Our last week in Ukraine was like the much of rest of the time, we hurried and we waited. For some reason GOD must have decided our wait time should be faster this time. I will not go into all the details at the moment, but just say since Kristina came life has been very, very different, and not in a bad way at all.
We never did get the call we had planned on Tuesday for our passports to be in, so we moved the suitcases off the bed onto the floor. Then Alyona Karen realized we were not going to Kiev that day; and she was very sad.
All was well the next morning. We went back downtown to go to the Christian Book store. I had wanted to get the girls’ cousins some videos; and Grandma needed a Bible. We took the bus in and went to the store. The lady was not overly nice to me. For some reason I thought if she worked or owned the store with the word Christian in it she would be nice. I was wrong, so we left. As we were going out the door Alyona Karen and Kristina looked down and noticed two street kids sleeping on the ground in the window well. Alyona & Kristina laughed at them. I wanted to cry. When we met up with Oles a little bit later I asked him to tell them about the boys and why they were homeless. He said all kids have been chosen to have a family, but some families just never come for them. He also told then they needed to be thankful that God allowed them to have a mom & dad who love them and desire what is best for them. In this God has showed me we need to do some kind of mission project with them to show there are lots of kids who need families. Enough rambling.
We ran a few more errands, had lunch at McDonald's, and took the bus back to the flat. I got up the next morning and washed all the sheets & towels as I just knew we would be leaving. It was Wednesday and Oles thought we would get a call by noon saying our passports were ready. The call didn't come, then, nor at 1:00, nor 2:00, nor 3:00. Finally, at a few minutes after 3:00, Oles called, “We HAVE PASSPORTS!” The bad news, though, was we could not get train tickets out that night, so we were stuck another night. Oles said he would go back to the station and see at 5:00pm if he could maybe get some. At 5:10 the phone rings and Alyona Karen jokes, “Hello! We have tickets! Yeah!!” Well, when Oles said we actually had tickets I started jumping up and down; and then the girls realized what was going on. We were moving on to the next step of the adventure. Kiev here we come. So a few hours of craziness took place. The train was at 11:00pm, but we had to be there by 9:30 for the family goodbyes.
The train was late getting into Kiev Thursday morning, but the driver was there waiting with Yulia to pick us up. A mad dash through the station, we put everything into the back of the car, and off we went for medical exams. Yulia was very worried about us being late and not getting done on time, but I had a peace about it. Strange. That does not happen much for me. We got to the medical exam building; and she went and got us checked in. She wanted us to be seen by the male doctor, but we got this older, not so nice looking lady. Yulia was very upset as this doctor supposedly likes to send patients all kind of places for tests, etc., where the male doctor does all in his own office. I told her that God said it would be alright. He knows what He is doing. So the Doctor calls us into her office. Yulia is not allowed to come in with us, but thankfully the doctor does speak English. That was a good thing. She looks over Alyona Karen, and has her read some, and do a little math. Then, the same thing for Kristina. She then looks over the girls folders and asks why they were labeled as learning disabled when they seem smarter than most who she sees. She said she had shown the girls Russian to read while they are actually taught Ukrainian in school, but they both successfully figured it out. My response was, “Of course. They are their daddy's girls!” She just laughed, but then she dropped a bombshell I would never have of. Both girls had apparently tested positive for tuberculosis several months ago. What does that mean? It meant they had to go for chest x-rays, then she would need to read them and write up her findings. In America that would take at least a week for someone to read them and give the report to the doctor, followed by another appointment. She asked when we had to be to the U.S. Embassy. I told her, “By 11:30am;” and it was already 10:20am and we would have to drive half way across town. She was not sure we would make it. My heart fell. How could GOD get us this far and we not get done on time? At that I told her GOD told me in the beginning of this adventure that if I allowed Him to work all would be okay. She then said, “God told you that? How did God tell you that; and how do you talk to God?” I then spent a few minutes explaining to her how God should be your best friend and how to you talk to him. I told her how I wake every morning and say, “Hi, God! How are You this morning?” I get into His word as much as I can. I want to know all about him. She then made a phone call. I knew it was to the x-ray department, but that was all I understood. We left that room go to x-ray. The line was long, somewhere around twenty people I believe. I just knew we were sunk, for sure, but the doctor came down, took us to the front of the line; and we went first. She made many people mad at her, but she was the doctor. What else were they going to do? She waited inside while they took the x-rays so she could get the reports written ASAP. We went back to her exam room. NO TB anywhere. PRAISE THE LORD!!!! We weren’t done yet, though, because she wanted to know more about talking to God. She would like to have a best friend as she had lost her husband and was very lonely. I told her she would never lose God as He is forever. Then, we finished up and left. Yulia was in shock once we got outside and I told her all that had occurred. My response was God knew we needed to that woman right then. I had her where God wanted her; and I let Him talk through me.
When we get to the U.S. Embassy we went through all the security gates to get inside to then find where we needed to be. Everyone was very helpful. Got up to the window and received all the papers that I needed to fill out. Tim was there before he left and signed everything he needed to sign. At that the lady behind the window asks how long have I been there and when we would get to fly home. I told her our flights were scheduled for Sunday, buy it had been a long eight weeks. She smiled and said, “If we could get you these passports today, would you like to go home tomorrow?” What a dumb question! Of course I wanted to go home. I texted Oles and asked him call Tim; and tell him to call me ASAP. It was noon in Ukraine. What was I thinking? Okay, I was not really thinking, I guess. Tim’s first, very sleepy, question to Oles, was what was wrong? Nothing. Just please call Golden Rule Travel right away and see if they can change our flights so we can come home a couple days early. He then reminds me it was only 4:00am there. They won’t open for several hours. Oops!!! Sorry honey, go back to sleep; and call as soon as they do open. I went back to the embassy at 2:00pm for my exit interview; and within twenty minutes we had the girls visas. Yeah!!
That evening we went to dinner with Oles and some other friends we had made via the blog world. They had been to Ukraine two years ago and adopted two boys and were now back for a third. It was good getting to spend some time with other Americans. We ate pizza and enjoyed a great night of fellowship. Alyona Karen doesn’t like pizza so after that we took a cab back to Independence Square. We had not heard from Tim so I figured we were out of luck and God planned on us staying longer. Well, so be it. We went to McDonald's and got Alyona Karen some French fries and a sundae. Kristina and I each had one, too. We are walking back up the hill to our flat so we could get baths and watch some TV. As we entered the door the phone rang. It was Tim; and his first words were, “You get to sleep in your own bed tomorrow night.” So, we took baths as quickly as possible. Mind you, you would not want to take long ones as there was no hot water. Then I finished putting suitcases together and called Yulia to let her know we needed the driver to pick us up at 4:00am because we had tickets; and I would finally be taking our girls home.
