Good evening to all. And a Happy Memorial Day weekend at that. Thought I would post a little something something tonight, as I find myself not able to sit still and just relax. It seems as the closer we get to the big day and the longer I am separated from my girls, I get a little more ancy every day.
I have spoken to Nastya and LA on Skype the last couple of days. Don't know what I would do without it! To steal an old saying from Regis on Who Wants to be a Millionaire, it has been our lifeline. The internet connection on that side of the pond is not as fast and reliable as we have in the US, so we don't get to enjoy video chat too much, but we are making do with voice chat.
Nastya seems to be adjusting rather nicely. Or at least that is what it appears to look like from 7000 miles away. Its only been about 48 hours since our "GOTCHA" day and from the outside looking in, this appears to be such. She seems to enjoy spending time with her Granddaddy and Mama, but I think the Ipad has won out! I guess that means when they get back I get to save up for a new Ipad 2, huh?
It doesn't seem enough to just say I MISS them. I keep racking my brain for a word that means more than MISS, but cannot find one. It has now been 14 1/2 days since I have seen LA and 13 1/2 days since I last gave Nastya a hug. But the Lord willing, it should be less than a week and they will be home.
I have been trying to keep myself active and not sit still, as when I do, my mind wanders and my heart starts to ache. I can only imagine that it feels like a cat trying to scat across a hot tin roof. However, it has been a little relaxing as I have been able to catch up with some friends and spend some time with family the last couple of weeks. It is great to be around those you love and appreciate. The true meaning of time well spent seems to be the most important time. Its not about what you do, but who you do it with.
I am feeling like I am started to ramble a little bit and the thoughts are scattering. So, with that, I bid you good night. Please continue to pray for LA, Nastya, and Granddaddy while they are over there and stay tuned for their return info. As soon as plans are finalized, I will be sure to let everyone know. I know they would love to see you at RDU when they return. But I must set one rule...I get the first set of hugs and lovin'!
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Friday, May 27, 2011
Milestones
On my drive home last night, I had a lot of time on my hands to do some thinking. Last night, for me, was kind of an epiphany in some ways. I have always known that Nastya is going to be coming to live with us forever and be part of our family, but the undeniable reality set in last night that I am a Daddy.
By no means is this a bad thing. I have been looking forward to them coming home for what seems like forever. As we get closer and closer, I just cannot believe it is almost here. Will someone pinch me?
March 29
April 1
May 11
May 23
May 27
These are all major milestones in our journey that I will never forget. Last night was the last night that Nastya will have to sleep alone in an orphanage. Today, LA will complete the necessary steps to "check her out" of the orphanage once and for all. I know how excited, nervous, and scared I am about them coming home; but, I can only imagine what went through Nastya's head last night as she went to sleep.
So as you go about your day today, as I will be doing as I go about my day, please keep Nastya and LA in your thoughts and prayers as they start a new chapter in all of our lives today. LA and Nastya are finally together today forever. And soon...very soon...we will all be together as one big forever family.
By no means is this a bad thing. I have been looking forward to them coming home for what seems like forever. As we get closer and closer, I just cannot believe it is almost here. Will someone pinch me?
March 29
April 1
May 11
May 23
May 27
These are all major milestones in our journey that I will never forget. Last night was the last night that Nastya will have to sleep alone in an orphanage. Today, LA will complete the necessary steps to "check her out" of the orphanage once and for all. I know how excited, nervous, and scared I am about them coming home; but, I can only imagine what went through Nastya's head last night as she went to sleep.
So as you go about your day today, as I will be doing as I go about my day, please keep Nastya and LA in your thoughts and prayers as they start a new chapter in all of our lives today. LA and Nastya are finally together today forever. And soon...very soon...we will all be together as one big forever family.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Triple Crown
In homage of yesterday's failed attempt by Animal Kingdom to win the second leg of the Triple Crown in the world of horse racing, I find title to today's thoughts. Not an experienced equestrian by any stretch of the imagination, but over the years I have found myself rather intrigued by the sport. A rather majestic and masculine sporting event where the participants do what they love, all for a bucket full of oats and honey at days end.
Today starts the third leg of our journey to Bring Nastya Home. LA departed England early this morning, 1am EST, east bound for Munich. There she will meet up with her Dad to share the next couple of weeks experience with. John started his first leg yesterday morning, leaving for Munich, via RDU and Dulles. The goal of this third and final leg is for them to complete the paperwork necessary to Bring Nastya Home to Raleigh.
My goal during this blog has been to share our experience and journey with those that have made it possible. But just as importantly, it has been to document my emotional journey along the way. A tool to look back upon to remember the experience and truly capture every moment. As I began to type this entry a couple of minutes ago, I realized that this posting may be the most in depth and "private" divulgence to date. I accept that and understand that I am only human and feel a sort of therapy in putting these thoughts on paper.
So here it goes.
I must say that I am a little jealous of LA in some ways. First I must explain that I fully understand that I am not supposed to be jealous. One of the seven deadly sins is envy/jealousy, but I have not been able to suppress this feeling, especially as this day has approached. All I can do is work through it and make my heart right and know that what we are doing is right and that the emotions that are ebbing and flowing right now are probably pretty normal for our set of circumstances.
When we first broke from the gate back in August 2010, it was very clear that I had made an undeniable connection with Nastya. All of the people that had surrounded her during her experience in the area witnessed something miraculous in our spark and saw a side of her with me that was not evident prior. There was an immediate bond from our very first interaction.
Shortly after meeting Nastya and making the decision to proceed with the process to adopt her, I learned from LA that she was a bit concerned with the strength of this connection. Concerned may not be the right word here. LA was worried that she wouldn't have that same connection with her, as her initial experience was not as strong. Let me make it abundantly clear though. At no time did LA ever doubt what we were doing, but she was worried that as a soon to be new Mommy, would that same bond exist betweeen the two of them? In almost story book and poetic fashion, a little jealousy was there in the opposite direction.
Over the last several months, LA and I have had many conversations about this subject; and I don't think she would mind me sharing this story with you. My anticipation of expected jealousy of her during this phase of the journey and her feelings during the initial phase of the journey are very similar. Just another element that has made us even closer and opened our relationship to an even greater level of emotional intimacy.
Just exactly what am I jealous of? Its not a single item or set of items, but an overall conglomeration of the experience that LA is going to share with Nastya over the next couple weeks. Sometime this week, LA will take custody of Nastya and "sign her out" of the orphanage. They will then spend every moment together and start the next chapter in Nastya's life as our daughter. I wish I could be there for that.
