the morning! I am so excited! This is the very last night he will have to sleep in the orphanage--- the last time he will go without hugs, kisses, and prayers as he is tucked into bed.

This is also our last night in Kramatorsk--- and believe it or not--- I think I am going to miss this place. I am going to miss seeing all of the Mama kitties on our walk to Antoshka. I am going to miss watching all of the children playing outside. I am going to miss being able to buy ice-cream on any street corner in any one of the many kiosks.

I am going to miss people watching---- I still don't get why so many women wear heels here. I am going to miss a more simpler life.

I have promised myself that life is going to be different when I get home. I want to take the time to walk more......... to get the mail.......... to walk to my kids' bus stop........ to go around my neighborhood and meet more people. I want to complain less. If I have to drive to the doctor's office-- so what. My car is air conditioned and I am pretty sure that I have enough tread on my tires so that I won't get a flat. If I have to wash my fifth load of clothes that day--- big whoop--- I won't have to hang up all of the clothes to dry. If my son falls in the mud--- at least I know I will have hot water to give him a bath. I want to take more time to just visit with friends and family. Back in America I was always so busy-- yet I don't know what I was doing. Probably too much computer, too much worrying, too much planning, making way too big of a deal about anything and everything.

Wouldn't that be nice?

----Goodnight!

Up and Down

2009-08-02T03:33:00.000-07:00

Last night I tossed and turned worrying my heart over everything you can imagine. I continually refocused my thoughts on my Heavenly Father-- but I was up against a battle.

Thoughts that went through my mind:

I won't wake up on time to make it to the airport by 5 am this coming Friday.

They will not have the old passport forms which take only one day-- but they will have plenty of new passport forms which take a week.

We will not be allowed to enter the country because Alex won't pass his medical.

I run out of diapers on the train.

My kids are getting into trouble back home every day I am not there for them.

I can go on and on, but you get the drift. It wasn't until 1:00am that I finally fell asleep. Needless to say, I didn't get much sleep, but I am still managing to stay positive. We made little gift bags for each of the children in Alex's group. Inside each one is a teddy bear shaped chocolate filled cake, a juice box, a napkin, and a toy telephone. Julia and I decorated the outside of each of the bags. We think they will like them.

Alex will probably come back to the apartment with us tomorrow evening after we do all of our running around to get our paperwork complete. I am looking forward to giving him a bath, putting on clean pajamas, and feeding him a bowl of ice-cream. Most of all, I look forward to him really being my son------ here to stay by my side-- no more visits!

Don't get me wrong, Ukraine is wonderful, and so is adoption, but being away from family for so long makes a person kind of long to be home back in their own bed---- settling disagreements between the kids, washing loads of smelly socks, and sitting in church listening to your Pastor talk.

Ahhhhhh, it will be good to be home.

Meanwhile, Julia and I are having fun buying inexpensive little treats for all of our loved ones back home.

For my family---

Adam, I miss hearing you play guitar.
Rachel, I miss cooking with you in the kitchen.
Caleb, I miss rubbing hands with you in church.
Sveta, I miss your funny talks with the dogs.
Annalyn, I miss your beautiful smiles.
Anna, I miss your sweet hugs and kisses.
William, I miss cuddling with you.
Andrew, I miss hearing your laugh.... so much.
Jonny, I miss your sweet little voice.
Dennis, I miss the way you prance around the house.
And John, I miss you making me laugh.
Friends and family-- I miss all of you too!

Please continue to pray us home.

The Borscht was Great!

2009-08-01T09:31:00.000-07:00

Just got back from dinner with Julia. Julia ended up really enjoying the borscht compared to the smoky chicken dish that she ordered. Oh well------ who said we had to finish everything off of our plates?

Our afternoon visit with Alex went well---- but I am so done visiting my child everyday. It feels so much like a chore---- which I hate saying-- but it is true. It feels weird looking forward to our visit with Alex and then watching the time go by slowly hoping that this is the last visit before we get to take him away for good.

Our facilitator is coming back in the morning so this is our last "just girls" night--- free to not close the door when we shower-- free to eat in the living room---- free to binge on ice-cream. But it also means having a translator again which is nice to have last minute questions answered.

Hope you have a nice Sunday!

Our Last Saturday

2009-08-01T02:40:00.000-07:00

I'm jumping up and down.

Two reasons----

1.) Officially today our 10th day is up! And this is the last Saturday we are spending in Ukraine!

2.) We are at an Internet Cafe walking distance from our apartment! Woooo-hooo!

Julia and I both have computers for the next hour and a half--- so now I can tell you all about the last few days. Alex is getting more and more used to us and seems sad every time our visit is over. He is for the most part a very happy and outgoing little boy---- but there is a mischievous side to him that I will have to keep an eye on. I think he has just been couped up for way too long and is ready to explore the world around him. The other day I tore off a dead branch with dry leaves and crumbled it up in front of him. Then I let him do it. He loved it! We also got to let him play in the sand with all the other children--- something he is not allowed to do all the time-- and he loved that too! I can only imagine how he is going to react to the world outside the orphanage fence--- we keep counting down the days for him till he gets to ride the big train to Kiev.

The day we played in the sand with all the kids is a day I kick myself for not bringing the video camera. We had a blast! I pretended to make food and then had the kids serve it to me.

"Ya nee hachoo kasha-malasha!" I said making the yuckiest face--- and breakthrough! All the caretakers started laughing and it seemed like Julia and I made it into their club. After that we were offered some of their black, unsalted sunflower seeds. It was a neat feeling of acceptance.

I pretended to eat the kasha (sand) as the kids saw me throw down the spoonfuls-- this had all of them laughing. Soon after, the kids were playing with each other---- Alex and Leeza were the cutest together.... both laughing up a storm!

Quite a few times Julia and I have timed our arrival to be just as the kids are coming outside to play. The caretakers have to call all the kids back as they come running up to us yelling Mama.
I have given up correcting them to call me Choit-cha which means Aunt after learning that they have eighteen different caretakers whom they all call Mama. I wish they could all have Mamas-- all of them need one and deserve one.

As Julia and I have learned what the kids do day and day out--- we have decided to do something different for the kids when we take Alex. Instead of the traditional cake, fruit, and juice, we went and bought all of the kids little toy phones. We went to the same lady where Julia bought her siblings a few souvenirs and she remembered us. Instead of twelve grivna per phone, she told us they were only eight grivna, but when we told her we wanted to buy 7 of them, she sold them to us for six grivna each. Knowing what a great deal she was giving us-- we gave her a fifty grivna bill and told her to keep the change. It was a win-win for all of us! We will probably still do something else but we are not sure yet. We are giving the caretakers the dishcloths that Julia handmade, filled with candy and tied together. Hopefully they will like them.
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Going back a few days-- one evening when the Penman's were still here we went to Premier for dinner-- a very affordable and good place to eat in Kramatorsk. I felt a little adventurous and ordered a pork, cabbage, and kiwi salad.

It was so yummy! Julia played it safe and ordered boring mashed potatoes and rice with cooked veggies. I also ordered chicken with spinach and cheese. It was just nice getting out and not having to do the dishes afterwards. Our whole meal with two cokes each was only seventy-one grivna equivalent to about nine American dollars.

The other night, Julia and I had a Racko tournament and made a little bet to make it interesting. If she won, I had to take her to the pastry shop and let her pick out anything. If I won, she had to go to Premier with me and have a bowl of Borscht.

Guess who won??

Since it rained last night we couldn't go-- so today after our afternoon visit with Alex we are going to Premier!
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Here is a place where I think handicapped people live. What a nice ramp for wheelchairs.

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We played outside with all of the kids again.

The caretakers even allowed Alex to get out and play with us.

As alluded to... pretty cool in my opinion.

2009-07-31T23:13:00.001-07:00

http://www.vp.donetsk.ua/statya.php?vstat=3166

--JR

(dad)

ps They are are all fine. It's raining there. And they got just one week left !

It is Snowing!

2009-07-29T03:46:00.000-07:00

Yes, you read right! As I type, you can see little flakes of snow floating to the ground. The Penman's call them flurries, I think. Whatever you call it-- it is cold! How exciting!

Must Have Woke Up on the Wrong Side of the Kravat

2009-07-29T02:04:00.000-07:00

Today's morning visit with Alex did not go well.

What makes it worse is that I didn't even see it coming. I was too excited at all the "trash to treasure" I had collected for the children in his groupa. All of the toys that we give the groupa ends up on a shelf (and I am not kidding-- they are for show only) so I thought I would bring them things that are considered trash, but I know the kids will have a ball playing with. So I lugged a good size bag of egg cartons, empty cereal boxes, different kind of bags, cups, and spoons.

And I was right! The kids were so excited-- and the caretakers actually looked at me and showed me with their eyes that I had done a good thing-- which I was glad to see because I was half expecting them to look at me like I was crazy. It was fun to see the kids playing-- and it made it easier for us to take Alex for a walk while he ate the ripe, yummy pear that we brought. As the juicy fruit dripped down his arm and onto his thighs, I tried to teach him to wrap a napkin around the fruit, but he wouldn't have it. Okay-- so forget the napkin-- I'll just clean him up once he is done. That too, he didn't want any part of but I got the job done, no big deal. We got to check up on the hardworking men who have been laying brick since we first got here. John-- they are still not done-- but they continue to engage Alex and he is more talkative with them. After walking around for about twenty minutes playing hide and go seek with Julia, we went and saw Simon's group and gave them their usual tickle fest that each of the boys so love. It has been amazing to see them all transition before my eyes-- each of the boys look healthier and happier-- they have better color, and respond to Julia and I immediately-- which is amazing because they all have moderate special needs (outside of Simon). Word of advice to anyone going to an orphanage soon-- spend time with the other kids-- rub their back-- talk to them--- bring them treats--- tickle them--- it may be the only real highlight of their day... week... month... or even year.

Moving on......

We all went to the sport room---- Alex was not cooperative getting out of the stroller. The room had the director's wife sitting in it doing paperwork-- so of course I talked with her a bit while Julia played with Alex. Alex came over to me, so I picked him up. He didn't like that--- he wanted to look through the drawer she had open. As I tried to parent him and lead him back to the ball pit, he dashed out to swing open the door-- something he has been told many times not to do. So I picked him up and now he has the director's wife scolding him too. Okay, I thought-- he'll listen to her. NOPE. He stared grabbing my glasses which he also knows is a big no-no. You can imagine how awkward the situation was for me as he continued to deliberately disobey. I gave him the benefit of the doubt that he was acting up because there was other women around-- but I still had to stay firm. So I did what I did a few days ago--- I took him back to his groupa.

Ugh--- it was not one of my finer moments---- yet again.

One caretaker got him to apologize and give me an I am sorry kiss which was really nice--- but I can't wait till he is my child in my custody and learns to respond to me in the same way. Only five more days for that. The plan is for us to be on a train the night of the 4th.
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Before I forget I wanted to tell you how impressed I am with the caretakers handiwork. Nearly a week ago, one of the front wheels on Alex's stroller broke-- I most certainly would have thrown the whole thing away. But not at Antoshka-- the women got out some thin wire and fixed it-- and now it stronger than ever!
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However, our afternoon visit went well! We had fun with the kids outside!

A Short Update

2009-07-28T04:38:00.000-07:00

Today we got to take Alex out to get his passport photo taken. He was beyond excited--- riding in a machina left him speechless. He loved the big flash of the photographers camera and made the cheeziest expression humanly possible! It was so cute.

When we got back, we saw that an American family who had adopted a little girl ten years ago was there for a visit.

Their beautiful daughter played guitar for the whole orphanage. It was nice to see everyone celebrating this beautiful child's life. Julia and the girl talked, as did her mother and I. What an incredible story they have. Afterwards, they visited the kids in Alex's groupa--- and she passed out lots of toys that were shelved shortly thereafter. Earlier in their trip they had visited Torez and told me only good things about it. The mother said that the children and adults appeared to be very well cared for-- they were doing crafts and were working on ongoing projects. It was so nice to hear good things about a place that I feared Alex was doomed to go to.

Julia and I visited the flea market and found some really cute clothes. We found a few ladies who helped us bargain with the other merchants-- so even in Ukraine I got some pretty good deals! After, we walked around to look at the fresh vegetables-- and bought a nice big peach!

Today one of the caretakers insisted that Alex walk up the stairs. Obviously he was having difficulty-- especially when we let go of his hand so I ended up carrying him up. Sadly, that was frowned upon.

Hope all is well with all of you.

Sad to See Us Go

2009-07-27T03:39:00.001-07:00

When it was time to take Alex back to his groupa at the end of our second visit yesterday--- I didn't want to hand him over. I could see how unhappy he was to go--- I am sure it had something to do with the particular caretakers that were on shift at that time. There are so many women coming and going from that orphanage that I can hardly keep up-- nor can I recognize them. There are a few that I love dearly and appreciate so much-- but the majority of them seem to consider what they do merely a job not a ministry--- and it shows.

And it makes my heart hurt. Julia's too. She loves all the children and enjoys passing out treats to them. She is getting Alex to play with her more and more and she absolutely loves to hear him call out her name. It is pretty cute.

Today we saw Dennis' old roommate outside in a baby walker. She is just so precious, bless her little heart. She has some kind of syndrome I am sure-- her eyes are set wide apart and she is missing fingers-- but she is the cutest little doll in all of Antoshka! But don't worry in case you are thinking---- the feelings I have are not Mama-type feelings but more a feeling of children with special needs need more advocates because they have so much potential. Can I hear an Amen?
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I think Julia and I are developing a mosquito phobia-- nothing makes my skin crawl more than the high pitched sound of a mosquito buzzing around your head. EEeee!

I am also sick of apricots--- there are trees everywhere around here and the smell of rotten apricots smells like hot, old beer.

I love, love, love how Kramatorsk is like one giant park. Tall, shady trees are everywhere! Here is just one of many "hang outs" where old men play chess.
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We saw this caterpillar on our walk home. It was huge!

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This is for the Reed Kids---- I miss you guys so much. I have enjoyed your comments Annalyn and Rachel. They make me feel closer to you. Please keep an eye on each other and take care of one another! This is not a bribe-- but I would love to surprise all of you with something fun to do when Julia, Alex, and I get home! So-- be good!

Life in Ukraine

2009-07-26T03:26:00.000-07:00

Alex is so smart. Yesterday I asked him if he wanted one cookie or two cookies tomorrow. He answered two! Then I asked him if he wanted little cookies or big cookies and he thought for a moment and answered, "Bolshoy!" It was just the cutest thing.

Alex is learning so much--- he got another timeout for hitting another little girl and understood that he had to stay sitting in his chair for a few minutes. Then he got up and said sorry. It is really obvious that the kids are not taught to say please and thank you, or I am sorry when they accidentally do something like hit another child with a swinging telephone. However, I am pleased to say that Alex is already learning these things and I have caught him saying them with out my prompting.