Well, it was long night. If I had known Tim was going to call about the tickets I never ever would have let them have ice cream that late at night. It was well after midnight before we all got to bed. So getting up at 2:45am was not easy, or so I expected. They were so excited to be going to America that they were up, and dressed, and ready to go when the driver arrived. It took about thirty minutes to get to the airport. The driver helped us into the terminal, then he was gone in a flash. We checked in, went through customs, filled out some papers, and went on to the gate. The plane was supposed to leave at 6:45am; and we almost missed it. Never would I guess they would have no idea how to check us in with the adoption. We did make it to the plane, but they had to hold the flight for us.
Kristina had never done anything like that, so I was worried about her. But she took to it like a champ. On the first leg of the flight they took turns sitting by the window and taking pictures. We had a two hour layover in Germany. They were not happy at that, nor the fact that three times we had to go through security. We finally got on the big plane to go over the big pond. We did not get window seats that time, which was fine. We had a whole center row to ourselves, which was nice. The girls had so much fun watching movies and playing games with each other. Once we landed in America we had to go through customs again, along with immigration for the girls. Then, we had to pick up our suitcases from the international flight, check them back in for the U.S. leg, and go through security one more time. The plane was late, so even after all the other stuff we still had another two hour wait. The girls were so ready to get home and see Papa and Christopher. To be honest, so was I. They both fell asleep half way home on the flight from Charlotte to Jackson. When we got off the plane there were about thirty people waiting for us at the airport with signs and flowers. The girls were totally shocked and almost scared by it all. It was so nice, though, to know we were loved and missed.
Lynn
Thursday, May 13, 2010
NEWSFLASH!! Lynn finished everything at the embassy earlier than anticipated; and we were able to get the last three seats available on the flight out of Kiev TOMORROW morning. As a result, Lynn and the girls will be home two days early. They will arrive TOMORROW (Friday) night at ~8:30pm!!!!!
I just got off the phone with her. She said the girls are both giddy with excitement. We'll see how they are following TWENTY-ONE hours of travel, but they will be home at last...
Tim =)
I just got off the phone with her. She said the girls are both giddy with excitement. We'll see how they are following TWENTY-ONE hours of travel, but they will be home at last...
Tim =)
When we get home…
We know it’s going to take a while for our family to get into the swing of things, and for all the kids to really jell. We are praying that God will work in the hearts of each family member to bring us all together. As with any blended family, we know there is potential for division amongst the troops, but we’re going to work through, with the Lord’s help, and encourage the kids to be family (they will need to learn what this even means).
Our top priority from an adoptive standpoint will be bonding and attachment with Kristina and Karen. This will not be an easy process for many reasons: they are older children, they have been in an institution for over 4 years; and they have not been with each other (which can hinder their attachment to us since they can rely on one another now). Hopefully, they developed the ability to bond as infants and toddlers. If so, this process will be much easier for us all. If you have parented an older adopted child, you probably understand what we’re talking about. If not, you might wonder why in the world would I make a big deal over this or you may even think we’re crazy (I know I might have a few years ago!). We are not asking that everyone agree with us or even understand the process we’re going through, but that as our friends and family you would trust our heart, respect our decisions and support our parenting. If you would like to understand more about this, please feel free to ask us questions that can help you understand what we’re embarking on.
So, what can you expect when we get home?
- The girls will be very tired (maybe for a while as they adjust to their new life). Please greet them warmly with a hug, but do not be offended if they do not respond. They might not hug you back or even speak to you. They will be overwhelmed with emotions and might not warm up to you easily. Please respect their boundaries.
- Keep in mind that our goal is for them to bond with us as Mama and Papa... it’s what life will be centered around for them. Please let us do all of the care-giving (offering food, consoling, disciplining, offering choices, helping with tasks, etc). We must learn about them as they learn about us. We need to be aware of what they eat, Karen is very sugar sensitive; and we must watch for this. We have no idea if they have food allergies, so if we leave somewhere and do not know what they ate and they get sick we have no idea what it may be.
- Please do not give them anything they ask for without first telling them to “ask Mom or Dad” – don’t ask for them. They need to ask! This applies to food, permission, help, anything! They are learning English and can do this themselves.
- Back us up. If we direct one of the children to do/not do (or eat/not eat) something, please go along with us even if you would do things differently. When they see you respecting our words to them, they will learn from that example.
- Please do not allow the girls to hang on you or cling to you. They might want to sit in your lap, hold your hand, or just lean on you, but they must learn to cling first to Mama and Papa.
- Gifts: if you have something to share with them, please give to us first so that we can hand it to them for you... or ask them to “ask your Mom/Dad” if you can give them something. It´s important that the permission always come from us. If we don't know someone gave them something and things just show up and we have been to the store not that they would take something but there would be a question as we don't know them very well. And they don't know us.
- While the girls are learning to be a part of a family & follow rules and respect our authority, they will have days they are frustrated with us. We will be the ones saying “no, you can’t do that” or “I know you don’t want to go to the store, but we are all going as a family.” In times like these, they may turn to others outside our immediate family as a way of pushing us back. Please do not allow this. It might seem mean, but you need to push them back toward us! For their sake, they cannot bond with people outside of Mom and Dad right now.
- Bearing these things in mind, please do not ask the girls if they would like to go places, do things or attend events. You can ask us about these things, but do not be offended if for the next several months we don’t attend much – we will be staying home a lot! We do look forward to the day that they can attend parties and events just as other “normal” children can, but that will have to take a back-seat right now. As we cannot leave them home and if one is in trouble than we will have to suffer until they learn.
The girls are learning what it means to be part of a family, to trust and obey us as their parents, to rely on us for everything they need (emotionally & physically), and to bond with us as their Mom and Dad.