I understand that I cannot be there. My work commitments and our finances do not allow that to happen. I accept those facts and know that at this point in time it cannot be changed. Truly and honestly I accept it and have moved on. I have chosen to turn my jealously into a positive and prepare for their return in a little while.
LA and I departed on our second trip on Derby Day, May 7, 2011. Within minutes of post time that day, just as the horses left the gates in the run for the roses, LA and I took off overseas to go get our rose, Nastya. During that trip, we won that leg of the race with a positive courtoom result.
LA departed this weekend...Preakness weekend...to go get Nastya and bring her home.
If all goes smoothly, they should be home in or around 20 days, which is the day of the running of the third leg of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes.
Just as the owners, trainers, and jockeys prepare their horses for each of these three races; I sit back and prepare for LA to bring home our Triple Crown winner, Nastya. A crown, seemingly fitting if you ask me. LA went to England for a brief stay during our waiting period...an area of the world represented by a royal family and a crown. Nastya is my little princess, and deservedly so, wears a symbolic crown in my heart. So as our family breaks out of the gates in this third and final leg of our journey to Bring Nastya Home, I sit back with anticipation...with stop watch in hand...checking the progress as they make their way around the track...waiting for them to come down the back stretch and across the finish line...into our home...and winning the biggest jackpot in the world...having my wife and daughter home with me once and for all!
Today starts the third leg of our journey to Bring Nastya Home. LA departed England early this morning, 1am EST, east bound for Munich. There she will meet up with her Dad to share the next couple of weeks experience with. John started his first leg yesterday morning, leaving for Munich, via RDU and Dulles. The goal of this third and final leg is for them to complete the paperwork necessary to Bring Nastya Home to Raleigh.
My goal during this blog has been to share our experience and journey with those that have made it possible. But just as importantly, it has been to document my emotional journey along the way. A tool to look back upon to remember the experience and truly capture every moment. As I began to type this entry a couple of minutes ago, I realized that this posting may be the most in depth and "private" divulgence to date. I accept that and understand that I am only human and feel a sort of therapy in putting these thoughts on paper.
So here it goes.
I must say that I am a little jealous of LA in some ways. First I must explain that I fully understand that I am not supposed to be jealous. One of the seven deadly sins is envy/jealousy, but I have not been able to suppress this feeling, especially as this day has approached. All I can do is work through it and make my heart right and know that what we are doing is right and that the emotions that are ebbing and flowing right now are probably pretty normal for our set of circumstances.
When we first broke from the gate back in August 2010, it was very clear that I had made an undeniable connection with Nastya. All of the people that had surrounded her during her experience in the area witnessed something miraculous in our spark and saw a side of her with me that was not evident prior. There was an immediate bond from our very first interaction.
Shortly after meeting Nastya and making the decision to proceed with the process to adopt her, I learned from LA that she was a bit concerned with the strength of this connection. Concerned may not be the right word here. LA was worried that she wouldn't have that same connection with her, as her initial experience was not as strong. Let me make it abundantly clear though. At no time did LA ever doubt what we were doing, but she was worried that as a soon to be new Mommy, would that same bond exist betweeen the two of them? In almost story book and poetic fashion, a little jealousy was there in the opposite direction.
Over the last several months, LA and I have had many conversations about this subject; and I don't think she would mind me sharing this story with you. My anticipation of expected jealousy of her during this phase of the journey and her feelings during the initial phase of the journey are very similar. Just another element that has made us even closer and opened our relationship to an even greater level of emotional intimacy.
Just exactly what am I jealous of? Its not a single item or set of items, but an overall conglomeration of the experience that LA is going to share with Nastya over the next couple weeks. Sometime this week, LA will take custody of Nastya and "sign her out" of the orphanage. They will then spend every moment together and start the next chapter in Nastya's life as our daughter. I wish I could be there for that.
I understand that I cannot be there. My work commitments and our finances do not allow that to happen. I accept those facts and know that at this point in time it cannot be changed. Truly and honestly I accept it and have moved on. I have chosen to turn my jealously into a positive and prepare for their return in a little while.
LA and I departed on our second trip on Derby Day, May 7, 2011. Within minutes of post time that day, just as the horses left the gates in the run for the roses, LA and I took off overseas to go get our rose, Nastya. During that trip, we won that leg of the race with a positive courtoom result.
LA departed this weekend...Preakness weekend...to go get Nastya and bring her home.
If all goes smoothly, they should be home in or around 20 days, which is the day of the running of the third leg of the Triple Crown, the Belmont Stakes.
Just as the owners, trainers, and jockeys prepare their horses for each of these three races; I sit back and prepare for LA to bring home our Triple Crown winner, Nastya. A crown, seemingly fitting if you ask me. LA went to England for a brief stay during our waiting period...an area of the world represented by a royal family and a crown. Nastya is my little princess, and deservedly so, wears a symbolic crown in my heart. So as our family breaks out of the gates in this third and final leg of our journey to Bring Nastya Home, I sit back with anticipation...with stop watch in hand...checking the progress as they make their way around the track...waiting for them to come down the back stretch and across the finish line...into our home...and winning the biggest jackpot in the world...having my wife and daughter home with me once and for all!
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Missing My Girls
Its been almost 2 months that I have been without my Daisy. Its been 6 days since I have been without my Nastya. And its been 5 days that I have been without my LA. I sure am missing my 3 girls. Yep, I said it...3 girls. Not 1 girl. Not 2 girls. But 3 girls. I can now say that....3.....3.....3.....3.....
I will soon be reunited with my four legged girl, Daisy. She has been on vacation in Virginia with some absolutely wonderful friends. Jen, Dave, and Tye have been her home away from home since mid March and they have treated her like their own. They have loved on her and taught her new tricks and I am sure spoiled her a little. Hopefully she learned a little about being around kids while being with Tye, because Nastya will be home soon. I cannot wait to see her next week! Nothing beats coming home to the tailwagging and unconditional love she gives.
Unfortuneately, it is going to be a little bit longer than next week before I get reunited with my other 2 girls. Nastya and LA are currently scheduled to come home in mid June. If things go as planned, it may be a little earlier than currently scheduled. But one thing I have come to learn during this process is that you don't plan more than the day ahead of you. So, for right now, mentally I have to accept the fact that it will be sometime in June.