Alex is doing things that John had tried to get him to do when he was still here, but Alex was scared to do. He now loves to play in a big tube and Alex rolls around in it when Julia or I push it.
The weather is hot again, but the breeze is nice. We sleep in the room with the air conditioning and it almost feels like I am at home in my own bed. Almost.

Here is a list of things that are noticeably different here.

1. I have to unlock three different doors to get into our apartment. One of the keys looks like it should unlock an ancient treasure chest.

2. There are little kiosks scattered throughout the apartment grounds that sell beverages including beer, fresh fruit, bread, or ice-cream. Julia and I can enjoy two nice sized ice-cream bars for less than a dollar.

3. There are so many stray cats and dogs around here. And many cats look pregnant. Julia and I also give our loose change to a very fragile looking babushka who stands outside the market begging for money. Not sure if we are doing the right thing according to Ukraine customs, but for us it feels right.

4. Ukraine just flat out smells different than America. Some of the smells are good, but most are unpleasant to my nose. The stairwell smells different from the elevator and certain parts of our walk make me wonder what died in the bushes. Probably one of those poor starving dogs I see around here. The market sells lots of fish-- and I hate fish-- period. I do like walking past one of the kiosks selling bread-- and fresh tomatoes have a nice smell too.
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As I close I wanted to share a story with you. After dinner, Julia and I went outside to sit near our apartment entrance where all the old babushkas sit. At one point I got up and asked to pet one of their dogs. She told me NO very sternly and then showed me her hand which had two of her upper fingers missing indicating that the dog had bit them off. What??? Why would she still have that dog? Anyway, a scary looking man was finally done yelling at another babushka one door down and came walking past where we were sitting. That mean dog got up and started barking something fierce at that man and was ready to attack it, so the man started yelling at it and lighting matches and throwing them at the dog. It was quite a show. But finally, the old man was gone and the dog went back to sleep.

Another old crochety babushka joined the other babushkas and saw that Julia an I were playing ball again. She asked me to move because a machina would drive over us but I ignored her because there had been no machinas for the last 15 minutes and I was a big girl who could see the machina and get out of the way. I think that ticked her off because she came up to me invading my personal space and talking to me like a child. She told me to go play somewhere else because a mahina would drive over me. Well this time I nicely told her that there was no machinas and this royally ticked her off. She started yelling at me and finally acted like the ball might hit her face-- so rather than cause a scene, I picked up the soft ball and Julia and I went back up to our apartment.

I miss America. Only 12 more days. Only 12 more days.

P.S. Here is a cute picture of the kids all sitting on a blanket eating the cookies we brought them.

Today has been Awesome!

2009-07-25T03:17:00.000-07:00

I have to shout from the rooftops that I see a definite change in Alex. It wasn't just a one time thing with him during our afternoon visit with him yesterday-- today he was just as well behaved. Now of course, I would be a liar if I portrayed him to be an angel, but what kid is?? But--- there is a noticeable difference in his attitude towards me like when I change his diaper, when I offer him a toy, when I ask him not to do something-- it is all done with much less hesitation and defiance. And believe me, I tell him thank you for his good behavior, and I smile at him to reinforce to him that a certain behavior is more desirable than others.

As I thought a lot last night before drifting off to sleep, I kind of think this whole thing with Alex's behavior was God's way of getting my mind off of his disabilities. A part of me was still thinking about his ability to walk and whether or not he would be incontinent all of his life. As soon as Alex's behavior became the main focus, my thoughts were completely off of his special needs and I was just praying for my son to listen to me and to be the joy that I had imagined him to be for the last year. Who cares if his body is not perfect-- I certainly don't and it certainly won't stop God from using him in a mighty way-- but our ability to bond to each other and love and trust each other is crucial and I just needed to be reminded of that. Now that I am seeing the sweet, funny, and happy Alex that I remember from last year-- I am so thankful-- and I am so focusing on that rather than anything else.

Does that make sense?

Moving on.......

Alex crawled onto a big ball and started rolling his body over it and so I took this moment to have some physical touch with him and I rolled him back and forth on an even bigger ball. I rolled him back and forth so that his feet would nearly touch the ground and then his head would nearly touch the ground. I did this over and over. I bounced him too. And I rubbed his back. And I stole little kisses on his cheek whenever I could.

And he absolutely loved all of it. At one point I asked him if he wanted to go to sleep and he said yes-- he was that relaxed. The whole visit was exactly as I would have expected-- and Alex acted exactly as I would have expected him to act.
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The trash collector comes every other day in this old clunky dinosaur of a truck. It is some woman's job to walk behind the truck sweeping up all the trash left in the street with her two foot straw broom.

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To make things simple, Julia and I have started making sandwiches for lunch. I fry the ham to make sure it is safe to eat.

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Julia has made three Ukrainian friends-- one girl her age and two younger boys. She is teaching them some simple English words. Julia's ability to make friends wherever she goes is such a gift. We have made friends with the four Babushkas that sit near the door to the apartment. One day, one of them called me over and took my cross that was hanging around my neck and slipped it inside my shirt. I thought she wanted me to hide it so it wouldn't get stolen because it was evening, but I am not sure.
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AND FOR THE FINALE!! In case you guys are not reading the comments, I wanted to post this one. It is from my wonderful hubby John. I had the best chuckle reading it and I thank him from the bottom of my heart for being able to make me laugh half way around the world.

"But speaking from VERY recent personal experience, here is a real warning about your 15 hours of 'just plane fun' to be ready for...if such a readiness is possible...(I tried calling you again and am not getting through...???)(Don't try me for at least 8 more hours (please)).Open up window (to let in BRIGHT SUN), close window, open up window, close window, ok Dennis, no more window, open out meal table, close down meal table, open out meal table, close down meal table, ok Dennis, no more meal table, No, don't kick the chair in front of you, No, don't crush your flimsy plastic water cup, yes you must wear your seatbelt and I don't care how loud you whine about it, your growling is too loud, don't lick me, don't lick the chair, ok, let's not lick anything, no screaming, sure you can open the window again, yay, good close of the window, now leave it closed.Wow, meal time, yes wear the bib, please don't drop the water cap, Dennis please don't drop the water cap any more, ok fine, no water cap for you, ok so you don't like any of the food here but let's not just throw it to the lady next to us, and let's watch our mountain of trash just sit here on our tray tables for another hour without spilling most of it into our seats, what? no room for you to spread out and nap? Well no crying about it either. Sure you can lie down on me (I'll hold your kicking legs). Is that smell coming from your diaper? Repeat all of the above every 100 miles of the 8000 miles.Just plane fun. And I thought I was a good parent!!! He really was a trooper though. However, WHILE we were LANDING at LAX, he handed me his EYE !!! Carrying him and the two huge rolling bags on and off the airport trams through passport control, customs declaration lines, etc, got me my needed work out!!!Good night to me. Good morning to you."

Being Honest

2009-07-24T10:19:00.001-07:00

Here is the view outside our apartment window.

We have been spending our afternoons hanging out together down under the trees exchanging stories. It was been a blessing have another family here with us. It has made it so much more bearable to be away from the rest of my family and friends.

Visits with Alex were getting progressively harder and finally things came to a head today. He has been quite the handful--- very hard for me to admit. But true. He wasn't listening to me--- AT ALL, and I finally told him that if he didn't stop throwing toys (or spitting or screaming) I would take him back to his groupa. He continued and so that is exactly what I did---- kicking and screaming I carried my little boy back to his groupa. And without saying a word his caretakers understood what was happening. Of course I told them what had been going on, and had Alex decided to listen to his caretakers I would have felt like a Mom who couldn't control her child--- but he didn't. So they ended up taking him up to his room for a nap.

This was incredibly hard for me-- but I am all about keeping it real so I will continue with the truth. I felt bad not knowing what they would do with Alex-- but at this point I really needed some help. I stood firm and told him I would be back for our afternoon visit.

I prayed. The Penman's prayed. I even think the caretakers prayed-- laughing out loud.

On our way back to the orphanage, Julia and I prayed some more.

When we approached Alex's groupa, it was nice to see that everyone was happy. One caretaker had a reminder talk with Alex-- and then the three of us were off to do our thing. And you know what--- Alex listened. We fed him a banana and walked around with him for about fifteen minutes before we took him into the playroom. And you know what-- the visit continued to go quite well! It was such a turn around from previous visits that I was extremely grateful and the three of us had a great time. We brought balloons and Alex loved us blowing them up and letting them go to fly around the room. No joke-- I must have did this at least thirty-five times. But you know what--- I would have blown up twenty more balloons just to see him continue to smile and bring me the balloon back and ask me nicely to blow it up again.

Near the end of our visit, things started to spiral downward-- or so I thought. He had taken the batteries out of the toy phone and I fixed it and told him not to do it again. And that is what he immediately did-- that little stinker. So-- I took the phone away from him and put it on the table. And he crawled over to the table and started to climb it to take the phone back. I told him no but that made him only want to do it more. At this point, I picked Alex up and set him down in a chair. In my broken Russian I told him to sit in the chair for five minutes and then he could get up. He started to scoot his feet to the ground to stand up and I told him to sit down for five minutes and if he stood up I would take him back to his groupa because he wasn't listening to me. He started to scoot again and I held him firmly and repeated my instruction and ended with the word, "Pravda," meaning truth. I also looked straight into his eyes with all seriousness.

Thank God-- he realized I meant business because he stopped trying to get down from the chair and just sat there nicely looking at me. I had him sit there for two minutes (I think he thought it was five) and then I praised him for listening to me. It was such an amazing moment.

The rest of our twenty minutes went really well---- and I am just so pumped up now-- and filled with renewed hope. Believe me, I realize how hard things are for Alex. This process just stinks when you think about it. First off, he is now expected to listen to some stranger who leaves after a few hours. His life seems to have no consistency right now because he is expected to be part of his groupa yet is also told that he is now a part of a family and will soon be going to America. I can only imagine how hard it must be for him-- and it is frustrating for him..... I am sure, to not have the freedoms that all the other children have even though he is capable of doing almost everything they are. Throw in the fact that his new family speaks a totally different language and it makes things only more confusing for him.

I can honestly say that I can't wait till I can take him from Antoshka and give him a bath and start showing him what it is like to have a forever family-- because whether or not he realizes it-- that is what he has!

Alex eating a Fruit Roll Up

Alex learning to sit in a better position for his legs.

On one of our many walks

Last Day with Alexei, Christine, and Julia

2009-07-23T10:49:00.000-07:00

This is Dad / Hubby / John blogging because Christine doesn't have access to a computer right now.

Yesterday morning when we got to Antoshka, one of the caretakers called a local news reporter back because she had been waiting for our arrival. Christine had mentioned this in her prior post but I think it pretty cool that she first saw Dennis when he'd arrived at Antoshka, then, a year ago, she wrote another article when she found out he'd been adopted by us, and she was so excited to see him for yet another "follow-up" article. She took her own pictures of our morning together and shared her website with us so MORE TO COME!

Yesterday afternoon, when we went to visit Alexei, for my last time, we first stopped by the store and got a wrapped package of pre-cut pieces of crunchy/flaky sweet bread. We were kind of early and when Julia and I got to his orphanage group's room, they were actually all waking up. We asked the caretakers if we could share the sweetbread and they of course said yes so all the kids quickly got to their chairs and Julia proudly passed it out.

Then we thought we would take Alexei out of the group to play and visit with Mom and Dennis down in "the sport room" like we usually do, but they insisted that he eat first as they quickly served him a nice large cup of milk and large bowl of zeppikanka. He ate it fast and it was nice to see him express his thankfulness.

After our visit, Christine made a fantastic 'going away dinner'--leg of chicken, rice pilaf, etc, and then my journey back began. This time it is impossible to say "smiling all the way back". Leaving Julia and Christine there was VERY hard. At first I was leaving them with a Ukrainian cellphone that my phone couldn't even call!!! But thankfully our facilitator helped that within a few hours (by switching local carriers) and now I can keep in touch.

Not only did I have the sadness of leaving two incredibly special young ladies, but I had, and am still in the middle of, the challenge of taking back two large bags and my 2 year old, Dennis. This requires driving, walking, 12 hour train riding, and tomorrow the 20+ hour plane journey and drive. The eye-cleaning and diaper changing is rough enough, but I'm on the 4th story of an apartment in Kiev with no elevators too.

On the train ride Dennis was great. He really slept for 90% of it. I was supposed to also. But couldn't. It was smaller than a twin mattress that we shared and he couldn't be touched because it was so hot. No air flow at all in the compartment so I regularly opened and closed our compartment door to let in the air flow, but it also let in light and noise to our room mate. If I did touch him, it quickly lead to loud fussing. If I didn't touch him, he seemed to sleep pretty well, especially when I fanned him by waving the towels (or pillow cases) that were included in the cabin. What really kept me from sleeping was Dennis's strange habit of needing to, at random times, karate kick in all directions--whether it was a front snap kick to my shin, or a heel pound to my other areas, it was a force to be reckoned--I closed my eyes in the sitting position.

Once we landed in Kiev (exactly 12 hours later in fact!), it was so nice to see our facilitator help offload Dennis and my bags from the high steps of the train. It was so crowded near the train station though that we had a long walk to his car. We then immediately drove to the U.S. Embassy (which by the way had been closed the prior day due to US VP Joseph Biden's Kiev visit) where I did all my necessary signing to enable Alexei's return to the U.S. with Christine later.

Dennis and I then napped at the apartment and then went out to eat.
Dennis and I shared a nice ketchup-soaked Bratwurst on a toasty roll, orange juice, and peanuts (and then we had the Ukraine Summer staple, the vanilla ice cream cone). What Dennis loved most was the fact that the pigeons loved the peanuts! So he'd toss them and hundreds would gather then he'd run out as they'd swarm up and around him as he'd laugh readying his next toss. The passerbyers must have thought how wasteful. And they'd be right! But Dennis was thrilled and that's his souvenir.

He's asleep now. I'll hit the hay soon. Driver will be here after 9am to take us to the Airport.
Good night all. Thanks for your prayers, well wishes, and support.
--JR

Saying Goodbye....

2009-07-22T03:14:00.001-07:00

Today John and Dennis will say goodbye to Alex, Julia, and I---
and we will say goodbye to them.

It will be bittersweet.

For one, it marks one more leg in the process that we can put behind us and John can get back home to the kids. I know he will give them plenty of love from me.

We went and saw Alex today and told him that we will all be going to on a semolat (airplane) in a couple of weeks. I think he understood.

A reporter from a Donetsk newspaper came and interviewed us and took pictures. She did an article on Dennis when he first came to Antoshka. Her goal is to encourage women here to keep their children even if they have special needs---- she hopes our story will show people that it is possible to raise children even if they are not physically perfect. Hopefully, we can provide the link once she is done writing the article.