It is imperative that our children learn to seek all permission, affection, guidance, attention, provision (for every basic need), affirmation & acceptance from us first. Only after they have truly bonded with us as their parents will they ever be able to develop healthy relationships in the future. Right now, think of the girls as in the “infant” stage – they have just come home to our family. Only with them, they NEED to LEARN to rely completely on us just as an infant relies on his mother. This is not something that will be instinctual for them. Our desire is for them to come to know God’s love and to develop into healthy adults who have healthy relationships with their spouses, children, friends and family. Thank you for supporting us in this! It will help us all transition smoothly as we become a family.
Lynn
We know it’s going to take a while for our family to get into the swing of things, and for all the kids to really jell. We are praying that God will work in the hearts of each family member to bring us all together. As with any blended family, we know there is potential for division amongst the troops, but we’re going to work through, with the Lord’s help, and encourage the kids to be family (they will need to learn what this even means).
Our top priority from an adoptive standpoint will be bonding and attachment with Kristina and Karen. This will not be an easy process for many reasons: they are older children, they have been in an institution for over 4 years; and they have not been with each other (which can hinder their attachment to us since they can rely on one another now). Hopefully, they developed the ability to bond as infants and toddlers. If so, this process will be much easier for us all. If you have parented an older adopted child, you probably understand what we’re talking about. If not, you might wonder why in the world would I make a big deal over this or you may even think we’re crazy (I know I might have a few years ago!). We are not asking that everyone agree with us or even understand the process we’re going through, but that as our friends and family you would trust our heart, respect our decisions and support our parenting. If you would like to understand more about this, please feel free to ask us questions that can help you understand what we’re embarking on.
So, what can you expect when we get home?
- The girls will be very tired (maybe for a while as they adjust to their new life). Please greet them warmly with a hug, but do not be offended if they do not respond. They might not hug you back or even speak to you. They will be overwhelmed with emotions and might not warm up to you easily. Please respect their boundaries.
- Keep in mind that our goal is for them to bond with us as Mama and Papa... it’s what life will be centered around for them. Please let us do all of the care-giving (offering food, consoling, disciplining, offering choices, helping with tasks, etc). We must learn about them as they learn about us. We need to be aware of what they eat, Karen is very sugar sensitive; and we must watch for this. We have no idea if they have food allergies, so if we leave somewhere and do not know what they ate and they get sick we have no idea what it may be.
- Please do not give them anything they ask for without first telling them to “ask Mom or Dad” – don’t ask for them. They need to ask! This applies to food, permission, help, anything! They are learning English and can do this themselves.
- Back us up. If we direct one of the children to do/not do (or eat/not eat) something, please go along with us even if you would do things differently. When they see you respecting our words to them, they will learn from that example.
- Please do not allow the girls to hang on you or cling to you. They might want to sit in your lap, hold your hand, or just lean on you, but they must learn to cling first to Mama and Papa.
- Gifts: if you have something to share with them, please give to us first so that we can hand it to them for you... or ask them to “ask your Mom/Dad” if you can give them something. It´s important that the permission always come from us. If we don't know someone gave them something and things just show up and we have been to the store not that they would take something but there would be a question as we don't know them very well. And they don't know us.
- While the girls are learning to be a part of a family & follow rules and respect our authority, they will have days they are frustrated with us. We will be the ones saying “no, you can’t do that” or “I know you don’t want to go to the store, but we are all going as a family.” In times like these, they may turn to others outside our immediate family as a way of pushing us back. Please do not allow this. It might seem mean, but you need to push them back toward us! For their sake, they cannot bond with people outside of Mom and Dad right now.
- Bearing these things in mind, please do not ask the girls if they would like to go places, do things or attend events. You can ask us about these things, but do not be offended if for the next several months we don’t attend much – we will be staying home a lot! We do look forward to the day that they can attend parties and events just as other “normal” children can, but that will have to take a back-seat right now. As we cannot leave them home and if one is in trouble than we will have to suffer until they learn.
The girls are learning what it means to be part of a family, to trust and obey us as their parents, to rely on us for everything they need (emotionally & physically), and to bond with us as their Mom and Dad.
It is imperative that our children learn to seek all permission, affection, guidance, attention, provision (for every basic need), affirmation & acceptance from us first. Only after they have truly bonded with us as their parents will they ever be able to develop healthy relationships in the future. Right now, think of the girls as in the “infant” stage – they have just come home to our family. Only with them, they NEED to LEARN to rely completely on us just as an infant relies on his mother. This is not something that will be instinctual for them. Our desire is for them to come to know God’s love and to develop into healthy adults who have healthy relationships with their spouses, children, friends and family. Thank you for supporting us in this! It will help us all transition smoothly as we become a family.
Lynn
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
We have a new name to get used to. Alyona has requested to go by her middle name, Karen. She came to me the other day and said she wanted to be called Karen, as her new dad is so nice, which meant her grandma would have been nice, so that would be good name. She understands Tim's mom passed away as she has seen a lot death in her old family. Tim had to pray about and talk to his dad and brother as he didn't want to hurt anyone’s feelings. They thought it was okay. She said her old family was not as nice so she wanted to not have her name remind her of them.
Saturday morning we slept in a little. Once we got up, went to the market and bought Kristina new shoes, a hat, new pants and Capri’s. Then we came back and hung around the flat. Oles called and suggested we go out to the catacombs. About an hour later he came and picked us up. We asked a lady here at the flat how to get there. She was very helpful. Unfortunately she had not been there for a while, as there is now a big building where she said to turn. Oles then got out his GPS and we went followed it for a while, but it had no idea how to get there. After asking a few more people, we asked two guys we saw on a moped. Their response was to follow them, so we did; and they knew right where they were going. It was a really neat place. I had read about it on the Internet so even though the tour was in Russian I had half of clue of what she was saying. I am picking up a few words here and there. Although Alyona has told me not to talk it much because I goof things up. I did try to ask someone in a store about some perfume, they responded they did not sell dead chicken feet, but some of it smelled like that!! Everyone there got a good laugh, me too, once I figured out what I had said. Anyway, after that we went for dinner and back to the flat so we could get a showered and dressed all up for a night at the Odessa Opera House.
It was such a beautiful place. I think the girls really enjoyed it. I sat in between them for the first three acts. Then, I let them sit next to each other. Oles sat behind us; and during the fourth act he whispered the words that were being sung. The performance was in French so none of us understood what was being sung, but they had a display over the top of the stage scrolling the words in Ukrainian, so the people here could read them. We should have done that from the start! Afterward, we went home to bed, or should I say home to watch a movie?