Skype has been my saving grace the last 5 days and has allowed LA and I to talk every day. I am like a little kid on Christmas Eve waiting for Santa to come as I wait for my chance to talk to LA every day. With the time difference, it takes some planning; but, it is the highlight of my day! It is so gratifying to see her having such a good time in England. Granted this is no vacation for her while waiting out our mandatory waiting period, but it is great to see her enjoying herself and experiencing a life long dream to visit this part of the world.
I am so grateful for Lizzie and her family. Just like the Grants have done with Daisy, they have taken LA in this week and made her a part of their family. As a husband that wants safety, security, and happiness for my wife, I will be forever grateful for them and what they are doing for us. They are good people doing good things out of the goodness of their hearts. Just as I have said many times along the way, "thanks" will never be enough. LA has found a home away from home on the other side of the pond.
And my dear Nastya. MY NASTYA. That has a nice ring to it! What do I say about how much I miss my daughter? MY DAUGHTER. That has an even nicer ring to it! Here's a little story that sheds a little light on how much I am thinking about her and missing her already.
Wednesday morning before leaving for work, I was in her room folding some clothes and I couldn't help but stop for a second and think about the whole timeline. When we bought our house, we always knew that this room would be the nursery or the "kids" room. We didn't know if it would be a girl or a boy. We didn't know when it would happen. And we certainly didn't know it would take so long to fill. Over the years, LA and I have used this room as an extra TV room, a sitting room, a makeshift laundry room, and up until now a kids room in waiting. But now, it is officially her room.
As I have shared with you in previous posts, I have stood many a day in the doorway and couldn't bring myself to look in or walk in. But Wednesday morning I stood in the middle of the room, looking around at her bed...her desk...her dresser...her closet...her everything. The only thing missing was her.
Missing my girls.
One comes home next week. Almost one year to the day that we rescued her.
The other two come home in a couple weeks.
I pray for their safe travels.
A smooth paperwork process.
And that they know if their hearts how much their Daddy and husband misses them and loves them.
I will soon be reunited with my four legged girl, Daisy. She has been on vacation in Virginia with some absolutely wonderful friends. Jen, Dave, and Tye have been her home away from home since mid March and they have treated her like their own. They have loved on her and taught her new tricks and I am sure spoiled her a little. Hopefully she learned a little about being around kids while being with Tye, because Nastya will be home soon. I cannot wait to see her next week! Nothing beats coming home to the tailwagging and unconditional love she gives.
Unfortuneately, it is going to be a little bit longer than next week before I get reunited with my other 2 girls. Nastya and LA are currently scheduled to come home in mid June. If things go as planned, it may be a little earlier than currently scheduled. But one thing I have come to learn during this process is that you don't plan more than the day ahead of you. So, for right now, mentally I have to accept the fact that it will be sometime in June.
Skype has been my saving grace the last 5 days and has allowed LA and I to talk every day. I am like a little kid on Christmas Eve waiting for Santa to come as I wait for my chance to talk to LA every day. With the time difference, it takes some planning; but, it is the highlight of my day! It is so gratifying to see her having such a good time in England. Granted this is no vacation for her while waiting out our mandatory waiting period, but it is great to see her enjoying herself and experiencing a life long dream to visit this part of the world.
I am so grateful for Lizzie and her family. Just like the Grants have done with Daisy, they have taken LA in this week and made her a part of their family. As a husband that wants safety, security, and happiness for my wife, I will be forever grateful for them and what they are doing for us. They are good people doing good things out of the goodness of their hearts. Just as I have said many times along the way, "thanks" will never be enough. LA has found a home away from home on the other side of the pond.
And my dear Nastya. MY NASTYA. That has a nice ring to it! What do I say about how much I miss my daughter? MY DAUGHTER. That has an even nicer ring to it! Here's a little story that sheds a little light on how much I am thinking about her and missing her already.
Wednesday morning before leaving for work, I was in her room folding some clothes and I couldn't help but stop for a second and think about the whole timeline. When we bought our house, we always knew that this room would be the nursery or the "kids" room. We didn't know if it would be a girl or a boy. We didn't know when it would happen. And we certainly didn't know it would take so long to fill. Over the years, LA and I have used this room as an extra TV room, a sitting room, a makeshift laundry room, and up until now a kids room in waiting. But now, it is officially her room.
As I have shared with you in previous posts, I have stood many a day in the doorway and couldn't bring myself to look in or walk in. But Wednesday morning I stood in the middle of the room, looking around at her bed...her desk...her dresser...her closet...her everything. The only thing missing was her.
Missing my girls.
One comes home next week. Almost one year to the day that we rescued her.
The other two come home in a couple weeks.
I pray for their safe travels.
A smooth paperwork process.
And that they know if their hearts how much their Daddy and husband misses them and loves them.
Thursday, May 12, 2011
Oompa and A Zoom Zoom Zoom
Today by far was the most relaxed, adventurous, and "normal" day so far. With all of the official business out of the way for this trip and no travel planned for today, we were able to enjoy all that Simferopol had to offer.
It is amazing how relieved it felt waking up this morning knowing that part of the process was behind us. I really never realized it, but your mind and body go into a different mode of operation when you are going through the day to day logistics and navigating this complicated trail towards adoption. But this morning when I woke up, not only was I a new Daddy, I was somewhat taken aback by my comfort level today.
Our agenda was not empty though, as we had made plans to visit with Nastya and to meet up with some friends of ours that live in the area.
We first set out to visit with the young lady that has helped us communicate with Nastya and has been our link to her since the start. She is the most vital lifeline we had with Nastya as she ministered to all the kids at the orphanage on a weekly basis. Sharing stories with them, loving on them, and being the all important liason to communications back and forth. It was a joy and pleasure to meet her and be invited into her family's home this afternoon. We are forever grateful for what she has done for us and with Nastya.
After that visit, we headed out to meet the pastor of a local church that had been recommended to us by another family that had travelled to this part of the country. Once again, we experienced the warm hospitality that Ukrainian people offer as we sat and talked with him about the church that has opened here, the struggles that they encounter to stay up and running, and making arrangements for LA and Nastya to return for Sunday services when they come back on the next trip. It is comforting as a husband and new Daddy that my girls will have a church home for the small time they are back over here. A place to be welcomed and be comfortable in their surroundings.
In between those two visits, we got to spend some time with Nastya. For the first time on this adventure, we were invited to see her room. One she currently shares with 11 other girls. It is an incredible honor to be invited to see their rooms, as their rooms are their private sanctuary and the place that the girls feel most safe. They keep the only possessions they own either under their pillows or under their bed and you could feel the "sacredness" of how well they protect and take care of their beds, room, and the other girls they share it with.
