Courtney & Camryn - The Long Journey Home

Support Mariner's Church

2009-11-24T10:47:00.001-08:00

Marisa and Devin's support letter for this year:

Hello Everyone:

Well, I bet you thought you were getting Zac’s usual Russia support letter didn’t you?! Not so, this year Zac is handing off the baton to Devin. Devin has been waiting to go for a few years now, and he is finally old enough, and I feel I can finally return as well (you may remember that Rachael was diagnosed with her leukemia the day after we returned from Russia in 2005). So…Devin and I will be heading off to Russia to play with the kids at the orphanage from Dec. 27^th – Jan. 9^th.

As you probably remember, we go as a team from Mariner’s Church to the same orphanage in Zarechnyy, Russia every year. We stay at the orphanage and run a winter camp for the kids there who have nothing to do during their two weeks off school. While this will be only my second trip, it is our church’s 7^th year going there. It is amazing to hear how the relationships between our team members (most go more than once) and the kids and staff at the orphanage have grown and developed over the years.

On my first trip there, one of the little girls captured my heart (they all did but this one especially). When the organization we run our trips through began a year round sponsorship program at our orphanage our family started sponsoring this girl. Recently I received a letter from her. It was one of those ‘letters to your sponsor’, where they ask the child questions. One of the questions they asked was “What is the best thing that happened to you during the year?” Her response: “When the Americans come at winter camp!” (she doesn’t know that her sponsors are a part of that group). So if that is the best thing that happens to her all year, I want it to keep happening!!

You all know from Zac’s previous letters – the situations and the wretched and abusive backgrounds and families these kids come from. While all of that is truly heart-wrenching, the thing that tugs at my heart the most is the reality, that when we leave, they don’t. This is their life, with no mother or father to comfort them when they need it. No really safe place to be, no privacy, and no place to escape to. Don’t get me wrong, they are well cared for there, the staff is great, but that is what they are, staff, not family. As a parent, I can’t help but look at the children and be stunned by that reality – this is home for them - everyday, all day, holidays, summer, it just doesn’t change. I get to leave and come home to my nice house, my nice family, my nice life – and there they stay. As you can imagine, leaving there is hard.

Why do we do this year after year? We are building lives and hope – letting these kids know that someone out there cares about them enough to get to know them, and loves them enough to keep going back to see them whether they have a family or home or not! For whatever reason and for many reasons, these kids have spoken to our hearts. They are throw away children in their own country, so we have adopted them and we let them know that they – like all of us – have worth and value.

And, we let them know that they aren’t going to be abandoned just because they leave the orphanage either. There is the ministry center (where everything is free to the young person) that has been set up to help the kids when they age out of the orphanage (at 16 or 17). They can go to this center for meals and dental services, as well as to learn computer skills, job skills, and life skills. The center also provides help for those students from the orphanage who want to continue on to college, as well as a place for the kids to gather and stay connected to each other. This goes a long way towards helping keep them from living on the streets of Russia.

However, most important for me is the relationships we build with the kids there: the love that we give to them, and receive from them—they touch our hearts and lives as much, if not more, than we touch theirs, and this year Devin gets to experience all of that too!

I know that things are difficult for everyone everywhere these days. Please don’t feel obligated if this is not your year to give to this endeavor. I also know that some of you feel that you are partners in this with us. That you have taken these kids on as your own as well, and that you welcome this opportunity to help get us there each year and bring some brightness into the kid’s lives.

We ask first for all of your prayers and good thoughts, and appreciate every one of them. The second thing we ask for are monetary gifts to help get us there and put on this camp. The cost of the trip includes our travel expenses, as well as covering the gifts we bring the kids and staff and the cost of all we do while at the orphanage. Everything you send goes to the trip and the kids.

We are coming up on this fast, so if you would like to contribute to our trip, please send your check made out to Mariner’s Church (it will be tax deductible only if it is made out to Mariner’s Church) to:

Mariner’s Church
ATTN: Len Banks
225 S. Cabrillo Hwy.
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019

Please note that it is for Russia for Marisa & Devin Atsatt

Please include your name and address – you will be sent a receipt for tax purposes, and an update / thank you at the end of the trip with pictures
See links to last years pictures below

Thank you in advance for your prayers, thoughts, and dollars!

Marisa and Devin

Blog Out

2009-01-08T20:03:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking it's time to complete the "adoption blog" as we have reached a point of "normalcy" in our little family. Somewhere down the line a "family" blog may be something fun to do and share but, it does not feel that an adoption blog is really appropriate anymore.

After pondering this for a while, I decided to sign-in tonight to sign-off and noticed that it was exactly 3 months ago today that I picked the twins up from the orphanage. I then noticed that I had started the blog exactly 3 months before picking the girls up - my first post was exactly 6 months ago today on 7/8/08! So, it seems a very appropriate time to close this chapter in our lives and enjoy the crazy, happy chapter we have now entered.

My 3 girls are all doing wonderfully. The twins vocabulary is exploding with Courtney following about 1 week behind Camryn in the words they're learning/using. In a month, they'll be caught up I'm sure and, we haven't even begun the speech therapy yet. They're doing well in their two day per week pre-school and will soon be going more often. Katy loves having sisters and they love her. They play together and struggle against each other just like any other siblings. We're all very normal now which is really a great thing to say and feel and the girls are developing right on target. We've all been incredibly lucky and a day does not pass that it is not appreciated in this household.

I really enjoyed keeping this blog and corresponding with many of the people who have been reading it. I'm going to keep it live in case any of the adoption information is helpful to new families going through this process in Ekaterinburg and will make a posting when and if I start a new "family" blog. In the meantime, I will keep monitoring those still waiting for their 2nd trips (Laura & Melissa) and those who have been home and are still posting. I really enjoy keeping up with those home and can't wait to hear good news from those waiting to bring their babies home.

So, thank you for joining me on this part of our journey and for all the wonderful input and support that I received during the past 6 months!

Lori, Katy, Camryn & Courtney

Winding down at home

2009-01-03T21:52:00.000-08:00

I have always been a nighttime homebody but never a daytime one. I like to be out and busy during the day and tucked in cozy, safe and warm at home after dark! With my 3 little girls it is pretty difficult doing simple things like grocery shopping, going to the park, or, going anywhere for that matter so we stay home a lot! During the school weeks, our days are broken up and pretty busy - getting busier every week but, during these holiday breaks, we're home much more than we are not.

Being home this much has really been good for everyone. It's hard to overstimulate kids when they are at home with just their little family (and a few visitors), and, since they're only 2 and 4 years old, there's not much for them to do but play together and with me. Many hours of playing dress-up, playing in the backyard, watching movies (Mamma Mia again and again and again), making cupcakes (Katy got a cupcake maker for Christmas) and just doing homey things. We have ventured out some ( as shown in my last entry) and did get out in the rain a bit today which was nice but, pretty much we've been in the house with a fire going all cozy and warm enjoying the Christmas break. I think it has really helped Katy to be able to spend so much time with me and with her sisters without leaving for school everyday. She plays with them much better, is listening to me and has been very positive and pleasant to be around. Not that she wasn't before but things have a much more smooth and natural flow about them now. I think she is very used to having sisters and she really likes having them too!

I learned last week that the California "Early Start" will work with the girls until they're 3 years old in trying to help catch them up with their development. They're not that far behind and I'm a little surprised at the amount of time they plan to spend with them, but I think it will be a great opportunity to get them with the "experts". Each one will get 20 hours per month of in-home combined speech and occupational therapy for a total of 40 hours. That will be pretty extensive as it will probably be somewhere around 2 hours twice a week so we'll have to squeeze that in somewhere! Between that and attending pre-school twice a week, I think they'll be caught up very quickly. Already they're starting to talk ALOT! And, I can actually understand a good deal of it. They may not even require the full 3 1/2 months of therapy. We'll see.

Here are a few pictures from the last couple of days . . .

2009-01-03T21:22:00.000-08:00

We had a visit from "cowboy" Jim today and Katy was very excited to get to spend some time as Jim's little "cowgirl". She loves sitting up on Dancer and has no fear (but, I do!).

It was an extremely unusual morning as the twins were up long before Katy who didn't wake up until 8 AM! She normally wakes up at 5:30 and the twins about an hour later but today I had to ask them to play in their room for a while so as not to wake their sister up. I went in to check on them and this is how I found them - just sitting patiently together waiting for me.

Everybody had to have a turn being a puppy and having a sister walk them around. They made the green ribbon into a leash (completely on their own) and I'm not sure where the pink ears came from! It is amazing how much the imagination is exercised when they are left "on their own".

More Mamma Mia . . . Katy picked out the clothes for her sisters for our little New Year's Eve outing and she dressed everyone as a Mamma Mia character. She really only listens and watches the songs (the story is way above her head and boring to her - thankfully!) so I was a little confused by the characters. She is Sophie and is carrying Sophie's diary. She was reading it to her sisters telling them "they danced on the beach, they kissed on the beach and dot dot dot - yikes!). Her sisters were then picking up the diary and saying "dot dot dot"! She dressed them up as the "bad boys" of which there are none in the movie. I had her point them out to me in the movie and it turns out that they were two of the potential fathers. Like some of the other music she has discovered, it's not exactly appropriate for a 4 year old but I'm finding it difficult to keep up with her "thirst" for song & dance with Disney or age appropriate material. I am searching though!

I'm sure tomorrow will hold many more memorable and entertaining moments!

Christmas Break and more . . .

2008-12-30T19:49:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry to admit that I didn't get any pictures of the girls opening their Christmas morning presents. I know - it's terrible, I didn't get any "first" Christmas photos. I did get some video but nothing really worth posting. At least they'll have that to see but I am sad that I missed the opportunity for some memorable shots. It just got too crazy and everything went very fast. Santa brought the girls a new indoor trampoline along with stockings full of socks, shoes, and dress up clothes. Ever since, they've pretty much been alternating between bouncing and dancing.

The trampoline has turned out to be a great addition to our playroom. The twins' coordination has improved drastically just in the few days since Christmas. They've gone from not being able to get their feet up at all and falling down to jumping pretty high and being able to maintain it. It is great to see Courtney who probably is jumping a foot high now and landing on her feet! It was only meant for fun but has turned out to be a great "therapy" tool for the twins. In addition to the coordination benefits, it's also been teaching some valuable sharing lessons and counting as they each get 30 seconds when they're all wanting on it. Camryn now looks for someone to start counting when it's her turn even if no one is waiting!

The girls did very well with all of the exciting activity. We haven't been venturing out too much because it is still difficult to keep everyone "contained" wherever we go but, we did enjoy a great dinner and evening with family on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning brunch. After that, we had friends over Christmas day who cooked for us and played with the girls all day. That turned out to be a great present for me! Santa left me a copy of "Mama Mia" in my stocking and we had it going most of the day Christmas day. By the end of the day, I think Katy pretty much had every scene memorized! It's been on at least twice daily until loaning it out to a friend last night, so we did get a break from it today!

In addition to venturing out to our family gatherings, we went to one friend's Christmas party which all the girls enjoyed and made a quick visit to the park to feed the ducks. The girls all were very quiet and tried hard not to scare the ducks away. I think it's more because when the flock flees it's a pretty scary sound and sight for them!

Here are a few pictures of the activities I was able to capture . . . (By the way, for those who have asked about "bigger" pictures, you can click on the pictures and they should enlarge for you.)

Our visit to the park . . .

Here come the hungry ducks . . .

At our friends Christmas party . . .

The best present of all was in this big green bag (it's Courtney!). . .

Courtney and Braxton who was very attentive to her all evening!

Courtney trying out Braxton's new scooter

Courtney demonstrating one of the many uses of diapers . . .

Camryn's reaction to Courtney's clowning around . . .

Camryn telling her sisters to quiet down . . .

After spending a few minutes with Katy in her room, Camryn emerged as a new, cool dancer . . .

Katy showing her little sisters how to twirl . . .

and, how to be hip . . .

how to slow dance . . .

followed by a little "thank you" kiss

Katy playing a scene from "Mama Mia". Camryn sings along too.

And that's the end of that show!

Other notables from this Christmas Break . . . Since we've been "cooped" up in the house all together much more than usual, Katy and Camryn have begun playing together a lot. It's really cute to see them interact and they're very well suited to each other. Katy has been allowed to join the 5 to 7 year olds in their "hip hop" class (a whole year early - I'm so proud!) which is a perfect fit for her. She doesn't fool around at all in this class because she's completely enthralled with it and she is usually the best listener there. She follows the instructor and then practices everything at home with Camryn. Camryn holds her own with Katy but really enjoys the constant activity. They play in the mud and dirt outside together and then come inside and play dress up and dance. Courtney also loves to dance but she doesn't interact with the two of them quite as much. She's always busy playing and doing something but I don't think she enjoys Katy's bossiness much (or the mud)! But, she's never excluded and if she approaches the other two, they're quick to include her in their antics. It's very heartwarming to watch and their interaction has grown substantially since Katy has been home with us every day.

And, last but not least, I was finally able to get the girls assessed as far as development and speech goes. Early Start called me back after I complained and said that there really is not rule that says they have to wait 6 months for internationally adopted children and made an appointment for me to bring them in today. It went very well and they estimated the girls to be 50% behind in language and 25% behind developmentally. Not bad at all considering they've only been exposed to English for 2 1/2 months! Tomorrow I go back without the girls and listen to the recommendations made on helping them catch up before their 3rd birthday. Both girls did great and really showed how far they have come - especially Courtney. She actually was a little more advanced then Camryn in a couple of areas and wasn't really behind in any. All of her "autistic" type behavior seems to be gone except in the bath tub and in the pool where she tends to get very "spastic". But, that will eventually go away too I'm sure. Even her eye doesn't wander anymore - it's just amazing to see. So, even though I'm confident that the girls will catch up on their own I will get the help recommended to try to get them on target in the next 4 months. After that they're turned over to the school district, however, I think the Montessori school will be more helpful so I'll stick with them.

So, that's been our week in a nutshell. Always busy and always happy. It's such fun watching all of these things happening but, a little tiring at times too! So, I'm done for the day and will start again in 7 1/2 hours when my early bird Katy wakes me up!

Happy New Year to all! So many families will be built and added to in the New Year - I can't wait to hear about some of them!

And the answer is . . .

2008-12-23T19:07:00.000-08:00

"The analysis of the DNA indicates that Camryn and Courtney are monozygotic, or more commonly referred to as identical twins. The highly variable DNA markers were the same for both twins. Thus, there is greater than a 99% probability that the twins are monozygotic".

Surprised? I am and, am not. It's strange how I can look at each individual feature and, yes, they do look identical but, when you are looking at their entire faces then no, they don't look the same at all! It will be interesting to see if they begin to look more alike when Courtney's hair grows out and she catches up weight-wise or, if their personalities (they're very different) will always make them look so differently. I wonder if they'll try to trick people when they get older, even mom (ha, not a chance)!

How fun this is!

"Oh What Fun it is!"

2008-12-15T13:22:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful to have the girls home and to be able to share the Holidays with all 3 of them. Katy is really enjoying all the Christmas festivities this year - much more then years past. She was still fearful of Santa but I was able to get her to let me put a little distance between me and her long enough to get a photo done with her sisters. The twins were a little dazed by the whole Santa thing but they did fine. We've also really been enjoying driving around the neighborhood to see all the lights which are plentiful in our neighborhood! Katy wants our house to look like all of the elaborately decorated ones - pressure! I'm going to try to get something done out there but I did get the inside done and we're all enjoying that!

In addition to seeing Santa this weekend, we also held our 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Decorating party which was a lot of fun. I'm usually pretty strict about sweets intake around here but, when it comes to decorating our gingerbread houses, it's a free for all. Katy doesn't have much of a sweet tooth so she didn't eat too much. Courtney started out by trying a spicy jelly bean so she didn't eat much after that with the exception of the frosting. But, Camryn who would rather eat sweets then anything else, pretty much ate the whole exterior of her house. I'll have to watch her - I think she'll be the one trying to sneak sweets when I'm not looking!

I'm sure we'll have lots of Holiday pictures to share but here are a few from our fun filled weekend . . .

Group shot trying to build Katy's courage . . .

Success - Camryn was so fed up by this point that she looks like she's ready to tackle someone and Courtney and Katy are holding her back.

Katy hard at work getting the place in shape . . .

Ready for the party to begin with favorite friends Gabby and Arianna. Katy LOVES Gabby and tells him so all the time. She dressed to impress him for the party and even put her earrings on (stick-on) for him! I think they all looked pretty cute myself! (I overdid it on the candy a bit but it was so fun picking it all out I couldn't help myself!)

Katy concentrating (note the tongue) hard at work

And, her beautiful house . . .

Courtney after trying her "spicy bean". Poor Baby, she always seems to be the one to get the "spicy bean" around here and it breaks my heart every time. We're going to really have to work on that.

And, showing off her sweet accomplishment (while looking pretty sweet herself)

Happy go Lucky Camryn playing "Rudolph"

and, hard at work

after eating the exterior of her house!

Lots more in the "Our Fun Fotos" album (see side bar) and lots more to come!

Medical Updates

2008-12-10T21:38:00.000-08:00

No more bugs in this house! All parasites have been eradicated including any sign of scabies it seems. And, Katy's TB test also was negative which is great news! I was always under the impression that she would get a false positive if she was required to be tested and then she would have to go through the chest xray, etc. So, this was good news.

Developmental assessment is seeming to be more difficult to come by. First I contacted the State's Early Start program who told me that they had to wait 6 months before meeting with internationally adopted children as they tend to catch up so quickly. But, they don't see children after they turn 3 which, at the time of the call, was just about 6 months! They were not helpful at all so I then contacted the school district who referred me to our "Head Start" pre-school. Turns out that they won't see kids until 3 and, unless they are "special needs" kids (from birth) the family has to qualify to be in need of financial aid. Again, not helpful. The pediatrician then referred me back to the Regional Center and said if that didn't work to try Children's Hospital. So, I tried Regional Center who told me because the children are under 3 that I need to speak to Early Start. I told them that they were telling me they couldn't see my children for 6 months (4 now) and that they would then be turning 3. Circles. I then tried Children's Hospital who told me that my insurance company would only pay $25 per hour and they charge $248 per hour and that each assessment would cost $1,500.00 out of pocket - a total of $3,000! Then after that the cost would be completed on an hourly basis for any kind of therapy. Ridiculous! The pediatrician said I could get by with only having Courtney assessed and then practice what I learn on Camryn but still - it's too much money to get any kind of regular therapy going. So, now I'm going to try a non-profit group that was started by an adoptive mother (Russian child) and am really hoping that I get somewhere with them. At this rate, the girls will be 3 before I get anywhere with this but, I think that they're both going to catch up on their own just by attending the pre-school.

Both girls have started two days a week at Katy's school and they are doing great there. Courtney needs a little extra help with her fine motor skills (she has already improved drastically) so she is getting some needed attention in that area. Other than that the girls are doing well socially, with listening and following direction. Not really too many worries although Courtney still tends to get over excited and a little silly at times. She is comfortable enough at school though to take naps with all the other kids which was a concern of mine. Both she and Camryn have no problem laying down and sleeping so they're not overly excited by being there. I think it probably helps that Angela who they know so well is there. They're fine when I get them home and fall right into our regular routine. All good there.

So, life is moving forward fast. We have a house full of Christmas decorations - Katy and I spent the evening making ornaments for the tree tonight which was really fun (with some help from Angela). Camryn walked around all night singing along with a little Santa Claus that, when she pushes on his hand, sings that he is "coming to town". She pretty much has all the words down but they still sound a bit jumbled. Very cute though and she's very possessive of this particular Santa. Courtney was very very dramatic about expressing her hunger before dinnertime - to the point where I was a little concerned that she may have caught the flu from her cousins - and, then after dinner, was all smiles and ready to play with whoever would play with her. Happy as could be. She can be very dramatic at times and, so can Camryn when it comes to being locked out of the pantry (she loves her snacks!) which happened to her tonight.

I feel so fortunate to have all 3 girls here for the Holidays and, this year is especially fun for Katy as she really is enjoying the season and all the celebratory side of it and, she's also really enjoying having her sisters here. Makes a mom's heart smile!

Monozygotic or Dizygotic, and other fun things

2008-12-07T22:21:00.000-08:00

Courtney got her shirt stuck on her head today and seemed to enjoy it so I tied the arms in back and she walked around like that for at least an hour. Camryn, naturally, wanted hers done too so we copied the style and she was quite pleased. I took a few pictures and found it interesting that with the shirts on, they do look like they could be identical twins (monozygotic) but I don't know. So, I have ordered a DNA test and should be able to find out soon and then we will all know!

What I find interesting however is that they look so different to me and I figured out in the picture above that one big difference really is in the eyes. Courtney's eyes often have worry in them while Camryn's, normally, have glee. Camryn has been Courtney's big sister and protector for 2 1/2 years and it is really cute to watch but, I think, needs to be tempered a bit for both girls. Courtney's confidence needs to become based on her "self" and, Camryn needs to be released from the responsibility. I think Camryn's strong survival instincts have helped get them through their difficulties but, I also think it has left Courtney a little like a wounded bird.

Seeing Camryn take Courtneys hand and lead her places and watch her do so many things for her has been very revealing into the way they must have felt (and are still feeling). It is very good that now when Camryn does take Courtney by the hand, she leads her to me and then tells me a long (babbling) story of what the situation is before handing Courtney's hand over to me. It is cute no matter what but I think it is also Camryn making it clear that she is happy to be able to turn Courtney's care over to me now so she can relax a little! Here's to getting them both to relaxing a lot! It's amazing what a picture can reveal!

Now with the secret knowledge of the worry in Courtney's eyes, I bet you can all tell them apart in most pictures (there is also some glee in Courtney's eyes which, hopefully, will become much more regular).

Katy and I have taken to calling Courtney "Coco" (Chanel) or "Coco Bean" - here's why . . .

Katy has been working on her modeling poses lately and when I grab the camera she gets this very serious look on her face and freezes until the picture is done. I must say at least 3 times a day "I don't know where she got that" because she's always coming up with statements or doing things that are so beyond her years. I think a lot of it is hanging out with her older cousins and being so interested in them and all that they do. She talks about how stylish she is and asks me to come and help her get one of her "fashion" shirts. She called a friend of ours (Denise) and told her she needed to come over and be a "fashionista" with her and that she was receiving an invitation. No matter what she puts her hands on, she does pull the look off whether it be a cowgirl or a rapper (where did she get that?) . . . as shown below:

Always something to laugh about around here!