The weather continues to be very nice--- some more rain is reported-- Praise the Lord!

Today Was A Success!

2009-07-21T10:48:00.000-07:00

Why?? Because we are the proud parents of ALEXEI MATTHEW REED! Court was at 9:oo am this morning-- we had the same judge and the same prosecutor. Even with 10 of us crammed into a little courtroom, it was still cool, thank the Lord.

It has been decided, and plane tickets have been changed..... John and Dennis are heading back to Kiev tomorrow night and Julia and I are flying out early morning on August 7th!

Julia was very helpful with Dennis during our court hearing. Thanks Julia!

Doesn't Dennis look cute with his hands folded all nice?

Since John is leaving, we had to transfer power of attorney over to me at the notary. While we waited, we watched the baby frogs swim around in this shut-down fountain.

The weather was fantastic today too so we walked from the notary all the way home. Since we are in the city, all we see is tall apartment buildings--- no one-family homes.

Since we were at court in the morning, we were only able to visit Alex in the afternoon. Note, the name change--- we are trying to get him used to the name Alex since that is what he will most likely go by in school and at church.

Visits are getting harder---- mainly because we are all bored doing the same thing day in and day out, so we bought some new toys for the boys to play with.

Whenever I can, I try to get Alex to sit with his legs out or to the side instead of them bent back and I noticed that his left leg does not straighten out completely. I wonder if this is something that can be corrected with therapy or possibly surgery?

For the moment, the boys were content with their phones-- but it didn't last long. They both wanted the Spiderman phone.

Near the end of our visit, we took the boys for a long walk all around the orphanage. It looks like there was a fire here at Anotshka a few months ago. Not only is there this pile of burnt debris behind me, but there are workers rebuilding a wing at the back of the orphanage. There are burnt little beds and I have to wonder if they were empty at the time. I sure hope so.

For dinner, John bought Celantano pizza--- which was a nice change and very similar to American pizza. And the whole pizza cost only four American dollars.

Drenched

2009-07-20T11:30:00.000-07:00

Today we got drenched.
Drenched in rain.

And you know what?
It felt wonderful.
Absolutely wonderful.

Like a gift from God bringing a break from the heat.
I purposefully splashed in puddles.
I let my feet bathe in the cool refreshing water.

Dennis loved it too.
Oh how I wish Alosha could have been with us.
He would have loved it too.

The best part about today's rain was that it washed away the heat, the humidity, the dust, and the smell.
And it couldn't have come at a better time.
Tonight, we will all get a cool night's rest--- all in time for court tomorrow.

Court is Tomorrow!

2009-07-20T04:50:00.000-07:00

We found out for sure that tomorrow is the day!

That means that Alosha will be ours--- but we can't take him from the orphanage until August 3rd after the 10 day waiting period.

A Sweet Ending to the Day

2009-07-19T11:52:00.000-07:00

As promised, we brought the children cut up apples for their morning snack. I squeezed a little lemon juice on them to keep them from turning brown and one little boy made faces because of the tartness. The rest of the children didn't even seem to notice and before we knew it the bag of cut up apples was gone. All of the children beg for attention and it is hard to break away from them so that we can spend alone time with Alosha. We have mentally decided to spend about 10 minutes each time with the other children when we pick up and drop off Alosha the four times a day.

Alosha is doing great. I could tell that he hates being couped up in his stroller all the time, but it is hard to encourage him to do anything else. It is just so dirty and watching him crawl around in the sand, broken glass, and crumbled rocks and cement not to mention ants just stresses me out. Not that I can't handle him getting dirty--- but at home, I would give him a bath. It is just not the same here.

Alosha has began testing the waters with us a bit---- throwing a toy for the second time after us telling him not to, or opening a door after asking him to keep it closed. Typical four year old stuff that John is much better at handling here than I am. It is hard to be yourself here without wondering who is watching you waiting to correct your parenting--- but it doesn't seem to bother John. He is who he is and I think the caretakers appreciate that. I hope I can begin to relax more---- just today I took the water canteen away for the remainder of our visit after Alosha continued to shake out the water after I told him not to. And after a second of pouting, he was off and playing again.

We are still on target to have court early next week----- and then John is most likely going to head home with Dennis while Julia and I stay here to finish up things. Economically, it just makes the most sense, and we really prefer to not leave Alosha anyway. This way, John can drive down to LAX with the whole family and welcome Alosha home!

At the end of our visits, we walk Alosha up this staircase to his room. He knows the routine now and doesn't have any problems saying goodbye to us and throwing us kisses. We always scream out to each other, "Paca, Paca! Daz vi danya!"

We visited the caretakers in Dennis' old wing of the orphanage again. This sweet old lady had not seen Dennis yet, and was so happy to hold him. The other caretaker Elena brought us more gifts today--- a jar of honey, a jar of jam, and a bag of cookies. It was a special treat and I came home and made honey tea.

Till tomorrow......

Fitting Right In

2009-07-18T11:22:00.000-07:00

This morning was overcast, hiding the sun, bringing some reprieve from the heat. Our daily walk to and from the orphanage is pretty much routine now and only takes about 15 minutes. People watching on the way makes the time pass quickly. I still scratch my head at the sight of all the women dressed up in heels and fancy party dresses with no where to go except maybe to BOOM to grocery shop.

I brought overalls for Alosha today because shorts tend to slide off of him when he crawls. Thankfully, they fit---- what do you know-- he wears a size 3T, the same as Dennis.

After talking with the caretakers and asking them if it was okay to bring apples for all the children tomorrow, we headed inside to our usual spot. Dennis and Alosha continue to grow closer which means one of two things. Either they play together very nicely like in the picture below, or they are fighting over a toy, which I will not post a picture of..... yet. :)

This picture is priceless once you know the story. The two boys were fighting over a toy phone, so John gave Dennis his phone so Alosha could have the toy phone. Immediately Alosha no longer wanted the toy phone, so John gave him our Ukrainian phone to listen to the ring tones. The boys listened to their own phones, but secretly they wanted each others phones so very politely they switched. It was a prime example of cooperation on both of their parts.

As we were leaving Alosha's room, I couldn't help taking a picture of all of the little kids' shoes. Once in a while we will see one of the kids' shoes that they are wearing don't even match. Just goes to show that they are expected to put them on by themselves.

I brought a pair of shoes that no longer fit Dennis.... but they fit Alosha! He is a size 6 and Dennis is nearly a size 8!

We went and visited Dennis' main caretaker now that she was back from vacation. She was expecting our visit and had candy, and cookies, and apricots for us! Bless her heart, she really loves Dennis and is so happy to see how well he is doing.

On the way home today, Dennis wanted to walk just like his big sister Julia.

Well.........

the walk must have tired out both Dennis and Daddy.

Look at Him Hula-Hoop!

2009-07-17T11:06:00.000-07:00

We knew that the older children were putting on a kids' program, so we made sure to get to the orphanage bright and early. It was disappointing to see that Alosha was sitting in his stroller instead of participating in some way. He could have done the hand motions at the very least. The kids that were doing the singing were from his group-- but he was left on the side lines again. What a thing to have in common---Alosha and Dennis excluded from most activities while in the orphanage. But not for long!

It was precious to see how the two boys instantly recognized each other, and watched the program together.

I have to admit, it was really cute watching the kids dance around in their clean underwear. Even Leesa, a girl with Down Syndrome participated---- and did a great job I might add!

Here is a picture of all the other children minus the ones with special needs. They were all so well behaved!

As soon as the show was over, we hurried into the play room----- it was that hot and sticky already. We brought diapers that actually fit Alosha, so there was no worry of him soaking through his clothing. The first time we met him he had a diaper on that was way too small and once or twice they had brought him to us wrapped in cloth-- and he soaked through it. I have had the privilege of changing his diaper a few times, and I mean that with all sincerity because normally the caretakers do not approve of you undressing your child or changing their diaper until you are ready to take them from the orphanage. You can say that I got a sneak peak! I was surprised to see that he was circumcised--- but as I thought about his untreated incontinence, it makes sense to me.

Alosha is now talking up a storm, and he freely calls us his Mama y Papa. Did I once say that he was soft-spoken? Well, scratch that, he can be very loud, he tends to play a little rough, and he is ALL boy. In simple language-- he will fit right in as a Reed boy!

I already see an improvement in his mobility. Without any coaxing from us, he is standing on his own......

and not just on his legs!

He loves playing with Julia---- and he is so energetic that John and I don't know that we could have kept up with him and Dennis (just kidding, but you get the drift).

Julia thinks she's figured out this contraption---- she falls back and rocks!

Dennis follows Alosha around and likes to imitate him. Thankfully, this is not annoying to Alosha.... yet.

Isn't his smile awesome!

John entertained us with his hula-hoop skills!

Needless to say, our second visit today tired us out and we were thankful to be back to unwind at our apartment. Tonight I cooked pancakes, homemade apricot jam, scrambled eggs, and fried ham. It was sooo good!

P.S. We miss and love you Adam, Rachel, Caleb, Annalyn, Sveta, Anna, William, Andrew, and Jonny! Hope you are behaving! Thinking of you------ and can't wait for you to meet your new brother!

Enjoying Kramatorsk

2009-07-16T12:37:00.000-07:00

It feels like home for the time being. So many things are familiar---- so many things are new to me. I am soaking up everything--- I don't ever want to forget.

Like usual, we woke up (a little late admittedly) to walk over to the orphanage. Right near it, we saw people lined up with their big water bottles to fill them up with drinking water. Oh, what I take for granted back home. Speaking of water, the kitchen sink in our apartment was torn up the first day we got there because the one pipe that runs up and down every floor of all the apartments was backed up with fat--- and the plumber didn't know where so he tore up every floor until the problem was solved. I can't even begin to imagine what it would be like to deal with problems such as this---- again I am so spoiled back home.

Alosha's group was outside when we went to get him. The kids were kept cool by playing around in a little pool filled with water. Alosha's shirt was off and instinctively I looked him over putting the look of his body to memory.

We spent most of our morning visit with the other American family I told you about. All the kids played around---- Alosha especially enjoyed the little soccer ball canteen filled with water that we brought him.

When it got too hot, we moved into the play room. Today, Alosha was happier, more talkative, and blessed us with his ongoing laughter. It doesn't take much to make him laugh!

I brought this shark hat hoping he would like it------ thankfully he loves hats, and keeps them on too!

Around 11:30 am, we left so that Alosha could have lunch and take a nap.

Here we are leaving the orphanage to go have lunch ourselves.

Around 4 o'clock, we went back to visit Alosha. Julia and I were invited into his groupa's room. The kids were having "potty time." Alosha's care taker put oh the clothes that we brought for him.

Before we headed to the play room, we visited with the kids for a few minutes. They loved looking at the pictures I took of them.

Dennis and Alosha seemed to play more together today. Alosha seemed completely comfortable with the way Dennis looks, and he seems to understand that Dennis is still a baby and communicates by crying when he wants something. Alsoha was very patient with him--- their own way of communicating with each other is already being formed.

Alosha loved the fruit snacks we brought for him. We are able to feed Alosha anything-- a nice change from when we adopted Dennis.

It was Dennis and Alosha's idea to ride the toy car together so John pushed them around really fast!

When it was time to leave, we took Alosha outside to where his groupa was playing. We ended up staying another 20 minutes playing with the kids and talking with the caretakers.

All of the kids were so hungry for John's attention----- it was such a blessing getting to spend time with them too. Tomorrow they are putting on a kids' program-- which we were invited to watch. The caretakers told us that last summer John's dancing with the kids was on Kramatorsk television! Maybe he'll be on tv tomorrow too!

Once we said goodbye- we headed over to our favorite local grocery store "BOOM!" I say favorite because after yesterday it is my favorite. While I was shopping, I dropped a 200 grivna bill and didn't realize it until I was at the check out to pay for my groceries. I was very upset about losing it, but figured it was gone. Once I gave John the groceries, I quickly took one more look in the store and left empty-handed. Just as we were getting into the car, the security guard came out and asked how much money I had lost. When I told him, he handed over the bill. Apparently, he saw what had happened--- and I was just so thankful.... overjoyed..... relieved.... and thrilled to know that honest people still exist.

You wouldn't believe it, but later when we got home, I noticed that our camera was missing. I was absolutely sick to my stomach------ it had pictures of when we first met Alosha on it. I headed back out with our facilitator and we checked first at BOOM. I went to the same security guard and sure enough, he had our camera too! Apparently, it was left on one of the outside tables when we were loading our groceries into the car. I thanked him a thousand times--- I am certain he thinks I am an emotional crazy woman that loses everything!

This gentleman in the wheel chair was just sitting in front of the grocery store---- looking for someone to talk too. While I was in the grocery store, John learned that he lives across the street.

Here I am blogging in our apartment enjoying one of my favorite Ukrainian cookies--- a thick and crunchy vanilla wafer bar.

Julia and Dennis like to play with the Racko cards--- something they have been doing everyday to pass the time.

Look at how big this corn flake is! It is almost like a chip.

Dennis gets his baths like this----- the water looks much clearer compared to last year.

Last but not least---- Julia and I prepared a nice dinner at the apartment of fried Ukrainian potatoes and ham, hard boiled eggs, and cucumber and tomato salad. For dessert, we had soft and fluffy vanilla ice-cream!

Until tomorrow.......

Great News

2009-07-16T03:23:00.000-07:00

I didn't post alot about this little girl, but their was one that also stuck out to me when we were adopting Dennis because of her vibrant and outgoing personality. Well--- praise the Lord, an American family is having court today to adopt her and her sister! When I saw them, I did not hesitate walking right up to them and introducing myself. They brought their two kids with them and Julia had a nice time chatting with other kids her age. They are very nice, and I am so very happy for this little girl!

We get to visit with Alosha which is what Alexsey goes by in the orphanage, twice a day. The weather is very hot, and here I thought we would be escaping the California heat wave. We have chosen to walk everyday to and from the orphanage, yet we have not found our way straight home on the first try. The apartment is nestled within a group of buildings and they all look alike, but at least we know exactly which group of buildings and on what corner they are on. I'm sure in a few more days, we will have it figured out.

Are you hungry for more photos-- like of the kids playing in a little swimming pool in their undies????
Well, you are going to have to wait till this evening because Julia is bugging me to get off and let her use the computer.

It All Happened So Fast

2009-07-15T05:01:00.000-07:00

Once we got to the region, everything proceeded at lightening speed. Not only did we unload everything at our apartment and freshen up, and stop by the inspector's office and notary, but we also went to the orphanage around 8:00 in the morning to see Alosha------ all before I really had a chance to catch my breath.

But, I would not have wanted it any other way.

As we sat in the director's office and heard them explain exactly what Alosha can and cannot do, John saw out of the corner of his eye, that they were bringing in our son.

All night I had envisioned how our first meeting would be--- and here he was right before our eyes! John got to him first as I followed closely behind. Alosha seemed a bit bewildered, but he immediately let us hold him.