Each of the beds were very neatly made, with all the bed linens neatly tucked in and each individual pillow situated in a pyramid at the head of their beds. There was a definite nip in the air inside their room and no heat was on. This single element reminded me all to seriously at how little these kids have and how precious their space is to them.
We met 5 or 6 of the girls that Nastya shares a room with and each was very shy and reserved. Each of them tiny and layered in clothing, with Nastya being the tallest of them all. All of them are as sweet as sweet can be and I wish I could bundle them all up and bring each and every one of them home with me.
I guess you are wondering where the title of this blog comes from? Well, simply stated, its the rather funny, sarcastic, and sometimes side busting with laughter experience of riding with and attempting to communicate with our current driver. He is one funny character. He doesn't speak a lick of English...understand a lick of English...or understand the fact that we don't understand a word he is saying. He is a rather aggressive driver by Ukrainian standards as well. And that is not a good thing if you see what the norm is over here. LA and I just have to sit back, hold on for dear life, and enjoy the extravagent gestures, demonstritive cherades, and overall character of this man. It has become a rather fun part of LA and my adventure to try and "translate" his words and actions. So far, LA has figured out that when someone cuts him off or is going to slow, he waves his arms at them, shouts at them in Russian and it sounds something like "OOMPA" and "ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM". So when we don't know what to say to him and to just have a little laugh back and forth between the 3 of us, we just wave our hands and say "Zoom Zoom Zoom". Maybe we can get a little kick back from the company that has the car commercial back in the US with that slogan...Zoom Zoom Zoom.
In closing, this will probably be my last blog before I get back to the US. Friday morning we will be picked up and taken to see Nastya for a little while, then be ZOOM ZOOM ZOOMed to the airport to start our journey home. LA and I will be together until sometime mid morning on Saturday and then we will go our separate ways. Me back to Raleigh and LA on to England to stay with friends for a brief waiting period. I am scheduled to return to RDU around 8:30pm on Saturday night, after travels thru Kiev, Munich, and Charlotte.
I am trying to hold back the thoughts of us being apart for nearly a month. She has been my companion for this journey and we have been together 24/7 for most of the last 2 months. LA is sitting ride here by my side, but I miss her already.
So, until next time, when I will more than likely be back in the safe confines of my humble abode.
It is amazing how relieved it felt waking up this morning knowing that part of the process was behind us. I really never realized it, but your mind and body go into a different mode of operation when you are going through the day to day logistics and navigating this complicated trail towards adoption. But this morning when I woke up, not only was I a new Daddy, I was somewhat taken aback by my comfort level today.
Our agenda was not empty though, as we had made plans to visit with Nastya and to meet up with some friends of ours that live in the area.
We first set out to visit with the young lady that has helped us communicate with Nastya and has been our link to her since the start. She is the most vital lifeline we had with Nastya as she ministered to all the kids at the orphanage on a weekly basis. Sharing stories with them, loving on them, and being the all important liason to communications back and forth. It was a joy and pleasure to meet her and be invited into her family's home this afternoon. We are forever grateful for what she has done for us and with Nastya.
After that visit, we headed out to meet the pastor of a local church that had been recommended to us by another family that had travelled to this part of the country. Once again, we experienced the warm hospitality that Ukrainian people offer as we sat and talked with him about the church that has opened here, the struggles that they encounter to stay up and running, and making arrangements for LA and Nastya to return for Sunday services when they come back on the next trip. It is comforting as a husband and new Daddy that my girls will have a church home for the small time they are back over here. A place to be welcomed and be comfortable in their surroundings.
In between those two visits, we got to spend some time with Nastya. For the first time on this adventure, we were invited to see her room. One she currently shares with 11 other girls. It is an incredible honor to be invited to see their rooms, as their rooms are their private sanctuary and the place that the girls feel most safe. They keep the only possessions they own either under their pillows or under their bed and you could feel the "sacredness" of how well they protect and take care of their beds, room, and the other girls they share it with.
Each of the beds were very neatly made, with all the bed linens neatly tucked in and each individual pillow situated in a pyramid at the head of their beds. There was a definite nip in the air inside their room and no heat was on. This single element reminded me all to seriously at how little these kids have and how precious their space is to them.
We met 5 or 6 of the girls that Nastya shares a room with and each was very shy and reserved. Each of them tiny and layered in clothing, with Nastya being the tallest of them all. All of them are as sweet as sweet can be and I wish I could bundle them all up and bring each and every one of them home with me.
I guess you are wondering where the title of this blog comes from? Well, simply stated, its the rather funny, sarcastic, and sometimes side busting with laughter experience of riding with and attempting to communicate with our current driver. He is one funny character. He doesn't speak a lick of English...understand a lick of English...or understand the fact that we don't understand a word he is saying. He is a rather aggressive driver by Ukrainian standards as well. And that is not a good thing if you see what the norm is over here. LA and I just have to sit back, hold on for dear life, and enjoy the extravagent gestures, demonstritive cherades, and overall character of this man. It has become a rather fun part of LA and my adventure to try and "translate" his words and actions. So far, LA has figured out that when someone cuts him off or is going to slow, he waves his arms at them, shouts at them in Russian and it sounds something like "OOMPA" and "ZOOM ZOOM ZOOM". So when we don't know what to say to him and to just have a little laugh back and forth between the 3 of us, we just wave our hands and say "Zoom Zoom Zoom". Maybe we can get a little kick back from the company that has the car commercial back in the US with that slogan...Zoom Zoom Zoom.
In closing, this will probably be my last blog before I get back to the US. Friday morning we will be picked up and taken to see Nastya for a little while, then be ZOOM ZOOM ZOOMed to the airport to start our journey home. LA and I will be together until sometime mid morning on Saturday and then we will go our separate ways. Me back to Raleigh and LA on to England to stay with friends for a brief waiting period. I am scheduled to return to RDU around 8:30pm on Saturday night, after travels thru Kiev, Munich, and Charlotte.
I am trying to hold back the thoughts of us being apart for nearly a month. She has been my companion for this journey and we have been together 24/7 for most of the last 2 months. LA is sitting ride here by my side, but I miss her already.