3 Check-ups and a new car

2008-12-05T19:40:00.000-08:00

3 years ago, after returning home with Katy, I decided I needed a bigger car (SUV) that would safely transport a baby, all our things and, a horse trailer if need be. The second day I had the car, Katy got sick from the topsy turvy ride which was only the first of many many times. We suffered through this for about 2 years on trips over 30 minutes which were many. I had to always be prepared with extra clothes, towels, buckets, etc. She seemed to grow out of it a year or so ago but I knew that it might be an issue for the twins. Last Summer I had planned to trade the car in for something a little lower to the ground and a little more passenger friendly but didn't do it - I didn't want to "jinx" the already delayed adoption.

Today, finally, I was on the phone most of the day finding the car and setting up the purchase. Unfortunately I was a day too late. The girls' doctor appointment was an hour drive - Courtney had her first bout of carsickness on the way down the hill and Camryn experienced hers on the way back. I was looking in the rear view mirror just before Camryn got sick and was saying how sad she looked thinking it was because of the shots she had just had. After looking away, Katy said "MOM, YOU NEED TO STOP . . . MY SISTER JUST THROWED UP!". Luckily Anna, who never seems to mind this kind of stuff, had volunteered to come help with the appointments (along with Angela who was all the way in the back and "couldn't get out"). Anna did most of the clean up but that didn't entirely save me from having to deal with it too. I'll be dealing with it for at least another day as I try to get the car seats cleaned and put back together - very messy and unpleasant to say the least. But, it was actually pretty comical that while I'm negotiating the purchase of the new car this happened - a lucky break for the salesman because it just made me seal the deal a little quicker.

The check-ups went well. All the lab work had come back in on the twins and everything is fine. We got all the information on the vaccines that they have had (I didn't get this info from the orphanage like I did with Katy) and I learned that their lead poisoning level is very low at 1.5. Weight and height did not change with the exception of Courtney gaining 1/2 a pound which was a little surprising but nothing to worry about right now. We left a few more samples (stool) to make sure all the little parasites are gone - Katy, who didn't have them but is being tested just to make sure, told everyone that she was going to the doctor to see if she had "bugs in her tummy"! Both girls needed a couple of shots and Katy, at long last, is being tested to see if she was ever exposed to TB now that we can get around the "false" positive readings due to the vaccines. The twins had their second flu (nose) spray and Katy had one today too. So much nicer then the flu shot and, no preservatives (mercury) to boot.

Other notables for the day. Camryn says "thank you" almost every time I give her something in such a cute little voice. I thought I recognized it the other day but today it became much more noticeable. I think she's actually been saying it for quite a while. And, while waiting for the doctor, Angela was playing with Courtney's "piggy toes" (went to market . . . ) and, when done, Courtney said "do it again". I think the girls are really saying a lot of words, and sentences, and little by little they are becoming more recognizable. Lots of fun! Language is going to be a very welcome and great addition to our little family!

All in all, a very good day with 3 very healthy girls.

Growing Girls and Growing Attachments

2008-12-01T20:06:00.000-08:00

Everyday the visible difference between the twins and any other 2 1/2 year old in our neighborhood is less noticeable. They're obviously behind in speech but they're both trying new words daily and, I think, they're actually speaking a lot more than any of us realize. They were actually 25 and 35 percentile in their height but they don't look small in comparison to other 2 year olds. Still a little on the thin side for sure (they were 6 and 8 percentile) but not pale and pasty like they were. The main difference between them and others their age is their lack of speech and, of course, Courtney's hair! Everyone thinks she is a boy and, at those times, I'm glad that she's not the one I gave the name Camryn to since everywhere we go there seems to be a boy named Cameron! They've got their follow up appointments this Friday so we'll see how much their weight and height has changed.

I've been taking the twins to Katy's pre-school on Wednesdays so I can spend the day with Katy and the girls have been doing very well interacting with the other kids (as expected) and also with following directions and participating in activities. When I drop them off we exchange hugs and kisses and they head straight to the table to begin their activities always seeming to be very excited to get started. When I pick them up, they're usually out playing with the other kids and I stand there until they notice me which is usually only a few seconds. I'm very happy to say that once they do notice me they come running and squealing and jump into my arms and give me big squeezes. Camryn has always been much more demonstrative then Courtney and usually sees me first but once Courtney sees me she comes running too and jumps into my arms. She is such a copy cat that I'm not sure if she would come running on her own if she were to spot me first but I really think she would. Things at school are going so well and they're gaining so much from their time there that I'm going to start taking them on Mondays too for a few hours.

Both girls are very affectionate - they love to be held and will lay down on me for long periods of time. Camryn can lay there for a long time while Courtney gets a little fidgety after a while but still likes it. Courtney's a little monkey and likes to climb up on me and wrap her legs very tightly around me. She's so light that it's no effort on my part to hold her! This is a kid who didn't know what to do with her legs or arms while being held just a couple of months ago. They both just mold into me now when they lay down and they're always considerate of each other and make room. They don't make room for Katy however and, in fact, if Katy is laying with me then Camryn gets a little jealous and tries to squeeze in between. They both like kisses - they like getting them, they like giving them, they like blowing them and they like mimic-ing them. Courtney is so cute and puckers up her little lips while Camryn doesn't bother with the puckering a lot and often just gives teeth kisses! They're both so sweet and loving that it's a boggling to me how they managed to survive the institutional environment without losing that desire.

I think things are going well as far as our attachment and bonding is going and with the "catch up" in their development. I was concerned about the amount of time they were forced to spend in the orphanage and the difficulties in adopting "older" children. I, by no means, feel that we're totally "out of the woods" but I do not think that attachment difficulties are going to be a big issue for us with the exception of allowing it to grow normally. Both girls are open and willing to participate in a loving relationship which is a great relief to me.

Other notable improvements:

Both girls had a wandering eye although Courtney's was much more noticeable then Camryn's. Camryn's has pretty much been gone since getting home except for when she's tired. Courtney's was still pretty noticeable up until last week when after doing prescribed exercises for a couple of weeks it seems to have pretty much disappeared. She looks straight at you now and both eyes seem equally strong. I thought we might have to put a patch on her but she actually has very good vision and the eye doctor doesn't see any problems there.

Courtney is not exhibiting much of the autistic behavior that she was earlier. The only real hand flapping that I see now is in my rear view mirror when the music is on. She's conducting back there and when I start snapping my fingers I can see her doing it too! She loves music and her favorites right now are "itsy-bitsy spider" and "twinkle twinkle little star". She pretty much is singing during all of her down time.

Both girls have very good appetites and seem to have adapted quickly to the eating habits around here. Courtney seems to be a bigger eater than Camryn although they both vary day to day which is just as they should be doing. I don't worry anymore if one doesn't eat much of a meal as I know now that they're not starving or malnourished any longer.

I feel all is going well here for now and everybody has settled in. Everyday I think things get a little better and, at times, a little easier. Things aren't so new anymore and we're all in enough of a routine that life is seeming to be a lot more calm and relaxed. No more stress and unexpected surprises - the twins know what to expect now as do Katy and I which makes a big difference in the ease and enjoyment of our days.

Katy is doing great as well and loves having sisters. She's really mellowed out a lot with them and has learned how to temper her advances - she's not such a "bull" around them now (usually) and is actually very sweet with them at times. She misses them on our days without them but I know she actually likes our special days as well. She loves being the "big" sister (she's actually quite small!) and tells me daily of some of the benefits of being the big sister. She also has really gotten into helping me with dinner, helping get her sisters dressed in the morning, etc. which has changed her a lot.

So, I'm pretty happy with the way things are going and, now that I'm feeling better (had a bad head cold that sapped every ounce of energy I had, or so it seemed), I feel very optimistic and excited about our days ahead. It's such a joy to watch all 3 girls grow and learn while our relationships get stronger every day. Can't really think of anything that beats it!

Dinnertime entertainment!

2008-11-25T13:50:00.000-08:00

(turn your sound on - the twins carry this little toy piano around and love to play with it)

Is this cute or what!? This is the show I got while cooking dinner last night! Yes, Camryn did follow and go down too but she outlasted my battery! I'm getting 3 lessons for the price of 1 by just sending big sister to ballet!

Gotcha Day!

2008-11-25T12:59:00.001-08:00

Today is Katy's three year "Gotcha Day" anniversary (successful day in court)! We don't celebrate that day here as we have too many other special days to celebrate but it is still a very important date for us!!

Trying clothes on Katy for the big day!

2008-11-25T12:50:00.000-08:00

Katy's database picture. I was never given a picture of her but months after our return home I asked for this one out of her file and was lucky enough to get it!

Who is Who ???

2008-11-25T11:56:00.000-08:00

Can you guess?

The twins database picture. My guess is Camryn on the left and Courtney on the right but, who really knows???

I was not given a referral picture but a friend in Russia did a search of the database for twin girls in Ekaterinburg after I received the referral and found this. I then saw the same photo in their file at the Department of Ministry!

2008-11-25T11:54:00.000-08:00

Again, I think, Camryn on the left and Courtney on the right but ????

This is their two year birthday picture. The only picture I received between trips with the exception of pictures taken by another adoptive parent in July when she was picking her son up.

One Year Ago . . .

2008-11-19T20:43:00.000-08:00

It is 9:45 AM November 20th right now in Ekaterinburg - one year ago right now I was at the Department of Ministry receiving my referral for my beautiful twin girls. As soon as we received the referral we headed off for the first of many long drives to go visit the girls. They were 19 months old and were not walking yet. Camryn (Polina) thought she could walk and kept getting up like she was going to go somewhere but before her second step she'd be back down. They weren't speaking at all but were very friendly after the initial shyness.

Upon meeting my children (Katy first, then Camryn & Courtney) it was like the moment of "birth" to me. Both referrals were blind referrals where I was given no pictures and little information. With Katy all I knew was that I was going to meet a girl under 3 and with Camryn & Courtney I knew I was going to meet twin girls. I was not given any pictures or videos by the agency although, with Camryn & Courtney, a friend in Russia found a picture of the only twin girls on the database in Ekaterinburg that were then available for adoption. I had that picture but was not sure if it was them until I arrived and received my referral. I saw the same photo in the file.

When I say that meeting my girls was like the "moment of birth" what I mean is I never considered not accepting a referral because I felt that these were the children I was meant to have and whatever the issues might be is what I would deal with. I know people who have had to decline referrals due to health reasons or various other reasons and I feel very lucky that my two referrals were for healthy children so I was not forced to make that terrible, difficult decision. But, for me, it was not love at first sight with any of the girls - it was very much a formality that I had to go through in order to get my children home so I could then let my maternal love grow for them. I feel a little guilty admitting that but I knew that once I got the girls home I would fall in love with them more and more everyday and hoped that it would be the same for them. I think everybody reacts and feels differently but I felt my reaction was very honest and realistic. I was more worried about them growing to love me then I was about my love growing for them.

I actually thought Katy was extremely funny looking when I first saw her and had scared myself so much by all the reading I had done about institutionalized children that I was imagining that I was seeing all sorts of issues with her. In addition to all of the fear I had, I was also accompanied by 4 or 5 orphanage and agency people watching and waiting for the love to gush out of me over this naked baby they had laid on the floor in front of me. The reality of the moment (the entire first two visits) was that I was watching this 11 month old baby and looking for all of the "institutionalized" issues to see what was going to be permanent and what was correctable.

They, the orphanage caregivers, were displaying this baby for me as if I was having to make the decision whether I was going to bring her home or not. They had stripped her down before I could say anything and laid her out on a blanket so I could see all of her. They started making all sorts of noises behind her head so that I could see that she could hear (I'm guessing that's what they were doing) and they were clapping and doing all sorts of other things to show me that she was responsive. The entire experience was very unpleasant for me and, I felt, degrading for her - how could they expect love to be present there? There were many feelings along with the stress - feelings of empathy for this little baby, feelings of wanting to remove her from there and to protect her but maternal love? Just like that? Didn't work that way for me! All I wanted to do was get me and my baby out of there so we could be together, get to know each other and let our love for each other grow as I knew that it would regardless of what issues this child might have. In my mind it was very unrealistic for them to expect me to feel the deep love of a mother's love for a baby I had only just met, especially considering the stress of the entire surreal, unpleasant, completely foreign, and unnatural situation! I know myself though and I knew that my loving this child would not be a problem but that it would take time without all of the stress and people watching me.

It turned out that Katy had rickets which is not uncommon for children in Siberia whether they've been in orphanages or not. I didn't know very much about rickets but I learned that one of the signs is a bulging forehead which is what Katy had. The rickets went away probably within the first month as did the bulging forehead but my fears didn't. I was still searching physically and developmentally for "post-institutionalized" problems. She really didn't have any other then having to learn to sleep (she was drugged so she'd sleep at her orphanage) and, of course, learning to rely on me and others. It took a good year for our relationship to feel what I consider to be "normal" for a mother and child and before I didn't think of her as my "adopted" child and, instead, just as "my child".

I learned so much from that first experience that I thought I was prepared for the second and, in many ways I was. There are many differences with the circumstances of the second adoption including the fact that there are two, the older age and the longer wait between meeting and bringing them home. The initial visits, one year ago right now(!), were the same experience as Katy's. They brought the two girls in and I automatically begin searching for the signs of problems that we would need to work on when we got home. They offered to strip the girls down so I could examine them but I said no thank you. It didn't matter what I would see, these were to be my girls and I didn't want them displayed the way that Katy was. I understand the need for the exams but it just didn't matter to me at the time (they're fine by the way - no surprises!).

Once again, as expected, it was not "love at first sight" for me and it was very much a formality. This orphanage was much more relaxed about their rules and they actually left me alone with the twins for around 3 or 4 hours! Never would have happened at Katy's orphanage. Well, there's one of me and two of them and that's a really long time. It was pretty much torture for me and I'm sure for them too. I brought a few toys but nothing to entertain them for that long - I had no snacks for them (or for me) and they had no contained place for me to play with them. It was an extremely long afternoon and, like the first experience with Katy, I went back to my hotel and scanned through the pictures I had looking for the signs of trouble. The next day, the same experience. They had two little plastic cars there for me to entertain the girls with but they couldn't push it themselves so for another 3 hours I held one and pushed the other and would then trade off. It was November so you think it would have been cold but they had the heat on and I was so hot I thought I was going to pass out. It was miserable and all I wanted to do was get home so I could quickly do the paperwork and get my girls home so we could begin the process of getting to know each other and letting our love grow. I knew it was just not going to happen at the orphanage no matter how long I walked around with them in the little plastic car. And, I was missing Katy terribly and feeling a little sad and guilty about changing her life so drastically.

Returning home I thought I was going to get my paperwork done so fast and well that the judge would be impressed and quickly issue a court date to get those twins out of there. I did do my paperwork fast - most requests were turned in within a week when my agency said a month was more typical. It's all I could think about and if a request came through forget anything else I had to do (work, etc), I was begging, pleading and bargaining with people to get me the paperwork quickly. But, it still took 10 months of waiting and of torture and the judge treated me no better or worse then anyone else that is fortunate enough to make it to her courtroom.

And now, here we are one year later. We've been home for just over a month and all my fears are gone. I don't look at any of my children and look for damage caused by their time in the "institutions" and, even better, I don't look at them now and think of the adoptions. I have challenges with all 3 children but I have not heard of a child that did not at one time present a challenge to their parents. Mine happen to need some special treatment/methods right now because of their start in life but, I think the raising of any child has to be personalized to that one child's needs and requirements and, it's never easy or simple. Watching my brothers and sisters with their biological children it is obvious that born into a family or adopted into a family doesn't change the fact that every individual child is different and requires different handling and care. This has become especially apparent to me since becoming the parent to twins. They are so different and although their basic needs are the same, I need to adjust what I do for each one of them.

Katy is four and is very strong willed but she is very loving and very charismatic. She is friendly and happy and fun and extremely entertaining and cute as can be. She is so beautiful and here I thought she was so funny looking at first (in looking back at pictures now she was actually quite adorable then too even with the rickets). Camryn is happy, happy, happy. She is smart and she is athletic and she is friendly and she is extremely loving and sweet. She laughs so easily and it is sometimes such a genuine laugh that it becomes silent and her body is shaking. She knows that I am her mom and she lights up when I walk in the room. She wants to be held and she has the cutest laugh which is easily brought out. If she's doing something and she looks up and sees me she reaches her hand out to me to touch and then smiles the sweetest smile. Sometimes she goes back to what she was doing but usually she gets up and comes over for a quick snuggle and then goes back. They don't come any sweeter than Camryn. Courtney on the other hand is very sensitive and very much my little "underdog" which makes me feel especially tender toward her. Where Camryn and Katy play together (and bother each other) Courtney is usually doing something on her own. If she hurts herself she comes right over to show me where she got the "bor-bor" and then tells me the story (in animated jibberish) of how she got it while pointing to where it happened. She then wants a little hug and goes back. She is the most quiet of the 3 normally but she is secretly studying everything and I think she's picking things up even more quickly then Camryn. She has the same laugh as Camryn but doesn't give it so easily, although it is easy to draw it out of her. When she laughs like that she squints her eyes and they have a twinkle in them that is uniquely her - I haven't seen Camryn give the twinkley eyes. Courtney surprises me with singing the songs - she knows the words (and spider movements) already and she loves to sing them. She is very sweet too and very sensitive which may be why she has a few behaviors remaining from her early neglect. But they are virtually disappearing before our eyes. She also gets excited when I enter the room and comes right to me. She is a little snuggler too and also a little copy cat (as is Camryn at times) which I hope to see change one day. She's gone from eating nothing in Moscow to eating fairly large, healthy meals now. I have many times when all 3 girls are laying on a part of me (all at that same time) and I am lucky enough to have the time right now that I get to also enjoy special one on one snuggle time too which I really enjoy.

So, one year later, I don't think I could love my girls any more then I do right now. I was never worried that it would be here but it is so wonderful when it is not about the adoption any longer and it is just me and my daughters whom I, truly, deeply love. I wonder if the orphanage staff, the agency staff (in country), the social workers, the judges and all the people who testified in court on my behalf about the loving relationships they witnessed during my visits really believed that it was there instantly upon meeting my children as they all wanted to hear me say (and did hear me say). I don't know if my experience is very different then most and if it is normally "love at first sight" or, if it is typical to need time together without all the hoopla of the adoption looming around us. But, I know that now my experience (and love) raising my daughters is no different then if I had given birth to them myself.

The entire adoption process is one formality after another and I just followed the steps doing what I was told to do and saying what I was advised to say knowing that I would end up with a child but not realizing the reality of that. It got me to the two most important, life changing days of my life, December 8, 2005 and October 8, 2008 when I walked out of the orphanages and began the real journey of loving and raising my 3 beautiful daughters. All the "adoption" nightmare and turmoil is totally gone for me and for my family and I couldn't be happier about it or with my 3 girls. I still wonder how I have been the one chosen to raise, care for and love these 3 amazing little girls.

Timing is everything

2008-11-18T12:04:00.000-08:00

The twins are sleeping and Katy is happily at school so all is very quiet and good right now. Yesterday I was very tired and the twins just didn't want to go to sleep. There was no apparent reason for it as Katy was at school and we had had a very quiet morning but it just wasn't to be. I was worried because we had plans last night but they did fine and were home in bed by 7:30 - to sleep by 8:30. They had no crankiness or trauma from missing the nap - but, I did!

The twins have added "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" to their repertoire and it is very cute. They, especially Courtney, really love singing which is lots of fun for me. I can actually understand some of the words when they're singing which is very exciting.

Just when I began struggling with the need for discipline (okay, maybe not "just") and how exactly to do it, along came a very good book and method recommended by Katy's Montessori school. I've started reading it and am very excited about their methods and direction - in comparison to how I've felt about many others I've "scanned" through that seem to have lots of principles but no real practical life advise. This book actually gives some pretty realistic examples and, follows through to what to do if . . . enough information to really learn how to apply it in my everyday situations here. Just what I needed right now as it addresses how to be kind and firm at the same time (always difficult for me) and how to use "Positive Discipline" which is what the book is called. The book is written by Jane Nelsen, Ed.D and, so far, things I like are the 4 R's of punishment - Resentment, Revenge, Rebellion and Retreat which is what I get from Katy when I "punish" her (punishment has a short term affect but a damaging long term affect) and the idea that I can, through these methods, discipline in a way that builds the children up without knocking them down (my words, not hers). The methods in this book might be a practical and effective approach that may work for us - here's to hoping anyway! It would be nice to know that what I am doing (with discipline) will have a long term positive affect on them as opposed to just getting them to behave at that moment.

Off to read some more!

Smoothing things out

2008-11-16T11:12:00.000-08:00

Right now I have Charlotte ('s Web) entertaining Katy in the other room and the twins are fast asleep for their afternoon nap and it's only 11:15 AM! Now, that's progress and, although it may seem like a small feat to some reading this, for me, these days, it's is monumental and gives me hope. To have Katy happily occupied and independent and to have the twins sleeping easily while Katy is here is something I have been struggling with.

Katy is only in pre-school 3 days a week now for 7 hours a day. Wednesdays she has dance & tumbling and Friday's all 3 have swim lessons. It is always more difficult when Katy is here as she tries to control the twins and it gets a little crazy around here. I've been struggling with discipline - not so much with Katy because I'm not too worried about being too tough on her but, with the twins. They are not your typical 2 1/2 year olds that know and understand the basic rules - they don't understand any rules - or at least, they didn't. They actually carried the game playing from the orphanage over to here so that when I ask them to come back they thought it was a fun game and would laugh and take off running. We've been working on that but I have to make it not fun for them - which is not fun for me! I don't want to be too hard on them when I'm trying to build a loving relationship but, I do want them to understand that they need to listen and follow directions. I get tired, especially after several days in a row. and I have to admit to quite a bit of crankiness on my part - especially when all 3 are going at it which was yesterday. Today has been totally different so far.

With all that said, I'm now becoming a much more stern and strict parent than I was before and am seeing results already. It's necessary with 3 and I think it will help them in many ways by being in a calm environment. And, I'm hoping to get the rules, etc., understood early on so that we can move on to the fun things outside of the house. It's not really possible to take them many places when they have no understanding of danger around them although they are very good when I do take them places.

So - here's to hoping that I can walk the thin line between constructive discipline and misery and actually get these 3 girls of mine to respect the rules (and me) but still enjoy themselves and me! Running around after the 3 girls and basically waiting on them leaves little time for taking care of myself and I've noticed that as my eating habits have been declining (quick snacks here and there instead of good meals), my crankiness has been increasing so today I have resolved to take care of that problem too. So after a not so pleasant day yesterday, today I'm feeling optimistic and with a little stern parenting and high expectations of the girls, life will be good and flowing smoothly again very soon for all of us.