Instead of going to church on Sunday morning, we went to orphanage #88, the first orphanage the girls were in. We were able to help with some crafts; and the girls got to say good bye to some of their old teachers & friends. It was not a good day for Kristina. She is very withdrawn from me. I know once we get home things will get better, but for now it is so hard to see the sadness in her eyes. I want to hug her and tell her it is all going to be okay, but she has no idea of what her new life will be like. I can't even imagine what she has to be thinking. She knows no English, so that makes it even harder for her. We are both depending on Alyona for help, but we can't do that forever. After #88, we took a new bus into downtown. We saw a lot of new places that day. When you think you can't see any more gray you come across a new area. Other than the metal surfaces being painted, everything else is gray or green. No wonder everyone here is seems so unhappy. They have to be depressed. We looked around for a while, walked off some energy, then came back to the flat. The girls watched movies; and I watched church. A nice quiet night in the flat. Well, quiet except for all the Russian speaking going on.
We went back into downtown, Monday, and saw some more sights, then went and had dinner with some friends from church who are here also adopting. It just was nice relaxing day, nothing too exciting. Kristina did make some headway last night with me. She gave me my first kiss without me asking for one, and she let me tuck her into bed. It is good to see GOD working through my prayers for her.
Today, I am waiting for the phone call from Oles saying we will be on the train tonight. That means our passports came in. If not today, then tomorrow. The girls are ready to go to Kiev. Every few minutes today, Alyona says, “We will go to Kiev today? I want to get done. I WANT TO GO TO AMERICA NOW!!!” She is so cute. I was packing up most of our stuff, earlier, so we will be ready; and she tried to help. Her idea of packing and mine are quite different. Mine is to fold and neatly place items into suitcase, as we will have to wear this stuff in Kiev. Hers is to just roll items into a ball and stuff them anywhere. I won though. It is all folded nicely and fits so well. I had been concerned about the weight, but I think we will be okay.
I will post again after we get to Kiev.
Lynn
Saturday morning we slept in a little. Once we got up, went to the market and bought Kristina new shoes, a hat, new pants and Capri’s. Then we came back and hung around the flat. Oles called and suggested we go out to the catacombs. About an hour later he came and picked us up. We asked a lady here at the flat how to get there. She was very helpful. Unfortunately she had not been there for a while, as there is now a big building where she said to turn. Oles then got out his GPS and we went followed it for a while, but it had no idea how to get there. After asking a few more people, we asked two guys we saw on a moped. Their response was to follow them, so we did; and they knew right where they were going. It was a really neat place. I had read about it on the Internet so even though the tour was in Russian I had half of clue of what she was saying. I am picking up a few words here and there. Although Alyona has told me not to talk it much because I goof things up. I did try to ask someone in a store about some perfume, they responded they did not sell dead chicken feet, but some of it smelled like that!! Everyone there got a good laugh, me too, once I figured out what I had said. Anyway, after that we went for dinner and back to the flat so we could get a showered and dressed all up for a night at the Odessa Opera House.
It was such a beautiful place. I think the girls really enjoyed it. I sat in between them for the first three acts. Then, I let them sit next to each other. Oles sat behind us; and during the fourth act he whispered the words that were being sung. The performance was in French so none of us understood what was being sung, but they had a display over the top of the stage scrolling the words in Ukrainian, so the people here could read them. We should have done that from the start! Afterward, we went home to bed, or should I say home to watch a movie?
Instead of going to church on Sunday morning, we went to orphanage #88, the first orphanage the girls were in. We were able to help with some crafts; and the girls got to say good bye to some of their old teachers & friends. It was not a good day for Kristina. She is very withdrawn from me. I know once we get home things will get better, but for now it is so hard to see the sadness in her eyes. I want to hug her and tell her it is all going to be okay, but she has no idea of what her new life will be like. I can't even imagine what she has to be thinking. She knows no English, so that makes it even harder for her. We are both depending on Alyona for help, but we can't do that forever. After #88, we took a new bus into downtown. We saw a lot of new places that day. When you think you can't see any more gray you come across a new area. Other than the metal surfaces being painted, everything else is gray or green. No wonder everyone here is seems so unhappy. They have to be depressed. We looked around for a while, walked off some energy, then came back to the flat. The girls watched movies; and I watched church. A nice quiet night in the flat. Well, quiet except for all the Russian speaking going on.
We went back into downtown, Monday, and saw some more sights, then went and had dinner with some friends from church who are here also adopting. It just was nice relaxing day, nothing too exciting. Kristina did make some headway last night with me. She gave me my first kiss without me asking for one, and she let me tuck her into bed. It is good to see GOD working through my prayers for her.
Today, I am waiting for the phone call from Oles saying we will be on the train tonight. That means our passports came in. If not today, then tomorrow. The girls are ready to go to Kiev. Every few minutes today, Alyona says, “We will go to Kiev today? I want to get done. I WANT TO GO TO AMERICA NOW!!!” She is so cute. I was packing up most of our stuff, earlier, so we will be ready; and she tried to help. Her idea of packing and mine are quite different. Mine is to fold and neatly place items into suitcase, as we will have to wear this stuff in Kiev. Hers is to just roll items into a ball and stuff them anywhere. I won though. It is all folded nicely and fits so well. I had been concerned about the weight, but I think we will be okay.
I will post again after we get to Kiev.