So, until next time, when I will more than likely be back in the safe confines of my humble abode.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Now A Family of 3
As of 12:29 PM Eastern Europe Standard Time (EEST), I am officially a new Daddy. As most of you were still cozy in your beds, 5:29am EST, LA and I were eagerly listening to the judge read the final decision on our case. As our translator said the magic word..."Approved"...my eyes began to swell with tears in absolute and overwhelming relief. Nastya was finally ours.
The day started out well and only got better. Surprising, I slept straight through the night without any tossing and turning. So many times during this process, the uncertainty of each step created many sleepless and restless nights. Over the past 10 months, I remember many a night waking up in the middle of the night from a bad dream about the process or my mind was going 100 mph and I couldn't shut things down and rest. But last night, I had a peaceful sleep and woke up this morning knowing that all of you back home were praying for us and were thinking about us.
When I initially woke up around 6am, I felt an undeniable calmness and had no level of anxiety for the day ahead. Per our normal protocol, I woke up a little earlier than LA and casually went about our morning. We ate a light breakfast of oatmeal and a banana, our main morning staples on this trip. With no Rachel Ray or Good Morning America to watch and keep us occupied, we continued our routines of showering and getting ready for the day.
Our wardrobes reflected the powerful presence that court day had in store for us as I donned a long sleeve shirt and tie; with LA dressed in a neatly pressed pants suit for the occasion. I haven't worn a tie in quite some time...my Grandma's funeral to be exact. I was quite impressed with myself that I got it tied correctly on the first try! Knot perfectly situated under the button down collar and the bottom of the tie neatly hanging just above the rim of my belt as gentlemanly fashion suggests. It wasn't until I looked in the mirror to make sure I was presentable that I started to feel the emotions of the day.
Butterflies started swirling in my stomach. I started tappping my fingernails on the table as LA politely put her hand over mine as to say without saying that I was irritating her with this action. My mind was racing with the four items we had to memorize to petition the court with during our trial. I was worrying if we would make it on time...would everyone else be there on time...were we prepared to take this final step...mulling over all the responses we had practiced if asked certain questions. If you have ever watched Disney's Alladin, my brain was moving in all different directions, kind of the like the genie pionting out all the exits on the flying carpet when he was magically transformed into the steward for Alladin, Jasmine, and his sidekick monkey....here there and everywhere.
We left the apartment promptly at 10:28 to go downstairs and meet our driver and coordinator at 10:30 to head to the courthouse, for an 11am court time. At 10:45 they show up and this 15 minute wait has only made those butterflies fly around like they had just finished a couple expressos. We finally arrive at the courthouse, on time may I add, and proceeded into the waiting room. Only to find out that the prosecutor was running a little behind. More expresso for those butterflies.
As we wait for all parties to arrive, our coordinator leads us into the waiting room and there sits Nastya with the orphanage representative and other parties involved in the process. It was a delight to see her and just her smile towards me calmed my nerves a little. LA and I quietly sat and waited in what I thought was the actual courtroom, but ended up just being a holding area. It reminded me alot of the small courthouse in historic Williamsburg. Small, bare, and very non-LA Law and Matlockish. There was a holding cell in the corner which I sat right next to, imagining the unlucky few that have spent time waiting behind those bars.
About ten minutes past eleven, we were called into the judge's chambers, which is where the hearing took place. Not at all what I had mentally pictured in my head. I guess too many Good Wife and People's Court episodes had clouded my judgement as to what to expect.
The process was very formal and completely in the Ukrainian language, with our translator sharing bits and pieces that we needed to hear. After an hour or so, we were told to wait outside and to return in 30 minutes for the decision. Five minutes into our wait, we are summoned back in for the ruling.
With everyone standing at attention in their previously occupied spaces, the judge stood up and started to read the decision. We didn't get every word translated but got the gist of it. But when our translator said "It is approved" I started to cry and tears started streaming down my cheek. I quickly wiped them away as to not look vulnerable, but as I was doing such, I noticed that everyone else in the courtroom, except the judge, was doing the same thing! Nastya was officially our daughter.
After everyone exited the judge's chambers you could see the relief in everyone's eyes and faces as we shared hugs and kisses, congratulatory comments, and big sighs of relief. We proceeded outside to take a few quick pictures...the first of us officially being a new family. Just as the sun was shining high above, my heart was beaming and I was grinning ear to ear as we took our first official family photo, standing on the sidewalk outside the courthouse.
Celebrations were on tap and we headed to lunch to rejoice and enjoy the moment. It is such a special day for Nastya especially. She now has a forever family. Like we had heard from other families before us, we headed out for a grand lunch celebration. Our coordinator, the orphanage representive, Nastya, LA and I enjoyed a rather delicious Italian meal and enjoyed spending time together celebrating what had just happened.
After lunch, Nastya tried on some clothes that we had brought with us. The goal was to find the perfect fit as we needed to prepare to purchase some clothes for when LA comes back and takes custody of her. Some stuff was a little too small...some stuff a little big...and some stuff just right. I think we got it figured out and the shopping can now begin.
With full bellies, happy hearts, and the emotional burden of the process lifted, we took Nastya back to the orphanage and arranged for our visits for the next couple of days.
Today...I officially became a Daddy. Not a Daddy in theory. Or one just in my mind and heart. But a true Daddy in the eyes of those that make the decisions. Two separate countries now are witness to me being Nastya's father. My close male friends that have kids have always said that the feeling of being a new Daddy is undescribeable. They were exactly right. After nearly five years of trying to have our own biological children, numerous fertility treatments and procedures, and the sadness and disappointment of the not having any children...they have all been magically erased and Nastya is now a Puskar.
This all wouldn't be possible without the love, support, and prayers of all of our family and friends. Today is a day to celebrate. May 11, 2011 at 12:29 EEST. Daddy...Mommy...Nastya...one big happy family. God is good. Prayers have been answered and my heart is finally content.
Tonight I go to bed not just as a son, brother, and husband...
But as a proud PaPa...
Nastya's PaPa!
The day started out well and only got better. Surprising, I slept straight through the night without any tossing and turning. So many times during this process, the uncertainty of each step created many sleepless and restless nights. Over the past 10 months, I remember many a night waking up in the middle of the night from a bad dream about the process or my mind was going 100 mph and I couldn't shut things down and rest. But last night, I had a peaceful sleep and woke up this morning knowing that all of you back home were praying for us and were thinking about us.