On that note, I'm off to spend some quality time with K before the twins wake up - she's out there being very patient which is a result of my crankiness yesterday but, hopefully, some of my communicated expectations of her too.

More later . . .

New Photo Link

2008-11-11T14:45:00.000-08:00

I created a new family photo album as I can download the photos much quicker there. For those who would like to see the most recent photos, click on the link and it will take you there. You can view them individually or by slideshow (which takes a few seconds to download). I hope you enjoy them!

What a difference a month makes

2008-11-11T13:10:00.001-08:00

It was one month ago today that we left Moscow and landed in LA. At times, being a mom of 3 still feels new to me but there are also those times that I feel like I've been doing this (work) forever! As every busy mom before me knows, my days are filled with trying to keep things under control and trying to keep children dry, clean, fed & happy. I'm finding that this is no easy task but, at the end of the day when they're all asleep and I look back at the comical pictures of the day I can usually re-balance myself for the next day.

Stories of the past week:

Nighttime drama. I've been trying to find the best method of getting the twins to go to sleep. I'll read a few books sometimes while they're in their beds or sitting on mine trying to include Katy. The books are a little juvenile for Katy so this is a little trying. I then tuck the girls in bed and kiss them each goodnight. It's not long before I hear the giggling and the bumps in the rooms. I've removed all toys and really anything within reach for them in hopes that out of shear boredom they'd fall asleep. I've tried sitting with them until they fall asleep but I am something for them to focus on which becomes a problem. I've tried ignoring the chattering and giggling and let them fall where they may but that only worked for so long. Poor Katy took the brunt of the error in that method when she stepped on a very poopy diaper that Camryn had removed and threw into the hallway. What a surprise that was for all of us and it was the end of the ignoring them. Another night I thought they were both asleep and I hear Camryn calling "mammmmaaa" in her special way and I go into check on them. I walked in and she opened her mouth wide and said her "haaaaaaa" which only she can do and pointed at her sister who was in the process of removing her pj's. I was very surprised that she "told on her sister" but I was pretty pleased that she got the message from the previous night that removing the pj's is a "no-no"! So, every night we try something different including earlier naps during the day. It's tough because the house doesn't shut down when it's time for them to shut down. Katy tries to be quiet but it's very difficult as every little foot step tends to catch their attention.

Katy's melodrama: Aunt Lynnie and Kellie were visiting one day and Katy got in a little bit of trouble with them. She then stormed into her room and when Kellie went in to check on her, my just turned 4 year old told her that she was packing her bag and leaving! Kellie came and reported this to me and I went and found Katy putting her Dora back pack on getting ready to depart. I asked her where she was going to go and told her I was very sad that she was leaving and all she kept saying was she was LEAVING. She walked into her sister's room and sat down between their beds and announced that that is where she was going. I was pretty relieved but we felt that possibly she may be in need of a break from her mom and sisters so we sent her to Aunt Lynnies for a few hours where she had a wonderful time.

Mealtime Drama: The twins are typical 2 year olds with their eating habits although I think that they did not have much variety at the orphanage and what they did have was probably very bland. Courtney eats a lot more then Camryn these days but even so, they basically just want bananas. The girls are not adventurous in their eating so I've taken to taking advantage of their good natures and sticking new foods in their mouths - they're not always too pleased with this but I've found that if I can just get them (force them) to try one bite then often they like it and we'll find a new food to add to their list. The forced tomato didn't go over too well (one of Katy's favorites) but they loved the brussel sprouts, mashed potatoes, meat sauce pasta and the creamed rice. They loved the creamed rice so much that I gave them each a second bowl which was somewhat of a mistake with Courtney as she obviously wasn't hungry any longer. She took that opportunity to play with the food and rub in all over her face and hair. It was everywhere and since they didn't get the first birthday messy cake experience I let this one go and got the pictures. But, I'm doing my best to prevent meals like this in the future as I feel my days really are spent picking up and cleaning up after the three girls.

Sisters bonding: The twins seem to be okay as far as attachment issues go. They're definitely attached to each other and seem appropriately attached to me considering the amount of time we've been together. They have had a little trouble attaching with Katy however. I think it's probably because they had to defend their space from the bigger kids in the orphanage and, Katy is not the most gentle little girl. This week I've seen lots of progress with that. Katy is trying to do things a little more softly and the girls are responding to that. They watch katy and mimic what she does which pleases Katy to no end. They've been playing well together and have spent hours playing outside, playing dress-up, dancing and playing in the playroom together. I think those are my happiest moments - seeing all 3 girls happy together makes any work or fatigue worthwhile.

I'll have to post pictures later as Camryn is waking up from her nap. I have some very cute pictures of this past week including of the twins crawling into their playpens this afternoon when I told them it was nap time. It was so nice for me as they both walked in and got in their own playpens and laid down! I wish night time was so easy (Katy is at school during nap time which helps a lot!). Much more to come!

25 days later . . . .

2008-11-02T12:01:00.000-08:00

The best sleeping arrangements . . .

My bumble bee, good witch and good doctor (missing a few pieces of her costume) . . .

It's been 25 days since leaving the orphanage with two wondering but brave little girls. They have done remarkably well with all of the changes in their lives. It feels like the girls have been with us for so much longer than 25 days - I have to keep reminding myself that they've only been out of the orphanage for that long.

Both girls seem to really enjoy all of the love and affection that they are getting. Camryn follows me around the house most of the time and, if she's off playing with her sisters, she comes in and checks with me very often. Courtney is a little more independent but she also really likes to cuddle and have her head rubbed. They both are so sweet and are such little cuddlelers. It's lucky that all 3 girls wake up at different times because they each like to lay with me for a few minutes. Usually, it's Katy, then Camryn, then Courtney. I think Camryn would lay there all day if she could - she's my very very sweet one. Courtney will lay there for a few minutes and then something else will catch her attention and she's off and running again. She has a lot of "catching up" to do for lost time and she's trying to get it all done quickly!

Both girls have great eye contact and will stare into my eyes with such loving looks. Their eyes are very different then each others although both have very large brown eyes that have always just pulled me right in. Camryn normally looks into my eyes with soft, sweet eyes while Courtney looks with glee in her eyes. She is so happy and so playful it shows in her eyes most of the time.

When the girls first arrived home, Courtney was walking around saying "bor-bor" about every 5 minutes which means something like "I'm feeling pain" according to Olga. Courtney said it a couple of times even in the car leaving the orphanage. If she hit her hand on anything it would be "bor-bor" so it wasn't just random but it was ultra-sensitive. She still does it occasionally, but now it seems that she really only says it when she's actually hurt. So, I think that's great progress. She seems to be losing her sensitivity although she still is a little more sensitive then Camryn is. Courtney now has the same cream & rosy complexion that Camryn has had (after the scabies treatments) and she's filled out quite a bit too. Courtney also sings all the time now which is very cute. For some reason she really hooked on to "Ring around the Rosies" from when Katy played it with her in the orphanage. It is such an awful song but she goes around singing "ashes ashes we all fall down". It's cute but yuck! What a strange song that is.

The girls went in for their first big blood draw last week and the results so far have been good. Courtney screamed through the blood draw but Camryn didn't make a peep! Camryn was more of the constant big eater originally but now Courtney is overtaking her and is much more adventurous in the things that she'll try. We'll have more tests down the road but for now things look good with just a few things to take care of - I'm very focused on getting the physical issues taken care of as I think the developmental issues will catch up quickly when they're completely healthy. And, with that, the developmental issues seem to be disappearing on their own but I will still get some extra help where it seems necessary. I'll probably begin that process this coming week.

Friday was a big day for the girls as they had their first swim lesson and their first Halloween. The swim lesson went very well and both girls absolutely love the water just like their big sister. They had no fear and I had to hold one back while the other was getting her time with the instructor. I was soaking wet as a result. It was difficult as all 3 girls were getting lessons at the same time (what was I thinking?). Luckily a friend came by and was very helpful with getting the girls out of the water and ready to go. Next Friday I'm hoping to be a little better at juggling the 3.

Halloween was a big hit. Normally we go into town and do a little trick or treating at the shops but Teddy died in the afternoon so that sort of put a damper on the festivities. He wasn't with us but was out at the Old Julian property and the people who were going with us needed to take care of Teddy. Later on we went to one of my sister's neighborhood that is so perfect for kids. They had haunted backyards and people sitting out on their driveways waiting to greet the kids. We were going to take it easy but all 3 girls were really enjoying it so we visited about 10 houses and then they greeted the trick or treaters at my sisters house. It was a lot of fun for all.

Saturday I ventured out to the grocery store with all 3 girls - but not alone. I'm changing grocery stores because mine doesn't have the big double carts and that's what I need. I tried it on Saturday with my sister and niece with me for emergency back up which was needed after about 20 minutes. If I can get in and out in about that time I think I'll be okay. The trick will be trying to find one of the carts to put the girls in after parking. While there, I ran into a friend who took the picture of us. The whole trip took up most of our pre-nap time but was very good and necessary to get done.

Right now the girls are going down for nap but are not doing it quite as easily as they used to. I try the soothing music and darkened room but it still takes them a while. I've got them back in the same room for napping as I really need to sit with them in order to make sure they don't get up and run around. But, everything is getting a little easier and a little more familiar for me and for them every day.

On another note, Melissa who is in between trips for Colby's adoption, received a call regarding new delays in the region. I was hoping that things were going to speed up as I had heard the judge was being investigated for dragging things out for so long. Melissa is now being told 9 to 12 months between trips. My heart goes out to her and her husband. It is such a difficult wait and knowing exactly what she is going through makes my happiness with the girls a little bittersweet because there are so many others waiting. Children, just like mine, waiting and hoping to join families and to start enjoying a life filled with love instead of the grey lonely life in the orphanage. Parents waiting for children to share their love and joy with and here I am with 3 beautiful little girls. We are so lucky and, although I know Melissa will be as lucky soon, I know how sad it is for her now and I share that with her. There's nothing any of us can do to change the process but, as torturous as it is, there is an end to the dark tunnel and the light is brighter than ever at the other end.

A very sad farewell to our much loved Teddy Bear

2008-11-02T11:23:00.000-08:00

Teddy Bear, our Akita Shepherd lost his year long battle with cancer on Friday. He was so loved by his family and friends and I will always be grateful to him for how wonderful he was with all of the children in his life. I have so many hilarious (and expensive) Teddy stories like the day he chased my horses with a turkey vulture in his mouth and I had to take the turkey vulture to the rescue center. And, there was the time that he ate the front end of my car while trying to get the bunny out - as my brother had taught him to do (get the critter away from the car). And, the time he chased the squirrel into the drain pipe on my barn and greeted me when I got home with a 8 or 10' section of pipe with a bulge in the middle with teeth marks in it. The bulge, of course, was the squirrel. I could go on and on about Teddy but he was the sweetest, most lovable dog I've ever known and I will really miss him as I know Bushia and all the Old Julian crew will too.

Katy had just watched "All Dogs Go to Heaven" and when I told her that Teddy died she said she was going to sneak into my car at night (SCARY - she's only 4) and drive to Heaven and tell Teddy that all dogs are not suppose to go to Heaven and she was going to bring him back. I wish she could bring him back happy and healthy as he will be remembered.

Happy Birthday Weekend Katy

2008-10-26T23:59:00.000-07:00

Oh Happy Days . . .

2008-10-25T10:49:00.000-07:00

Camryn and Courtney are doing so well and are so much fun. It definitely is a lot of work but so worth it. I can't think of any other way I'd rather spend my time.

The twins are doing very well and Katy is coming around. I've had to ban Katy from her pony bed and have her sleeping with me (again) so that we can both get a full nights sleep. It worked wonders and now she sleeps through the night and is back to her 5:30 AM wake up. Still too early but at least it's not 3 AM like it had been. Today she actually slept in until around 7:30 as did the twins.

Tomorrow is Katy's 4th birthday and the celebrations actually started on Thursday and haven't stopped. Stacy arrived on Thursday to join in all of the festivities (for those who don't know, Stacy accompanied me to Russia when I picked Katy up) and she's been a lot of fun for me and the girls. Thursday night Aunt Lynnie threw a Scooby-Doo pizza party for Katy. Katy had a great time as did the twins. They had their second swimming experience (with the exception of the bathtub) and loved it. They then joined in on the trampoline with Katy and cousins and loved that too of course. They didn't enjoy the pizza much as I'm finding to be the case with a lot of American kids foods but we're making progress.

Last night, Katy had her last soccer game with her current team and the "Old Julian Petting Farm" folks had another pizza/awards/birthday party honoring her. The twins sat in the twin stroller and watched the game and clapped right along with everyone else which was very cute. As long as I had a steady stream of snacks heading their way they were content. They watched the birthday/awards celebration very patiently.

Tonight another family dinner and tomorrow a big birthday celebration with Katy's pre-school friends at the pump-it-up facility. It sounds like a lot for the twins I know but they're handling things very well. They know who mama is and come to me with their needs (and loves) but they are also friendly with others. I like that they are so social and don't want to lose that if I can help it but I also like the re-directing of them to me when they're hungry or hurt, etc. It seems to be working. I left them for a few hours on Wednesday in order to take Katy to her dance class. They took her place in Katy's little pre-school and when I went back to pick them up they were playing with the other kids. They looked up and saw me and both came running into my arms laughing. It was very cute but, more importantly, it was a very big step. I feel that we are well on our way to their understanding of who "mama" is and what that really means for them.

They had their first big doctor appointment with the international specialist. They both did great. Courtney revealed some physical movements in the orphanage that were a little concerning but mentally she's always been right there with Camryn. Her body was stiff in the orphanage but after our visits she seemed to loosen up. By the time we picked her up the only stiff body part was her hands. She quickly improved the hand movements too but still has some self-soothing habits. The doctor said that some of the movements are similar to autistic behavior but that she is not autistic. She has great eye contact and is focused appropriately. The stiffness and movements (hand flapping, sensory sensitivity) are common in institutionalized children and they normally grow out of them shortly after joining their families. This has proven to be the case with Courtney although she still has some catching up to do as far as weight goes. But, she's eating as much, if not more, as Camryn, so she'll catch up there quickly.

Both girls were tested for TB and came out negative. That was a surprise as they have apparently figured out a way around the false positive they normally get when children have received the vaccine as all 3 of my girls have. They still have to have tons of blood drawn but all in all they passed their appointment with flying colors. Camryn is in the 38 percentile for height and 8 percentile for weight while Courtney who is 1/2 inch smaller and 1 pound lighter is 26 and 6. So, both are doing pretty well.

The girls have graduated from throwing the food they don't want on the floor to just saying "naaaaah" and putting it down on their tray. This was a huge improvement for me. We've also gone from screaming for food every morning to them sitting quietly in their highchairs while I cook breakfast for them. If I'm too slow and am losing their patience, I have a banana ready to go to buy me some more time. It seems to be working. Both girls are sleeping through the night, eating enough, playing a lot, enjoying the So. California sun tremendously and seem to be happy most of the time. The only real exceptions are when it's time to get out of the bath (or they can't have one when they "demand" it) and, when I say it's "night-night" time. They don't like that but normally go right down anyway. They share a room at night but at nap time I've got them in separate rooms and they don't seem to mind that. Eventually I will put them in their own rooms - I think it will be important for both (especially Courtney) to have a some opportunities to gain some individuality and independence.

As far as English goes - I think they understand everything. I can ask Camryn to give something to Courtney, or vice versa, and she does it. They understand when I tell them to put their hands on their heads, sit on their bottoms, etc. They say a few words but not really very many. They repeat things instantly when I say them but then they use few on their own so far. Courtney does tell me when she needs a new diaper which is always helpful. Camryn now shakes her head yes in response to my questions but neither shake no yet.

All in all it's been a pretty easy transition for me and for them so far. Katy has had the hardest time of it and still sends them to "her mommy" when they need something. I don't think she fully understands yet that I am also their mommy. We've had a few cute moments in the car, when they're all strapped down, that the 3 are interacting together but it's pretty occasional. Sometimes I catch Katy playing with Camryn but mostly Katy does something she's not supposed to do and then the twins follow and Katy ends up getting in trouble.

I'll post more pictures later . . . but, right now, I smell a dirty diaper so I'd better get back to my duties.

A week and a day

2008-10-19T22:14:00.000-07:00

So much has changed in that amount of time since we've been home. Katy slept a full night last night not waking until 5:30 which was her usual time pre-Russia - that's the first since returning home. Thankfully, the twins have been sleeping through the night since picking them up at the orphanage. I feel like a new person after finally getting a full night's sleep. It's been such a long time - I don't think I had one uninterrupted nights sleep the whole 5 weeks in Russia so it was wonderful!

I felt so good this morning that I decided to take the 3 girls to a family reunion of sorts as it was an opportunity to see many people I haven't seen in years. I had a lot of help and, even with that, it was a lot of work but so worth it. Courtney discovered the swimming pool and I couldn't keep her out of it. Katy, who is a fish anyway, jumped in and Camryn was not far behind. Luckily, their cousins also were ready to dive in so all 3 girls got to enjoy the water today. Courtney seemed to especially love it - she was dunking her head and coming up laughing and clapping. She didn't seem to have any fear which is how Katy was before learning to swim. Scary as every where we go there are pools (including at home) so the girls will have to learn to swim very quickly. Camryn didn't seem to have any fear either and was also enthusiastic about the water but, Courtney just couldn't get enough. One thing all 3 will enjoy doing together I hope.

It has been a busy week for me. I can't provide the food quickly enough for the twins. They're barely awake before they're in the kitchen begging for food. I'm trying to break away from so much "snacking" as I want to introduce new foods but their insistent demands for food every minute makes that difficult. But, we are making progress. This morning I made them wait while I scrambled eggs for them and made pancakes. The eggs were a big hit but the pancakes today didn't go over at all. I follow everything up with a banana as they can not get enough of those. In fact, "banana", "more" and "bye bye" is the extent of the english the girls are speaking so far. And, with constant eating comes constant diaper changes. My days basically consist of feeding changing washing but I'm loving it.

Having gone through the whole adoption process with Katy I was prepared for the strangeness of it all. Having these children become my daughters when the judge (FINALLY) decided to declare it so, is beyond strange emotionally. Spending time with them in the orphanage, like with Katy, really doesn't provide much of an opportunity to get to know these little people. All of the books I've read about adoption and "attachment" only focus on the child attaching to the parent because of the possible attachment issues the child may have. The attachment the parent feels toward the child seems to rarely be discussed I'm sure because it is pretty much a given that sooner or later it will be there without having to work at it. For some parents it is the instant they first meet the child (which is what the judge wants to hear and, I'm sure, always does) and, for others, it has to grow which is the case with me. But, it grow quickly - as soon as I'm away from that environment it starts blossoming and that is what this whole week has been about.

With Katy, who was drugged in her orphanage to get her to go to sleep (go figure), I gave up any attempt of "bonding" with her in the orphanage and knew that it would grow when I could get her home. And, it did very quickly. I didn't worry about it happening instantly like I suppose it does for some people. Katy didn't have any real attachment difficulties with the exception of not knowing me from any other "mama" nearby but, as soon as we had an opportunity to be together it grew for both of us.

The twins were not drugged at their orphanage and we were pretty much left alone to spend hours at a time together. It was extremely difficult though because of the set up with doors on both sides with stairwells right outside of those. It was more of a formality to prove to the judge that I had spent the time with them and to convince her that I knew what I was getting into (thanks to the French couple). I got to know their personalities a little bit but they weren't shining through like they are now. They are so different to me now as I have been able to get to know them. They showed little glimpses of what was in there before but now it's pouring out and they are so much fun. When I look at them I am now seeing my daughters - not somebody else's abandoned kids. They are now very familiar to me and I'm becoming more familiar to them too. I expected this because it is how I reacted to Katy's arrival so I was not worried that they would never feel like my daughters but, it is so nice that they now do! I think Katy is still working on the sister part of things because she has told me to take them back at least once and then has said that she is throwing one or both of them in the recycler or trash on many different occasions! I know as time passes she will get use to them and hopefully enjoy having them with us.

I've read a lot about the "honeymoon" period often experienced by adoptive parents and will not be surprised if things get more difficult but, for now, both girls seem to be adjusting very well. Food seems to be their primary concern right now - especially Courtney who has made major progress in the last week. She's filled out a lot and looks and feels so much healthier. Camryn always did seem healthy but their skin is all cleared up (2 "preventative" scabie treatments later - highly recommended to parents preparing for their 2nd trip) and it is so soft and baby like now - very hug-able and kissable which wasn't exactly the case in the orphanage - they were a little itchy, sticky and gooey while there!

I couldn't be happier with how things are going right now and am hopeful that the girls are not going to go through major trauma later on down the road. They look at the pictures of themselves in the orphanage for long periods of time but then they're back to playing, hugging, laughing and eating without seeming sad at all.

I haven't been very good at taking pictures - surprisingly, it's much more difficult with 3 kids then it was with just the 1! But, here are some of my attempts at documenting their first week home:

Pure joy and so much fun in the sun

Courtney then Camryn figuring out how to eat oatmeal. Courtney quickly discovered that eating like the cat is much quicker and Camryn, naturally, followed suit.

Banana breaks

Courtney helping herself to more snacks (note the 2 day supply of bananas!)

2008-10-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

One week ago yesterday -

The baby train (as coined by someone at LAX) leaving Moscow . . .

My 3 Russian Beauties in Moscow

Settling in

2008-10-15T13:56:00.000-07:00

As expected, we are all suffering a bit of jet lag with Katy having the worst of it. She's been waking up between 2 and 3 AM and the first night she woke her sisters. I set her room up so that she could read if she woke up again the next night. She's been entertaining herself since then and not waking her sisters but we're going to have to come up with another solution. This is what I found this morning . . .

We're trying to get early naps in today and Katy is now cooperating and is sound asleep in her room but, my easy sleepers have decided today that it's not such a great idea. I put them down in their room with twin beds and when I would hear chatter or noise I'd go in. All I have to do is walk near them and when they hear me they scurry back to their beds. They've already established whose is whose as they have done with the high chairs. I sat with them for a long time and know that they are both exhausted but they keep trying to hold hands, smile at each other, trade stuffed animals, etc. I then decided to try the playpens in my bedroom. They're now both laying down but neither seem close to falling asleep.