Lynn
Friday, May 07, 2010
Thursday was another day of “roller coaster rides”. It sure is a good thing I love them so much! I only slept about two hours Wednesday night, if even that much, so I figured I would sleep in the car going to Kiliya, but that was not to happen. Oles was “a few” minutes late that morning. I don't how he accomplishes all he does on such little sleep. It actually turned out nice that he was running late. It gave me a chance to talk to Tim, in the morning, before we left. Tim said he & Oles had spoken a couple times throughout the evening, which for us would be the middle of the night. So Oles had as much sleep as me. I decided it would be better if I visited with him, which is always fun. Anyway, we had not been to Kiliya in three weeks so it has changed. The trees had all bloomed out; and the mustard seed was at the yellowest I had ever seen. So as we drive along, windows down, enjoying the cool spring breeze, I thought to myself, “The roads sure are in good shape.” We knew they had done some work, but these roads were smooth. That should have been my first clue that something was wrong. We looked at each and said, “Do you remember any of this?” We both answered, “No!” Then another, “No,” came from the back seat came, as if she knew what we were talking about. Thankfully there happens to be two men on the side of the road. Angels I think, as there was nothing anywhere out there. They said we could get to Kiliya by continuing straight, then turning; and we would run into it. At that, Oles got out his GPS; and confirmed they were right. We decided we had missed our turn as everything was now in bloom so it looked different. When we got to Kiliya we were so hungry and knew with the rest of the day we might not get a chance to eat, so we were going to run in to get something somewhere. We walked into a bar looking place and asked if they had food. NO... Oles asked where people could get something to eat. She said, “In your kitchen.” So, we didn’t eat until 3:00pm after we got back to Odessa!!!We picked up the social worker and went to the orphanage. It would not be long now. We go into the administration office; and Kristina comes in with everything she owns in a shoe box and a small bag. The director talks some and leaves to make a few copies. Then, it was time for my three signatures and she would be ours. Yeah!! She went and found her friends so we could give them the gifts we had for them. We could not bring cake and drinks there as the director wouldn’t allow it. The kids loved the gifts. Then, for what would be the last good bye, there were tears & hugs from everyone. We took some photos; and the kids had to back to class. Oles needed to finish up some things, so we went outside to enjoy the sunshine. Next thing I know the bell rings; and here come all the kids again. So, we do all the hugs and good byes, again, and of course more tears. They then went back to their classes. I got a call to come up stairs, so off we head. We take care of a little business, then go back outside. A few minutes later I get another call to come to the 3rd floor. We finish that, head back down, and the bell rings again. I am not sure how many times we can all do this good bye stuff. Finally, Oles comes out and says, “Let’s go!” So I grab Kristina’s stuff, give a few more hugs and byes, then the girls go walking out hand in hand. This is truly the last time the will ever see this place, unless we possibly come back to do a mission trip.
The ride home was somewhat emotional for Kristina, as she is older; and she understands better what this means. Leaving her friends and the place she has called home for over two years. There is so much uncertainty in her life. I know she has to be scared. Oles translated some things for me. I told her I know most of the time she will not have clue as to what I am saying; and that is okay. I just don't want to be tuned out. I need her to pay me attention so that she can learn. Whenever she is sad and missing her friends she can come and say, “Kiliya.” That would be a key word to know she is having a rough day. I also asked her to always do her best, as I know she is smart. Alyona said she thought the director had called Kristina dumb, so we will have to deal with a low self esteem problem. We definitely will work on that. With being older also comes a lot more baggage. She remembers a lot more than Alyona.
We didn't get lost coming home, which is good as we had lots of things to do. We went to the Notary, the Social Security office, and the Passport office. It went well, and quickly, at all the places. We then went and had McDonald's for Kristina's first time. We had vanilla milkshakes and French fries. At the Social Security office we waited in the car. The next thing we knew, this man comes walking out to the car. Oles got out. After a short conversation, the man went back inside. A few minutes later he came back out with our new, correct paperwork. I was shocked at curbside service. Oles says it pays to know people in high places. When we were in the Passport office we got to see the Director from Balta, so Alyona was glad to be able introduce Kristina. Then, we were all done and headed back to the flat. Some great friends cooked dinner for us. It was great to come home and not have to cook. Oh no!! I just said home. It is definitely time leave this place!
After dinner, and a much needed shower & hair washing, we had a fashion show. Kristina had a great time trying on all of her new clothes. I was shocked for never seeing her before we came, everything I bought actually fit her. She looked so cute. The girls then watched a movie, and talked, and wrestled, and tickled, and laughed. I so wish Papa was here for this. They did get upset when the electric went out and they had to go to bed.
We got up today and took the bus downtown so we could look for shoes for Kristina, but we didn't find any. We will keep looking as we need them for Saturday night. Then, we walked around, went down the big stairs (176 of them!) to the pier. We no longer got to the bottom when Oles called and said he needed us back up the stairs and about six blocks away to get passport pictures taken ASAP! While we waited for them, so we could take them to the passport office, we ran to McDonalds again for lunch. The management of the U.S. stores needs to come here and see how service should be done. Although, here you do pay for napkins, ketchup, straws, everything. After lunch as we were supposed to be heading back to get the pictures, I got myself turned; and we walk about SEVEN blocks the wrong way. Oles calls and says, “Where are you? I’m waiting.” I tell him, “I got us lost. We are walking back to where we started. You will just have to wait for us.” That is good I am not sure I can do another 6 blocks if I got us lost again. Once we do get back to where we started, we discover the office was just up the street and around the corner. I definitely walked off my calories from lunch. After that we went to see the Dolphin show. It was good. Not Sea World quality, but good. All four of us got in for $18.00 U.S.; and it lasted about fifty minutes. We then went to the little amusement park to let Kristina do the bungee jump that Alyona did a couple of weeks ago. She is not nearly the daredevil that Alyona is. Then, I let Oles talk me into bumper cars. He had Kristina; and I got Alyona. Well, ten minutes of going backwards, and being hit, and almost thrown out of the car was enough for me. Thank you, Oles, for the fun memories. Then, we went and purchased our opera tickets for Saturday night, went out to eat, and home for the evening.
It is so good to have both girls with me!!
Lynn
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Tuesday was a very good day. A good day indeed! We went to Balta for Alyona to get to say good bye to her friends at her "gotcha party". Everyone had a good time, I think. They ate lots cake and drank juice. We then handed out goodie bags to everyone. It was so cute. They kept trying to give Alyona and I the candy we had brought for them. These kids truly know what it means to give and not always receive. Alyona had been saving kopecks (like pennies) that she we found; and she was up to almost ten grivna, or about $1.25 in American money. As we walked around she would give a little to the handicapped people or elderly at the churches. As we were leaving she had figured out much she had and how many kids were in her class, then she gave everyone the same amount. It was hard to say good bye as I was already falling for them.
After all that, we stopped by the girls’ uncle’s house, in a small village outside of Odessa. I will tell you what I have seen in Mexico on mission trips didn't really prepare me for what I saw there. Previously I had often resented that the uncle hadn't come to get the girls out of the orphanage. Well, he has five children of his own children, from twelve years on down to one month. He possibly could have gotten them before he had all his own kids, but clearly it is not now his place to raise these girls.