It was so nice to finally hold him in my arms---- here I had pictured an underweight and fragile little boy in my head and he is anything but.

I expected this petite and gentle little boy, but was pleasantly surprised by his amazing upper body strength and almost chunky like figure. For the most part--- Alosha is one solid boy! Praise the Lord!

He loved the photo album we brought him---- but the "little machinas" were the biggest hit! John spent no time getting down on the floor with him to race cars across the smooth surface. With every crashing sound Alosha followed with a huge smile----- the gentle reminder of what made me fall for him in the first place.

It took me a moment getting used to holding him kind of like how I feel when a newborn is put into my arms. Alosha's legs are smaller than his trunk from lack of muscle and they do not naturally spread apart to wrap around my hips. He quickly found just the right spot in my arms--- problem solved. He made eye contact with me quite a few times, but I am sure he wondered why I kept kissing his cheek and tickling his belly. Oh well, he better get used to it.

After about ten minutes, we took Alosha in to meet Julia and Dennis. Immediately Julia and Alosha hit it off as did the two boys, but you can tell Dennis thought he was the bigger brother at first. It was sweet to see how Alosha just went with the flow---- he let Dennis push him in the swing, yet Alosha quickly gave Dennis a toy car when Dennis cried for one. The two of them were exactly how we imagined they would be and it was nice watching them interact with each other. Alosha was so patient with Dennis who was running on empty from lack of a good nights sleep on the train---- I have no doubt they are going to be like two peas in a pod.

Alosha loved being pushed in the swing--- good thing because Dennis loved pushing Alosha in the swing.

Alosha can sure throw a ball-- we had a hard time keeping up with throwing the balls back into the ball pit.

We visited for a while longer and then went to the notary to sign adoption documents. Our facilitator is shooting for court early next week--- so please pray.

Everyone in the orphanage was thrilled to see Dennis. He was quite a polite and responsive little boy shaking their hands and all-- but one time he stood up and turned his little chair around when one woman walked in to say hi to us. It was so cute and all of the caretakers got a good laugh out of his sense of humor. And yes, he gave this lady a hug. Dennis did not act out in any strange way---- and he is now sleeping soundly beside me. He is truly the best two year old traveler I have ever saw!

Here is a picture of Dennis with all of his previous caretakers. It is amazing to see how he is still loved!

The SDA Appointment and Train Ride

2009-07-15T03:44:00.000-07:00

Our coordinator picked us up around 10:00 o’clock this morning for our SDA appointment. Before our actual appointment, we went out for coffee where we met up with our other coordinator. It was nice to be around familiar faces, and both of them were very happy to see Dennis after one year.

Right before 11:00, we headed over to the SDA building where we waited in the all too familiar stairwell for our name to be called.

While we waited, we saw at least three different other facilitators going over paperwork with the SDA that needed to be corrected by other adoptive families. Ugh, that was our paperwork only a few short weeks ago.

THE APPOINTMENT

We were finally called in shortly after 11:00. Two very nice women enjoyed seeing Dennis and looking at all the pictures we brought. They were incredibly nice and friendly, making the whole appointment very simple and laid back. One of the women told us about Alexsey--- most of which we already knew. However, they did share with us that he had a younger sister that was previously adopted by an Israeli couple, which was new information. They also had the most adorable baby picture of him---- which we can have after court as long as we give them one to replace it. John and I figured it doesn’t hurt to ask so we are going to look into getting contact info for the Israeli couple so that we can see about exchanging photos.

The best news is that we are getting the referral today and our coordinator is buying our train tickets for the overnight ride to Donetsk! We should arrive in region around 7:00 in the morning which means that we will finally get to see Alexsey tomorrow!

Before heading tonight, we met up with our friend Inna for lunch!

We went to an Espresso house where we had breakfast for lunch.

Around 4:30 p.m. we said goodbye to our Kiev apartment and went and picked up our referral. Off to the train station!

************************

We got to the train station in plenty of time. Since I know that the bathrooms on the train are the worst toilets I have ever smelled, I decided to use the bathroom in the train station. Nothing like paying to squat over a hole-- but definitely better than the train toilet.

We stocked up on meat, potato, and jam filled pirogi----- each one costing around less than fifty cents!

Julia cut the bottom of her foot on a plug when we were still in our apartment. All the running around made it worse and we insisted that she rest for the 12 hour train ride to Kramatorsk.

One of my favorite pictures-- that's for sure! Dennis has been the best 2 year old traveler we have ever seen!

We ate dinner so that Dennis could go to sleep, and then stayed up late playing Racko!

Early in the morning, we waited with anticipation for the train to roll into Kramatorsk.

At 6:30 this morning we arrived in Kramatorsk!

If you would like to read more about our trip, go visit Julia's blog for her perspective. I am sure, she would love some comments!

Stay tuned-------- we met Alexsey!

Day 2 in Kiev

2009-07-13T08:09:00.000-07:00

It always helps if you get a good nights sleep. For the most part--- we all got that, especially Dennis. However, we are all still wanting long afternoon naps!

Last night, we heard sirens as we walked toward the Globe to go to the Internet café. That is when we saw smoke coming from a third or fourth story window in the huge brick building above the Internet café. There was a fire, and boy was it interesting to see Ukrainian firefighters in action—or shall I say their lack of action.

After we got home last night, we enjoyed a simple dinner of noodle soup with pelemeni stuffed with meat and cheese. We had ice-cream for dessert!

Today was a down day for us, so we did a lot of walking around.

We got to see some very beautiful buildings and statues.

Look Jenn and Adam----- even Ukraine is anticipating the fifth Harry Potter movie!

We met up with a nice Spanish couple and their adorable newly adopted four year old daughter around 10:30 in the morning and had a nice time exploring the park. Carmen and Miguel and their beautiful daughter Olga have already made this time in Kiev pass very quickly. From the moment we met them, it felt like they were old friends---- it probably helps that John speaks Spanish.

We then went to an outside restaurant for lunch and had the pleasure of ordering our food the best that we could. Even with an English menu, it was unclear exactly what we were ordering. When John was asked if he wanted bread, it was tough to determine if he was being asked because his dish came with bread or if the waitress thought it would be a nice accompaniment to his meal. Why wasn’t I asked if I wanted bread? And wouldn’t one assume that if you order a Coca-Cola with a glass of ice, and the waitress doesn’t tell you that there is no ice, that you would get ice with your beverage? Only when I asked later, did she tell me that they had no ice. Hmmmm, I probably would have done without the barely chilled soda and gotten Chai instead had I known there was no ice. Hopefully, this doesn’t sound like I am complaining because in all honesty, I enjoyed my meal of fresh cut up vegetables and homemade buttered noodles with herbs. And the company made our meal even better, but the stress of wondering what exactly I ordered--- I am not real adventurous with my food you know---- is enough to keep me eating Ukrainian cup-o-noodles from the local market. Oh, and ice-cream is always good no matter where you get it. Did you know that at McDonald’s we can order three ice-cream cones for under a buck? Definitely, a great value!

As I type this up in Word, I am sitting alone in our apartment. Dennis is sleeping angelically in our bedroom, and John and Julia are out visiting an art gallery. I need to pace myself a bit------ even though I love being in Ukraine, I am spoiled living in America and honestly, I am feeling it. Up until now we thought we didn’t have any hot water--- who knew that we had to run the water longer than it actually takes to shower before it warmed up. And yes you can call me spoiled----- but we have 2 towels in our apartment for the four of us--- no dish soap to wash the dishes---- and no trash can in the kitchen. My awesome husband always looking to make me laugh at least had an explanation for their being no trash can in the kitchen. He said all great chefs keep their trash cans as far away from their meal preparations so that the kitchen area can stay sanitary. Why would any sane, clean person want a trashcan in the same room where they make food?

Tomorrow we will meet at the SDA to accept Alexsey’s referral. Please pray that we get the necessary paperwork by the end of the day so that we can board a train and travel all night to the region where Alexsey’s orphanage is. It would be so nice to see Alexsey bright and early Wednesday morning!
*************************

Ankle-breaker defined

A huge Ukrainian pothole.

We Are Here!

2009-07-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

Deep breath----- Aaaaaaaaah, the smell of Ukraine! We are here! The trip was uneventful……. Dennis was such an amazing little traveler, so was Julia. We managed to get some sleep, so when we first got here after seeing our apartment we all went out with our facilitator to find a place to exchange money, and get a quick tour of the area around our apartment. We are downtown, walking distance from the SDA building, McDonalds, and the most beautiful park!

First bit of bad news----- our SDA appointment to officially be referred Alexsey is not until the 14th instead of tomorrow. Really that is not a bad thing at all--- just more time to explore the city and possibly meet up with other adoptive couples! Simply means, we are one day behind the process, that’s all.

On the way back from eating at the “Potato House”, I hit my leg on a pole sticking up out of the ground while walking. I won’t lie, IT HURTS!

John, Julia, Dennis, and I are about to head out for the evening---- hopefully for a little grocery shopping including some ice-cream which I have been craving, and to find an internet café. To all of you again---- Thank you for everything--- your prayers, your help, your encouraging words…… you are all here with us in spirit and we wouldn’t have been able to be here without you!

On another note, we found out today that Anna’s Russian half sister has been trying to get in touch with us for the last year---- but had been unsuccessful since we had moved. Our wonderful neighbors from our previous home gave the letters to other neighbors who we are still in touch with us and so now we have them! And phone numbers. And a picture. Apparently, there is a group of people that work with older kids in the area that Anna came from, and one woman is particularly close to Anna’s half-sister. She also wrote with the mindset that the reason why we hadn’t written back was because we didn’t want contact, so she was trying to encourage us to get in touch anyway. That couldn’t be further from the truth---- so as soon as we get back home we will get together a package and possible set up a phonecall. And guess what---- the half-sister’s fiancé happens to be named Aloshya!

Here is a picture of the yummy salad John ordered for me. It was delicious!

Don't you love the high chairs for the little kids? Pretty cool and gives new meaning to the word "high" chair. :)

We are Set to Go!

2009-07-10T21:56:00.000-07:00

Today, I spent alot of time just watching the kids and spending some last minute quality time with them. I took this picture of William and Dennis because it got me choked up---- me being emotional and all. All on his own, William decided to put Dennis in his swing and just swing with him. This was nice since often times William enjoys bugging him instead. I let William know that this was an awesome thing to do--- something Dennis will remember about his big brother while he is gone.

As a nice farewell our friend's made us all dinner over at their house. It worked out great since they are watching most of our kids this weekend. Grandma and Grandpa joined us too--- and it was a really nice way to send us off!

Anna must have hugged me a thousand times----- she is definitely the baby girl of the family and let me know how much she would miss all of us. Everyone was very generous with their hugs--- including Dennis even though he found it odd to be saying goodbye to siblings he usually goes home with all the time.

We are all packed and about to head out the door. We have a long drive down to LAX where we will catch an early morning flight out.

Stay tuned.........

The Bearer of Good News

2009-07-09T20:46:00.001-07:00

~~Finish Packing~~
~~Wash and Gas Car~~
~~Re-fit Dennis' eye~~
~~Go over childcare plans~~

Almost everything is done.
I am pretty calm. All is ~~good~~ great!

I have the privilege of taking photos of four different children adopted from the same orphanage to show how well they are all doing! I am also taking some things over for the physical therapists that visited the orphanage back in March. I also offered to take documents over for another family which will hopefully speed things along for them. What a blessing to be able to help other families----- the same way so many of you have been just as gracious and loving. Thanks again!

P.S. Since so many of you have asked, yes, the plan is to blog as much of our trip as we can so that we will forever have the memories. Maybe we will get to see another little boy peeing in an airport trashcan.

We would love to get together with any families while we are over there.

I Finally Have a Due Date

2009-07-08T21:22:00.000-07:00

This is what I would probably look like if I were about to give birth to a four year old. Well, I may not be pregnant, and that is only a blanket stuffed under my shirt, but the excitement, the blessing, and the miracle of adopting Alexsey is just as an amazing an experience as giving birth.

I look at adoption like this.

When we decide to adopt another child, it is like reading to pink lines instead of one.
When our paperwork is complete, it is like hearing my baby's heartbeat for the first time.
When our dossier is submitted and accepted, it is like feeling a butterfly flutter inside me for the first time.
When we get our travel date, it is like counting down the last month of pregnancy.
When we drive to the airport, it is like driving to the hospital.
When the plane takes off, the first stage of childbirth is over.
When we land in your birth country, I am told that I am very close to pushing.
When we drive up to the orphanage, so many emotions flood both your Mommy and Daddy when we know it is this last push before our precious child will be born.
When we finally meet face to face for the very first time, the feeling is indescribably heavenly.

Alexsey---- only two more days till we leave to see you! Hang tight--- we're coming!

Thank you so Much

2009-07-07T22:06:00.000-07:00

I can't even begin to express my gratitude to all of you who emailed me privately about my last post. Not only has it been humbling to admit that I was sort of silently flipping out after (really)researching Spina Bifida-- I mean up until now I just always saw Alexsey for Alexsey-- and not any of his potential health problems, but it has also been hard to admit that despite my faith in our almighty God, I still fear, I still doubt, I still want to cling to the comfort of this world, I still want to back up when it feels like I am about to step out of the boat. Thank you for helping me to realize that not dwelling on Alexsey's Spina Bifida is exactly the right thing to do.

I know that in my heart.

I still remember his innocent and flirtatious smile-- that curious side of him that wants to explore the world around him but has never been given the chance. It is the little boy behind that smile that I want to focus on-- not anything else.

Alexsey is perfect in God's eyes, and I need to push out of my mind all the "what ifs" and "but hows."

Lord, I thank you for providing me the reassurance and encouragement that I needed today.

Be with Alexsey, and all of my children-- always.

Don't Fear!

2009-07-06T22:59:00.001-07:00

~~Medical Consent Forms~~
~~75% packed~~
~~fun little trinkets for Alexsey~~

We are leaving in four days.

I am so excited-- but at the same time I have felt attacked by Satan himself. I am a little embarrassed to even admit, that yes, even I can't always be a strong pillar. He has filled me with so many questions all revolving around Alexsey's medical needs and whether or not we can care for him. This happened with Dennis-- and yet God carried us through all of them-- and now look at him! His medical needs are a very small part of our everday life. I know the same thing will be true of Alexsey, but honestly, it doesn't take away the fear of the unknown.

I just so want him to have as much of a normal life as possible-- and to enjoy all that the rest of my kids get to enjoy. I literally can't wait to see Alexsey doing the simplest things-- like playing cars with Dennis, coloring, eating his first fruit snacks, brushing his teeth with the little cute toothbrush I got for him.

Dear Heavenly Father,

You know my prayers, my concerns, my fears, and as I confide in you how inadequate I feel to take care of Alexsey, please know that I will continue to trust that you will always be right by my side. Please be with Alexsey always, and heal his precious body so that he can do all the things that he dreams!