The girls are both doing great and Katy is hanging in there. They seem to be very happy and Courtney has come a long way in her motor skills. She is very serious compared to Camryn but she does smile a lot too. I have noticed that they rarely cry but when they do, they start with the heaving that kids do after crying for a long time. They don't make any crying noise so it's hard to know when they're doing that. I don't know if it's because they never got a response to loud crying so they keep it to themselves but, it's very sad to see. The tears are flowing but they're just making the heaving sound very quietly. Camryn started doing that when I moved her into the playpen - it's heartbreaking. Courtney was doing it in the middle of the night one night and I picked her up to rock her. She then let out a loud cry which I thought was probably a positive thing.

I have appointments for the girls with a doctor specializing in internationally adopted children for next Tuesday. I'm anxious to get that done so I know which direction to go with the girls. They went with me to drop Katy off at school and Camryn went right to the work table and got some work out. She pulled out a little chair and sat at the table to begin working. It was like she'd always been doing it and she was excited about it. She was very sad when I took her out of there. Courtney shows interest too but she's always a bit more hesitant to jump right in. I'd like to get them in a couple of mornings a week just for the social interaction as well as the pre-school program which is very good but I'm waiting to see what the doctor says. If they need something more specialized then I will do that but, right now, I don't see that that's going to be necessary. Even physical therapy is questionable at this time because Courtney has changed drastically just in the last week. Camryn never had any issues. Both girls are strong and capable and don't seem to be very far behind at all in physical issues.

The areas I think they are behind are language which is a given but they're understanding a lot already. Also, Courtney still is a little slower with her fine motor skills then Camryn but when comparing there's always going to be one ahead of the other. Neither one knew how to use a bottle or a sippy cup and they both have the sippy cups down now. I think they were hand fed everything including drinks so they never learned how to do that. In comparing them to other children their age they seem pretty close.

So, after one week together I think we're doing great although we are all still exhausted from the trip and the newness of it all. I was talking about getting rid of some of our excess toys and Katy thought I was talking about her sisters and was upset. That was a good sign! She does like her sisters and still wants them here! They really are so much fun for me and, although I am tired, I am loving every minute with them. Individually they are both very endearing and loving and, together I find their interaction so interesting and amusing. They are so connected. I find that if I hold Camryn's hand or ask Camryn to do something then Courtney follows along. Even walking into the house, if I only have one hand I'll take Camryn's then I don't have to worry about Courtney. I hope to help that change one day but for now it's making two much easier. Actually, the two of them are easier work wise then Katy ever has been on her own. They play together and entertain each other which is very helpful when I have something I have to do. Katy didn't have that and needed to be with me every second. Sometimes, she's still like that!

We're Not in Moscow anymore

2008-10-12T22:00:00.000-07:00

We are so glad to be home. All 3 girls are doing very well. I wish I could say it was an uneventful trip home but, it wasn't. A woman died on the plane about 2 hours out of Moscow and, as surprising as it was, we just kept going. She was on the plane for 9 1/2 more hours! There was an investigation after we landed which took a long time and was difficult with our little baby train. But, we go through and emerged as a group of 6 US Citizens which was when I knew I could finally relax and we were truly done. I still had a 2 1/2 hour drive and was exhausted but everything looked so pretty, clean and well-organized that I was excited about seeing things. I've never thought that LA or So. Cal was very pretty around the main freeways but after having spent 5 weeks throughout the Urals in Russia, the US looks incredible. Everything works and is clean and, the workmanship here is so good and solid while over there even the new buildings were done poorly.

But, more importantly, our friends and family were there to great us and it was so great to see everyone. As soon as I had my 3 girls lined up in their car seats in the car, we took off. Camryn immediately started her excited chatter and Katy chimed in which lead Courtney in as well. They were so cute together. Then Katy asked for one of her favorite songs and when it came on they all 3 started rocking out to it. Lots of fun!

Coming home was so great - so much home-cooked food, the house was all baby proofed and ready for the girls and me to settle in without having to do anything. I'm always amazed at how lucky I am with my family which has been the driving factor in wanting more children. I want my children to have what I have when they are adults and I hope they are so lucky to be able to get a long as well and be as helpful as we all do. Katy was so happy to see everyone and introduce them to her sisters so it was really fun. We had family and friends stopping by most of the day and, although initially I was concerned about over stimulation, etc., the girls handled everything so well and really enjoyed playing outdoors with the other kids. They fit right in and were not shy at all with the kids. I think they did really well and know that they are going to enjoy our friends and family as much as Katy and I do and visa versa.

Courtney is like a different kid already. Her coloring is better, she's eating food, drinking out of a sippy cup, smiling, playing, is friendly and happy. I can't imagine what she will be like an a week or even a month. Camryn was already doing all of those things and she is just so happy. Tonight we were playing in the play room and Camryn decided she was tired. There were 3 other adults in the room but she came to me and crawled up on me. She laid on me for about 5 minutes and then fell asleep. It was months before Katy would have done that even if I had been the only person in the room. She'll do it now but she's so active that it's not often that she'll admit to being tired. It was very sweet.

There's lots more to tell but I am still exhausted from the trip and need to sleep when I can. I'll update more later on how the girls are doing . . . I love the response I get from the blog and the stories that it generates and the people I have met through it. It's really added a whole new element to this adoption that I didn't have with Katy's and I can't wait for the girls to read it someday. I have so many people to thank for things while I was gone and so much to catch up on that it's a little overwhelming. Katy's back at school tomorrow so that will help free up a little time to start the process. But for now, I have 3 sleeping girls so I must sleep too!

Signing off

2008-10-10T12:52:00.000-07:00

Packing up the computer so I'm leaving you with some fun pics from the last 3 days . . .

Camryn in her new PJ's - very different then what she's used to!

Courtney, doing the twin thing

The end of a long day

Camryn Lynn

Figuring things out together (how to get those socks on right)

Our first moments together as a family in the lobby of the Park Inn in Ekaterinburg

The adventure begins

A very emotional day for Mimi

Ready to go

Courtney and Camryn arrive for their new clothes and the beginning of their new lives.

Katy (in flowered sweater) crashed her first Russian birthday party. She fit right in and didn't care that none of the kids could understand her and they didn't seem to mind her either.

Katy helping with luggage at the Park Inn by getting the cart

We're coming home

2008-10-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

We had our appointment today at the embassy and it went fine. Very efficient compared to 3 years ago. There was a line outside in the cold but we didn't have to stand in it - it didn't seem any of the adoptive parents had to. We were gone for 3 hours but it didn't feel like it. Katy stayed at the hotel with Angela which was easy too as she was napping when we left. The girls were also napping so I woke them, got them dressed and snuck out before Katy woke up, in fact, she slept for about an hour after we left.

Both girls did great while waiting for our turn. Then during the 30 minutes it took between interview and receiving visas, Mimi took them to a play area for a while. They played very well with the other kids and when I walked out they got up and walked toward me. Mimi got to talk to lots of people adopting and she really enjoyed that. Katy did fine while we were gone - seems to be used to it and I think she may secretly enjoy the quiet time on her own with Angela or Mimi.

Right now Angela and Mimi are gone getting some take out food and I'm in the room with the 3 girls. I decided to get some formula for Courtney and it's working wonders. Jane got us one bottle and Camryn wants it to so we're having to share but Courtney is like a different kid now. In fact, she just asked for more of it and drank another 5 ounces so things are looking up. Camryn really likes it too but she's also eating baby food and doing well with that. They don't have much interest in whole food but at least they're getting some nutrition right now.

We're being picked up tomorrow at 10:30 AM and then we're on the way home. It should be a good and fast trip home - one 12.5 hour flight then a 2 1/2 hour drive. Easy compared to what we've been doing.

Both girls are playing right now and Katy occasionally plays with them. At the moment she's watching TV and I just got done giving more formula to them. They want to go to bed but I'm keeping them up a little while longer and then all 3 will go down. Their last night in Russia.

So, this is my last adoption blog and, like Carla, I will update on how the girls are doing once we get home. I've heard that you can print your blog and save them for the children so I'm going to look into doing that. Please add any comments soon so they can enjoy them when they're older.

It's been almost 11 months getting to this point but by tomorrow afternoon Camryn & Courtney will be US Citizens!

Random trip pics . . .

2008-10-09T05:00:00.001-07:00

croc at circus

Waiting for 2 cars to pick us up at our flat in Ekat and take us to Park Inn

Our luggage - this plus 3 kids!

Katy and Camryn

Katy's first train ride

Boarding the train for Chelyabinsk

September 26th - off to court

We only saw packs of wild dogs in Ekat - none on leashes - but we did find this leashed rabbit

Katy showing off pictures of her sisters at her orphanage (Sasha on far right)

Learning to play together

Handing out presents

Sisters first meeting

- Katy at LAX departing for Ekat - not your typical Russian traveller!

1st Day in Ekaterinburg - it was very cold!

Day 2 as a family

2008-10-09T04:30:00.000-07:00

Camryn and Courtney are doing great so far. Camryn is so full of energy - almost as much as Katy but there is one difference - Camryn does sleep. Courtney, on the other hand, seems a little dazed. She's not feeling so well and she's very sleepy and snuggley. But, both girls are taking all of this in stride with Camryn acting as if she's on a great adventure. Of my three girls right now, Camryn is the one really enjoying all of this I think.

The day began at 5 AM as Katy was up and about (7 AM Ekat time). I was able to keep her occupied until about 7:15 when Camryn woke up and Courtney shortly followed at 7:30. I had Katy, Camryn and myself bathed and dressed before Megan arrived (they have their own room on a separate floor - lucky!) and then was able to quickly get Courtney bathed and dressed. I was pretty proud of myself that I got every one done on my own but I don't want to have to get up at 5 everyday to do that either! But the routine at home will not include morning baths for all 3 girls!

We tried the buffet breakfast at the hotel and the only thing Camryn & Courtney would eat was yogurt. Unknowingly I gave Courtney two - I thought I brought it for Camryn but I guess the group thought it was for Courtney. Neither would eat anything else and we had little time to try to persuade them as we had to leave the hotel at 8:30 for the doctors appt. Courtney dozed most of the way while Camryn was just excited to move around. I held Courtney the whole time right up until the doctor needed Camryn who had been being held by Angela. I traded girls with Angela and about 2 seconds later all the blueberry yogurt that Courtney had eaten reappeared all over Angela's sweater. it was everywhere and a huge mess. Angela borrowed scissors and cut her sweater off because it was beyond repair and we quickly borrowed enough clothes from Camryn's outfit to get Courtney back to the hotel. It's pretty cold here so we're all back in winter gear which didn't help the situation any.

Courtney seemed to be feeling better so we walked with our 3 borrowed strollers down the street to TGIF's and attempted a lunch. In my opinion, it was a disaster and I won't be attempting that again until I have a little more control. Katy was the most challenging with her behavior but that, added to Camryn's energy, made it a little too crazy for me. None of the 3 girls ate anything while there and we pretty well trashed the table and under the table with paper, crayons, spilled milk and little toys the staff had given the girls. We had to walk up about 4 flights of stairs with the girls and strollers so it really wasn't worth it. We then went to a store and bought some baby food in hopes that we can just stay here quietly and get some nutrition into the girls.

Right now they're all sleeping peacefully - amazingly, Katy followed suit and is napping with them. Megan and Angela are off to Red Square and are hoping to squeeze a little bit of site seeing in. We're at the Marriott Grand which seems to be a great location - especially in comparison to where I stayed my last two visits. This City is really great - very international with many more polite people and even many who speak english. It doesn't feel foreign at all - could be New York or Paris or any other international city.

Tomorrow we have to pick up the visas and then we're done. Just catch the plane on Saturday and we can start working on our adjustments, routines, nutrition, attitudes (Katy) etc. I'm really looking forward to that! It will be so good to get all 3 in a routine that they can rely and depend on. We're almost to the finish line!

Katy and Mimi hanging out in Moscow

2008-10-08T23:16:00.000-07:00

Today the girls have gone off with Angela and Lori to their Dr's appts. Katy and I have discovered British kid's shows on BBC Prime and we can't get enough of them.

Maybe we'll go explore the hotel some in awhile...

One of the longest days ever!

2008-10-08T11:32:00.000-07:00

From Moscow! 10:30 PM Moscow time; 12:30 AM Ekat time -

As I write this, I have 3 sleeping beauties behind me settled in for the night - or at least for the time being.

It has been an incredibly long day with so many things happening all at once - Not enough time in the day to feed any of the girls or myself so I think everyone went to bed hungry tonight. But, from the beginning . . .

For me the process of adopting from Ekaterinburg has been so different then adopting Katy from Chelyabinsk and, today was a fitting end to my association with Ekaterinburg. The only important thing is that the girls are with me, are legally my daughters and will very soon be US citizens to boot. But, the Ekat process makes it difficult to remember what is important at times because you get so wrapped up in the process and rushing to get documents, rushing to so many doctor appointments, rushing to meet deadlines and beat vacation dates, etc. Today should have been all about picking the girls up from the orphanage - but that was the smallest part and the most simple part of the day! So, rather than having the time to rejoice in the joy and completion of that it was a mad dash from one thing to the next to the next.

Olga picked Megan and me up this morning at 9AM. Just like on the court date, Katy chose this day to have the painful parting. She did not want me to leave her today and screamed so loud that she wanted her mama as Angela was taking her away. It was another day of listening to her screams lessen as the elevator went down. Very painful for me but I'm sure she was over it quickly - I hope anyway.

Megan slept most of the way to the orphanage (it's amazing to watch her sleep in a car as her head bops all over the place but it doesn't wake her). She woke up just as we entered Nizhny Tagil. She was so excited and she even began shedding a few tears. I was really happy to be able to share the moment with Megan as it held so much meaning to her. We stopped for diapers, got to the orphanage and met with the doctor for a few minutes. She left to go get the girls and we watched so many cute little kids playing in the fall weather outside - they look so lovable and to see them all and to know they don't have families to love them is so sad. So, that was very sad for Megan to see and she shed some more tears!

We were told we only had 1 hour to be in and out of the orphanage so we were going to have to hurry. Olga had to run out to the social workers office to pick up a last piece of paper and so our day of delays began . . . We dressed the girls and played with them for about 1 hour waiting for Olga. Megan got to know them both very well and confirmed that Camryn is very similar to Katy in her unlimited energy. Courtney is a little more cuddlely which is very nice. They both were little parrots and as we named things they were quickly repeating them. They were very happy to see any of the orphanage staff that walked by us and they beamed big smiles and waved to them.

It took Olga much longer than any of us anticipated so we rushed the girls into the "machine-a" and headed back to Ekaterinburg to pick up the passports. Before even getting out of NT, Camryn opened the passenger door so we had to work with her on not doing that. The orphanage did not feed the girls lunch as they were concerned about car sickness so we gave them a few snacks and then they both slept the rest of the way. It was a very easy drive back.

Olga pulled into a little neighborhood and told Megan that she was going to get lots of experience with the girls and we then left Megan and both girls in the car while we went to get passports. That was suppose to be a quick 5 minute deal but I think we were probably there around 45 minutes making us even further behind schedule. Megan did great with the girls and when we finally got back we found them playing with leaves and birds perfectly content of course.

We raced back to the hotel to meet up with Angela and Katy and quickly loaded luggage into two cars. Now that I had passports I could purchase tickets for Camryn and Courtney so Katy and I went in one direction while Megan, Angela, Camryn & Courtney went in another. I had to keep reminding myself that I would have plenty of time with the girls at home so the task right now is just getting them there safely. I was a little jealous of Megan and Angela and the time they were getting with the twins but, Katy needed my attention this afternoon as did the business of tickets.

Lydia and I went to the Aeroflot office and we were already running late. There were lots of people in line and she totally cut in front of all of them saying something in Russian. Then when a desk opened up she made a run for it and one man tried to cut her off! She said that she needed a favor (in english for some reason) and she made it to the desk first! I just let her take control as there's nothing else I can do here in Russia any way! Then, the agent couldn't find the reservation so we ended up sitting there a good 30 minutes. The other group were at the airport before we even left Aeroflot but we did eventually get the tickets worked out and got out of there. They called the airport staff and told them we were on our way.

Lydia flew out of there, jumped in the car and took off so fast I was really worried that we weren't going to make it at all! She pulls behind a little silver car thats sitting waiting to get across 4 lanes and she starts laying on the horn. The guy finally goes and - yep, a car crashes into him! Lydia just pulled around him and kept going - you should have seen the passengers glare aimed at us. But, she got us to the airport and we were the last ones checked in on the flight. Everything was cleared for us and we got to the gate where everybody had already boarded the bus and took off for the plane. Even better, someone made an announcement that those with kids get to board first so we got to bypass the mob at the bottom of the plane stairs and quickly board - very nice.

We made it to the Marriot at around 9 PM Moscow time I think. We quickly bathed all three girls and put them to bed. Katy really wants to sleep in a crib too and cried herself to sleep tonight so it was a little tough getting them down but it's all good now thanks to Angela and Megan.

So tomorrow Katy gets left behind again - I feel so bad doing that to her but the girls have to go the doctors and to get pictures taken and they've asked that just the twins and two adults go. It becomes too difficult otherwise. Megan will stay with Katy while we get things done and then hopefully we'll get to all spend the day together on Friday waiting for visas.

The twins did incredibly well on the plane - throughout the whole day they were happy as can be. They've already shown some affects of the orphanage such as not crying when they get hurt but they do look for help when they hurt themselves. They just look at Katy when she's crying about something and don't bother to join in which is so nice right now. Katy is the one having trouble right now but she's overtired with this huge change so it will be difficult for her. But, she was very happy to see the girls when we all met up at the hotel this morning. Camryn seems to be a little protective of herself around Katy - didn't want Katy touching her shoes (which are actually Katy's shoes - I think their feet are also bigger than Katy's) and she screams at her. I have little heart breaks every time I see one of them being mean to another. It's going to be a hard transition for all of us I think!

Hopefully the girls will sleep through to 7 AM tomorrow and we'll start our day. And, maybe tomorrow I'll have time to post some more pictures - we have taken thousands I'm sure.

3 days more and we'll be home!

2008-10-07T08:29:00.000-07:00

Katy and her new winter gear

Sisters at last!

Three little angels . . .

Courtney Anne

Camryn Lynn

Strolling through the orphanage grounds in Nizhny Tagil with Courtney & Camryn
Katy and the Chief Doctor from her orphanage in Chelyabinsk

More to follow soon!!!

Tues - 9:10 PM

2008-10-07T08:10:00.000-07:00

The pace has finally picked up. After all the waiting around things are moving so quickly now that I can barely keep up.

Today was the final resolution day - it's a done deal! The girls are officially Camryn Lynn and Courtney Anne (I spontaneously added an "e" to Ann - will explain later). Their birth certificates now show me as their mother and they even changed their birth place from where they where actually born. So, with great relief I followed Olga this morning to the registerer's office to pick up the new Russian birth certificates, then off to the apostille's office. She then took me back to the flat where we packed. It felt like we were moving - it took two cars to get us and our luggage to the Park Inn. Our group has rapidly expanded. After the hotel check in, it was off to the Aeroflot office to change all our flights to meet our new expedited schedule.

Tomorrow Megan and I leave at 9AM to make the trip to Nizhny Tagil to pick up the girls. Angela and Katy will not be making the trip with us as there is no room in the car and it will be too much of a circus for the twins. It will be a quick get in and out with the girls and then rush off to the passport office to pick up their passports by 3PM. We're hoping to pick Angela and Katy up by 4PM and get to the airport to leave for Moscow by 5PM. Everything has to go perfectly but, if not, we have a back up plan where Angela and Katy will be picked up and brought to the airport to meet us there.

Thursday will be the doctors visit and the embassy appointment in Moscow. Friday pick up the visa, do a little site seeing then Saturday - head home! So much sooner than I expected - hopefully it all goes according to this plan.

Having no internet for the last week has been very difficult on Megan and Angela who are both sitting behind me waiting for their turn on the computer, but first, a few cute photos to post.

Yeah - We're coming home soon!!!

Monday - 4 PM

2008-10-06T04:10:00.000-07:00

Hello from Ekat. My first visit to an internet cafe! And, I actually found it because in Russian it looks close enough to figure out what it was. But, it's upstairs so walking in you would really never know it was here.

We had such a great time in Chelyabinsk with the highlight, for me, being the trip to Katy's orphanage. I was so surprised that the doctor and caregivers remembered her and they seemed thrilled to see her. Megan got some great footage of that which Katy will always treasure I'm sure. I would really like to bring all 3 girls back in 5 years or so but we'll see. We walked and bused all over Chelyabinsk which I didn't do during Katy's adoption so was glad to do that. It was very sad leaving Sasha who is very attached to Katy although she didn't realize that Katy's affection came by way of bribery - but, it worked and Sasha really enjoyed her visit with Katy. Katy did warm up to her as well but it was a little hit and miss so the bribes worked well. Sasha showed Katy and me her home which was interesting and she made some great cheese/bread snack for us. She really has a nice flat although the building is a 3 floor walk-up and all dark, dingy, damp concrete. It's amazing how the buildings here all seem to be like that.

As much as we enjoyed Chelyabinsk it was really nice returning to Ekat although to no internet. We still don't have it but only have a couple days left in the flat so I'm not worrying about that. Katy and I are now sleeping on the fold out in the kitchen as we have a full house and she wakes up so early. It's really warm fall weather so we've been enjoying it outside but, the heat is on now so the inside of the flat is extremely warm. Very uncomfortable. But, the flat is larger and more open then the little one in Chelyabinsk so it felt good to be back.

We went to the circus yesterday which was very interesting. They had crocidiles, a giraffe, snakes and dogs - very different than our circus. Not something I think I would attend again and, not something I think PETA would approve of. But it was good to see once. After that Megan and Angela went to the Church of Blood (Rominov's) but Katy and I stayed home as she has been pretty exhausted. Then today off to the two (one real and one fake) Europe/Asia borders. Katy fell asleep as soon as we got in the car so I didn't get out - wasn't really necessary as you could see the whole thing from the car anyway.

Tomorrow - back to business and I'm so glad about it. The girls passports pictures are done. Tomorrow is a day of paperwork but I don't know if that means a visit to the orphanage or not. The court resolution is finalized tomorrow so the girls will be officially mine but I don't think I'll be picking them up until Wednesday. Hopefully it will be Wednesday morning and I've already asked if we could fly out of here Wednesday night. I think that may be a little difficult as we're going to need to figure out how to change flights, etc. but it would be so great to get moving toward home. We are so ready to get the girls and get back to the US! It's been a good trip and nothing really all that uncomfortable but it will be so nice to be home with everyone!