They had made dinner for us. When we sat down to eat, Oles and I sat on the bed; and Grandma and Alyona sat on stools; and everyone else stood. There was not room for any more chairs. None of them ate as they wanted to make sure we had enough to eat. They had so little, yet gave so much. We had taken some gifts for the kids; and you would think they had never previously received any toys, but then, as I looked around, I realized I did not see a single one. The last time we saw the uncle we had bought them a DVD player. They were so proud of it, they had to show us. It sits on top of the THIRTEEN inch black & white TV, which sits on top of the refrigerator. They do not have indoor plumbing; and they cook outside. I think they only have two outlets in the entire house. I so wish I had more money. I would leave them with a significant love donation, but one of the concerns is the uncle’s problem with alcohol. He is now essentially unable to work because of it. So there they sit. It is a real curse on the people here; and until they learn about the love of JESUS, it will never be broken.
As we were headed back to Balta this morning for the last time, all I could do is repeatedly thank God for all He has done for us. Just nine months ago, on July 24, 2009, He started a new work in Tim & I; and now after many trials & struggles, and numerous literal miracles, this phase is almost “completed”.
As we pulled into the orphanage this morning, so we could sign all of the paperwork for Alyona, it occurred to me that she is no longer an orphan. Believe it or not, I have a sadness in my heart, which seems so crazy as this should be a happy day, and it is. My sadness, though, is for the children who came running up to the car as we pulled in. I have only met Alyona’s class a single time, but have quickly become friends with them. As we climbed out of the car and walked into the building, there were lots of hugs and kisses, and lots of kids talking to me, of which I understood very little. But I did comprehend the, “Pleeeeasse take me to America. You be my mama.” WOW! I can say I did not expect that. I stood there not knowing what to say to all the sad little faces looking up at me, each so desperately wanting a family; and me knowing it was not to be at the moment. And for some it will never be. I did tell them in what little English/Russian Alyona & I could come up with that we would go home and do everything we could to find these cute faces a “forever mama & papa”. They seemed to understand. And through it all, they were still all very excited for Alyona, that she was going to America.
While there, I met a young man whose name is Andrei. He is sixteen years old; and he knows nobody will ever come for him. He will be leaving the orphanage in less than a month. When I asked him what he would do, he said, “Go live on the street,” as he has no family to go to. He was left at the orphanage when he was very small. He speaks rather decent English, which was nice to know. Maybe it will help him someday. I tried to tell him that God has a plan for him. His response was, “What God? I live next to a church that I am not allowed to walk onto their grounds, as I will get yelled at, or worse, they will call the police on me. If there was a God he would have sent someone for me. Maybe he does not like me. I might have been bad, or my mama was.” There was no convincing him otherwise. Maybe if I spoke a little Russian, but I don't; and Oles was out doing what he had to do so we could keep our process moving so that we could go pick up Kristina tomorrow. As we pulled away I looked up to the window; and Andrei was standing there with his hand on the window. Then, a small smile came to his face; and we turned the corner. I probably will never see him again. As I type this, I am sitting here crying as I have known for years we were to adopt. What if I had listened to God years ago? And what if we had come here? And what if Andrei was meant to be our child? WHAT IF? I will think about these words forever. I know that because every time I look at Kristina or Alyona I will think of Andrei.
So, my challenge to you is this: if you are called to adopt, PLEASE don't wait indefinitely, as I did. We are not promised tomorrow, nor are these kids. What if something happened to Andrei and he dies? Not that I want something like that, or even think that, but WHAT IF? What if you or I don't follow through as we should and he never learns of the love and saving grace of Jesus? WHAT IF he doesn't end up in heaven and when it is your time and God meets you at the gates and says to you, “WHAT IF you had obeyed all my commandments: like be the father (or mother) to the orphans? He would be here with you.” WHAT IF? Please, take the first step, even if it is a small one. Call someone today to get started, because WHAT IF we put it off?
The rest of today was quite crazy. The court decree was not ready when we got there, so we waited, and waited. The call finally came, “Come to the office. It is time to sign Alyona out.” I have waited so long for that moment. I almost forgot how to spell my name! But it did come to me. Then, off we went, again. Oles had a plan; and he was determined to carry it out. Even though the car ride back to Odessa was long, Oles always makes things fun. We got back in time to pick up the original birth certificates so we could then go get the new ones. The new ones which indicate Timothy John and Lynn Michelle Loecher are now the exceedingly proud parents of Kristina Lee and Alyona Karen Loecher. Yeah!!
Lynn
After all that, we stopped by the girls’ uncle’s house, in a small village outside of Odessa. I will tell you what I have seen in Mexico on mission trips didn't really prepare me for what I saw there. Previously I had often resented that the uncle hadn't come to get the girls out of the orphanage. Well, he has five children of his own children, from twelve years on down to one month. He possibly could have gotten them before he had all his own kids, but clearly it is not now his place to raise these girls.
They had made dinner for us. When we sat down to eat, Oles and I sat on the bed; and Grandma and Alyona sat on stools; and everyone else stood. There was not room for any more chairs. None of them ate as they wanted to make sure we had enough to eat. They had so little, yet gave so much. We had taken some gifts for the kids; and you would think they had never previously received any toys, but then, as I looked around, I realized I did not see a single one. The last time we saw the uncle we had bought them a DVD player. They were so proud of it, they had to show us. It sits on top of the THIRTEEN inch black & white TV, which sits on top of the refrigerator. They do not have indoor plumbing; and they cook outside. I think they only have two outlets in the entire house. I so wish I had more money. I would leave them with a significant love donation, but one of the concerns is the uncle’s problem with alcohol. He is now essentially unable to work because of it. So there they sit. It is a real curse on the people here; and until they learn about the love of JESUS, it will never be broken.
As we were headed back to Balta this morning for the last time, all I could do is repeatedly thank God for all He has done for us. Just nine months ago, on July 24, 2009, He started a new work in Tim & I; and now after many trials & struggles, and numerous literal miracles, this phase is almost “completed”.