When I initially woke up around 6am, I felt an undeniable calmness and had no level of anxiety for the day ahead. Per our normal protocol, I woke up a little earlier than LA and casually went about our morning. We ate a light breakfast of oatmeal and a banana, our main morning staples on this trip. With no Rachel Ray or Good Morning America to watch and keep us occupied, we continued our routines of showering and getting ready for the day.
Our wardrobes reflected the powerful presence that court day had in store for us as I donned a long sleeve shirt and tie; with LA dressed in a neatly pressed pants suit for the occasion. I haven't worn a tie in quite some time...my Grandma's funeral to be exact. I was quite impressed with myself that I got it tied correctly on the first try! Knot perfectly situated under the button down collar and the bottom of the tie neatly hanging just above the rim of my belt as gentlemanly fashion suggests. It wasn't until I looked in the mirror to make sure I was presentable that I started to feel the emotions of the day.
Butterflies started swirling in my stomach. I started tappping my fingernails on the table as LA politely put her hand over mine as to say without saying that I was irritating her with this action. My mind was racing with the four items we had to memorize to petition the court with during our trial. I was worrying if we would make it on time...would everyone else be there on time...were we prepared to take this final step...mulling over all the responses we had practiced if asked certain questions. If you have ever watched Disney's Alladin, my brain was moving in all different directions, kind of the like the genie pionting out all the exits on the flying carpet when he was magically transformed into the steward for Alladin, Jasmine, and his sidekick monkey....here there and everywhere.
We left the apartment promptly at 10:28 to go downstairs and meet our driver and coordinator at 10:30 to head to the courthouse, for an 11am court time. At 10:45 they show up and this 15 minute wait has only made those butterflies fly around like they had just finished a couple expressos. We finally arrive at the courthouse, on time may I add, and proceeded into the waiting room. Only to find out that the prosecutor was running a little behind. More expresso for those butterflies.
As we wait for all parties to arrive, our coordinator leads us into the waiting room and there sits Nastya with the orphanage representative and other parties involved in the process. It was a delight to see her and just her smile towards me calmed my nerves a little. LA and I quietly sat and waited in what I thought was the actual courtroom, but ended up just being a holding area. It reminded me alot of the small courthouse in historic Williamsburg. Small, bare, and very non-LA Law and Matlockish. There was a holding cell in the corner which I sat right next to, imagining the unlucky few that have spent time waiting behind those bars.
About ten minutes past eleven, we were called into the judge's chambers, which is where the hearing took place. Not at all what I had mentally pictured in my head. I guess too many Good Wife and People's Court episodes had clouded my judgement as to what to expect.
The process was very formal and completely in the Ukrainian language, with our translator sharing bits and pieces that we needed to hear. After an hour or so, we were told to wait outside and to return in 30 minutes for the decision. Five minutes into our wait, we are summoned back in for the ruling.
With everyone standing at attention in their previously occupied spaces, the judge stood up and started to read the decision. We didn't get every word translated but got the gist of it. But when our translator said "It is approved" I started to cry and tears started streaming down my cheek. I quickly wiped them away as to not look vulnerable, but as I was doing such, I noticed that everyone else in the courtroom, except the judge, was doing the same thing! Nastya was officially our daughter.
After everyone exited the judge's chambers you could see the relief in everyone's eyes and faces as we shared hugs and kisses, congratulatory comments, and big sighs of relief. We proceeded outside to take a few quick pictures...the first of us officially being a new family. Just as the sun was shining high above, my heart was beaming and I was grinning ear to ear as we took our first official family photo, standing on the sidewalk outside the courthouse.
Celebrations were on tap and we headed to lunch to rejoice and enjoy the moment. It is such a special day for Nastya especially. She now has a forever family. Like we had heard from other families before us, we headed out for a grand lunch celebration. Our coordinator, the orphanage representive, Nastya, LA and I enjoyed a rather delicious Italian meal and enjoyed spending time together celebrating what had just happened.
After lunch, Nastya tried on some clothes that we had brought with us. The goal was to find the perfect fit as we needed to prepare to purchase some clothes for when LA comes back and takes custody of her. Some stuff was a little too small...some stuff a little big...and some stuff just right. I think we got it figured out and the shopping can now begin.
With full bellies, happy hearts, and the emotional burden of the process lifted, we took Nastya back to the orphanage and arranged for our visits for the next couple of days.
Today...I officially became a Daddy. Not a Daddy in theory. Or one just in my mind and heart. But a true Daddy in the eyes of those that make the decisions. Two separate countries now are witness to me being Nastya's father. My close male friends that have kids have always said that the feeling of being a new Daddy is undescribeable. They were exactly right. After nearly five years of trying to have our own biological children, numerous fertility treatments and procedures, and the sadness and disappointment of the not having any children...they have all been magically erased and Nastya is now a Puskar.
This all wouldn't be possible without the love, support, and prayers of all of our family and friends. Today is a day to celebrate. May 11, 2011 at 12:29 EEST. Daddy...Mommy...Nastya...one big happy family. God is good. Prayers have been answered and my heart is finally content.
Tonight I go to bed not just as a son, brother, and husband...
But as a proud PaPa...
Nastya's PaPa!
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
April Showers Bring May Flowers
Never has the meaning of this phrase rung more true. Over the last couple of days, we have witnessed some pretty neat awakenings. Human activity and elements in nature have come out from under the winter rocks and have begun to blossom. We left the country on April 8 and returned on May 8. In that month, everything from the sky to the ground you walk on and everything in between has transformed.
Upon arrival in Simferopol yesterday evening, the obvious difference upon stepping off the plane onto the tarmac is the weather. Although a little cloudy and rainy yesterday, the skies have opened up and the winter nip is no longer in the air. From a full fleece jacket in April when we were here to just a short sleeve shirt says it all. The sun is shining. There is a slight breeze in the air. The once bare trees have started to blossom and the grass has started to green. Overall, my perfect kind of weather...not too hot...not too cool...but right in the middle. The Simferopol Chamber of Commerce should bottle this up and use it in their marketing campaign.
Some funny and laughable changes have occured as well. On our first trip, the driver that took us from place to place was quite reserved and did little talking. A little bit of broken English now and then but that is about all. Now...wow! Our driver is a rather friendly and talkative soul. Doesn't speak a lick of English and thinks we understand Russian like it was our native tongue. It is rather interesting and kind of funny to sit back and listen to him in what he thinks is a two way conversation but we ain't got a clue of what he is saying. The motor of the van we are riding in isn't the only thing going a mile a minute. We "think" we have heard him talk about everything from how he cannot drink alot of vodka anymore for as he gets older he gets more crazy with lesser consumption to how he has a friend my size that he drives around town a lot because he likes the roominess of his van compared to his friends little rinky dink car.