That's it for now - will update more when we have internet again. Katy's sitting next to me watching Scooby on the IPOD so I only have 24 minutes!

Saturday, October 4th

2008-10-04T10:51:00.001-07:00

Our travelers arrived back in Ekat today and found that their internet access is not working. Lori asked that I update her blog (this is Lynn again). As mentioned earlier they are back at the flat in Ekat. Tomorrow they'll visit a circus and they've scheduled sightseeing for Monday. They plan on getting passport photos for Camryn and Courtney on Tuesday. Tuesday is the Resolution Day (the day in which the formalities are over and the girls are for sure coming home) so on Wednesday they'll pick them up and go to the hotel in Ekat. They'll fly to Moscow on Thursday. From there, they're just a few steps away from home. They need to meet with the Embassy (probably on Monday), and then start their journey home. They hope to leave Moscow and arrive in LA on Wednesday 10/15, but if things go super great, it could be a day earlier. Just knowing they'll be home some day that week is exciting!

Lori will update with all their exciting news and adventures when she can. We're hoping for photos when they arrive to the hotel with the girls on Wednesday (10/8).

Thursday 3PM

2008-10-02T02:00:00.000-07:00

Another great day in Chelyabinsk. Today we took the bus to Katy's orphanage and it was such a good thing to do. The chief doctor greated us and then the caretakers came in to see Valeeva Katya. They all rememeber her and you could just see the love and pride in their faces. At first it was a little intimadating for Katy but then she seemed to loosen up a bit and enjoy the attention. I'm really glad we were able to do that as I didn't realize how important it would be to all of her caregivers.

Other than that we've just been walking the City and been seeing all the great sites. Megan and Angela are keeping me entertained and are a great help with Katy. We'll be here Friday and leaving Saturday to get back to Ekat and then we'll have email again.

From Chelyabinsk

2008-09-30T07:32:00.000-07:00

We don't have email but Sasha is letting us use her internet card for just a few minutes. I wanted to just quickly say that we are really have a great time in Chelyabinsk. I miss the girls but it is great to be here and Sasha is really showing us the City in a way that I didn't see it before. We've ridden the train from Ekat, the bus and trolley here and walked what seems to be the whole city. It's come a long way in the 3 years since I've been here. Stacy - you would be shocked at the additions! Katy did very well with only a couple of issues. I really miss the girls but we will be back in Ekat soon.

Gotta go - Sasha's making us a great vegetable dinner right now!

Monday 9/29 - 12:30 PM

2008-09-28T23:32:00.000-07:00

Yeah - Mimi's here and so is Sasha. We have a full house which is really nice. Katy, Angela and I went to pick Mimi up at the airport (Ekat) and we were allowed into the baggage claim area. When Katy saw Mimi she took off running into her arms. She was so excited to see her! It was very cute - I was actually a little envious of Mimi!

This morning Sasha took me to the train station to purchase tickets for our trip to Chelyabinsk. We leave around 3:30 today (accompanied by Sasha) and then will stay in Chelyabinsk until late October 4th. Viktor will be picking us up and driving us back so we can see the Ural mountains from train and from car. We're going to visit Katy's orphanage and all of the people who helped with her adoption. Should be a nice trip.

We probably will not have internet access while there so the blog and email will probably be quiet for a while. If there is a way to get it then we'll be active again.

When we get back we're off to the circus and then sightseeing. Looking forward to that too.

Megan is walking around the flat saying it looks totally like Ikea - all the furniture here and the other flat is from Ikea . . . they arrived here about 3 years ago and are now all the rage since it's such good quality in comparison to Russian furniture - according to Olga anyway.

We had a long afternoon waiting for Megan but we'll go into details later. Aeroflot decided to help out those who had short layovers between flights and then wouldn't give any information to those waiting. Got her here on time but we had to trust in her savvy to find her way to Ekat which, of course she did. But, It was a little while before I could breath again but all's good now. Even the agency didn't know that Aeroflot would do that so they were there waiting for a long time (3 hours I think!) - something new learned each time.

Off to pack for our little trans-siberian train ride . . . I've wanted to do that for years and years but all across siberia - not just 4 hours. These days, 4 hours is enough!

Angela's Thoughts . . .

2008-09-28T13:42:00.000-07:00

Megan arrived last night as scheduled thankfully. We got a call form Olga that she never showed at the Moscow airport. Lori and I were slightly freaking out considering that Lori gave her specific directions about where to go. It was two hours after her flight had landed and they still didn’t know where she was. The only person that they release information to about a passenger is the police. So we had no way of finding out if Megan got on her second airplane. We were so worried because when you arrive in Moscow you have to go to a different airport to get on a flight to Ekat. We sat for two hours thinking of all the ways that she could have found her way to the second airport.

Maybe….. she had been talking to someone on the flight from New York and he/she had told her about the bus that you can take.

Maybe… she never got on her flight at JFK… but wouldn’t someone have called us to tell us she didn’t make it?

Maybe . . . she was still stuck in passport control…. Nope, Jane (the translator in Moscow) went to check and no one was in passport control.

Maybe . . . she couldn’t find Jane and she is just sitting somewhere in the airport….. again no- Jane had them page her multiple times.

Maybe….. because, she is travel savvy she just found her own way.

But why would she have not followed Lori’s directions…..

Ahhhh what are we going to do?????

Do we call the police?… Do we call Megan’s parents?…. Is it really necessary to have her parents completely freaked out because we don’t know where she is? Especially because there is a good chance she just found her own way and is on her flight to Ekat.

Well, what ended up happening is that because Megan had only a two and a half hour lay over the airline had an area for people that had less than four hours to go thru passport control quickly. When Megan went thru they kept everyone together and took them on a bus to the next airport. Nothing that Lori had described to her was the same. Megan kept looking for Jane but didn’t see people with signs to pick people up anywhere. It was not the same area that the other passengers go thru. She didn’t even have to get her luggage, the airport people just did it all for her.

During her flight she had made a friend that spoke both English and Russian and she was taking the same flight to Ekat that Megan needed to be on. So Megan figured if she stayed with her that was her best bet. Especially since nothing was as Lori described because of her short layover and having to go thru a different area then we had arrived at. Lori was extremely relived that Megan made it okay. I think Lori’s exact words when we finally saw her were “OMG I think I’m going to faint”.

Also, yesterday, Sasha (the coordinator that helped Lori with Katy’s adoption) came to Ekat to visit and travel to Chelyabinsk with us. We went out for dinner at this little Italian place that is just a block away form where we are staying. We really got lucky when they had a server that spoke a little English. We ended up getting pizza again and it was also really good. They make their pizza very different here. It is very thin and has almost no grease on it, we like it. Sasha doesn’t speak any English so it is kind of interesting to watch her and Katy interact. Katy speaks to her in English and Sasha speaks Russian to Katy. It is actually a little amusing to watch because most of the time, somehow, (I think mainly thru body language) they understand each other. Lori and Sasha communicate thru computer that translates everything. So it has been pretty quite, well except for Katy playing.

So all is fine - Megan is here and we are off to Chelyabinsk with Sasha today. We have a 4 hour train ride that should be interesting and I am excited to see a different city. We also may be able to go see Katy’s orphanage. :o)

Sat 4:00 PM -

2008-09-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

The day after - a very relaxing, worry free day. Well, almost. Getting Megan here is a little trickly only because of communication. She's currently planning on arriving in Ekat 9PM Sunday but it's unlikely that she'll actually be here then. She's only got a 2 1/2 layover in Moscow which is questionable . . . getting through passport control, getting her bags and making it to the next airport in that amount of time will be extremely difficult. I'm keeping my fingers crossed though.

Today was a fun day. We keep hearing about an indoor play area in a shopping mall so we decided to venture out today. It's been snowing off and on all day so it's pretty cold out - but really nice. At first it was just snow flurries but then we had a full on downfall in the afternoon. It's blue sky and sunny again right now though.

Viktor picked us up around 11 and it was probably a 30 minute drive to the shopping mall. One of the things I've always noticed about the various places I've been in Russia is that there really are no recognizable storefronts - all the buildings are pretty closed in and you can't window shop or anything because they're all hidden. We drove up to a smallish looking grey building with hardly any cars parked outside of it. We walked through the entry doors and found lots of shops inside. You never would have known it from the parking lot. Then there was an arcade type area with a couple of rides and various games for Katy.

We spent a lot of money and a lot of time trying to figure out the games and the money but it was fun. The most fun were the bumper cars because everyone was trying to give us direction on how to get the cars turned around but, of course, we couldn't understand. Angela couldn't get her car started because she was facing the wall and just crashing into it. There was a woman spectator who was yelling instructions at her and also the ride operator but she couldn't understand. I don't think they knew that because she was trying to turn the wheel and looking like she was listening but just like she was incapable of doing anything! It was really funny until I ended up in the same position and they came to me. Angela had since figured it out and then started telling me in English how to get myself out of there and saved me. Katy actually laughed pretty hard everytime we bumped into Angela. Things are too tame for her here but she enjoyed that.

After some rides and games, we found their version of the food court which provided 3 or 4 choices of places to eat. We ate at the "American Hot Pizza" place. We pointed and put the number of fingers up for what we wanted and did pretty good except for the 4 boxes of french fries that we ended up with! We'd asked for 4 pieces of pizza which we got and 1 french fry but, we almost ate all 4 boxes anyway! I have a great picture of Angela with her one little piece of pizza and 4 boxes of french fries.

Then back to the flat - the dreaded flat. It was snowing and cold so we just came back up and Katy is bouncing off the walls. I really hope nobody is living below us but we'll be gone soon.

Tomorrow Sasha is supposed to be coming but she's sick so now I'm not sure. Tomorrow night - Megan. We may have a houseful. On Monday after everyone is together we'll head off to Chelyabinsk with Sasha. I'm thinking we're taking a bus for the 4 hour drive but am unsure. We're planning to keep the flat and return to it on the 4th via Viktor. It's a long way and I don't intend on trying to navigate the public transportion by ourselves to get back so I've asked for Viktor's help. I'm really hoping we have internet there but it's possible we won't. These little worries are so nice after all the big worries over the girls.

We don't plan on heading back to the orphanage until around Oct 5th - it is so tiring for the girls and for Katy that I've decided to take some time to do some other things while we're here. We'll visit them on the 5th and then do some more sight seeing. I think on the 7th we will pick the girls up to take them out for their passport photos and then, once the passports are done we'll pick them up for good. That should only take 1 or 2 days I hope.

We're doing fine here but I for one am starting to get homesick. The brown rice and pasta are getting really old but the restaurants are too difficult to figure out and the food is too unpredicable for me - and, more importantly, for Katy. And, I miss everyone at home and know Katy does too. She's ready to get back into her house with her family and friends and play in her back yard and her playroom and her bedroom . . . even though it will be completely different now with her sisters, I know she'll be extremely happy to be home. I can't wait either - I'm constantly thinking of all the things Camryn & Courtney are going to be getting into and will have to work quickly after we get home to remove them. After watching them over the last two weeks I know that I do not have the house toddler proofed nearly enough for those two!

Angela's Thoughts . . .

2008-09-27T05:45:00.001-07:00

So today was Lori's court date and everything went well. Wooo Hooooo!!!!!! :o)

We are now trying to figure out when we will be returning home. I think we should be coming home on October 16th. We are just waiting to see how things go in Moscow.

Katy and I stayed at the flat when Lori went to court. She was not happy that her mom was leaving her today and screamed when Lori left. This made it a little harder on Lori. I am sure that she knew she would be fine, which she was - she only cried for a minute.

Other than Lori having court we didn't do anything today except go to the grocery store.
Tomorrow we are going to take Katy to this little indoor play area that they have. It should be nice. I think that Katy will be happy to be out and be able to run around. We have been inside all day for the past few days since Lori has been preparing for court. We are very thankful that that all is over with. We will have lots more free time now. We plan to leave for Chelyabinsk as soon as Megan gets here. After a few days there we will return to Ekaterinburg and do some sight seeing before we pick up Camryn & Courtney. After that we will be off to Moscow for about 5 days and then home.

On a side note-
The other day when we were at the grocery store we were walking thru the frozen food section and I turned to where all the meat was. Looking right back at me was a whole pig wrapped up in saran wrap. I know disgusting!!!!! It makes me like pork and other types of meat even less. As I looked more I saw that all the meat is like that. Nothing is really cut up they just sell the whole thing. So I when we went to get groceries today I took my camera to take a picture of it. Lori thought it was weird that I wanted to take a picture, but I thought it was a little interesting. I have never seen something sold like that in a regular grocery store.

One more thing, we have ice cold water again, even colder than last time. We also don't have any heat. We are thinking that maybe they didn't do something right when they turned on the heat the first time. So they must be fixing it. Hopefully it won't last too long. I don't know how people actually live like this!

Today (9/27) we took Katy to that indoor play area that we have been hearing about. When we pulled up to the place it looked like it was an abandoned building. But when we went inside there was a whole shopping center. It had a grocery store, some little shops, lots of home furnishing stores (which they actually have every where here), a theater and a food court area. Everything here is kind of like that you can not tell what is inside a building just by looking at the outside.

So when we got to the indoor “play area” that was really just an arcade type thing, Katy was very excited to start playing games. First we had to figure out how to get tokens which took us a little bit of time, but luckily we figured it out without having to try and ask for help.

We found some bumper cars to ride. It was really funny because Lori and I could not figure out how to get them to go forward. Every time you pressed on the gas pedal the car would go backwards. I was kind of by the side where people were standing in line to go after us and this lady started yelling at me in Russian about how to make it work. At that point all I could do was laugh because once again we looked like “idiots”. As the lady was telling me what to do in a language I can not understand I just kept trying on my own to get it to work and finally did after a few minutes. I think that she thought that I could understand Russian though because when I finally figured it out she was saying “da” “da” (which is yes in Russian) and then keep on talking like I could understand her. It was really funny and we all had a good laugh about it. Katy enjoyed bumping into my car too - she thought it was just about the funniest thing ever!

So after we played games and did the bumper cars we went and had lunch at a pizza place. Lori did the ordering, she pointed to the cheese pizza and put up four fingers and then pointed to the fries and held up one finger. The girl working there got four pieces of pizza put them on a tray and then gave us one… two…. three…. four things of fries! We couldn’t tell them that we didn’t want all of them so we just took the food and sat down. I was the one that suggested getting fries so Lori thought it would be funny to take a picture with me and all the fries… ha ha ha! We ended up eating almost all of the fries anyway. The pizza and the fries where both really good. Our brown rice with cheese and noodles with an attempted cheese sauce are getting a little old. It was nice to have something different again.

All in all it was a good day! Katy had a really good time playing all the games and riding some of the rides.

It also snowed today. At first it was light little flurries and then about an hour later it was full on snowing!!! The snowing stopped about a half hour later but all the cars and ground were lightly covered in it. It has all stopped and melted now and is sunny out. We are hoping that it doesn’t snow anymore because we are so not prepared for that.

We also have hot water and a little bit of heat again. :o)

The Day Has Finally Arrived!

2008-09-26T02:37:00.000-07:00

3:30 PM

It is with great relief and happiness that I get to report today that after 2 hours of being grilled by the judge and by the prosecutor, they both felt that it was in the best interest of the girls to allow me to adopt them! Yeah - it is finally over and I can sleep at night - at least until October 8th or 9th when we go to pick them up!

It was worse then expected and better then expected. So many details of the proceeding are lost already as it was constant question and answer - I felt that I was defending myself throughout the entire proceeding but, once the official hearing was over, everyone was very nice and complimentary.

I'll write more later but, for now - the last 10 months of waiting, worrying and wondering is over!!! I can't describe what a relief it is and, I'm not even sorry that the judge did not waive the 10 day wait. I can try to regroup now and put the last 10 months behind me prior to picking the girls up and starting a brand new chapter! I can now truly make plans and get excited about the girls joining our family without the fear that it might not actually ever happen. It is a great day!

Megan- I don't know if my email has made it through yet but I wanted to let you know that we're ready for you as soon as you and Adrienne can get you on a plane! Just let me know details and we'll coordinate with the agency.

Angela's Notes . . .

2008-09-25T01:06:00.000-07:00

Nizhny Tagil

Nizhny Tagil (NT) is where the orphanage it that Camryn & Courtney are at. The trip from Ekat to NT is about a two and a half hours thru a forest. We had hoped that there was somewhere to stay that was closer to NT but there isn’t. The drive is so long for Katy. It has been starting to get to her a little bit. We don’t leave Ekat until 1:30 and by the time we get there we don’t get to spend much more than two hours with Camryn and Courtney. Then we don’t end up getting back home until almost 8:00 at night. The drive is not bad once we get out of the city traffic. The trees are already turning colors of yellow and red. When we took our first drive there most all the trees were still very green. I am sure that they will change much more during our time here. I think we have about 22 days left if everything runs smoothly and no more dates change.

I really haven’t seen too much of the city but what we have seen looks very poor. All the buildings are old and you don’t see development every where like we see in Ekat. They do have a nice grocery store that seems pretty new. The houses there are kind of interesting to see. I was telling Lori that they kind of remind me of the houses on Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory but she has never seen the movie. I can not believe she has never seen it! When we get home I told her I am going to find it somewhere so she and all the girls can watch it.

As I was looking up how to spell the name of the city I found some thing that I thought was interesting about the city on the Wikipedia web sight. They say that the copper on the Statue of Liberty may have been mined there.

Lori had some meetings the past few days so Katy and I have been staying in Ekat. On her trips without Katy and me she has driven around more of the city and says there is lots more to Nizhny Tagil then we had seen. She says that it seems to be a really interesting city - just not very developed.

CAMRYN & COURTNEY

It was so nice to finally meet the girls. They both really have good personalities. They seem to be strong willed (but I hear that most kids from orphanages are like that). They are both really sweet, they have big brown eyes and adorable little smiles.

Camryn I think is the more dominate twin. She likes to have us chase her around the room and starts hysterically laughing when we do. When we are feeding them snacks she wants to be the one holding the bag, and if she gets a hold of it, it is almost impossible to get it away from her without everything in the bag flying everywhere. Camryn is very strong. That is a good thing though because hopefully she will have a better time catching up developmentally with her gross motor skills. She also seems to be the more stubborn one, possibly even more stubborn than Katy is. I keep telling Lori that I think they might even each other’s stubbornness out once she gets them home.

Courtney seems to be a little calmer. She has a stubborn personality too but seems to be persuaded to do things easer. She seems to like being held, or sat with. Although neither of them are quite sure what to do with their bodies when you do pick them up. They don’t really grasp on to you - they just kind of hang there - the carriers we brought for the trip home should be a big help with that. I think that is just from lack of being held by someone.

Both of the girls seem to really enjoy playing with Katy. She is very sweet with them and all she talks about are things that she is going to teach her sisters when she gets home. She wants to teach them specifically how to swim and dance.

SOME THINGS LORI WANTED ME TO WRITE ABOUT

The nice guy at the airport in Moscow: So during our two hour wait at the airport we sat in our seats and did not really talk to anyone. We really couldn’t have even if we had wanted to seeing as we don’t speak Russian. Plus, every one we did try to talk to laughed at us so we were kind of over even trying. We had a lot of bags as I talked about in my other blog and it was kind of hard to get them all to where we were trying to go. Lori had warned me about Russian people being kind of serious people and you don’t get any help from anyone. So we really were not excepting anyone to help us when this man that had been sitting across from us during our wait walked up and tried to take one of the bags when we were reorganizing them on our way. I shook my head and said no thank you and pointed to where we were going to show it wasn’t that much further. I didn’t want someone running off with our bags. But he insisted on helping us or he just didn’t understand what I was trying to say. Lori was completely shocked that there was some one nice enough to help us. We were very thankful for his help.

The loud music: Our first two nights here in Russia we stayed in a flat that was brand new. I don’t even think that anyone else had stayed there yet. It was very nice but it had no hot water and no internet and didn’t have a call box either so we could not keep the keys because anyone coming to pick us up didn’t have a way to let us know they were there. The third night we moved almost across the street to another flat that is just a few years old. The very first night around 11:30 someone started playing this very annoying Russian music very loudly. At first we were just like "humm, it’s a Friday maybe they are having a party". The music went on and on until 2:00 in the afternoon the next day - it was horrible. Lori got no sleep at all. I heard it kind of sleeping on and off all night. Of course Katy slept right thru it. The worst part was that they would only play the songs with a fast beat and if a slow song came on it would come to a screeching stop and then either the same song that was on before would come back on or they would skip until they found another song with a fast beat. To say the least, Lori was not happy at all. So after unpacking everything the night before, we took everything and packed it right back up the next morning. Lori was insistent that we were going to leave and go to the Park Inn - a “westernized” hotel that she stayed in on her first trip. Lori called Olga and told her that we wanted to go to the Park Inn and that someone was playing horrible music all night long. Olga seemed shocked and said that she would see what she could do. Later that day we went to visit the girls and on our way home the translator that was with us said that Olga had called her and said that Lydia and Olga (the Olga that owns the flat we are staying in) were going to come over and go to see if they could find the person that was playing the music. They were going to tell them if they did it again they were going to call the cops! Apparently, they have a noise curfew here. Lori and I were not really thrilled with that idea. One because the music was not playing any more so they were going to accuse someone of playing their music very loudly and not even know for sure that it was really that person. But, most importantly, we didn’t want some angry Russian coming and yelling at us because we had complained. Olga (the owner of the flat) assured us that this has never happened before and that if the music did come on again we could call her anytime of night and she would come right over and take care of the problem. Lori and I really thought how they were dealing with the problem was a little silly but figured we would be better off in a flat then a hotel because we could cook our own food and ultimately it would be better for Katy. So we stayed another night and many more since, and there has not been any music. We secretly think it was really the owner of this flat playing her music really loud. The night that all the music was played she had asked for all the money upfront to pay for the flat for the whole time we were staying here. She said if we didn’t end up staying that long she would refund Lori her money. Lori only had enough rubles to pay for two nights because no one had warned us that she needed to pay all up front and we had only exchanged $300 at the airport. We had not found a bank to exchange any more money yet. But all said and done we are happy where we are and there has been no more music. :o)

The water and heat:

So I was talking about how they have central heating thru out the whole city by hot water (from factories apparently) that runs thru pipes in the flats. The pipes run above ground through the city and countryside. Driving down the two lane highway to NT, the pipes are above ground and they go straight up, across and down again over street turnoffs. Well, they finally turned on the heat in our building. Which is nice but they didn’t tell us that we would have no hot water for three days. I guess when they finally turn on the heat they have to pressurize the water and they turn off the hot water to do that. So, as nice as it is to have heat (that, might I say, is not even that warm) it was not very fun taking cold showers. But now we have a somewhat heated “house” and our hot water back so I guess I can’t really complain that much.