Amen.

More Preparations

2009-07-05T22:35:00.001-07:00

~~Make Photo Album~~
~~last minute shopping~~

Two more things I can cross off of my list!

Only five more days till we leave!

Lord, be with ~~Alexsey~~ Alosha this week! Help me to get used to calling him that so that he will feel comfortable when we first meet him. I pray for peace, strength, unity, and Your ever-presence in our family as we prepare to welcome a new little one into our family. May each and every one of my children welcome Alexsey into our family with as much love and acceptance as they welcomed Dennis.

P.S. The picture on Dennis' passport is before his eye surgery--- I wonder if that could potentially cause a problem? So--- I printed out pictures of Dennis with us before his surgery, during his surgery and right after his surgery. You can never be too safe.

How Sweet is This?

2009-07-04T23:47:00.000-07:00

Our daughter Julia spent the last few days at Grandma and Grandpa's house because she is leaving with us to Ukraine next weekend. Like usual, she was able to do some work around the house and earn some extra money. They took her to the store to spend it, and you know what she bought? She bought bubbles, and capsules that grow when you put them in water, and little hair barrettes-- all things she wants to take to the orphanage and give to the children.

I am so proud of her. I am very thankful that she has grandparents that encourage and support little things like this. I am positive that this trip is going to be something that she will always remember. Now she will finally get to see what an orphanage looks like and understand exactly where it is that her sisters and two of her brothers came from.

We are leaving in less than one week.

P.S. Happy Fourth of July! Dennis absolutely loved watching the fireworks, and I couldn't help but think about how it will be next July when Alexsey is here with us! I think he will love watching fireworks too!

Dearest Alexsey

2009-07-02T21:35:00.000-07:00

How are you sweet boy? My, how you must be growing up. A year is a long time to not see your adorable little face-- but in less than two weeks we will be there to scoop you up and give you the biggest hug you have ever got! That is a promise.

Do you like bananas.... yogurt.. or maybe some sweet sugar cookies? Or maybe you are like me and like pretty much everything! Don't worry, we will surprise you! Your two soon to be siblings, Julia and Dennis are also coming with us. They are loads of fun. Hopefully, you will remember Dennis and the two of you will hit it off! I am bringing you a photo album with lots of pictures of your new family so you can see all that you are coming home too!

We can't wait!

Sleep tight and don't let the bed bugs bite.

With lots of hugs and kisses,

Mom

Now Why Did I Worry?

2009-07-01T14:59:00.001-07:00

Wow! I actually have time to sit down and give a quick update--- everything is going that smooth. Thank you God and thank you for all of your prayers and well wishes-----they are all cherished.

Yesterday and today I was looking at plane tickets and working with three different travel agencies. I had pretty much narrowed it down to two because the third one was taking what seemed like forever to get back to me. After talking to John we choose the most perfect flight for us and I booked it. Sure, the tickets were nearly $800 more in all than I anticipated but they were cheaper than almost every other flight I looked at and they have only one stop with a short layover. Wooo-hoo!

Right after I payed for the tickets, I checked my email and what do you know---- the third agency had gotten back to me with two reservations. I thought it was best to just delete the emails before looking at them just in case they were better-- -last thing I need is buyer's remorse--- but I opened up the email anyway and checked them out.

And guess what? They were nearly $250 more for each ticket and there were two stops--one being a long layover. Thank you Lord for confirming that I booked the right flight!

Then our new neighbor, Cousin Jen came over to stay with all the kids while I ran to the bank. Oh, joy. I had been to the bank yesterday and they were not very excited to help me. They said I would have to come in and withdraw the amount of money I needed, sort through it, then redeposit the unacceptable bills and come back in a few days when they got a new delivery of money and I could do it all over again until I had the amount of money I needed. So that is what I did today, and was not very successful in accomplishing my goal. See, Russia and Ukraine want only the newest and cleanest looking bills--- they think older looking ones are less valuable. Regardless of my frustration, I stayed positive and got to talking to the assistant manager who said that there was a chance that when she requested brand spanking new bills later today she could actually get them. If not, she was willing to help me sort through bills so I didn't have to keep coming in. It was nice to have them willing to go the extra mile.

Less than an hour passed after I got home when the assistant manager from the bank called and said that she would have all new bills for me early next week! Brand new! I don't think I have ever seen brand new money! I was so excited, I could hardly keep from jumping up and down!

God is good.

Not only were the plane tickets and money issue worked out, but God also solved another huge dilemma-- Dennis' eye keeps falling out because his socket has changed in shape (which is a good thing according to the ocularist.) But when I called them, I was told by the receptionist that they would be out of town for the next week and she didn't think they could see Dennis before we left on our trip. Argh! But----- the ocularist called me personally to tell me that he would see Dennis before we left and he would take care of the issue! Praise God!

~~Book flights~~
~~Order money~~
~~Line up childcare~~
~~Clean off desk~~ (I refused to clean off my computer desk until we had a travel date)

Still lots more to do! We are leaving early, early Saturday morning July 11th! That is only 10 days away!

Praise God!

This is For Sure!

2009-06-30T11:35:00.000-07:00

Looking at flights now! We are leaving on July 10th or 11th! Our SDA appointment is on July 13th!

Documents Safely Arrived!

2009-06-30T09:23:00.001-07:00

Woooo-hooo! Now things should start moving!

Ten Too Many Times

2009-06-28T21:42:00.000-07:00

That's how many times I have tracked our FEDEX documents today. I seriously need a new hobby, so I started making a new "scrap-blog" book for the year 2007 using Blurb.

It Was So Vivid

2009-06-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

Last night, I walked the halls with Alexsey. Yes, it was him---- and yes he was walking.

Sure it was only a dream, but it was so real. The kind of dream where I smelled his skin, touched his face, and heard his voice. I even woke up to see if I was dreaming or if it was real.

*Big sigh* I am anxious to go and see him. I can't help but wonder if he will remember us.

Our medicals are not scheduled to be delivered by FEDEX until Wednesday, but I am praying that they arrive quicker. Once they do we will have definitive news on our travel date. It will be hard to wait.

We are thinking of just calling him Alex.

There May Be a Slight Delay

2009-06-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

Our updated medicals made it to the courier and have been apostilled and are now on their way to Ukraine. However, there is a chance that our travel dates may be moved out to August.

Please don't ask-- it makes no sense to me.

Lord, you've got us this far--------- Please MOVE THIS MOUNTAIN!

A Precious Little Girl

2009-06-23T21:45:00.000-07:00

This little girl is named Varsha. She has down syndrome. She is available for adoption from India. She has a sizable grant through Reece's Rainbow where you can read all about her if you commit to adopt her now.

After watching Slumdog Millionaire, I shared on my other blog how heartbreaking it was to see the horrible life that many orphaned children live in India. Then someone brought to my attention that it is possible to adopt from India although many restrictions apply, and that there is hope for the beautiful children in India like Varsha to find loving homes.

Please consider adopting this happy six year old girl!

New Medical is Complete!

2009-06-22T20:42:00.000-07:00

I was able to redo our medicals today and scanned and emailed them to our facilitator so that he will have them. I will send them off to a courier tomorrow who will apostille them in Sacramento because our local office was closed due to cutbacks in California. Hopefully, our travel date will be moved up. The quicker Alexsey is home, the longer he will have to spend time with his new siblings before they go back to school in August.

I will begin shopping for plane tickets tomorrow, and will call a few branches of our bank to ask them to set aside the newest looking money they have for me to sort through for our trip. I emailed the owner of the apartment we stayed at last time, and Julia is almost packed.

Can you believe this is finally happening? After all this time, Alexsey is getting a family!

Praise God!

P.S. I would really, really appreciate if all of you that have sent cards, gifts, well wishes, or donations would email me with your name and address. You don't have to say what you gave, but I would like to include you on a mailing list if that is alright. My email is thereed8@yahoo.com.

Alexsey Here We Come!

2009-06-22T08:04:00.001-07:00

What a birthday present for my Hubby John! We got the call! We heard more news than was even expected! Not only was our paperwork submitted, but we also got a travel date! We have to be in country on July 15!

However.........

they did not like one word on our medical and so we have to redo it. If we get it to them ASAP, they will move up our travel date!

Hopefully, I can get it done today or tomorrow!

For So Many Reasons

2009-06-17T21:47:00.000-07:00

I really think Monday, June 22nd will be the day that we are submitted. The little obstacle we had this past Monday was taken care of today, and besides.......... what better birthday present than being submitted! Monday is John's birthday.

A Big Sigh

2009-06-15T13:02:00.000-07:00

We didn't get submitted today afterall. Hopefully next Monday June 22 will be the day.

Tomorrow is Monday

2009-06-14T22:28:00.000-07:00

Please join me in prayer that our dossier is submitted in the morning. This is the big part. If we can just get our dossier submitted, a travel date is soon to follow as long as none of our documents are rejected. We have more childcare than I think we will need---- praise the Lord for that, and the Lord has provided for this adoption financially--- another praise to the Lord for that.

Thank you for all of your encouraging words on my last post. After reading your comments, I really feel that I could travel alone if that turns out to be the plan. Many of you have expressed a desire to go with me, and I really would love the opportunity to meet some of you, but I honestly can't tell you the exact dates of travel, or how long we would be gone.

I am actually excited at the idea of being the one to take Alexsey from the orphanage which both fellow adoptive mom Shelley and my husband said was one of the most memorable parts of the whole adoption process. I do feel strong, and I will not fear this-- for it is the best part.

Thank you again.

Okay, I'll Admit It.......

2009-06-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

I am a big baby when I think about having to travel alone to Ukraine to pick up Alexsey after the 10 day wait. John went last time to get Dennis so I told him I would go this time. Anyone interested in joining me?

Or, can I least get a pep talk from other Moms who have traveled alone to bring home their child?

Thanks!

I Wonder if They Have a Clue

2009-06-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that these two precious little boys are going to be brothers very soon? Dennis is two and Alexsey is four. My guess, is that they weigh the same. What is your guess?

I Still Need to be Pinched

2009-06-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

Today's' news is like a miracle to me. I can't believe that I am not dreaming. Honestly, I had totally prepared myself for November----- but in all honesty it could be just a few short weeks before I am hugging Alexsey. Ahhhhhhh, that just seems so crazy good!

A part of me wants to start looking at plane tickets, and another part of me wants to start packing, but I will not do that until Monday passes and we have word that we were officially submitted.

Can you believe that that is only four short days away!

Ring Ring!

2009-06-11T07:57:00.000-07:00

Early this morning, I got the call from our agency---------- God willing, we are having our paperwork submitted on Monday, June 15th! I am thinking we will be traveling sometime in July!

Praise the Lord!

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" Proverbs 3:5

Not a Day..........

2009-06-09T09:20:00.000-07:00

Not a day goes by where I don't think about Alexsey. It sounds crazy, but it's like I envision him standing next to me soaking up family life------ just waiting for me to turn to him and include him in our family. I can't wait till that day. Funny how when we sit down to eat dinner, often times we look around the table and feel like someone is missing. That person is Alexsey! I just have to trust that he will be home before we know it. Miracles happen---- and I wouldn't put it past God to go and surprise us with some great news. I see every day how us waiting for now has been the right thing. This month is incredibly busy for us------ next month would be better.

Please join me in prayer that July is the month we get to go see Alexsey's precious face.

It could happen.

God is Good

2009-06-01T13:47:00.000-07:00

This is today's news.

The vote that was scheduled for tomorrow to ban international adoptions in Alexsey's birth country is no longer on the docket, and not re-scheduled for any time in the near future (at this time).

Praise the Lord.

Thank you for your prayers!

This is amazing in my opinion and just one more example of a present day miracle. On another note, new legislation is being discussed about adoption but I just don't know what it is. Please pray that they are considering expanding the list of special needs so that we can go and get Alexsey now.

Thank you so much.

Preparing Me

2009-05-31T22:47:00.000-07:00

Adoption is not an easy road. That is so hard for me to understand. My own logic says that there is a need and when a family is willing to step up and care for a child it should be immediate because the child is already born. Why is it necessary to go through all of the paperwork, all of the doctor appointments, fingerprinting, blah, blah, blah, blah? If I chose to have a biological child, I would not have to jump through so many hoops. I do realize that because it is often harder for someone to care for a child that is not of their own flesh and blood it is good to "check" them out, but after that part is done, I do not think anyone can get me to understand the point of waiting. Like with Alexsey. We have been approved to adopt and have managed to supply every piece of documentation that is needed, so why can't we just go and get our son and bring him home?

I have wrestled with this for many years--- and have failed to come up with any answers that really make sense to me until now. Last night, while reading a book, I found this verse on Faith and Endurance. It is about building character and as I read it, a light bulb went off.

James 1:2-4 (New Living Translation)
Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing.

Adoption comes with its own challenges even if they only happen to be the language and culture barrier. Realistically, any adoptive family will face many more challenges before life feels "normal." Being tested with the paperwork, the waiting, the unknown, and the adoption process itself is a chance to get closer to God... a chance to grow. I look at it as a lesson on patience.... something our Heavenly Lord knows we will need alot of once our children are home. How wise is that? If adoption was very quick and easy, I think we would get way more overwhelmed than what we already are when our children first come home. That time spent doing the paperwork gets us ready for all of those new medical enrollment forms, school enrollment forms, homework, and insurance forms. Dealing with all of the crazy delays, paperwork requests, and endless changes in the process prepare us for parenting. During this wait, we are given the opportunity to pray for our children---- a priceless gift to give to our soon to be child.

With every adoption journey we have been on, we have always been blessed in the end. James 1:12 says, "God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him."

God will not let me down.

Dear Lord,
Please be with Alexsey tonight and always.

We Shall See

2009-05-30T21:00:00.000-07:00

On June 2nd, officials in Alexsey's birth country are going to vote on whether or not to ban international adoptions.

I am indescribably at peace about this. I can't even begin to explain it. Of course I am praying that this doesn't happen, but I am also finding comfort in knowing that God closes doors only to open another.

No, it is not me giving up on Alexsey, but maybe just maybe no matter how much I have tried to tell myself that he was meant to be ours........... maybe he wasn't.

We shall find out.

Stay tuned......

and pray. Please.

Yes, I am Envious........

2009-05-26T14:47:00.000-07:00

A few days have past since I last posted, so I guess you can say we are that much closer to bringing home Alexsey. However, I am ashamed to admit that I have been less than joyful (secretly of course) watching so many other families get their dossier submitted just because the child that they are hoping to adopt has special needs that are different than Alexsey's special needs. I know, I know, shame on me--- and yes even in the midst of my envy I am also praising the Lord that those children are coming home--- but at the same time, I am pleading with Him to let Alexsey join these children and come home too. It is just not fair.