A rather personal tranformation has taken place. On the first trip, having never been out of the country before, I was kind of shell shocked for a good portion of the experience. Everything was new and unknown with an anxiety filled adventure around every corner. This time around, I knew what line to get into at customs...I knew and recognized my way around town a little...we navigated the market as if we owned the joint...and the overall surroundings and culture are not as foreign to our senses. You don't realize how much you miss when your body is in "survival" mode as it was on the first trip. This trip has allowed a little more time to stop and smell the roses, and of course take in the sights of the lovely Ukrainian women!
The biggest transformation though has been the reasons that we had to leave so unexpectedly early and why we are back now. Back in April we were dealt with some pretty upsetting news in the delay of the process. Now in May, we are back to continue the process. From the sadness of having to leave Nastya so quickly to the expected jubilation after a successful court hearing tomorrow, you can only imagine the emotions that are blossoming inside.
We visited with Nastya today, along with her BFF Veka. To our absolute joy and amazement, they had a bag full of gifts for us. LA and I each received hand made cards on notebook and graphing paper with notes like " I love you", "you are special", and "we missed you while you were gone". Drawings of Daisy and celebrations of the Easter season with cakes, dyed eggs, and a cross inked the pages. To feel the love those two gave us today was something pretty awesome. LA and I had a few items for them as well, but to see those two so excited as we opened a precious item that they made for us will forever be ingrained in my heart. If it was for them what it is for us to give them small tokens of our love, their hearts were definitely smiling as we opened our treasures.
Spring has sprung.
Spring brought smiles.
Smiles in spring.
Whatever way you want to look at it or however you want to say it...we are enjoying the pleasantries of this visit in a way that stomps out the unpleasantness of the reasons for our departure. It is with much hope and anticipation that my next blog, tomorrow night, will be one that announces a successful day and and the arrival, in spring, of us officially being new parents.
Until tomorrow...
Upon arrival in Simferopol yesterday evening, the obvious difference upon stepping off the plane onto the tarmac is the weather. Although a little cloudy and rainy yesterday, the skies have opened up and the winter nip is no longer in the air. From a full fleece jacket in April when we were here to just a short sleeve shirt says it all. The sun is shining. There is a slight breeze in the air. The once bare trees have started to blossom and the grass has started to green. Overall, my perfect kind of weather...not too hot...not too cool...but right in the middle. The Simferopol Chamber of Commerce should bottle this up and use it in their marketing campaign.
Some funny and laughable changes have occured as well. On our first trip, the driver that took us from place to place was quite reserved and did little talking. A little bit of broken English now and then but that is about all. Now...wow! Our driver is a rather friendly and talkative soul. Doesn't speak a lick of English and thinks we understand Russian like it was our native tongue. It is rather interesting and kind of funny to sit back and listen to him in what he thinks is a two way conversation but we ain't got a clue of what he is saying. The motor of the van we are riding in isn't the only thing going a mile a minute. We "think" we have heard him talk about everything from how he cannot drink alot of vodka anymore for as he gets older he gets more crazy with lesser consumption to how he has a friend my size that he drives around town a lot because he likes the roominess of his van compared to his friends little rinky dink car.
A rather personal tranformation has taken place. On the first trip, having never been out of the country before, I was kind of shell shocked for a good portion of the experience. Everything was new and unknown with an anxiety filled adventure around every corner. This time around, I knew what line to get into at customs...I knew and recognized my way around town a little...we navigated the market as if we owned the joint...and the overall surroundings and culture are not as foreign to our senses. You don't realize how much you miss when your body is in "survival" mode as it was on the first trip. This trip has allowed a little more time to stop and smell the roses, and of course take in the sights of the lovely Ukrainian women!
The biggest transformation though has been the reasons that we had to leave so unexpectedly early and why we are back now. Back in April we were dealt with some pretty upsetting news in the delay of the process. Now in May, we are back to continue the process. From the sadness of having to leave Nastya so quickly to the expected jubilation after a successful court hearing tomorrow, you can only imagine the emotions that are blossoming inside.
We visited with Nastya today, along with her BFF Veka. To our absolute joy and amazement, they had a bag full of gifts for us. LA and I each received hand made cards on notebook and graphing paper with notes like " I love you", "you are special", and "we missed you while you were gone". Drawings of Daisy and celebrations of the Easter season with cakes, dyed eggs, and a cross inked the pages. To feel the love those two gave us today was something pretty awesome. LA and I had a few items for them as well, but to see those two so excited as we opened a precious item that they made for us will forever be ingrained in my heart. If it was for them what it is for us to give them small tokens of our love, their hearts were definitely smiling as we opened our treasures.
Spring has sprung.
Spring brought smiles.
Smiles in spring.
Whatever way you want to look at it or however you want to say it...we are enjoying the pleasantries of this visit in a way that stomps out the unpleasantness of the reasons for our departure. It is with much hope and anticipation that my next blog, tomorrow night, will be one that announces a successful day and and the arrival, in spring, of us officially being new parents.
Until tomorrow...
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Good People Doing Good Things
Greetings from Kiev, Ukraine...again. After nearly 36 hours of travel, layovers, and general transportation to the other side of the pond, we are safely in our first lodging in Kiev. We will only be here overnight and the goal for the evening and night is sleep! And shower! 36 hours of travel, being on a plane for 3 different legs, in 4 airports, and across 2 separate continents will give you a greater appreciation for a comfortable bed and hot shower.
For this leg of the journey, we unfortuneately had to add one leg to our airline plans. On our first voyage, we traveled directly from Charlotte to Europe, travelling exclusively on Lufthansa, a German based airline. This time, we had to go from RDU to Philly, then onto Europe. But I am happy to report, things went really well and we met some really good people along the way.
All along I was apprehensive about adding another leg to our travels. With us having to meet such time sensitive deadlines...like a court hearing about the daughter we have been trying to adopt for the past 9 months...my anxiety level was already starting to creap up. And adding it on an American owned airline made the Xanax alot easier to take! We had to change gates for our departure flight from home before we even started. No big deal for us, but the worry throttle was in full swing and we hadn't even left Raleigh.
No worries, we left on time, just from different gate. We arrive in Philly and figure out how to pass the time waiting for our next leg. Thankfully back on Lufthansa.
Enter first great encounter here.