Last night we got to go to dinner at the Park Inn - after walking down 10 flights of stairs in an unlit stairway with uneven stairs since the elevator in our new building was not working. Lori had met some people on-line that live in LA who are on their first trip and just met their little girl. We went to dinner with them at the hotel restaurant. It was really nice to actually be able to talk to some other people that are from the states and speak English fluently. For dinner I had a Greek salad with chicken. Yes, I actually ate some chicken. I know I told every one that I wouldn’t be eating any type of meat here but it really was not bad. The only weird thing was that the “salad” didn’t actually have any lettuce. It was all vegetables but they were very tasty. Especially since pretty much all we have been eating is noodles and brown rice with cheese. Jon had a hamburger and french fries that looked good but he said it was "very seasoned" meat. I think everything else was okay. Lydia showed up to pick us up after a couple hours with papers for Lori to sign and then sat in her car until we were ready to go. Lori felt bad about that but it was a good evening anyway and, we were all relieved to find the elevator working when we got back.

9/25 11:00 AM - 24 hour count down . . .

2008-09-24T22:07:00.000-07:00

Today will be filled with preparing for court. I met with the "court translator" yesterday who is suppose to be a "disinterested" party. None of the agency staff who have been working with me are allowed in court as they are considered "interested" parties. The translator came over at 11 AM yesterday to go over how the court proceedings will go and the things I should be prepared for. Nothing really unexpected here but I have been procrastinating or, possibly not wanting to jinx anything, and haven't completed all the information yet. I need to know exactly how many hours I have spent with the girls and the development of our relationship over each of those visits ! I also need to know exactly what my monthly income and monthly expenses are and, they need to match what the CPA compiled several months ago. Then, practice my Russian - the judge is interested in how much Russian parents are taking the time to learn since one of the problems with the French couple was they could not communicate with the boys. I know about 20 words and am comfortable with those but, it's a little ridiculous as the girls aren't really speaking yet. They understand their caregivers but they don't understand my little bits of broken words. But, I'll recite them when asked. Sadeesh (sit) (thanks Adoptamama for catching that!) is one word that came in handy but they now understand sit too so it's not necessary. A word they taught me without my knowing is Num-Num which is really a Russian word for food or treat! I thought they were saying Yum-Yum so that's what we've been using. Yum-Yum and then spassba and they sit and eat - very cute.

After that, Katy and I took a nap as we had plans to go see an LA couple who met their little girl yesterday. They're staying at the same hotel I stayed at during my first trip and are going through all the cultural shock that I went through - that we all go through. We met them at 6 and probably stayed for 3 hours or so. Katy did very well - which can't really be said about my meeting with the court translator unfortunately - she was excited to listen and talk to other Americans I think. It was a nice evening and I hope to see them again on Saturday before they leave on Sunday to start their paperwork marathon. Their blog is the Russian Angel link if anyone one wants to follow their journey - hopefully, it will be much quicker than mine has been.

11:00 AM tomorrow is when court is scheduled to start. I'm told to be prepared for 2 hours of standing and talking. I start with my introduction, motives for adopting and then go down a list and, at some point, the judge relieves me from this torture and begins asking questions so that discussions can begin. I will feel better during the questions and answers than I will during the monologue which I'm not very comfortable with. Even though I know she would not have invited me to court if she did not feel positive regarding the adoption, it is still very intimadating and I worry that I will not answer to her satisfaction. The court translator corrected many of my answers during our rehearsal as they would provoke more questions from the judge - which I don't want to do. Things like "why did I only visit the girls for two days on my first visit?". I answered incorrectly and was then given a more acceptable answer which is something along the lines of I knew instantly that I wanted to proceed with the adoption of the girls so I was anxious to get home and start the process.

Katy and Angela are in the kitchen playing Yahtzee so I can work for a while. Katy got a Yahtzee of fives on her first turn and had to come share that with me. She wanted me to go look at her five fives which I did. She was so excited that I got two high fives! Hopefully, that's a sign of luck to come our way tomorrow!

Tues 9/23 - 9:00 PM - A Really Good Day . . .

2008-09-23T08:08:00.000-07:00

It seems that if I "over worry" things usually turn out much better than I anticipate. Today is a perfect example of that. I was pretty worried about being observed with the girls by the social worker and the psychologist today and, it turns out, I didn't have to do either. But, today would have been a great day to be observed because my visit with the girls went really well. It was the first day that we really connected and they actually seemed to be interested in the toys I brought and, even better, in me! I know it's a day by day thing but we really had a good time together. And, I even "connected" with Lydia today which hasn't really happened before and I actually enjoyed our little bits of conversation.

Victor picked me up today around 1:20 - again, 20 minutes late. We then went to the same school that we picked Lydia up a few days ago. That day we sat in the car for 40 minutes waiting for her but, today, she came right out. I saw that she came out of the school office area so I asked her if she worked there. Interestingly, she is a teacher! I had no idea. She teaches English and Country Studies to 12 year olds and to 16 & 17 year olds. And, I didn't think she really liked kids but, apparently, she does.

After picking Lydia up, we went to the photo shop and picked up the photos for court. There are some really cute ones of all 3 girls together and individually. I wish I could post some but I can't on this computer. I will when I get home or if we find an internet cafe or something.

After that was the long drive but my IPOD tv shows keep me entertained when I'm not looking at the trees. When I finally looked up, I noticed we were in NT but not heading toward the orphanage. I feel like I'm experiencing a little of what the girls will experience when I pick them up. I have no idea what is going on, where I am going, I can't understand anyone who is speaking to me and, everything I see is mysterious and new to me. I don't even bother asking questions most of the time because I don't understand the answers. I just sit and wait to see what is next and "go with the flow" as is the slogan for international adoption.

We ended up at a large office building in a really interesting part of NT. Lots of strollers being pushed everywhere, statues, large concrete squares, and apartments everywhere. It was really nice. After walking about 7 flights of stairs (I fared much better than Lydia with this - she could hardly breath by the time we reached the top) we entered a small office and met Vera, the social worker. She asked several questions, took notes and then explained through Lydia that she was trying to think of questions the judge might ask on Friday so that I was prepared. She will be at court also to give her opinion but she mentioned that since the couple returned the boys, the judge will really be grilling me. Great! But, the questions were pretty easy - what will I do IF they ever have a tantrum! Are you kidding?? IF? I'm sure I'll see the first one before even getting out of Ekaterinburg! I give the basic answers and everyone seems happy.

After that we went to the orphanage. The girls group was outside again but they weren't with them. The caregivers told Lydia that the girls were inside waiting for us. We went in and it turns out the psychologist can't make it today. There seems to be a lot of "emergencies" around here. So, now she (the psychologist) will just talk to the orphanage staff and gather information to base her report on from them. I was then able to collect the girls from their room and play with them for about 1 hour with no one around.

Both girls loved the new toys I brought - especially two little buckets. They hardly set them down the whole time I was there. They especially liked eating their "yum yums" out of their buckets. Vasilina is so funny in her copying of Polina and, I noticed today, if Vasilina does something first than Polina copies her too. It just depends on who thinks of what first which usually seems to be Polina. At one point Polina handed her cracker to Vasilina who then traded her cracker with her. They are so cute together and it is really fun to watch them interact. They know where the other is at all times and what she is doing.

We sat a lot today -Polina made a run for the door a couple of times and, I'm sorry to admit, outsmarted me one time. She went to one side of the large room and threw her bucket over my makeshift barricade. I went over there to get the bucket and she made a run for the other side. She made it through the opening before I caught her. She isn't the most coordinated runner around and, it's pretty scary watching her run at top speed toward a stairway. She's not trying to escape - she's laughing the whole time wanting to be chased which, you can't not do! I made progress today though and by the end of the visit we were sitting quietly in the middle of the room rocking, dancing, playing "bumble bee", etc. Then Lydia came in and told them in Russian that it was time to put the toys away and they both got up and started putting the toys in their buckets. They seem to mind pretty well when they understand the request!

Then a long drive home and my happy reunion with Katy. She enjoyed looking at the left over picture of herself with her sisters. I haven't told her that I'm visiting them without her because it would upset her so much. She thinks I'm going to work when I leave here although she probably is catching on. But, today is the last day of leaving her behind with the exception of my court visit.

Tomorrow the court translator will be here at 11:00 AM to go over the things I need to be prepared to answer in court. After that we may get together with a couple from LA who are staying at the Park Inn. They're here for their first visit and I've been corresponding a little with them.
Thursday, hopefully, will just be a day of relaxing and preparing for the big day on Friday. Hopefully - NO MORE CHANGES!!!!

Tuesday 9/23 - 11 AM - Email & Comments . . .

2008-09-22T22:01:00.000-07:00

My email isn't working very well - incredibly slow and painful to use. So, I wanted to let the "commenters" know how much I enjoy getting your comments - it's hard to respond to them but don't let that discourage you from sending them!

Carla - I think the psychologist visits are new since the French family changed their minds. I believe Olga mentioned something about this when we first arrived but all of that is kind of a blur. I know she said they added some requirements due to that fiasco - I'm hoping this is it and, the only new thing.

Kristine S. - I lost all of my email addresses when trying to get this up and running. If you're reading the blog, please send an email so I have your address! I don't know if we'll have internet in Chelyabinsk or Moscow since this computer stays here, but I'll need to get in touch with you from Moscow. So, if you can, send an email with your cell number again - not sure what I did with that piece of paper either!

Everyone else - keep writing!

Sunday & Monday

2008-09-22T18:45:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, with the help of the stroller, we were able to walk a little further and actually found the street vendors we had seen on our trip to Olga's house on Saturday. We spent the afternoon on a crowded sidewalk looking at little nesting dolls, wooden plates, lots of red spoons & bowls and old military medals. It was a fun afternoon and we actually were able to take another route home and walked through some pretty nice areas. This City seems to have many more affluent people in it then Chelyabinsk did 3 years ago. There are Toyota Land Cruisers, Lexus, BMW's and Mercedez everywhere you look. The billboards advertise the low end cars for around 340,000 and the nicer cars around 740,000 but I have no idea what the high end cars go for here - but, they're everywhere. The buildings are so old and run down on the outside - I'm sure because of the whether, but are actually pretty nice inside - also different then Chelyabinsk. There are banks everywhere here and, I even found a Western Union which is nice to know about.

The last couple of days have been much warmer and the weather and the Urals remind me so much of New England in the Fall that I'm really enjoying that part of this trip. I'm anxious to see how much the trees change between now and the two weeks or so before picking the girls up - assuming everything goes well.

I was told to be ready to go at 8AM today which meant getting up at 7AM! That's like me getting up at 4AM at home because of the late hours we've been keeping here. But, I was up and ready and then sat at the door for about 25 minutes waiting. Driving out of the city at 8:30 is very different than at 12 or 1 - the traffic was crazy - grid lock in some areas. Lydia experienced a little road rage when she started yelling at a woman trying to cut in front of us. She didn't bother rolling down the window and I don't think the woman saw her but I certainly heard it all - have no idea what she was saying though! It took a good hour at least to get out of the City but the rest of the drive was nice.

I was to meet the social worker today but she had an "emergency". When we got to the orphanage, the girls' group was outside with all of their winter gear on. I was allowed to take the girls for a walk by myself which was really nice. When we got to the other side of the orphanage and met back up with their group, Polina wanted to go play so we joined all the kids. My two ran off to play on the slides, etc., but the others were all flocking around me saying "mama" and grabbing my hands. One named Elina kept hugging my legs. They were all smiling and saying mama but my two could care a less where I was - and, so it begins!

Lydia then joined me and the two of us took the girls back inside and took all their snow clothes off. I played with them in the music room for what seemed like an eternity . . . this is a big room in the center of the 2nd floor between two stair ways with openings on each side that can't be closed off. We try barricading but that doesn't work because the room is a major thoroughfare for the staff. The girls run in different directions so I was constantly running after them trying to catch one and get to the other in time. I tried a smaller room but it was filled with a crib, ladder, table and chair that they kept climbing. I tried "yum-yums" and to make them "sadeesh" (sit) and that worked for about 2 minutes before Polina was able to grab the bag of crackers and swing them all over the room. Trying to pick the crackers up and keep both girls in the room at the same time probably would have been pretty hilarious for someone outside to be watching. Thankfully, the social worker was not there to see all of that.

I was then told that we were taking the girls out of the orphanage to go to the psychologist's office. That was a surprise but today Katy and Angela didn't make the trip with me so there was room in the car to get this done. We put the boots, snow pants, parka, hat and gloves back on both girls and walked out to the car. Polina sat on my lap while Vasilina sat on Lydia's lap. The orphanage caregiver said that many kids cry during the trip as they are scared and are not taken out often. Well, I have at least one more daughter as adventurous as Katy and, possibly two. Polina laughed and giggled with every bump, turn and jerky start. She loved it - Vasilina was fine too but maybe not enjoying the rough ride quite as much. She was more curious and was trying to touch the ceiling and watching outside. Once we got to the clinic where the psychologist's office was, it was off with all the gear again, up one long flight of stairs, down another and then up another. All this for about 3 questions . . . what will I do if they don't sleep when I bring them home; what are their personalities and the difference between them; can I entertain the girls and keep their attention. That was it. Then back down the stairs, up the stairs, down the stairs, hats, pants, jackets, gloves, car . . . That was it for today.

Tomorrow I go back to the orphanage and the psychologist is coming to observe me play with the girls - YIKES - I hope it's not like today! I'm hoping to be able to play outside and am planning to bring some new outside toys to try out. If it's raining, it's back inside which is never easy.
I'm also to meet the social worker tomorrow at the orphanage so it will be a long day I think. It doesn't start until 1 when Victor is to pick me up so hopefully, the psychologist and the social worker won't want to stay that late once we get to the orphanage.

Angela's writing lots more interesting things about our trials here . . . will post those soon. She remembers all the fun little things that I'm forgetting about.

Angela's Thoughts . . .

2008-09-22T06:15:00.000-07:00

THE ORPHANAGE

Most of the days we have been here we have gone to visit with Camryn and Courtney.

The orphanage is just an old building, not in the best condition but better than I had anticipated. There were children playing outside. They have many little outside play areas and things for them to play on. They divide the children up by age at the orphanage it ranges from infant to about 3 or 4. They can have children that are as young as about a month and a half. All the children that I have seen appear to be happy. But they don’t know any different then living in an orphanage so I really wouldn’t expect them to be unhappy.

The first day we spent about four hours with the girls. Katy really enjoyed finally meeting her sisters. She was very sad when they left and cried because she wanted to play with them more. She didn’t want them to take her sisters away.

On the second day (if I remember correctly) we were getting things ready to leave and say goodbye to the girls when Lydia (a translator) asked if they had shown us what room the girls group was in. The day before one of the caretakers came and took them to go back so we did not know where to take them. After we were all cleaned up and ready to go we followed Lydia to their room. When we walked in the room Lori and I just kind of looked at each other. I am sure that we were thinking the same thing. I wish we could just take them all home with us and I think that it almost made it harder that day to leave the girls there for another time. I cannot image what Lori was really feeling. There were many children that looked sick. Almost every one of them had cuts, scrapes, bumps and bruises on there faces (the only part of their bodies we could see, they keep many layers of clothing on them). There is this blue and green ointment (if that is even what it is) that they put on the children’s cuts and every one of them had some blue or green on them, It was really sad to see.

EKATERINBURG

I think the best way for me to describe this city is poor but in the process of big development. There are lots and lots of old buildings but they are building new ones every where you look. There are some really nice looking buildings that are all windows but it’s kind of weird - almost all the buildings look old, even the new ones. The only way you can tell a new building is new is because it is at least a 12 stories high or they are still in the process of building it. I think that it is because of the weather - they must not put a lot of time into making them look nice.
They have lots of tall buildings that are made out of little red bricks. It must take them a really long time to actually finish.

Other than a grocery store, this part of the city that we are staying in doesn’t really have anything for us to do. We have to walk pretty far to get to anything. It was really hard the first few times we went walking because Katy would get tired quickly and we couldn’t get very far. Luckily, Olga (the adoption agency coordinator) let us borrow a stroller so, the other day we got to go for a long walk.

We have found this outside shopping mall area that has a lot of high end shops. Lots of clothing and shoe stores (specifically boots). Not really anything that we were looking for. Although I think it is interesting to know that they are so in to fashion here. Just about all the girls wear stiletto boots with jeans or short or knee length skirts. I still cannot figure out why so many of them wear skirts because it is so FREEZING COLD out. I guess that they just really do not care about being cold. Guys just kind of dress normal except almost all the guys seam to wear dress shoes. You don’t see very many people casually dressed.

Since we finally got a stroller we walked all the way to the end of the outside shopping mall and found this area that we had driven by on a previous day that we wanted to go to. It is a sidewalk right down the middle of the road that has all kinds of vendors selling stuff. They had lots of nesting dolls, baskets, decorative wooden bowls and spoons, lots of carvings made out of some kind of stone, and many other souvenir things. It was neat to walk thru all of that. I think Katy was a little bored - we still haven’t found anything for her to do. After we were done with that we were going to go eat pizza at this place we found but it was way too packed inside. We would have had to wait forever so we made our way back “home”. We did find a different way we could walk though.

When we were driving around the other day we did drive by a zoo that we want to take Katy to. For those that don’t know Ekaterinburg is right on the boarder of Asia and Europe. So I would also like to go and see the monument that they have. You can be in both continents at the same time. We might go do some sight seeing after court. This week is a little busy for Lori – she has lots of preparing to do.

SOME OTHER STUFF

After court and Megan has arrived we will be traveling to Chelyabinsk (where Katy was adopted from). It is about 4 hours away from Ekaterinburg. Lori has kept in contact with the coordinator from Katy’s adoption and she wants us to come and visit there. Although I have heard things from Lori, I am curious to see how different the two cities are.

I would post pictures of some of the things that I am talking about but, we had to borrow a computer to be able to use the internet and it’s an old one. We cannot figure out how to get pictures on the computer to post. Plus, it doesn’t help that all the programs are written in Russian !

Time Stamp

2008-09-20T23:41:00.001-07:00

Somehow our computer has the dates all wrong so the posts are not correct. Angela's notes is actually posted at 1:00 PM Sunday, September 21st!

Angela's Notes

2008-09-20T22:57:00.000-07:00

While I've been updating this blog, Angela has been posting to her "myspace" and she's included all the travel trials, etc. Here are her postings regarding the trip so far . . .

10:08 PM - RUSSIA TRIP Current mood: adventurous
Okay this is for everyone that has been asking how it is here in Russia & about how the trip has been so far.
I am going to subtitle stuff so that if you only want to know about some things you don't have to read it all……
Oh, and for those of you that don't know, I am here helping a friend bring home twins that she is adopting.

THE FLIGHT, AIRPORT IN MOSCOW & ARRIVING IN EKATERINBURG

We left LA at 6:30pm Monday the 8th. Entering the gate area we had to present passports so Lori gave the guy Katy's Russian and US passports. He stared at Katy's Russian passport for a long time comparing it to the US one and finally said that something was wrong with it. There was a K or something missing! The Russian passport is written in the Russian alphabet so there was a lot more than a missing K - once we explained that to him he let us through. The first flight went well Katy did really well especially for being 3 years old. Our flight from LAX to Moscow was 12 hours and then we had a 6 hour layover (not as bad as it sounds), we only spent about an hour and a half actually waiting.

First we got to Moscow and had to go thru some passport thing to be signed into the county. we stood in line (well if that's what you would call it as there are no actual lines for anything here in Russia. People just kind of herd around and push and shove to get to wherever they need to go. Standing there for like an hour we got no where. It was getting a little frustrating and Katy was getting a restless. There was another area that was just for Russian citizens to go thru and a man behind us suggested that we go there to see if they would let us thru because we had a child. Luckily they did let us thru (who knows how long we would have had to wait). So we got our luggage, met up with our translator (Jane) who drove us to a different airport.

At the next airport we found some seats and Lori and Katy sat. Jane took me to exchange some money and explain how we check into out flight and how we can tell if it is our turn to go thru security (it is very different in Russia then in the US). Jane left after everything was explained. Lori, Katy and I just sat and waited for about an hour and a half.

Finally it was our turn to go thru security. It took about 5 minutes for the security lady to figure out our tickets and we moved on to the next step - actually getting thru security with 5 checked bags and about 4 carry-on bags and a kid (we don't travel light). Not knowing exactly what to do, Lori and I are trying to get everything on this belt to be x-rayed and no one was helping. They just looked at us and smiled as we looked like "idiots" (and we probably did) because we don't speak Russian. Finally we get thru there and move on to actually checking our luggage and getting our boarding passes. Not an easy task because one, we don't speak Russian and two, Katy has dual citizenship. We don't know what passport to show the lady to check us into our flight, so we just show both. She started looking around for a fourth person to be with us. Although I am pretty sure that when I handed them to her I showed her both US and Russian passports of Katy's and pointed to Katy. Then I showed her mine pointing to me and Lori's pointing to her. Once the lady figured all that out, I told her we were checking 6 bags (we decided to check one of our carry-ons). She looked at me like I had four heads and put up six fingers and then counted all the bags to make sure she had it right. So all in all it took us about 30- 45 min just to get thru security and check in our bags even though there was no line or wait. Good thing we had a red eye and the airport was pretty empty.

All checked in finally we found our gate and sat and waited for our flight to board. Katy fell asleep when we were waiting for our boarding passes and I was getting really tired. I had not slept any of the flight and had at that point been awake well over 24 hours and we still had a two and a half hour flight to Ekaterinburg (Ekat). Even though Katy was awake all of that flight, I got to sleep most of it :o). We got to Ekat at 5:30 am Wednesday the 10th, came to our flat at about 7ish, ate (airplane food is horrible not that you already didn't know that) and slept until two in the afternoon. :o)

BEING COLD

Mostly it is cold. We really were not thinking it was going to be this cold but we have enough layers to keep ourselves warm enough to not be freezing. There is no heat in our building. We are told that each building has its own central heating for the whole building and the government controls when it is turned on. Yeah, kind of weird. One of our translators said that they start turning on heat in different parts of the city on the 15th of September. Different parts have different priority and we must be in the part with not a very high priority. We have been to quite a few shops in different areas of the city that are heated (maybe they're just trying to get people to shop, who knows).