And I know that life isn't fair-- and that more than once I have seen the amazing plan that seemed to make no sense to me at the time---- that God had all along-- but it doesn't make the current situation any easier.

Everything our family is doing right now, I think how Alesxey is missing out on it. We went to the river, and I could envision Alexsey pointing to it with excitement in his eyes. But he missed it. Dennis and I had a bowl of Borscht today---- and Alexsey missed that too. Sure, he probably gets plenty of borscht in the orphanage but it is not the same as my borscht--- made with love and eaten with his Mama. It is just not the same.

Our wonderful school has went ahead and placed Alexsey on a waiting list for pre-school assuming that he will be here by the end of summer. Will he be here God? Is that Your plan? Please let it be Your plan.

Lord, I know in my heart that Alexsey is ultimately Yours and that Your plan for Him is greater than I'll ever know this side of heaven. I will hold onto this truth not only for just Alexsey, but for all my children. I remember writing this post just a year ago when we were in the process of adopting Dennis. Reading it was just what I needed today.

Advocating for Owen

2009-05-20T21:50:00.000-07:00

This little boy is named Owen. When I first saw his picture, my heart was touched. My daughter Sveta who has said on numerous occasions that she doesn't want to have kids, fell head over heels in love. "O Mom, he is so nice. I want him. Please let us adopt him. If you don't I will when I grow up."

Oh, how I wish it was that easy. For so many reasons none of which have to do with his medical condition, we cannot adopt Owen, and so I will advocate for him. Honestly, when I first found out about him a few months back, I did not think he would live for very long and so I didn't want to push finding a family only to find out that he had passed away.

Well, this little guy definitely is a fighter and so very deserving of a family. Here is an updated picture of him.

This picture touches my heart even more--- I just want to pick him up and love on him and make him smile.

Please, please, please consider adopting this precious seventeen month old little boy. To find out more visit Reece's Rainbow.

Prayer Warriors Unite!

2009-05-18T21:43:00.000-07:00

So many of you are praying. It is so evident. Thank you. No, I cannot tell you that we are any closer to submitting our paperwork, but I can tell you that I am more at peace with the wait. And I am taking it one day at a time. It is God's timing, not ours......

Lord, please do not make Alexsey wait too much longer. Isn't it time for Him to come home?

Please hear our prayers--- each and every one of them.... and unite all orphans with their waiting families.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the Lord with all you heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will keep your paths straight.

Might Take A Few Months

2009-05-15T21:54:00.000-07:00

If nothing changes between now and November--- that looks like when we'll be traveling.

This is not set in stone----- God can change this just like he changed things for Dennis' adoption.

Alexsey is running out of time. He is on the verge of being transferred from the wonderful baby house he is at now to a horrible institution.

I can't bear the thought of him being there another six months.

psalm 139:3 You chart the path ahead of me and tell me where to stop and rest. Every moment you know where I am.

WAIT

2009-05-13T07:36:00.000-07:00

"WAIT"
Author Unknown

Desperately, helplessly, longingly, I cried: Quietly, patiently, lovingly God replied. I plead and I wept for a clue to my fate, And the Master so gently said, "Child, you must wait."

"Wait? You say, wait!" my indignant reply. "Lord, I need answers, I need to know why! Is Your hand shortened? Or have You not heard? By faith, I have asked, and am claiming Your Word.

My future and all to which I can relate hangs in the balance, and You tell me to wait?

I'm needing a "Yes", a go-ahead sign, or even a "No" to which I can resign.

And Lord, You promised that if we believe we need but to ask, and we shall receive. And Lord, I've been asking, and this is my cry: "I'm weary of asking! I need a reply!

Then quietly, softly, I learned of my fate as my Master replied once again "You must wait." So, I slumped in my chair, defeated and taut and grumbled to God, "So, I'm waiting...for what?"

He seemed, then, to kneel and His eyes wept with mine, and He tenderly said "I could give you a sign. I could shake the heavens, and darken the sun. I could raise the dead, and cause mountains to run.

All you seek, I could vie, and please you would be. You would have what you want - but, you wouldn't know Me. You'd not know the depth of My love for each saint; You'd not know the power I give to the faint.

You'd not learn to see through the clouds of despair; You'd not learn to trust just by knowing I'm there; You'd not know the joy of resting in Me; When the darkness and silence were all you could see.

You'd never experience the fullness of love as the peace of My Spirit descends like a dove; You'd know that I five and I Save, for a start, but you'd not know the depth of the beat of My heart.

The flow of my comfort late into the night, the faith that I give when you walk without sight, the depth that's beyond getting just what you asked of an infinite God, who makes what you have last.

You'd never know, should your pain quickly flee, what it means that "My grace is sufficient for thee." Yes, your dreams for your loved one overnight would come true,

But, Oh, the Loss! If I lost what I'm doing in you!

So, be silent, My child, and in time you will see that the greatest of gifts is to get to know Me. And though oft' may My answers seem terribly late, My most precious answer of all is still, "Wait."

Will today be the day Father?

Patiently Waiting

2009-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:00

We are waiting for our dossier to be submitted. It would be awesome if that happened this month---- this week even better yet. I know many of you are waiting too. Since we are waiting together, why don't we pray together too? May God move mountains this month of May. Meditate on His word day and night, and you will see His provision hour by hour. Before we know it, the wait will be over and our children will be in our arms!

Habakkuk 2:3 (New Living Translation)
This vision is for a future time. It describes the end, and it will be fulfilled. If it seems slow in coming, wait patiently, for it will surely take place. It will not be delayed.

Isaiah 40:31 (New Living Translation)
But those who trust in the Lord will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint.

Psalm 69:13 (New Living Translation)
But I keep praying to you, Lord, hoping this time you will show me favor. In your unfailing love, O God, answer my prayer with your sure salvation.

Happy Mother's Day

2009-05-09T22:55:00.000-07:00

Hope this day is special and memorable for you!

All For the Glory of God

2009-05-08T13:58:00.000-07:00

I really am not at liberty to share the details yet, but amazing things are happening on the adoption front. (insert huge smile) Your prayers are helping to move mountains in more ways than one. Thank you so much. Thank you too for all that have given of your time and money to help bring Alexsey home. Some of you have sent words of encouragement, t-shirts to show your support.... some of you hand made items that were sold in the silent auction, went out of your way to call and express your support........ one very sweet friend even sent me a Starbucks giftcard of hers when I vowed to forgo coffee, carwashes, and haircuts. Your show of support has made for quite a story--- which I have shared with anyone that is willing to listen. God's plan goes so much further than just the adoption of a little boy with spina bifida named Alexsey-- and all of you are a part of it. This journey is a testimony that God still works miracles.

Can I have an Amen?

Why Did You Wait?

2009-05-06T21:48:00.000-07:00

Michelle said...
this question is tough so i understand if you don't answer it. :-)what will you tell Alexsey if he ever asks why you took Dennis and left him in the orphanage for a year? as adults, we can understand it - i know i do - but from a child's perspective it probably won't be so easy. once he realizes that you were there but didn't claim him as your son for awhile, he may ask about it, and i'm just wondering how you'd approach that with him.again, this is something that i understand, so PLEASE don't take it as criticism at all... i'm just asking how you'd handle answering Alexsey's questions since he's still so young.praying for all of you,michelle

This question is bound to come up at some point, and I think that we will be completely honest with Alexsey. This is how I would probably answer his question.

"The first time we met you, we were there to adopt your brother Dennis and only Dennis....... but out of all the other children in the orphanage you caught our attention too. Your smile was just so sweet that I could not get you out of my mind. I made a decision to help find you a family and I tried and tried and I tried. Little did I know that as I tried to find a family for you, God was preparing the way for us to go back and get you. If only we would have known that it was God's plan for you to be our little boy all along. And guess what-- we went back as quickly as we could! And yes, I am so sorry that I didn't bring you home last year... but you are home now and that is what matters most...... and we will never ever be apart again!"

This is pretty weak I know, but I trust that come time I am asked the question for real, God will give me just the right words. He always does.

When He Was a Baby

2009-05-05T14:41:00.000-07:00

Please pray that our documents are submitted this month.

It Made Me Smile

2009-05-01T22:22:00.000-07:00

I was pointed to this video today. It made me smile. It was inspirational. I thought I'd share.

I Am Amazed!

2009-05-01T09:13:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much to whoever donated over the last two days to Alexsey's adoption! You guys are just incredible. Your willingness to give is a tremendous blessing. I appreciate all that you are doing to help Alexsey home, but as I said earlier I am asking that you please consider giving to this family instead. They are absolutely amazing--- and I know that God has an amazing plan by laying them on my heart. I have been sick the last two days and just barely got on the computer today to catch up on things when I found out about the donations. While I am incredibly thankful, I wanted to remind people about the Landrums and so I went to their blog so that I would be able to link to it and found that they had wrote an adoption update yesterday. Go check it out! They are truly a touching family------ if you get to know them, you will be blessed. Anyway, just wanted to let you guys know that $60.00 has been raised on this family's behalf because people bought adoption decals. Thank you, thank you, thank you! I have many more to sell! Only $20 each and they are going for a good cause! Please consider declaring your support for adoption through a decal on your car window! They are beautiful accessory and the money is going for a great cause!

Also, I wanted to give a special thanks to Sally, who was an amazing example of spreading God's grace and love. She had a wonderful idea to help raise money for Alexsey's adoption by raffling off an IPOD, and now I want to do the same for the Landrums. Thank you Sally! You are so sweet!

Just Waiting

2009-04-29T12:26:00.000-07:00

There is not any new news to report. We are waiting for our documents to be submitted to the SDA. That could happen in the next few weeks..... it could happen in the next few months. After that, the SDA is supposed to get back to us within twenty working days with our appointment to be officially referred a child. That happens only if they accept our paperwork and don't ask us to redo any of it. When they finally give us our travel date it might be for two months out or it could be with less than three weeks notice like we were given with our last adoption. We just don't know---- and so we go with the flow....... and pray.

With our last adoption in 2008, we submitted our documents on May 19th and got word of our SDA appointment on June 3rd. Our actual appointment was on June 24th.

Wouldn't it be really cool if we got to travel right around the same time if not the same time?
That would make it a whole year since we have seen Alexsey.

I bet he is taller. Maybe he is walking. Most certainly he is cuter. And the best part is that I won't have to keep my distance with him stealing cute little flirtatious moments with him here and there. This time I will actually get to hold and squeeze that precious little boy!

Consider Hosting

2009-04-27T12:28:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of hosting a child? It is such a fun and rewarding experience. When we were first looking into adoption, we considered hosting a child for a few weeks in the summer. Instead we dove right into adoption never looking back. But we still ended up getting involved in various host programs over the last few years.

Back in the summer of 2005 our Russian adoption agency did a host program where 20 or 30 kids came over from Russia. I was pumped up after coming home from meeting our girls on our first trip to Russia and wanted to help in an way I could. So I offered to drive part of the group down to Disneyland in our big 15 passenger van. Since I was going to be down there anyway, they asked if I would be a "tour guide" around Disneyland. How fun is that! So I took two of my kids plus twelve Russian orphans down to Disneyland. The drive was really fun. Part of the way down they watched a movie..... the rest of the way there I heard incessant Russian chatter. It was music to my ears. And only one child got car sick from my crazy driving.

Early on as we were loading up the luggage, I was drawn to a red-haired boy with cute freckles who was having a hard time. He seemed hesitant to get in the van........ seemed on the verge of meltdown. We coaxed him into the car when I later found out that his host family had decided not to pursue his adoption. While I know that hosting a child in know way obligates you to adopt the child you host...... heck half the time the child is not even available for adoption, it appeared that the little boy was led to believe that he would be adopted. I can only assume this was the cause for the meltdown. My heart immediately had a soft spot for this child and I asked if he could be in my group. I was able to get to know this amazing boy and even managed to get a few pictures of him.

Secretly, my new mission was to find him a family--- which happened before the summer was over! That was nearly four years ago and then we had the opportunity to be part of a host program this past summer when we were adopting Dennis. Not only did we take in a 15 year old girl for a week or two, but we were invited to one of the host program outings up at the lake. It was so nice getting to meet all of the different host families and exchanging stories. We felt like one big family all brought together through this hosting program. We met amazing families that we never would have otherwise met had it not been for this get together!

What left the biggest impression on me was seeing how well all the orphans fit in among all of these families as if they had always been here. To see the kids splashing in the water, sipping on a can of soda, digging in the sand, made me once again see all of the things that I take for granted. It was an experience that I look forward to doing again. If only more people got involved they would understand what I am talking about. I promise that you would be blessed---- and you might even be surprised how God has changed your heart by the end of it.

This summer my adoption agency is doing another host program here in California. If we are home with Alexsey by the time the children come over, I hope we can be an alternate host family if one of the original host families have something come up where they can't host the child the whole time. Maybe you would like to consider hosting but can't commit to the whole time they are here--- well consider us as your alternate host family!

Think of the impact you can make in one child's life by inviting them to be a part of your family for a few weeks! Your whole family will benefit from the experience!

Savoring Every Moment

2009-04-24T21:35:00.000-07:00

I am getting so excited about traveling.

Soon we will see Alexsey's sweet smiling face.

I look forward to the call when it is time to shop for plane tickets. Yes it is a headache, but I love it! I don't travel to far away places for vacation, but I have been blessed to travel to far away places to grow our family. John and I used these adoption trips as second and third honeymoons and this time will be no exception.

Packing is always fun because I like the challenge of packing all of our things so that they fit in one carry-on and one piece of luggage for each of us. I personally pack very light----- because if Ukrainians can get what they need in Ukraine, so can I. If I need something while I am there, I trust that it will be available to us.

I don't know about you, but John and I try to savor every single second of our trip--- even our airport excursions were memorable. Even though we have been to LAX numerous times, we always tend to get lost--- and now we usually make a bet who will find the right parking lot first. Last trip when we traveled to get Dennis, we were entertained with a little boy peeing in an airport lobby trashcan. Did I mention how fun the people watching at the airport is? Can you tell I am a wee-bit excited.

The plane trip is always great. I don't normally watch movies at home, so getting to watch a movie on the plane is always nice. We always make friends on the plane too----- and have I mentioned the food? I am one of those crazy women who love airline food. But then again, a cup of soggy bread with chopped pickles and syrup would probably taste good to me as long as I didn't have to make it. Something about being served---- I love it!

For the sake of my child, I have always wanted to soak in every little detail of our trip so that I can one day share with him all about where he came from. I want my child to feel proud of where they came from. I want my child to know that I have fond memories of his birth country.

Needless to say, my blogging has not even really started yet--- just wait till our trip. This time it will be quite the adventure with Julia and Dennis coming with us! You better believe that we will be packing our swimsuits so that if weather permits we will be wading in the Dnieper River!

Pig pig Pig

2009-04-23T08:23:00.000-07:00

Hip-hip-hooray!