Meet a young woman that works for Lufthansa that offers a nice little perk to LA and I to wait out our time for the flight in the private Star Alliance/Envoy Club. I never thought you could find a clean bathroom in an airport. WRONG! Cleaneast bathrooms in the world!
Enter second great encounter here.
Meet a young man that works for Lufthansa that offers a nice little perk to LA and I as well. We got to sit in business class together on our way from Philly to Frankfurt. Spoiled for sure, but extremely grateful for this random act of kindness.
Enter third great encounter here.
We arrive at the Kiev airport to meet our coordinator and driver. During our debriefing, we find out we are able to see Nastya 3 extra days while we are here this trip that we didn't plan for!!!!
Enter fourth great encounter here.
Arrive at our lodging for the night. Get checked in. Shortly after arriving in our room, I am enjoying a nice glass of iced tea with a sprig of mint in it. For those of you that have travelled to this part of the world, you know that ice is not a staple of the kitchen here. Hot tea is a staple though. But after seeing us tired and weary from the travel upon arrival, someone went out of their way to make us some iced tea and brought it to us to have a little piece of home 10,000 miles from home.
Why do I take up your precious time with all of this? One simple reason. Despite all the bad things in the world and bad people in the world, there are still good people out there that make things better for others, just because they can.
These 4 things are quite simple acts if you think about it. None earth-shattering or life altering. But small things that really made the anxiety of our travels for this unplanned trip go away. Once again, simple things. So, not a big deal you think? Despite the toil that having to wait an extra month and incur some rather hefty additional expenses to make this extra trip, situations these 4 people aren't privy to; we realized that there are good people out there doing good things for others.
I admit that I have had a rather chided outlook on the intentions of some people and can often be rather pessimistic in my expectations from others. But after today, it was made completely clear to me that there are good people in the world. You may not be able to upgrade someone on a flight or upgrade someone into "CLUB" access, but you sure can offer your own generous act for someone else, just for the sake of making that person's day better. These complete strangers today did that for us and made this anxious time for us a little easier to swallow.
For this leg of the journey, we unfortuneately had to add one leg to our airline plans. On our first voyage, we traveled directly from Charlotte to Europe, travelling exclusively on Lufthansa, a German based airline. This time, we had to go from RDU to Philly, then onto Europe. But I am happy to report, things went really well and we met some really good people along the way.
All along I was apprehensive about adding another leg to our travels. With us having to meet such time sensitive deadlines...like a court hearing about the daughter we have been trying to adopt for the past 9 months...my anxiety level was already starting to creap up. And adding it on an American owned airline made the Xanax alot easier to take! We had to change gates for our departure flight from home before we even started. No big deal for us, but the worry throttle was in full swing and we hadn't even left Raleigh.
No worries, we left on time, just from different gate. We arrive in Philly and figure out how to pass the time waiting for our next leg. Thankfully back on Lufthansa.
Enter first great encounter here.
Meet a young woman that works for Lufthansa that offers a nice little perk to LA and I to wait out our time for the flight in the private Star Alliance/Envoy Club. I never thought you could find a clean bathroom in an airport. WRONG! Cleaneast bathrooms in the world!
Enter second great encounter here.
Meet a young man that works for Lufthansa that offers a nice little perk to LA and I as well. We got to sit in business class together on our way from Philly to Frankfurt. Spoiled for sure, but extremely grateful for this random act of kindness.
Enter third great encounter here.
We arrive at the Kiev airport to meet our coordinator and driver. During our debriefing, we find out we are able to see Nastya 3 extra days while we are here this trip that we didn't plan for!!!!
Enter fourth great encounter here.
Arrive at our lodging for the night. Get checked in. Shortly after arriving in our room, I am enjoying a nice glass of iced tea with a sprig of mint in it. For those of you that have travelled to this part of the world, you know that ice is not a staple of the kitchen here. Hot tea is a staple though. But after seeing us tired and weary from the travel upon arrival, someone went out of their way to make us some iced tea and brought it to us to have a little piece of home 10,000 miles from home.
Why do I take up your precious time with all of this? One simple reason. Despite all the bad things in the world and bad people in the world, there are still good people out there that make things better for others, just because they can.
These 4 things are quite simple acts if you think about it. None earth-shattering or life altering. But small things that really made the anxiety of our travels for this unplanned trip go away. Once again, simple things. So, not a big deal you think? Despite the toil that having to wait an extra month and incur some rather hefty additional expenses to make this extra trip, situations these 4 people aren't privy to; we realized that there are good people out there doing good things for others.
I admit that I have had a rather chided outlook on the intentions of some people and can often be rather pessimistic in my expectations from others. But after today, it was made completely clear to me that there are good people in the world. You may not be able to upgrade someone on a flight or upgrade someone into "CLUB" access, but you sure can offer your own generous act for someone else, just for the sake of making that person's day better. These complete strangers today did that for us and made this anxious time for us a little easier to swallow.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Slight Change
Wanted to let you know that we are making a slight change to our blog. With us about to embark on our second trip to Ukraine, our goals are the same, but our schedules will be very different.
LA and I will depart together on Saturday, but will not return together. I will be home in a week and LA should be home with Nastya sometime in early to mid June. During LA's travels, she will spend some time with some family friends in Europe during our mandatory waiting period and then travel back to pick up Nastya and finalize the paperwork. She will share the third trip back with her Dad.
With these distinctly different calendars, we wanted to maximize our opportunity to share our personal journeys with each of you. LA is excited to share her travel stories and the details of her emotional journey. I am excited to continue sharing my thoughts, views, and feelings. I do believe that these 2 blogs will mold into one big story, but with two different insights.
We will be launching a new blog for LA to share her experiences in the upcoming days. We will invite all followers of this blog to her new one as well.
Stay tuned...
LA and I will depart together on Saturday, but will not return together. I will be home in a week and LA should be home with Nastya sometime in early to mid June. During LA's travels, she will spend some time with some family friends in Europe during our mandatory waiting period and then travel back to pick up Nastya and finalize the paperwork. She will share the third trip back with her Dad.
With these distinctly different calendars, we wanted to maximize our opportunity to share our personal journeys with each of you. LA is excited to share her travel stories and the details of her emotional journey. I am excited to continue sharing my thoughts, views, and feelings. I do believe that these 2 blogs will mold into one big story, but with two different insights.
We will be launching a new blog for LA to share her experiences in the upcoming days. We will invite all followers of this blog to her new one as well.
Stay tuned...
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