LORI'S COURT DATE AND COMING BACK HOME

Originally I had been telling people that the court date would be 9/24. Yesterday we found out that the judge moved it to 9/26 because of meetings that she has on 9/24. She doesn't want to be tired and cranky for Lori's hearing so that is why she moved the date. Good and bad. Good because hopefully she will be easier on Lori about why a single parent with one child is adopting twins (Courtney & Camryn), however , this is also bad because it prolongs the knowing if we get to bring the girls home with us or not. There is a 10 day wait after court between getting the go ahead and actually taking the girls from the orphanage.
With court on 9/24 we would get to pick them up on 10/7 so with court on 9/26 we should not be able to pick up the twins until 10/9. More good news, they do assure us that we will still get to pick the girls up on the same day as if court had been on the 24th. But who really knows if that will be the case until it actually happens. So as scheduled we should be home by October 15th, if all goes according to plan.

….More to come later - it's about 12 at night here and I am tired

An early day . . .

2008-09-20T04:17:00.000-07:00

Today Victor picked us up at 12:30 as Lydia had said he would. We were told that we needed to go order pictures from our visits for the court appearance and that we would then go back to the orphanage on Monday. I thought it would be a quick trip out so we didn't pack any of Katy's necessities for a long day. We first went to Olga's to pick up a stroller she is letting us borrow. She lives in a really nice neighborhood. Very New Yorkish - lots of people everywhere, street vendors, great shops, etc. Really nice. We quickly drove through and then picked Angie up somewhere else in the City and went to a camera store. After choosing all of the pictures to print we got back in the car and sat in traffic for a long time. When we really started moving again, Angela and I both noticed at the same time that it looked as if we were heading out of the City! I asked Angie if we were going back to the flat and she said that we were going to the orphanage! I told her that we weren't planning on that again until Monday so we had to turn around and fight our way back through traffic.

After getting back to the flat, we put Katy in the stroller and walked around our own neighborhood. We've pretty much gone in every direction now as far as we can comfortably walk (with a 3 year old) and there's nothing for us here. We found no parks or play areas for Katy, no other grocery stores - pretty much nothing. We plan to take a day next week and spend it in Olga's neighborhood - there's even a zoo and pony rides for Katy over there. Where we are it's tons of construction. High rise buildings are going up everywhere and cranes all over the place - there's one building with a steel frame and tiny little bricks are being placed one by one all the way up. It's amazing to see high rises built out of tiny little bricks. We got a few pictures of the high rises right in front of the old wooden houses with the bright colored shutters. The "suburbs" are all the old log houses too - we'll have to get some pictures of those. They look to be hundreds of years old and to be falling down - I don't know for sure how old they are. I'd love to learn the history of the little houses and who built them. They're so tiny but seem to house entire families.

That's it for today. We're in for the night and planning an easy day tomorrow. We're not even in the dreaded 10 day waiting period yet and we're bored stiff. There is nothing to do hence the long posts! We're planning to go to Chelyabinsk on October 2nd if court goes well and then Sasha can take us to a few more places - hopefully, that will break up the long wait a little.

We're missing everyone and can't wait to finally pick the girls up and head home! It seems like it's so far away but I'm happy to be here and to be so close to finally completing this ordeal. I'm anxious to get the girls home and start living our lives again!

Postponement #1

2008-09-19T08:26:00.000-07:00

Today we had a good visit with the girls. Victor and Lydia picked us up around 1:30 and we got to the orphanage around 4 PM. The girls were snacking so we had to wait about 20 minutes for our visit to begin. Katy did not sleep on the way so she was pretty tired (and cranky) during our visit. She fell asleep as soon as we got back in the car to leave and slept for about 1 hour. Right now it's 9:30 PM and we just got done with dinner. It will be a late night - these 7:30 PM naps for Katy don't make for short evenings.

Vasilina had obvious signs of a cold coming on and I'm sure Polina will also be getting it. I'm really hoping Katy doesn't catch it too. Polina has a very strong personality and held her own with Katy today. At one point, Katy was asking her to get out of a stroller she was playing with and when Katy became a little forceful, Polina really yelled at her. Katy started crying right away - I think it really shocked her. But, Katy was so tired to begin with that she was pretty sensitive about everything during the visit. We were in a large music room today with two exits that the girls are constantly running toward. It's really difficult to keep them in there and we find that we're chasing them around more than actually getting to play with them. There's a smaller room that works better but today it was filled up with things so there wasn't room to play in there.

We're taking the next few days off from visiting although Monday I'm to meet the social worker and someone else - both at the orphanage. That will be challenging with Katy so we're working on options for handling that.

Once we got in the car tonight for our return trip, Lydia advised us that the court date has been postponed from Wednesday to Friday the 26th. However, she says that it won't prolong the 10 day wait and we'll be able to pick the girls up at the same time as if it would have been Wednesday - not quite sure how that works out but, I'm hoping it's true. Apparently, there are 3 election related hearings the judge will be holding on Tuesday and then she will have meetings all day Wednesday regarding those cases. She explained that she would be too tired and that she did not want us to have to suffer due to her being tired - Lydia said she apologized for the delay. I suppose I would rather have her in a good mood on Friday then tired and cranky on Wednesday but I was disappointed. I am anxious to get the court appearance over.

Lydia described the kind of questions, etc. that the judge normally asks and told me that I will really be drilled on being single with 3 children. She gave me a few other areas that the judge will "torture" me over but, when I asked if anyone had ever been denied at that point, the answer was no. So, that was good and hopefully will help with the nerves when I go in. 2 hours of questioning is a long time but if I'm not feeling "threatened" then I should do okay - I hope anyway.

Tomorrow we're off to print pictures of the visits to take to court. Olga is bringing a stroller by so that we can take Katy for longer walks around the City. Apparently, there is a shopping mall fairly close with a cafe and play area - looking forward to finding that for Katy. It's pretty cold out and I need to get some warmer gear for Katy and for me so we can stay out comfortably. Sunday is a day off and then Monday it all starts up again, hopefully with resolution on Friday - that would be very nice!

Another quiet day in Ekat

2008-09-18T21:21:00.001-07:00

Nothing new to report today. Yesterday was a quiet day - probably too quiet for Katy. I think she's going a little stir crazy sitting around so much. Her only play time is with the girls. We did go for a very long walk yesterday and found the Arbot here . . . not sure what it is called in Ekat but that's what they call it in Moscow and Chelyabinsk. Just an open shopping area shut off to cars. The shops seem to be pretty high end but we did find a good bakery and a little gift shop with cute Russian puzzles. That took up a few hours yesterday but then, back to the flat.

I downloaded all the pictures yesterday of the girls - they are so cute and their big brown eyes just pull you right in. They both look so happy & healthy and, they both seem so smart. My favorites are of the 3 girls together - the way they look at each other and communicate. I'm really going to enjoy watching their relationships grow too.

While I'm struggling with a few Russian words, they're already saying a few English words themselves. Mainly cracker - it's so cute when they say it. Also a big one for them is "yum-yum". We're having a little trouble with the name changes - right now we're using their Russian names while trying to teach them their English names. I know it will come in time.

Both girls seem very attentive although certainly not attached. I don't anticipate even working on that until we're home but, it's nice that they like to be held, look you straight in the eye and are eager to communicate. All healthy signs I think although they don't seem to know how to be held. They don't latch on when you pick them up which I remember was an issue with Katy at first too. The carriers will really help in getting them home and getting them used to being carried. They're definitely attached to their home however, and we're constantly having to stop them from running back to their little group room. They point to the outside a lot and I think our visits make them miss their outdoor time which isn't good.

This orphanage is so different then Katy's was. At Katy's I wasn't allowed to bring anyone in with me until after court, I wasn't allowed to wander the orphanage at all, I was required to wear booties at all times and, I was never left alone with Katy - there was always someone from the orphanage with us. We've been able to see lots of different areas of this orphanage which has been both good and bad. Some of the sights have been pretty sad but others are of happy kids playing inside and out. It's been nice that we're left alone because I don't feel like we're being watched all the time. Also, during Katy's adjustment, it's not always pretty! She's had a few little outbursts and mopes around a bit while there but, then as soon as we start leaving she talks about missing her sisters. I know it's going to be a tough adjustment but it will be so good for her. Angela's a huge help while there because all 3 are going through different things and "containing" them all at the same time would be extremely difficult!

So, we off to see them again today . . . I hope Katy does well on this drive - it's getting harder and harder on her. 5 hours in the car is way too long for her but we don't really have options. Thank God for my little IPod with all her favorite Scooby-doos on it. The novelty of that may be wearing off though and I'm running out of distractions for her.

On another note - some emails seem to be taking a couple of days to get here. We're thinking maybe it's when responding with the reply button but we haven't figured it out. If someone isn't getting answers to emails that's why! You can always post a comment on here and Angela and I will both be able to get those consistently - but, don't give up on email - we both really like getting them and look forward to them!

Hello from Ekat!

2008-09-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

We finally have internet! The email doesn't work very well - at least Yahoo doesn't but this seems to be okay.

Things here are great! As Lynn posted, we have a court date of 9/24. I know from receiving other emails that it is still possible that the judge can and, is likely to, postpone that date for any reason. But, I'm hopeful that everything will go well and we can be done with all of this.

Our travels, thankfully, were uneventful. Katy did great and has been a real trooper. We arrived around 5AM on Wednesday morning (9/10) and were taken to our first flat. It had no heat, no hot water, no internet and, no keys which made it impossible for us to leave unless accompanied by the agency. But, it was clean and brand new. We stayed there 2 nights and then moved to another flat just down the street. This is also a new building but has two rooms, a great kitchen, washer (no dryer) and, a grocery store on the ground floor. We're still waiting for heat but it's not that bad. Apparently, the whole area is on central heating and the City starts turning it on 9/15 with schools being the priority. Hopefully, they'll be getting to the flats soon as it seems to be getting colder and colder. The flat has worked out really well though except for the internet. The agency reps worked hard on getting a computer and internet for us as my Mac won't work so we are grateful for that.

We've been to see the girls 5 times already. We're taking a break tomorrow, planning to go on Friday and then again on Monday to meet with the social worker. The drive is 2 1/2 hours each way and Katy has done really well - until today when she was a little cranky. Our visits have been cut down from 3&4 hours to about 1 1/2 which is so much better for all of us.

Lynn mentioned in one of her posts that Courtney was a mini-Katy which was the opposite of my first visits. Well, it turns out that Courtney is actually Camryn! The first two days we had the girls mixed up and now that it has been corrected the personalities fit the names. Camryn (Polina) was the more dominate, outgoing one on my first visit and is still although Courtney (Vasilina) is holding her own. It's easy to tell them apart now because Courtney has a few whispy bangs and the rest of her head is pretty much shaved. Even without the different hair styles, the girls are easy to tell apart now. They look similar but also very different. They're about a head shorter than Katy but their hands are bigger (no surprise to Lynn!).

We've adjusted to the time difference here and have become used to the late hours. The sun doesn't set until 8:30 or so. We're having dinner around 9:30 or 10 and going to bed probably around 11:30 or 12. Katy is sleeping until 10 AM everyday which isn't a problem since nothing seems to happen before noon around here. We're going a little stir crazy though and are going to need to find something entertaining for Katy to do soon.
Speaking of Katy, she is now wandering around the flat looking for something to do so I'd better go attend to her. It's only 11PM so we have another hour before bedtime!

More later . . .

Lori

September 24th!

2008-09-15T08:55:00.000-07:00

It's the day we've been waiting for! The judge is back and has issued a 9/24 court date. If all goes well, they'll be in Moscow on 10/7 and home from there within a week. (The internet is still not available so this is Lynn posting for Lori again.)

They've visited Camryn and Courtney a total of three times so far and hope to see them again tomorrow. The internet issue is still not resolved but other than that, everything is going great. They found a grocery store at the base of their building and scored with Honey Nut Cheerios (an exciting find I'm sure!). The streets below their building are loaded with shops and restaurants, likened to Rodeo Drive, so probably not that appealing to our girls. That's all for now. I'm counting the days as I'm sure you are too! Keep checking back because I'm sure Lori will be writing within a couple days.

No internet yet

2008-09-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

Hi there,

It's Lynn again. Lori called this morning and all is well in Ekat. They moved into their new flat but the internet isn't working. They're hoping to have it fixed on Sunday and then Lori will be able to keep us updated. Her phone is not working either so communication has been difficult.

They've seen the girls twice and Katy has really enjoyed playing with her sisters. She's cried when she's had to leave them. Lori says they're very healthy and happy. Courtney is strong willed and "like a mini Katy" and Camryn is more quiet this time.
They have two more "required" visits before court. The judge returns on Monday, 9/15, and Olga feels that the earliest possible court date would be 9/23.
Hopefully, the next time you check back, Lori will be hooked to the internet and telling us all about the girls and the trip!

They've arrived safely!

2008-09-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

Hi all, this is Lori's sister Lynn. Received word this evening that Lori, Katy and Angela have arrived safely in Ekat. They're in a flat without email for a couple days and will update in Lori's words, by the end of the week. Katy was a great little traveler and they didn't experience any out of the ordinary adventures. Lori will write more when she can.

The day has finally arrived!

2008-09-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

It has been a whirlwind of a weekend saying goodbye to everyone and trying to pack as much as possible in as few bags as possible. Last night was the third and worst night of disturbed sleep and I am exhausted before our trip even begins! I probably slept 3 hours - I mostly just laid there thinking of all the little things I need to remember to do today, about seeing the girls and about the court appearance which we'll hopefully get! I'm really hopeful that we will all sleep on the plane tonight - I'm pretty sure Katy will but I rarely do. I'll be a walking zombie by the time we get to Ekat if I don't.

I feel like we've got enough to keep Katy happy, entertained and curious on the planes. She's so excited about going. Yesterday she woke up asking if we were going to Russia today - when I told her that it was tomorrow she said "oh mannnn"! It was really cute. She woke up around 5AM today ready to go. She knew it was the day without having to ask. Her only request so far this morning is that we take her Dora pillowcase on the plane which is now the next little thing to do after signing off here.

Next blog will be from Ekat - hopefully from a nice flat with good internet access! If it takes a while then it's only because I haven't figured the system out but I will eventually.

As excited I am at seeing the girls and the prospect of bringing them home, it has a small bittersweet side as well. My life with Katy will change a lot - for the better in many ways, but it will be different. We are doing this together which has really helped strengthen our bond and we are going to help the girls with their transition together too. I know she will be fine but I will miss the ease of our time together. But, it will all be for the good for her, the girls and for me, and hopefully, the girls will not have too difficult of a time with the separation and the new attachments. I think Katy will be very helpful with that as will the girls be for each other.

Okay then . . . I'll write soon from Ekat! Thanks everybody for all your help in getting us this far!

Successful Day

2008-09-06T19:41:00.000-07:00

Today was such a busy day . . . lots of visitors. And, in between the visitors, UPS and Fed Ex both arrived as scheduled - although a little late - and very casually dropped off 2 packages each without having any idea just how important they were. I had expected sweating it out over the UPS deliveries as I always hear that they're not as reliable, but they got here around 12:30. Then Fed Ex, who arrived about 1 hour later, was by far the most important as they contained our passports/visas so we can actually enter the country now. It is so nice when well laid plans actually are pulled off!

My dossier copy, which is now 3 1/2" thick, is ready to go along with 2 additional packages for Olga. Everything looks current except for one DOJ document that is dated 9/21/07. I don't know how long those are valid for and, even though I hope to be done with court by then, I can't help but worry about it. I don't remember specifics about getting that one but I don't imagine you can rush the DOJ as you can the Dept. of Behavioral Sciences. But, I've done all I can do now.

Packing hasn't even started yet for me. I just have Katy's shoes, sweaters, & toys left to do for her but I haven't begun mine except to choose a dress for court. I still have so many little things to buy - gifts for the orphanage caregivers - gifts to bring to the girls on our visits - travel necessities for me, etc. Tomorrow a trip to K-Mart - the only store here that has a possibility of carrying any of those items.

One thing I did get done today was complete the application for the travel medical insurance which was important. I guess I'm finally starting to believe that we may actually get to go on this trip! I woke up at 4AM this morning thinking of all the little things I still need to do. But, I know it will all get done.

Tomorrow, last minute visits from a few friends - mostly who are very sad to see Katy go away for such a long time - and then, finish packing, trip to K-Mart, and hopefully, get a good nights sleep. I feel like I can now start to think about the girls without being so guarded although, I know I still have a court date to obtain and a court appearance to survive! Regardless, I think I'll sleep well tonight.

Talk about suspense . . .

2008-09-05T20:45:00.000-07:00

As expected, I received the FBI Report yesterday and overnighted it to AO. That delivery was successful and Michelle was able to get it apostilled. She's overnighting it back to me for Saturday delivery - UPS. Debra Prentice from Notary on Wheels called me at 5 and told me she was dropping the two apostilled letters from the Board of Behavioral Sciences off at the UPS Store for Saturday delivery. Frank Foundation (AO's partner) called and advised that the passports/visas were on the way and would be here on Saturday via Fed Ex. Then one more call from Franks about another package coming via Fed Ex that I'm carrying for another family. There's still a lot that has to go well but, so far so good. I'll have a little time Monday morning to track things down if they don't arrive but that would be cutting it way too close.

I had 4 hours today between work and picking Katy up at her last day of pre-school for a while and I got so much done. I had things charging all over the house . . . the laptop, the Leapster, the digital camera, the video camera, the Amazon Kindle, IPod - all necessities for the long trip with a 3 year old. I've got Katy pretty well packed but haven't started mine. I spent about 2 hours going through three copies of dossier documents I have and tried to compile all of the most recent documents together. That was a mess but once the remaining documents get here tomorrow I can finish it - it's about 500 sheets of paper and I have to hand carry it which will take up a lot of my carry on room! I completed the photo album of the first visits with the girls which I believe the judge wants to see and, I downloaded (still downloading) about 16 hours of kids movies and cartoons on the IPOD in the hopes that it will keep Katy entertained on the plane and 5 hours in the car on days we'll be visiting the girls.

I think it was a pretty successful day and I'm hoping that tomorrow will be equally successful. Here's to hoping UPS and Fed Ex pull it off!

Saturday deliveries

2008-09-03T12:29:00.001-07:00

5 days and counting. The other shoe has not dropped - in fact, things seem to be falling in place.

It seems all my missing documents should be in my hands by Saturday afternoon. I have 3 Saturday deliveries scheduled to come to my home. There was a problem (of course there was) with the visas. They had to re-do the invitations again so I won't have those until Saturday. The FBI clearance report is being sent out today in my self addressed overnight envelope - I'll then overnight it to the agency who will go get it apostilled along with my last 8 medical - they'll then overnight those to me for Saturday arrival. Most surprising of all, the Department of Behavioral Sciences has said that they will rush my request and the certifications can be picked up on Friday. I have "Notary on Wheels" in Sacramento picking them up, taking them to be apostilled at the Secretary of State and overnighting them to me for Saturday arrival.

Phew! I hope it all goes according to plan - is that too much to hope for? By the way, Notary on Wheels in Sacramento is a great California resource. Most agencies I think use her but she does much more than obtain apostilles. If anyone needs her contact information, send a comment below and I'll forward it . . .

I've also got my airport transport arranged - that was a little tricky because of 6 people coming home including 3 car seats! But, Kristine who brought Stephanie home from Chelyabinsk last December has offered her help so that's one less big worry for me. Thank you Kristine!

Katy is so excited about this trip - I dropped her off at pre-school this morning and everyone knows that she's going to Russia to get her sisters. One of the moms was asking her questions about her trip and her answers were so cute. She's got it worked out in her head about what she's going to teach her sisters and how she's going to help take care of them. I think she'll have some issues about sharing (sharing people especially) but, I do think she's going to love having them with us.

So, we're close and I'm starting to feel optimistic and like some weight has been lifted from me. The regional conflicts seem to be quieted down, paperwork is coming in and my phone is not ringing so that's all great news for now. I will be on guard though until the judge sets a date. As we all know by now, anything can happen.

6 days to go

2008-09-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

Today I re-did my fingerprints for the BCIS as a precaution since they don't really expire until 10/31. Still no FBI clearance and the contact at the Board of Behavioral Science is out until tomorrow so I won't know about getting the license certifications until then. So far, that's the extent of the paperwork required other than receiving a complete copy of my dossier including all of the changes since February. That's not easy since there have been so many individual requests.

I still haven't figured out internet access since I can't get the laptop from Peace Travel and won't be staying at the hotel. I may not be able to update often while there but I'll start trying to figure that out when we arrive.

I've bought lots of dry food to take for Katy - snacks, oatmeal, rice packages, etc. I don't know how readily available food will be and she constantly eats so we're prepared for that. I think I've got everything needed for a 5 or 6 week stay although I'm hoping we're home in 4!

I still feel like I have so much to do but I don't really know what. My lists are complete but I don't feel ready. I work well under pressure though so, by Sunday, I may be scrambling with all the things I've forgotten. I'm so excited about seeing the girls and introducing them to Katy. She was so cute in the store yesterday as we were picking out plane toys for her - she announced that she's very excited to go to Russia and get her sisters! I hope she enjoys them as much as she says she will. I know she'll appreciate having playmates, at least some of the time!

Only 6 days to go but it feels like an eternity!

Getting close

2008-08-29T12:52:00.000-07:00

A busy week preparing - even though this is my 4th trip over, I have so many questions! Things seem to happen so quickly over there - whisked from one place to another, that I forget a lot of the little details. So, I'm asking tons of "how to" questions and still have many more.

I'd planned to rent a cell phone and laptop in Moscow as I know that the combo offers great wireless internet but the laptops are unavailable during that time. We'll be staying in a flat rather then the hotel and, may possibly wait out the 10 days in Chelyabinsk at another flat. Therefore, internet access is questionable. I haven't had to worry about that in the past as I was either at a hotel with access or had the phone/laptop combo. I'm bringing an Apple laptop - any knowledgeable input would be appreciated - i.e. internet cards (heard of them but don't know how they work), etc.

Today I got an email from the agency. It had been quiet until then - in fact, yesterday was the deadline on purchasing the tickets so I had to do it. It's certainly not unheard of to have them cancel this far along but I think it's unlikely. But, today, another curve ball. Olga had received a copy of my dossier to review and is now asking for renewal certifications for the social worker and the director of the agency! This is a four week process with "no way to expedite". I'm trying anyway and have told the agency what I've learned. They're going to try to use a copy of the director's from another family but they don't have any more recent ones for the social worker. Olga said I need to hand carry those and the FBI clearance which I don't have yet either. My INS fingerprints expire on 10/31 so I need to go next week and re-take those to be safe in case we leave Moscow after that date. I thought getting an appointment would be difficult but they responded quickly and I should have the form early next week. All normal problems with these adoptions I know but still I could do without the stress. Just have to wonder why it is always last minute.