As we pulled into the orphanage this morning, so we could sign all of the paperwork for Alyona, it occurred to me that she is no longer an orphan. Believe it or not, I have a sadness in my heart, which seems so crazy as this should be a happy day, and it is. My sadness, though, is for the children who came running up to the car as we pulled in. I have only met Alyona’s class a single time, but have quickly become friends with them. As we climbed out of the car and walked into the building, there were lots of hugs and kisses, and lots of kids talking to me, of which I understood very little. But I did comprehend the, “Pleeeeasse take me to America. You be my mama.” WOW! I can say I did not expect that. I stood there not knowing what to say to all the sad little faces looking up at me, each so desperately wanting a family; and me knowing it was not to be at the moment. And for some it will never be. I did tell them in what little English/Russian Alyona & I could come up with that we would go home and do everything we could to find these cute faces a “forever mama & papa”. They seemed to understand. And through it all, they were still all very excited for Alyona, that she was going to America.
While there, I met a young man whose name is Andrei. He is sixteen years old; and he knows nobody will ever come for him. He will be leaving the orphanage in less than a month. When I asked him what he would do, he said, “Go live on the street,” as he has no family to go to. He was left at the orphanage when he was very small. He speaks rather decent English, which was nice to know. Maybe it will help him someday. I tried to tell him that God has a plan for him. His response was, “What God? I live next to a church that I am not allowed to walk onto their grounds, as I will get yelled at, or worse, they will call the police on me. If there was a God he would have sent someone for me. Maybe he does not like me. I might have been bad, or my mama was.” There was no convincing him otherwise. Maybe if I spoke a little Russian, but I don't; and Oles was out doing what he had to do so we could keep our process moving so that we could go pick up Kristina tomorrow. As we pulled away I looked up to the window; and Andrei was standing there with his hand on the window. Then, a small smile came to his face; and we turned the corner. I probably will never see him again. As I type this, I am sitting here crying as I have known for years we were to adopt. What if I had listened to God years ago? And what if we had come here? And what if Andrei was meant to be our child? WHAT IF? I will think about these words forever. I know that because every time I look at Kristina or Alyona I will think of Andrei.
So, my challenge to you is this: if you are called to adopt, PLEASE don't wait indefinitely, as I did. We are not promised tomorrow, nor are these kids. What if something happened to Andrei and he dies? Not that I want something like that, or even think that, but WHAT IF? What if you or I don't follow through as we should and he never learns of the love and saving grace of Jesus? WHAT IF he doesn't end up in heaven and when it is your time and God meets you at the gates and says to you, “WHAT IF you had obeyed all my commandments: like be the father (or mother) to the orphans? He would be here with you.” WHAT IF? Please, take the first step, even if it is a small one. Call someone today to get started, because WHAT IF we put it off?
The rest of today was quite crazy. The court decree was not ready when we got there, so we waited, and waited. The call finally came, “Come to the office. It is time to sign Alyona out.” I have waited so long for that moment. I almost forgot how to spell my name! But it did come to me. Then, off we went, again. Oles had a plan; and he was determined to carry it out. Even though the car ride back to Odessa was long, Oles always makes things fun. We got back in time to pick up the original birth certificates so we could then go get the new ones. The new ones which indicate Timothy John and Lynn Michelle Loecher are now the exceedingly proud parents of Kristina Lee and Alyona Karen Loecher. Yeah!!
Lynn
Sunday, May 02, 2010
Well, here I am again. If you had asked me three months ago what I would be doing and where would I be, the answer would have been simple: getting up and getting ready to take my new daughters to church for the third Sunday in our own home church, but God's plan has been different from that. I am not sure as to why. Maybe to teach me some things? I know I have learned many lessons during my time here.
At the church we have been attaining here (thank you Vicky and Vernon for recommending it to us!) we had a guest preacher today from Indiana; and he taught on: How is GOD leading you? He read from Mark 6:45-56: ‘Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethesda, while he dismissed the crowd. After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.’ (NIV)
What I have learned was:
1.) Paul wanted the church to find their spiritual gifts.
2.) We can't be edified without God being Glorified.
3.) The Lord is still leading the same way He lead 2000 plus years ago. His word has not changed, just our hearts toward it.
4.) When we read the Gospels, we need to see ourselves in them.
5.) We need to get in the boat to go to the other side as sometimes we are with the wrong crowd.
6.) We need to feed our souls, not our stomachs.
I feel like there have been times in this Journey we have been on we have came under attack from the devil. When I sit back and think about the attacks, and when they have come, it has been when I was not fully leaning on the Lord to direct our paths. I wanted to help Him out. I cannot do that as His plans are the perfect plans. I have to always remember Jesus is in heaven praying on my behalf, so it will work out. I cannot expect to have a smooth road if I am going to follow Christ. Look at Paul. He went to prison. And Moses… he could not speak well and was asked to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. As well as so many others who came before us. In comparison, my life and trials have been easy. The disciples grew through obedience to God's word. If I knew how this was going to turn into such a long adventure I am not sure I would have signed on for this. I know my mom would not have. I am sure there are times she thinks I am crazy; and in some things I probably am, but this is not one of them. For the most part I have truly enjoyed myself. I do miss some of the comforts of home, but I have a great flat, a store across the street, Internet and phones so I can talk to my family every day. And in the end I will have two beautiful daughters to add to my already great sons. In the midst of the storms of our lives we just have to praise Him, trust Him with everything, and Glorify HIM... But for now in this what I think is a storm in my life I will enjoy what He is showing me and trying to learn as much as I can...
Now I will get off my soap box and give you some fun facts again. The following are some of the things I saw and thought were funny as we sat at the bus stop, and then during the bus ride:
- Three mopeds racing down the street and then one of them popping a wheelie. I have no idea how he didn't fall and kill himself on these roads. I think he must have been the one who won, or maybe he lost and wanted to show off.
- I am amazed at how many stray cats and dogs there are in this city. I have learned there is no animal control here, but that it is illegal to kill them. So now at the flat we are almost overrun with kittens. When we first arrived here there were around twenty-five stray cats. Now we have SEVENTY-FIVE TO ONE HUNDRED kittens and, for now, about FIFTEEN dogs. I am sure that will dramatically increase because the dogs are having a “great spring”, which makes for some funny talks with Alyona!!
- Saturday was the first of May; and everyone apparently received the memo that spring was here. When we had gone to the market on Wednesday they were still selling winter clothes; and you could not find a short sleeve shirt anywhere. Now, if you need a long sleeve anything you are out of luck. And I have seen more swimsuits. Which comes to something else I learned; and I am glad Tim won't be going to the beach here. It is now legal for women to go topless and men nude!