Our dossier made it safely to Ukraine and is now being translated.

One more step closer.

Thank you for all of your prayers. I know that they have helped to carry us this far.

Quick Story

My husband started first telling our kids this story when their was just three of them. He said that his mother told him that if when you were driving and you were approaching a red light all you had to do was keep saying, "Pig pig pig pig pig pig pig pig pig....." until the light turned green. She said that it had magical ways of making the red light turn green. Now all of our kids have heard the story and some actually believe that the word "pig" has the ability to speed up a red traffic light.

If this is true, maybe it has the same magical power to hurry up our travel date.

Can all of you start saying, "Pig pig pig pig pig pig..." with me?

New Life

2009-04-22T09:46:00.000-07:00

I saw a very beautiful and pregnant woman yesterday at my children's "open house" at school.

Though I do not have a big beautiful belly like her....... inside, I feel every bit as "expecting" as she does. Except for a few differences.

This woman is probably 7 or 8 months along and will undoubtedly have her baby in her arms on a specific day give or take a few. Her baby will most likely be around 7 pounds. She not only will get to see her baby the moment he or she is born, but she will most likely get to cradle her child in her arms immediately. This is so beautiful. I know. I have been there. I have been "expecting" for three months. I am praying that I will have my child in my arms within two months. For a traditional pregnancy this would never be hoped for as the child would be very premature, but when you bring a child into your family though adoption you hope for sooner rather than later. My "baby" will not be a "little" one--- he is already four years old and probably around 18 pounds....... but he will be my "little" baby. He will very much be my newborn because he will be new to us and the world will be new to him.

Children living in an orphanage I have found, have very little experience in the real world much like a newborn. They are not familiar with being adored, smiled at, hugged, played with, bathed, caressed, kissed, encouraged, stimulated, or educated. That is because, this is what a family is supposed to do--- this is what we will do with Alexsey. Sure he has been blessed to be in a wonderful orphanage with some very caring people who do take care of him, but it is not the constant attention that he needs to thrive.

He is surviving day to day--- not thriving. And boy do I want him to thrive. I want him to thrive just like my other children are thriving. I want him to laugh when I nuzzle his neck. I want him to say more when I push him on the swing. I want him to smile as he feels water being poured over his shoulders in a nice warm bath. I want him to press forward when we encourage him to take a step. I want to see him delight in his first bowl of ice cream. I want to get him used to falling asleep in my arms because he feels safe and loved. I want Alexsey to never have to soothe himself to sleep without being tucked in and prayed over.

I want to give Alexsey everything that I have given to my children that were born from my tummy instead of just from my heart.

That pregnant woman and I are both expecting little bundles of joy. And for the most part nothing is really that different between the both of us except that she is able to care for her child now. So am I jealous of that pregnant woman?

Heck yes I am. Why??? Because she knows exactly where her child is, what that child is eating, how that child is being taken care of, and that her child is in good hands. For us adoptive parents---- we have to put our trust in God that He is taking care of our little one until we can get to them.

I can't wait till both of us (me and that pregnant woman) get to hold our little babies in our arms! No matter how a child joins your family there is so much to celebrate! Afterall, it is new life!

She Inspired Me

2009-04-20T12:51:00.000-07:00

Leslie is such an amazing woman. I followed her blog back when she was adopting her daughter Kristina. I have corresponded with her many times over the last few months mainly because she and her husband have been thinking of adopting again. It nearly brings me to tears to read about the emotional turmoil she is going through because they do not have thousands of dollars laying around to put towards the adoption of a little girl with special needs that has been placed on their heart. Her blog is so candid and so real that I could not help but be moved. Leslie, I am rooting for you! If you want to be blessed today, please go read the last couple of posts on her blog.

At this time, I am putting my trust in the Lord that all of Alexsey's adoption costs will be taken care of one way or another. I don't know exact figures yet, but I just have to trust. With that said, I really want to focus on helping Leslie and her family to raise enough money to start the process of adopting a deserving, precious aging out of the orphanage little girl.

That means that I am no longer fundraising for Alexsey's adoption. All of my efforts on this blog from this point on will go towards helping the Landrums raise money for their adoption. I am sure many of you are wondering why them and not someone else? And all I can say to that is that God has laid this family on my heart, plain and simple.

With that said, I still have 13 adoption window decals available. I would like to donate all of the money to the Landrums that is raised from donations of people who buy a decal. The decals are not only beautiful but they are an awesome way to spread the word about adoption. Please consider buying one for $20 to show your support of this amazing family! You can check them out here.

Wouldn't it be awesome to know that you helped bring another child home? We need to partner together to bring this child home!

Overwhelmed By the Show of Support

2009-04-19T22:44:00.000-07:00

Our church did the most amazing thing. A few of its members who also happen to be a part of our small group put together an amazing event to bring awareness to adoption and raise money to help families offset the expensive costs associated with adoption. Though there were a few people that come to mind specifically that I think organized the event and deserve a big round of applause, I was amazed to see how the whole church rallied around them and us to help out to make this event one heck of a sha-bang!

My good friend Tina had hoped for 40 silent auction items and felt overwhelmed when people kept bringing in more and more making the total way over 100 silent auction items! There was also a live auction where a loaf of my Mom's banana nut bread went for $100 and someone else's bread basket went for $200 and where all kinds of cows were sold! Who even knew that cows had so many names---springers, jerseys, and bulls--- certainly not I!

There were table leaders for each table who was responsible for decorating and providing the dinnerware for their guests. It was fun to see all of the beautifully decorated tables. Some of them were so creative and gorgeous that I would love for them to come and give me some decorating tips!

A few of us made borscht, chicken rice, and taco soup with rolls. Volunteers brought all kinds of yummy desserts. The food could not have been better in my opinion----- I think because it was made and served in church.

It was fun watching the auctioneer. He did a great job!

Cow after cow was auctioned off! My friend didn't know a cow could cost so much and has a new appreciation for them when she drives by a dairy!

I am so appreciative to have a church family that is so supportive of adoption. It is so close to my heart that I was blessed to find out that there are many other adoptive parents that go to the church besides us. My prayer is that others will be moved by Alexsey's story and adoption will continue to spread through the church. Now wouldn't that be amazing?

Alexsey---- so many people are praying you home!!!!!!

And Now We Wait

2009-04-16T14:54:00.000-07:00

Our dossier has been mailed. It is no longer in my hands. So Lord, I ask that You carry it in Your hands....... may it make it to Kiev safely.

And now we wait.

Being Mailed Tomorrow

2009-04-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

Well, good news! Our dossier is being mailed to Ukraine tomorrow! I would have done it tonight, but since it wouldn't have gone out till tomorrow anyway, I thought I would just wait.

Thanks to whoever donated $50 today! We appreciate you partnering with us to bring Alexsey home! You are truly a blessing.

Julia is finally winding down on her orders. She is making her last scarf. Did you know that she made nearly $1100? We appreciate all of your orders.......... and all of your "extra" donations on her behalf. Rachel made well over $100 too...... she said she feels good knowing that she was able to contribute something to help bring her brother home.
*************************
The end of April will make three months since starting this journey. Please pray with me that we don't have to wait another three months before traveling. We are ready to travel anytime, and I am pretty sure Alexsey's schedule is free. ;)

Dossier is Complete!

2009-04-14T21:37:00.000-07:00

Our dossier is back in my hands! Tomorrow, I go over it with my agency. Please pray that everything was done right. If it was...... guess what??? It will be on its way to Ukraine!

It's On His Time, Not Theirs

2009-04-14T07:34:00.000-07:00

On April 7, I overnighted our whole dossier to be apostilled. From what I had been told by others, I was confident that the Secretary of State would process our documents in one day and return them in the overnight envelope I provided. The next day I called up there to see that they got them and they gave me some very disappointing news. They were barely processing mail from nearly two weeks prior and they told me not to expect my documents for at least two weeks. Admittedly I was disappointed by the news, but it was what it was. To add injury to insult, my agency said that I could have overnighted them to a courier they use, and would have had them back in a few days.

Oh well. You live and you learn...... and you pray.

I started calling everyday except for the Monday after Easter, and befriending every clerk in the office to get them familiar with our story. I really don't know if I was just bugging them, or if I actually touched their hearts so that they sped up their productivity so that they could get to our documents. Yesterday I called again in the morning and was informed that they were processing mail for April 7th. They received ours just one day later! Was it possible? They couldn't promise anything, but I continued to pray!

And guess what? I just found out that our documents were processed! PRAISE THE LORD!!!!

Dear Alexsey

2009-04-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

Dear Alexsey,

How are you today, sweet little boy? You have been in my dreams more and more lately.......... you and Dennis walking down the stairs holding onto the railing. In my dreams, I am always smiling ear to ear as I watch the two of you. I know it is just a dream right now........ but have faith, it won't be long.

We talk about you quite often now....... Alexsey this..... and Alexsey that. Your brothers want to know what you eat for breakfast everyday. I told them kasha...... am I right? You have plenty of clothes that I am sure will fit you perfectly. One outfit I bought three weeks ago.... I hope it fits! If not, your brothers have plenty to share with you!

I think we may be visiting you early this summer! At least that is what I am praying for! I know that seems like a long ways off, but it will here before you know it! So many people are praying for you and are rallying for you to come home as soon as it is possible.

We love you Alexsey! Good night!

Found Another One

2009-04-10T23:24:00.001-07:00

As I was going through pictures for a new video I am putting together, I found this picture. Seeing this picture, helps me to remember his personality--- happy, sweet-natured, and I like to think that he took a liking to us too. What do you think? :)

Will he remember us?

His Feet

2009-04-09T21:18:00.001-07:00

These are Alexsey's feet. White, smooth, and callous free....... pretty much just like a newborn's feet. I can't wait to tickle those cute little toes!

The Dossier

2009-04-08T20:40:00.000-07:00

All of our paperwork for the adoption is complete and notarized. As we speak it is on its way to be apostilled! You'd think that I would feel like a load has been lifted, but in truth, there is always something else to worry about. And I hate that I worry because I know that God has His hand in all of this... but still. So now of course, my latest worry is that it could get lost in the mail, or sit on the secretary's desk for two weeks. Ugh!

And so I cling to my favorite verse:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will keep your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5-6

Meanwhile, a fellow blogger asked what a dossier is.

dos·sier - a file containing detailed records on a particular person or subject

In order to adopt from a foreign country a prospective adoptive family has to compile a list of documents referred to as a dossier, that proves that they are fit and able to adopt a child. For international adoption, a dossier might include:

* Immigration approval
* Homestudy
* Marriage Certificates
* Medicals
* Employment Verification
* Proof of Home Ownership
* Application to Adopt
* Copies of Passports
* Police Clearance Letters
* Social Worker's License
* Power of Attorney

These documents then need to be notarized and apostilled with a shiny sticker-like seal.

It's in Our Hands!

2009-04-07T22:10:00.000-07:00

Prayers were answered! Our I-171H (immigration approval) came in today's mail!

Alexsey, we are one step closer to going to get you! And this one was a huge step----- not one of those baby steps.

We will try our best to be there as soon as we can!

Sweet dreams, precious one.

Incredible!

2009-04-06T23:33:00.000-07:00

Today I finished up our paperwork for our dossier. I am only waiting for our I-600 approval to come in the mail and then I could notarize it, and send it off with the rest of the documents to be apostilled. I can hardly believe it!

I guess that because we are nearly done with our dossier, I have allowed myself to think more about the trip and going back to see Alexsey. It is very exciting to say the least.

I remember what our past trips to Russia and Ukraine were like and I wonder if they will be similar. On our very first trip to Russia back in May, 2005, we met a newlywed couple who was headed off to their honeymoon. At one time in my life, I would have been jealous of them because I was not going on an exciting trip with my new husband. I would have been jealous that I didn't have butterflies in my stomach, head over my heels, excitement of being a brand new bride--- probably the only bride on the plane.

But, I wasn't jealous of them.

Not at all. Because, what I was feeling at that moment was an even more powerful and intimate love for my husband than when I first married him. Afterall, we were about to board a plane never to look back, as we traveled around the world to meet two beautiful children God had chosen for us. Honestly, everytime we have traveled around the world to adopt, it has been the best honeymoon I could ever imagine.

And soon....... very soon, I am going to be traveling with him again.

For most people reading this, they just can't imagine how adopting can be such a memorable experience. Yet hopefully, other fellow adoptive parents can relate and testify that I am not crazy. Adoption is an amazing...... beautiful..... unforgettable...... close as you get to God experience this side of heaven.

It is just as amazing as giving birth to your child........ it is exactly like giving birth to your child.

Alexsey may not have been born of my flesh and blood, but he is very much a part of me, already. I know that I am not capable on my own of preparing my heart to feel the way it feels...... this is a miraculous thing that God does. Knowing this draws me all the closer to Him.

It makes me think how I have been adopted by HIM..... how all of us that want to look to HIM as our Father have been adopted by HIM, and it gives me goosebumps to think that HE feels similar to how I feel about Alexsey. That is incredible to me!

Made by Rachel

2009-04-04T15:21:00.000-07:00

As our adoption is moving ahead at record speeds we are kicking up our fundraising efforts!

If you were interested in buying one of Rachel's or Julia's handmade scarves or dishcloths but haven't had the chance yet---- Here are a few things that are ready to be mailed off now if you would like to buy them!

Three light mauve and white, cloth, knitted washcloths. They look very delicate and feel very soft. $18

Stay warm in this matching turquoise scarf and headband. $20

Talented Girls!

2009-04-04T15:17:00.001-07:00

The girls are taking advantage of Spring break to catch up on all of their orders!

Rachel did a phenomenal job on Amy's order! Amy-- email us with your address please so we could send you your scarves and headband!

I think my girls are so beautiful they could be models!

Christy, a fellow blogger kept adding and adding to her order! Finally it is done!

Enjoy!

We Have Been Approved!!!!!!

2009-04-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

After the last email from immigration, I sent a nice follow up. In my thoughts I was hopeful that God would work miracles. Yet, I knew that whenever the approval letter came, it would be in His timing and it would be miraculous none the less-- even if that meant a month from now. Afterall, our first adoption took four and a half months to get approval, and Dennis' took six weeks from the time we got our invite to be fingerprinted. Imagine my excitement when I got this email in less than three weeks from the time we fingerprinted!

Thank you God for this confirmation! You are moving mountains!

Christine,

Your application was approved today. You will receive notice by mail very soon.

Thanks,

Stephen D. Hull
Adjudication Officer

Hopes Up

2009-04-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

I didn't want to forget what he looked like. (smiling)

Email from Immigration:

Christine,

Thanks again for your email. I will/hope to process your case very soon. When I do, I can email you as a heads-up if you like.

Thanks,

Stephen D. Hull
Adjudication Officer

I will try to not get my hopes up--- but it is going to be hard. Confession time--- they are already up!