- Painting, painting, painting everywhere. It seems like the city is coming to life. Everything that is metal gets new paint. When we first got here it was very dull and dirty, but not as much now. I just wish the daily street cleanings would work on the dirt! All they do is wet it and make mud for a short time. Then it dries.
- We came across a sign which very much describes this town: “Kobbos + Charcoal = Beer party”. This weekend they celebrated May Day, which means most of the town shuts down and holds parties everywhere. Which may be why there seems to be such a curse on this country.
- Then, we were walking down the street talking about the sun; and this guy comes up behind me and beeps his horn. I was not paying any attention, as I was on the sidewalk; and you here horns beeping all the time. Then another beep. This time I look; and it is a guy driving down the sidewalk; and he is mad at me. For some strange reason I thought sidewalks were for pedestrian, but I guess not here.
- As we were walking to the bus we were following these two guys from China. One was about 200 pounds and built really well. The other was about 130 pounds and very skinny. The built guy was wearing these dark purple flip flops. The other one was wearing hot pink ones with flowers glued to the tops of them; and he was smoking, swinging his hiney all over the place. Alyona looks at me and smiles. When they have left us, she looks at me and almost falls on the ground laughing. We have had a few good laughs over this!
I hope y'all have good week. And please remember to pray for us on Wednesday when we are to get the court decree, and then Thursday when we finally get to take Kristina out of the orphanage for good.
Lynn
At the church we have been attaining here (thank you Vicky and Vernon for recommending it to us!) we had a guest preacher today from Indiana; and he taught on: How is GOD leading you? He read from Mark 6:45-56: ‘Immediately Jesus made his disciples get into the boat and go on ahead of him to Bethesda, while he dismissed the crowd. After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray. When evening came, the boat was in the middle of the lake, and he was alone on land. He saw the disciples straining at the oars, because the wind was against them. About the fourth watch of the night he went out to them, walking on the lake. He was about to pass by them, but when they saw him walking on the lake, they thought he was a ghost. They cried out, because they all saw him and were terrified. Immediately he spoke to them and said, "Take courage! It is I. Don't be afraid." Then he climbed into the boat with them, and the wind died down. They were completely amazed, for they had not understood about the loaves; their hearts were hardened.’ (NIV)
What I have learned was:
1.) Paul wanted the church to find their spiritual gifts.
2.) We can't be edified without God being Glorified.
3.) The Lord is still leading the same way He lead 2000 plus years ago. His word has not changed, just our hearts toward it.
4.) When we read the Gospels, we need to see ourselves in them.
5.) We need to get in the boat to go to the other side as sometimes we are with the wrong crowd.
6.) We need to feed our souls, not our stomachs.
I feel like there have been times in this Journey we have been on we have came under attack from the devil. When I sit back and think about the attacks, and when they have come, it has been when I was not fully leaning on the Lord to direct our paths. I wanted to help Him out. I cannot do that as His plans are the perfect plans. I have to always remember Jesus is in heaven praying on my behalf, so it will work out. I cannot expect to have a smooth road if I am going to follow Christ. Look at Paul. He went to prison. And Moses… he could not speak well and was asked to lead the Israelites out of Egypt. As well as so many others who came before us. In comparison, my life and trials have been easy. The disciples grew through obedience to God's word. If I knew how this was going to turn into such a long adventure I am not sure I would have signed on for this. I know my mom would not have. I am sure there are times she thinks I am crazy; and in some things I probably am, but this is not one of them. For the most part I have truly enjoyed myself. I do miss some of the comforts of home, but I have a great flat, a store across the street, Internet and phones so I can talk to my family every day. And in the end I will have two beautiful daughters to add to my already great sons. In the midst of the storms of our lives we just have to praise Him, trust Him with everything, and Glorify HIM... But for now in this what I think is a storm in my life I will enjoy what He is showing me and trying to learn as much as I can...
Now I will get off my soap box and give you some fun facts again. The following are some of the things I saw and thought were funny as we sat at the bus stop, and then during the bus ride:
- Three mopeds racing down the street and then one of them popping a wheelie. I have no idea how he didn't fall and kill himself on these roads. I think he must have been the one who won, or maybe he lost and wanted to show off.
- I am amazed at how many stray cats and dogs there are in this city. I have learned there is no animal control here, but that it is illegal to kill them. So now at the flat we are almost overrun with kittens. When we first arrived here there were around twenty-five stray cats. Now we have SEVENTY-FIVE TO ONE HUNDRED kittens and, for now, about FIFTEEN dogs. I am sure that will dramatically increase because the dogs are having a “great spring”, which makes for some funny talks with Alyona!!
- Saturday was the first of May; and everyone apparently received the memo that spring was here. When we had gone to the market on Wednesday they were still selling winter clothes; and you could not find a short sleeve shirt anywhere. Now, if you need a long sleeve anything you are out of luck. And I have seen more swimsuits. Which comes to something else I learned; and I am glad Tim won't be going to the beach here. It is now legal for women to go topless and men nude!
- Painting, painting, painting everywhere. It seems like the city is coming to life. Everything that is metal gets new paint. When we first got here it was very dull and dirty, but not as much now. I just wish the daily street cleanings would work on the dirt! All they do is wet it and make mud for a short time. Then it dries.
- We came across a sign which very much describes this town: “Kobbos + Charcoal = Beer party”. This weekend they celebrated May Day, which means most of the town shuts down and holds parties everywhere. Which may be why there seems to be such a curse on this country.
- Then, we were walking down the street talking about the sun; and this guy comes up behind me and beeps his horn. I was not paying any attention, as I was on the sidewalk; and you here horns beeping all the time. Then another beep. This time I look; and it is a guy driving down the sidewalk; and he is mad at me. For some strange reason I thought sidewalks were for pedestrian, but I guess not here.
- As we were walking to the bus we were following these two guys from China. One was about 200 pounds and built really well. The other was about 130 pounds and very skinny. The built guy was wearing these dark purple flip flops. The other one was wearing hot pink ones with flowers glued to the tops of them; and he was smoking, swinging his hiney all over the place. Alyona looks at me and smiles. When they have left us, she looks at me and almost falls on the ground laughing. We have had a few good laughs over this!
I hope y'all have good week. And please remember to pray for us on Wednesday when we are to get the court decree, and then Thursday when we finally get to take Kristina out of the orphanage for good.
Lynn
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