Adoption Fundraiser

2009-04-01T08:17:00.000-07:00

Coming up with $25,000 - $30,000 for an adoption can be financially challenging for any adoptive family. Yet..... if you choose to adopt, this is what the costs are going to be--- for one child. No it is not cheaper if you adopt a child with special needs-- although I have found people with hearts much like ours for these precious children that have stepped up and offered to help through prayer, donation, and limitless support. It has very much felt like a partnership and John and I are incredibly thankful for all of the help we have gotten. With that said------ John and I would have tapped into every resource we had to bring Alexsey home if necessary and to care for him throughout his life. Thankfully, God knew that and showed us that we don't have to do this alone. Thank you God and thank you to all that have been touched by sweet precious Alexsey.

What is really exciting is that our small group from church expressed an interest in doing an adoption fundraiser. Not only would the money raised help with Alexsey's adoption expenses, but a portion of it would also remain in a fund where other families who decided to adopt can also get financial help to offset the cost of their own adoption. What an idea---- and what an event it will be!

So---- you are officially invited to:

Adoption Fundraiser

Friday, April 17, 2009

6:00 PM

Come and enjoy delicious soups including homemade borscht, breads, and desserts. Bid on live and silent auction items including real life cows, theme baskets, homemade apple pies, babysitters, and an aviary! Door prizes given throughout the night! No tickets are needed but a free will offering will be taken. This is a family event so bring the kids! It is going to be fun, fun, fun!

Help us celebrate adoption, a great way to grow a family!

I would love to meet some of you in person there, so please think about coming, especially if you live in the Central Valley of California. If you are unable to come, but would still like to help, we can always use items for the silent auction. Anything handmade is always a hit!

When They Get to Heaven

2009-03-28T22:56:00.000-07:00

"When we get to heaven and these little ones that you are with are fully restored in body and mind…we too will testify that Jesus is the light of the world as we see they have been healed. They will have gone through trials in this life so that the work of God might be displayed, and I believe our loving God will reward them for it in heaven.

Take heart that Jesus loves them…He created them…He permitted this to happen so that He might receive glory. The story doesn't end in this lifetime. The story doesn't end in hopelessness. The story doesn't end in dark rooms. The story ends in His light which is full of love and salvation. " Written by Ross.

I read this today and had to share it. Having been asked about my strong faith and how I can believe there is a God that allows Alexsey to suffer, I was thankful to come across this. Personally, I know that I draw nearer to God when I am in great pain and or suffering, and it is often during these times that I see God's bigger picture. When I see God's people working together to help these children, I am filled with hope.

Ross also shared this verse.

John 9:1-5 (NIV)

As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"

"Neither this man nor his parents sinned," said Jesus, "but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in his life. As long as it is day, we must do the work of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. While I am in the world, I am the light of the world."

***********************
P.S.
Wow---- what a blessing! $250 more dollars have been donated! I know I sound like a broken record, but really........ thank you. Your prayers, your donations, your encouraging words help to carry me each day when I get caught up in the things of this world. It is a huge reminder to me to focus on what is important because afterall, all of you are too. Everyday that passes, Alexsey is is one day closer to coming home!

By the way, Julia and Dennis have their very own passports so they are set to go! Woo-hooo!

Digest 2

2009-03-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Anonymous said...
thanks for answering all these questions!a couple more...-have you decided what you'll call him? it seems you've kept the names of all your adopted children, but i was wondering if you'd keep it "alexsey" or call him alex or something that sounded more "american" - not that it needs to sound that way, some parents just opt to alter it for their own reasons. :-)-do you know what kind of challenges to expect with his spina bifida? i know it can be a devastating disease, but in the pictures he appeared to be functioning well. obviously once he gets home & has the love, nourishment, attention, and medical care that so benefited Dennis that alone will help, but do you know if he'll be in a wheelchair, etc.?

Undoubtedly, we will keep his name, but we are not sure as to how we will pronounce it or what form of the name we will use since there are so many ways. I wrote this post over a year ago, and have since changed my mind about possibly changing a younger child's name. When we met Dennis our youngest Ukrainian son, he was such a scared little boy...... yet he responded to his name. We couldn't take that away from him.

But as for Alexsey--- we all call him A-lex-sey with the A accented. Yet, my Dad with the same name accents the SEY like Alex-SEY. And then there is Alex and Alec and of course a few of my girls think Lexie is pretty cute and then of course there is Alosha. Hmmmmmm, not sure what we'll do.

Regarding his challenges associated with Spina Bifida--- we really just want to get him home and lavish him with love, attention, and nutrition just like you said. I am sure that what he appears to need today would be incredibly different from what he needs after being home even just one week. Whatever the challenges may be, I trust that the Lord will carry all of us, including Alexsey through.

Mary said...
Here's another question: did you design the blog header yourself or did you get someone else to do it? It looks great!

Thanks! I did do it myself using Scrapblog. Give it a try.... you'll love it!

Jamey & Catherine said...
I wrote this already on your other blog, but when you get a chance check out our blog and read LEMONADE AWARD. You truly deserve it! Super glad to hear you found those papers and love the baby pic of Aleksey! Hope it all happens quickly!Catherine, Jamey and Oksana

Jill said... You've won an award - check out my blog!

Thanks Catherine and Jill.! I appreciate it. Since you have each given me the same award, I am combining this post. Please go check out their blogs for the full details and please check out these blogs who I in turn nominate for this award. Lana, Laurel, Chris, Jill, and Debbie come claim your award! All of you deserve it!

Kristen said...
That's so awesome Julia's a hard worker. I have a couple of questions - a little off topic of your post but 1) is Alexsey supposed to go to a different orphanage at age 4? How close is he to his birthday? Will he still be moved, even if you are in the process of adopting him? and 2) how much, if any, info do you have on your kids' birth parents? Would they, if they chose, be able to go back to the Ukraine and maybe find them at some later date?

Yes, children like Alexsey are usually transferred once they turn four, but hopefully with all of our prayers that will not happen. We have done all that we could do to prevent him from being transferred-- the last thing is to hurry over there! We have no info on the birth parents-- and while that would have concerned us years ago, now we just go with the flow and if there is none, there is none. It has been huge on our part to just learn to trust Him. But, He has not let us down yet. We are not against any of our children going back to their birth country to visit and explore whatever it is they want to once they are adults. In fact, I think we would be there right next to them every step of the way.

FayeJ said...
Got my wash cloths today in the mail! Very well made. Thanks!

Thank you so much for your support. I passed this along to Julia. Also, thanks to all who have shown their support one way or another. It has blessed us.

Rachel E. said...
I got my package yesterday and LOVE the bibs and the scarf. Julia is so talented! I took a video of the baby I nanny for wearing the bib and will post it up on my blog soon.

I checked it out! How cute! So glad you like them.

Happy Campers said...
Just went and donated too...it wasn't much, but it was all I had left of my Christmas gift money. Definitely put to better use than buying another pair of Yoga pants. Thank you for sharing the link....

Thank you so much for helping Ashley to bring Grisha home! They are about done with their paperwork and should be traveling very soon. During a stressful and discouraging time, your gift was such an encouragement to her. You may have felt like it wasn't much, but I happen to know that it was just the right amount! God works miracles-- and without your donation she would have been short. Thanks!

Lynn said...
Hi! We live in Israel and adopted from Antoshka 7 years ago and were the family that got Andrea (now RR) interested in helping initially (for the sake of Daniel at Antoshka - see www.gdye.org).I read your blog daily and really enjoy it. I am not religious but believe in adding value to other lives and kindness. Having personally met 2 of the kids that subsequently died at T (after Antoshka) I can only say that whoever posted their snide comment has absolutely no idea of the reality of the situation in the orphanages (and I might add lacks humanity).We cannot adopt more kids but have contributed to several families who have adopted special needs kids - the time, love and lifelong commitment that families who adopt put in is so often overlooked.Aleksey (and Dennis) are blessed to have you and your family.

Lynn, your support is invaluable! Thanks for sharing about your son! It is awesome to meet families who have adopted years before us! Would you like me to take a picture of your son with us to show the director? I would love to!

Anonymous said... Stop begging for money from people. Some people earn it the hard way and don't put DONATE buttons all over their sites.

Your venom cannot break my spirit. I just wish for your own well being that you would stop being so nasty. If I were you, I would not be able to sleep at night knowing that I have been so mean and nasty for no reason at all. Why do you read and then go back and read what people have commented after you? Seriously, you are crying out for help--- is there anything I can do? Read the next two comments---- and maybe, just maybe you'll catch on. If not---- I'll see you next digest!

The Monroe 6 said...
I am one of those people that Christine was talking about. We adopted our 4th and last child from Russia last year. As for our family, we are done.But my desire to help other orphans has not gone away.My husband and I are lucky enough to be in the position to be able to help others. I feel a calling in fact to help others who want to adopt.It is a shame so many people feel jaded and negative about giving an orphan a home. I can think of no better way to spend my money.

Amy, you are an amazing example to me! I love your blog and I am so excited about your new house! Your heart and your willingness to give shines so bright! Thank you!

Laurel said... I think it's okay to go to Starbucks when it's a gift from someone ... as long as you don't ask everyone to give you gift cards for every occasion. :)God does see the sacrifices we make ... and I have complete faith with you, that the money will be there when needed.When we adopted 3 children from Ghana last year... we got a gift of $15,000 from an anonymous donor. Wow! God can do AMAZING things, in His time.Laurel mama of 13

Laurel, thank you for sharing this. What a huge blessing! I am so glad to hear that through the generosity of others three more orphaned children are now home!

Anonymous said...
Sweet pictures.Nosey Question: At what point do they tell Alexsey that he is going to come live with you.Given his physical condition are you expecting any mental delays or challenges?Feel free to answer only part or none of this - just wondering.Reader in TX

You're not nosey. You've asked some great questions. As I know it, children do not know that a family is coming for them until the family actually gets to the orphanage. I think this is done to protect them from getting hurt just in case the family doesn't show up.

As far as Alexsey's physical condition, I just don't think about it too often. I guess this is because I really don't see his Spina Bifida as a major thing. Through our other children, I have learned that life is just too short to dwell on the unknown. If or when things come up, we will deal with them day by day.

Kelly said...
OMG Christine,Those kids are adorable...all of them. To think there are orphanages filled with little kids like these just breaks my heart. I'll take 2. When we adopted Nick, we rarely saw any of the other kids. It is great you got to interact with all of them. They must have had fun!!

My plan is to bring a really big suitcase......

Payne's said...
That's it! She is saying Alosha!

Yes, that is what they call him there!

Amy said...
Hi Christine, I need to introduce myself... my husband Jake and I are adopting Pavel from Ukraine. You are one of the first families who's blog I read from RR (before we ever dreamed of adopting through RR) and were SUCH an inspiration. I still believe God used you (among others) to lead us to adopt through RR.So I just made the connection LAST night that you are the family adopting Alexsey!Just wanted to say congrats and thank you for following the Lord in both of these adoptions. Its an inspiration. :)

Hi Amy! Thank you for your kind words. I look forward to following your journey as do many other people I am sure! Personally, without the Lord to follow, I don't think I would be going down this path.

Annie said...
Yes! Christine - perhaps in this post, more than almost any other, you have hit on a common chord between us. I am always so surprised by people that set out to adopt their children as though to "save" them from their country. To save them from being parentless, yes - or from poverty, but not from their country! That is part of who they are!You also made me realize why I so enjoyed your last adoption blog. You two looked like you were on your second honeymoon! Craig and I were like that, too. I don't know that we've ever felt closer than on our adoption trips. Again, so many people want to stodgily say "It is not a vacation." And make a list of privations. Well....it is not like most vacations, that's true - it is far, far better. Rich, and deep and dense and powerful, joyous and beautiful and funny, too.

Funny how you compare our adoption journeys to a honeymoon. I hadn't thought of it that way, but now that you mention it, our journey to Ukraine was way better than our honeymoon. I am looking forward to falling in love all over again with my husband on our next trip.

Brenda said...
I also have a blog about a little boy I have from Haiti right now, if your interested in looking at it. He had 2 club feet and has been with us for about a year. We are his host family while he has been recovering from surgery. www.4yourglorylord.blogspot.com

Hi Brenda! Just passing your blog along so that a family may be found for this precious little boy!

Terri-Anne said...
Let me preface this by saying I hope I don't offend. Dennis' life must seem like a whirlwind to him at times. From being adopted into a huge loving family, from the orphanage, also a new culture, and the surgeries he's been through. Although the changes he's been through have all been positive things in his life, they still have a big impact on him. In college we did a sort of questionnaire on the "stress level" in our lives. Even wonderful events such as marriages, births of new children, and new jobs were considered stress-events as they impact so greatly on a life and take time to adjust to. The point I'm so poorly trying to get to is that Dennis has been through a LOT in the last year, and I'm worried that going back to the orphanage may be more than he should bear emotionally? Do you think his young memory will be jarred, about the orphanage being his former home? Will he understand that you are there to welcome another little fellow into your lives, or will he fear somewhere deep down that he will be left behind? He is very young to understand the nature of your trip. This might sound crazy to you, as he is very young and was even younger when he joined your family, and I'm really not trying to be inflammatory! I am just worried for Dennis's emotional well-being during the actual trip to bring Alexsey home. Have you considered what it may do to him to be back at the orphanage?

Hi Terri-Anne,
I am not offended at all by this comment. I think it poses a great question. I realize that going back to an orphanage can scare an adopted child, but I just don't see that happening. I know how I feel about all of my kids, and I know without a doubt that Dennis knows how much we love him and would never ever leave him------ ever! All of my kids know that. And we have talked about what it was like living in the orphanages and we have worked through the very few bad memories, and so I am not concerned with taking back any of my kids for a visit.

Besides, I know that Dennis was loved at his old orphanage, and frankly, I am more concerned with how Dennis would deal with us leaving him behind when we travel. Because he is so young and has been through so much in his short life, I think he needs to be with us. I also think that Alexsey will remember us and Dennis and will actually bond to us quicker seeing how well Dennis is taken care of. Alexsey is older and will hopefully understand with the help of a translator all that we want to tell him. I know that some worry that bringing Dennis will take time away from Alexsey--- but believe me---- spreading yourself between a couple of children is a piece of cake compared to spreading yourself among eleven of them-- yet we somehow manage that too!

With all that said----- I guess it is possible for Dennis to totally freak out when he sees the orphanage and Alexsey to start having tantrums anytime we turn our attention to Dennis. If that happens we will draw strength, wisdom, and understanding from our Lord and we will get through it. I am just not worried.

Sar said...
wow love this post, it's got me even more pumped up for my trip to Ukraine in 2 weeks time!!!!

I am so excited for you! I can't wait to follow you on your trip via your blog! Everyone go check out Sar's blog---- she is about to go on a mission trip to Ukraine to help out at an orphanage!

Smiling All The Way Back

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