Lots of gifts to purchase still and I'll have to work on trying to squeeze everything in luggage wise. Other than that and the last few forms, we're ready to go! Hopefully, next week will be equally as quiet without any more surprises.

Par for the course

2008-08-25T14:57:00.000-07:00

Wouldn't you know it . . . what I think is my very last adoption document ever (what I hope is), my FBI clearance letter came back in the mail today as rejected. The computer couldn't read the prints well enough to complete the clearance. Even though I have one card left, tomorrow I have to go out and get more to be safe and overnight them. I sent the last one on 8/6 and only received it back today so I don't think I'll have a new one in hand before leaving in two weeks. I'll have to make arrangements for someone else to get it and send it off to the agency and hope that all that happens before the judge returns on the 15th. I don't think the judge will issue a court date without the updated form. Between the two adoptions and the delays, I've done this probably 5 times and this is the first time I've had this happen - typical of this adoption so far.

Olga's confirmation - yeah!

2008-08-25T13:22:00.001-07:00

Thankfully, nothing has changed so far. AO called today. As soon as I saw the call coming in I held my breath until the message was relayed. I was relieved to hear that Olga had communicated with the agencies (Franks & AO) regarding my case. She says she thinks it's a good idea that I be there by the 10th(!). The message also relayed that the judge's first day back will be the 15th and that she is going to try to hold court the following week. I guess that Olga had not received the confirmation earlier that I was going to be there on the 10th but, it's nice to get this directive from her as well. At least I'm traveling now with some indication that there are plans to set a court date although this is basically what I was told a week or so ago before things changed again.

The reservations are booked but not paid for - I'm waiting for the drop dead date on this as I don't want to incur any more unnecessary cancellation expenses . We'll be flying 12 1/2 hours direct to Moscow, have a 6 hour lay-over, leave Moscow at 12:30 AM and arrive in Ekat at 5AM although it's only a 2 1/2 flight. Total flying time will be 15 hours and door to door it should be around 25 hours. Long trip for a 3 year old but I think Katy will do well! It was about a 12 hour drive to Lake Tahoe with stops and she was strapped in her car seat the whole time. She was a great little traveler - hopefully that will be the case again and she will be a role model for the twins on the way home! One can hope anyway!

The good news is

2008-08-22T22:02:00.000-07:00

there was no news today. The other shoe has not dropped - every quiet day brings a little more confidence that we may make it back there. Finally, a quiet Friday with nothing looming over me for the next two days. I may even begin preparing for the trip although I'm still afraid to get too far in the planning as things change so much. I don't want to jinx anything! Hopefully next week will be as quiet as this week was!

More good news . . . I found some Russian adoption blogs of families waiting for court - one of who has a court date in two days. That provides some relief as I have been worried about the conflict between governments right now over the Georgia crisis. And, I read about families waiting in two different regions and they were 8 months out and still waiting. It's sad so many children and families are waiting so long but it does provide some comfort that my situation is typical as I'm 9 months out right now. Hopefully our journey is nearing completion.

All quiet today

2008-08-20T12:54:00.001-07:00

It seems the dust of last week has settled and it has become very quiet since declaring that I'm going regardless of any confusion. No phone calls, messages, emails - but, I'm always waiting for the other shoe to drop.

I confirmed that the passports have been received for new visas and that the final renewals are being sent out for apostilles. All I'm missing is the FBI clearance which I can hand carry if necessary. Even if that comes in after I leave it should be fine.

Tomorrow I will get a new itinerary. My plan is to arrive on 9/10 and make a return reservation for sometime late October or early November knowing that it will have to be changed. I don't plan on making any reservations for the girls at this point as it will be easier to make them from Russia than to change them later. Note that I'm being very positive about bringing them home with us on this trip. I don't have any idea how it's all going to play out but for now I'm focusing on the goal.

I don't think I'll lose this feeling of apprehension until I actually arrive in or possibly until we're all leaving Russia. I have so many concerns about the judge and the government and all that could change. I was blissfully ignorant with Katy's adoption and had no idea of how fragile the entire process was. I realized after the completion just how close I was to not getting her out prior to the expiration of the accreditations - I was lucky I wasn't in the know then as I was able to just focus on Katy and making sure her needs were met. I can't wait to end my nightmares about Camryn and Courtney growing up in an institution although I still think about that with Katy even though it's not a possibility for her any longer. I think it will always haunt me as long as there are other kids existing in that environment. It's such a sad, avoidable waste.

Let's hope the quiet continues now.

The story today is . . .

2008-08-18T21:48:00.000-07:00

Maybe there isn't a packet. Or, maybe there is. Nobody seems to really know. The only piece of information that has not changed is that the judge has asked for the girls documents to be there for her on the 15th. Nobody seems to be able to understand Olga or Olga's story keeps changing - they can't figure it out and are also very frustrated.

So, today another call from the director of my agency which usually doesn't bring good news - at least it hasn't so far. Nobody really had any advice on what I should do - just explained the situation of really not knowing what is going on and understanding that they probably won't until after the judge returns. So, one thought was that I should hold off on traveling until after the judge's return and we can establish what it was that she really wanted me to do.

Based on past experience, I'm told, that when the judge asks for the child's documents then a court date follows very soon unless there are problems with the paperwork, which is unusual. The judge has already, apparently, looked at my documents so there shouldn't be any other requests other than getting the renewals that I've been working on.

With the fragmented, unconfirmed information that I do have, I'm still planning to go on the 8th for arrival on the 10th. I'm getting a 90 day visa and an open ticket so I can stay if a court date seems to be coming in the near future. Otherwise, it will be the visit I had planned for this week. It's really unfortunate that they (she) had me cancel that trip and then have all of the reasons for it unravel. It's all been so strange but I don't know what to do other than go see the girls and hope to get a court date sometime in September or early October.

This certainly has dimmed my excitement regarding the trip but it will be good to get back there and spend time with the girls. I only hope that they will be with us when we return.

Has it only been 4 days?

2008-08-15T11:27:00.000-07:00

So many different stories in the last 4 days. So many stops and starts, hopes and dashed hopes.

Tuesday - great day. Learned about the mysterious "packet" left by the judge!

Wednesday - even better day. After reading packet, interpretation is I should be there on the 10th.

Thursday - hold off as they may want to push it back a week - will let me know Friday.

Friday/Today - Wow, where do I begin? "the problem (ah oh, here it comes) is that apparently a couple rejected two children after completing the adoption in Ekat and now it is a big scandal creating concern regarding people's commitment to these kids".

Now, somebody (Olga I think?) thinks I should maybe stick to my original plan of 8/20 - 27 - I don't hear the rest because I interrupt to remind them that I canceled those plans at a cost of $750.00 already.

I don't understand the difference now if I go on the 20th of August or the 10th of September since the judge isn't there. I don't understand why I would defy what the judge has requested of me which is to be there on the 15th. I ask, who is concerned and bringing this up as the judge isn't even there. I think the answer was Olga but I don't know for sure. I said I could move my arrival up from the 10th easily enough to spend more time with the kids if that would help.

They called the "somebody" back and came back to say that the 10th will work but we need to wait for Olga to give us exact travel dates which she will have by Monday.

Oh, and the judge's vacation is now until 9/15 not 9/6. When did that happen?

Nothing makes sense. The judge's vacation was 7/30 to 9/6 - now it's until 9/15

Olga's vacation was to be 8/3 to 8/20 - yet, she's there now communicating about the packet, dates, what to do, what not to do, etc.

It is exhausting to me though and every time I have to wait again, it feels like forever. I know better than to get excited about any news or become hopeful. I won't go into the "at leasts" because I'm afraid that as soon as I do then those will change too. Very disheartening. And, this doesn't even take into account all the Georgia/Russia/US issues going on. Uggghh I thought I saw the light but it's feeling pretty dim at the moment.

This will make for a very long weekend.

On a OMG note - how could a family go through this process and change their minds before they even get out of the country? I've heard details about a case that we're assuming is the same and it's pretty pathetic. I can't say that an orphanage is a better environment to grow up in then with those "parents" but I hope somebody else finds the children soon.

Back to waiting

2008-08-14T14:15:00.000-07:00

Today I cancelled the flights for next week's trip and prepared the itinerary for the trip in September after spending at least an hour on the phone with Expedia and Lufthansa. After incurring a $750.00 fee for cancellations and learning the refund would take 2 to 3 "billing cycles", I then spent a long time on the phone with Enroute Travel. I thought that I had it all done. Prior to booking I sent the itinerary to AO for their input and received an email back saying to hold off - they may have us travel a week later than the 9/10 arrival. That is disappointing as I want to get the reservations booked and I'm so afraid that things are going to continue being delayed. So far though, nothing really has changed except for the interpretation of the judge's notes, the translation and the communication between Olga in Russia, Franks, AO and me. I, of course, would rather get there sooner then later and just have the extra week with the girls which is what I told AO. Hopefully, tomorrow we'll have a concrete plan.

So far so good

2008-08-13T16:32:00.000-07:00

Based on experience, I am holding my breath until the moment I walk out of the courtroom in Ekaterinburg. Anything could happen between now and then and it will be one phone call delivering the news so I'm hoping now to not hear anything more from the agency, the judge or anyone in Russia! That's a change! I'm worried about the situation in Georgia and have been following it closely. My concern is that as the US becomes more involved, the already fragile relationship will become completely broken. If this happens, it would seem possible that they may pull the visas and not allow the adoptions to proceed. Always something to worry about.

As for today, I did receive another phone call and it was with even better news then yesterday. Supposedly Olga has had a chance to read through the judge's request, relay that information to Franks in No. Carolina who then relayed it to AO in San Diego who then called me with it . . . maybe that's part of the problem - too many middle people. Apparently, the judge more specifically requested that I be there no later than the 10th and that she is shooting for a court date of 9/16! So that would have us leaving by the 8th. She doesn't get back until the 6th which is a Saturday and I would like to already be on a plane so that she can't say not to come - not that she couldn't do that after we arrive but . . .

I'm planning to call the airlines tomorrow and see what I can salvage. In the meantime, I received the passports today with the visas for the 8/20 trip and now need to send them back. That was another $600 down the drain but, in the long run, I'll be saving a lot of money by not having to pay drivers & translators for another trip.

So that's the story for today - hopefully nothing changes between now and 9/16!

When you least expect it . . .

2008-08-12T20:22:00.000-07:00

Today AO called and said that prior to leaving on vacation the judge had prepared a packet for Olga. Unfortunately, Olga left for her vacation prior to receiving the packet and returned yesterday to find it. Apparently it included a request for the girls documents to be delivered along with me and my updated documents by September 15th! And somewhere in there it said something about needing me there to spend the "official" time with the girls prior to a court date toward the end of September! What a shock - this is the first time since March that I have not been expecting to hear news from the judge and now I get it while she's not there! Of course, I've already paid for my tickets to go visit next week but I'll have to leave around 9/12 to get there by the 15th so there's no point in going just to turn around and return a few days later. Visas and flights will have to be changed now but I am so excited that instead of going and having to tell them goodbye again, I'll be going back to get them and start our new lives together! Hopefully, I'll get more details tomorrow and can start making arrangements!

Confirmed plans

2008-08-05T19:57:00.000-07:00

Apparently if you don't fly on a weekend and stay for a week, the flights are less expensive - so, we're going to visit the girls after all! We'll be leaving on August 20th and returning on the 27th. Hopefully we'll have at least 3 days with the girls. The agency told me that they think I'll be getting a court date shortly after the judge returns but I decided to go for a visit anyway. It's a lot of added costs but it will be worth it. This way too I can bring more gifts for the orphanage and the girls.

Prior to leaving I'll need to get as many documents renewed as possible. I'll need to send off for the FBI approval, my 8 medical is expiring for the 4th time(!), and Katy's medical is also expiring again. I'm not sure what other documents will need to be renewed but I'm sure there will be many. I never heard whether the judge requested the girls' documents prior to her leaving so I doubt she did. Between needing those and my renewals I'm not confident in receiving a court date early September but that would be fantastic if we did!

So, Katy and I will begin preparing for our trip together. It will be a lot of fun I think and a good test to see how she will handle the traveling. Not much we can do after boarding the first plane but at least this trip is only 1 week, not 3. It will be a wonderful opportunity to get to know Camryn and Courtney a little better too and I think they'll remember us when we return to get them. Lots to do between now and 8/20 which is really good. Time is already flying by which is great for me right now.

A little good news

2008-08-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

Katy and I are home from Lake Tahoe. The trip helped me reboot and begin another wait on a much more positive note. We had a great time and I hope to go back with Katy and her sisters.

Another email was received today from an Ekat family - this was a good one though. A family who adopted twins last July (from Ekat) are now beginning the process to adopt the twin's older sister. Their email was very positive about Ekat adoptions and this particular judge - it's a long wait but basically, it's their feeling, that if you're with a reputable agency (which AO is) then things should go okay. It was good to hear something positive about the region and the judge. I wonder how long their process will take this go around.

New game plan

2008-07-30T09:38:00.000-07:00

Katy and I are really enjoying Lake Tahoe together. Katy told me that she "loves this trip - it is fantastic"! Of course, that made me happy. She's having so much fun with her cousins, aunt, grandma and great grandpa that she's probably not going to want to go home. I'm enjoying spending time with everyone too and LT is so beautiful this time of year. But, of course, I'm thinking of the twins and continuing to get bad news from Ekat.

Olga gave dates as to when we could visit Ekat and I went back on line to find tickets but it is cost prohibitive. Since last week the tickets have gone up $900 each. The trip would allow two days with the girls - probably 6 hours total - and would cost around $5,000 to $6,000 with drivers, translators, etc. I could save a little by leaving Katy at home but I can't do that to her - again.

I've received another email regarding rejections by the judge. It may be host families back East that I had heard of before but I don't know. That's the problem with the internet chat groups - at times the information can be invaluable but others, it can be incomplete and cause unnecessary fear - I hope that is the case now.

My new game plan is to bombard the judge with letters from family and friends upon her return as to why she should allow me to adopt the girls. Hopefully, these will get her attention and make her see past her own fears as to placing the girls so far away. I'll start working on them when we return home from LT. I don't know what else I can do at this point.

Time in between

2008-07-23T20:38:00.000-07:00

We're off to Lake Tahoe for 10 days - I don't like the idea of wishing time away so I'm going to try to enjoy the time between now and the return of the judge. I can't help but be consumed with thinking about the twins but, Katy keeps me busy and entertained. I really enjoy doing things with her and, in all fairness to her, I need to make sure she doesn't miss out on anything due to this long wait. It's much easier for me to get through this ordeal than first time parents who don't have a little one at home to occupy them.

I spoke to the director of my agency today. He reiterated again that the circumstances around the couple denied the court date are entirely different than mine and he doesn't feel that I'm in jeopardy of receiving the same fate. He said that he has worked with this judge many times over the years and she is very thorough and logical. She is painfully slow and detailed about the paperwork but her requests and decisions always make sense. She does not act randomly against people and she's always been consistent - including in her slow pace. It is one of her goals not to have any of "her" adoptions become questionable at any time - which, I have to admit is an admirable goal.

I also told the agency that I still would like to go visit the girls when Olga returns at the end of August. He's going to check with Olga about what dates would work and then let me know. I think that will be a good trip for all of us. But, until then, Katy and I will be enjoying our Summer with our family and friends and continue to prepare for the arrival of the girls.

More bad news from Ekaterinburg

2008-07-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

Today an Ekat family posted that the judge has decided not to extend an invitation for court to them. They visited in October and met a now 3 year old boy. I don't know all of the details as to why the judge has decided to deny their adoption but just the fact that she can do that at this point is very discouraging and scary. This particular family is working with an agency affiliated with my agency - she's very angry and upset since they've been jumping through hoops to get documents since October and only learned this today. My agency has told me that the reasons this family was denied don't apply to me but, although that provided some relief, it doesn't make me feel very comfortable or confident about what's ahead.

In need of a break

2008-07-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

With the disappointment of not getting a July date, I consoled myself with the fact that I would go visit the girls in August. I spoke to my agency about doing that and they were enthusiastic. They said that visits are always welcome and Olga & team are always accommodating! Well, once again, expectations have led to another disappointment. Logically, Olga and the two translators working with her all decided to take their vacations while the judge is out . . . makes perfect sense and, on one hand I appreciate them doing that so as not to cause further delays by them being out when the judge is in (most specifically Olga). They'll all be out August 3 through August 20th! I briefly entertained the idea of going the last week of August but the agency said that they're hoping I'll be getting a court date early September so it may not be feasible to go. I need to be here to prepare documents.

It is all out of my hands. I wish I could just relax with that knowledge but I'm used to being able to cause something good to happen. This time I think my hands really are tied.

Switching gears

2008-07-16T14:06:00.000-07:00

I've received so much support from the Ekat group and have heard so many stories. Our story is not unusual for this region. That helps as it makes me not feel singled out or as if there is a problem with my adoption. The stories I've heard have been awful but everyone came through with healthy, happy children at the end which is encouraging.

I was concerned about going to visit the girls because I didn't want to upset their routine or lives. I have an issue with showing them lots of maternal love and attention and then taking it away from them indefinitely. But, sister Lynn asked why I couldn't just go over and spend time with them and not do the whole "mama is here" thing (one more example of how important sisters are and why I want my girls to have them). I guess in the midst of the doom, I wasn't thinking clearly because, of course I can do that. Just a visit with them - playing, getting to know each other, etc. No big emotional deal for them. And, I think they'll have so much fun with Katy and visa-versa (I hope anyway!).

So, I've decided to take Katy to visit the girls in August and have spoken to the agency about it. They're sending word to Olga tomorrow and I'm hoping it can all be planned out quickly so that we'll have a few stress-free days with them. Hopefully, we'll be back in a month or so after that and the girls will remember us. I think it will be a great opportunity for Katy and me to spend some alone time with them before the stressful trip of getting them home and then the difficult adjustments we'll all go through.

So, now my feeling of doom is replaced with excitement about traveling with Katy and spending time with her and the twins. I think it will be a great trip. And, prior to that trip we'll be spending time in Lake Tahoe with family which will be a lot of fun too. This time will pass and it will not be wasted at all! It will be memorable and well spent time.

Delays, delays, delays

2008-07-14T13:22:00.000-07:00

Response to my emails to the agency today:

"The judge has all of your documents for review but she has not issued the permission to submit the girl's documents yet. Olga is no longer optimistic that you will get a court date prior to the judge's vacation. If you do not, the judge will return 9/6 and we will be looking for a court date upon her return. At this point Olga is hopeful that she will receive permission to submit the girl's documents prior to the judge vacation."

I have no idea what any of that means but, I was warned about it on 7/4. I knew before the agency knew so I didn't believe it. I was told the judge had accepted everything and she requested the one additional letter on Tuesday. Everyday it changes - On March 17th, when the judge first accepted my documents, I was told she had 30 days to assign a court date! And they've expired twice since then and, of course, they will again while the girls fall further and further behind in their development.

Why Ekaterinburg?

2008-07-14T09:12:00.000-07:00

There's been a lot of discussion amongst Ekat adoptive parents at all stages of the process about how difficult the process is and if they would do it over. My wait so far is in line with everyone else's - we've all had terrible experiences in trying to get a court date - however, this adoptive parent sums it up as to why we go through it . . .

" I've read a recent post about how it is now very difficult to adopt from Ekaterinburg. I think that's probably very true. It's also not any different then it has been for years. When we adopted from Ekaterinburg in 2000 it was considered one of the most difficult regions in Russia to adopt from. The posts regarding this have never changed over the years. It has always been difficult to adopt from Ekaterinburg. Our original agency no longer works in the region and very few do. They are much more demanding with their paperwork.

The flip side of the coin is they have some of the best orphanages in all of Russia. Our daughter came home at 16 months old from Baby Home #1 in the top 75% in both height and weight. When we were there during July we watched them bring out close to 100 kids to the play areas every morning and again every afternoon after their naps. It gave them fresh air and exercise. While we were there we also watched one of the caregivers set up a table outside to work with small groups of children with their fine motor skills with blocks and puzzles. The care they received was wonderful. We have heard similar things from other families about the orphanages in Ekat and the surrounding areas of Revda and Kaminsk Uralski. Our daughter Valerie is now 9 years old and one of the strongest kids I know. She swims like a fish, does sow cows and toe loops and bats cleanup on her softball team. She also scored in the top 1% of her grade last year on the nationwide Terranova tests in of all things, language arts. She also scored near the top in reading and math. She's a happy, well adjusted and affectionate little girl that is the light of our life.

Yes, it's more difficult to adopt from Ekaterinburg. Yes, it's worth every minute. Don't let the paperwork prevent you from going forward in the region. For what it's worth, court was easy and the judge was actually laughing during one part of our hearing. I haven't added any photos of Valerie to the group in a while, but I'll be adding some soon. Take a look at the picture of her in front of the baby home and try and tell me she's not a happy healthy kid. Isn't that what we all really want?"

I wish this made me feel better but it doesn't help much right now.

Not today

2008-07-11T12:09:00.000-07:00

Another week has passed and no court date. Usually the judge gives about 1 weeks notice and wants people there between 7 and 4 days before court. And, with her vacation coming up on 7/30 that means there's only a few days left to get a date - maybe a week. If I don't get one, then I'll have to get busy re-doing documents so that they're not expired upon her return in September.

It's good to see the pictures of the girls playing in the yard and the good reports from Carla regarding the care Nicholas received there. I want to get them out of there now but I don't think they are doing badly. They don't know what they're missing but, every day they're there, they fall a little further behind emotionally, physically and developmentally.

They've been there 7 months too long already!

Another Day - Not a Word

2008-07-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Tuesday I was asked to re-do one letter. A simple letter - just remove the notary. Everything else had been accepted by the judge. The email said that if I was able to email a color copy of the revised letter that morning than the judge could assign a court date. I sent the letter. I figure a day for translation - Wednesday - and a day to deliver and assign the date - Thursday - today. But, nothing. It's 9:25 AM Friday in Ekaterinburg - I'm hoping that they assign the date and tomorrow morning I will get the word. But, everyday I think it's going to be the day.

In order to make it before the judges vacation, I have tomorrow and a few days next week to get a date - after that I think it's too late. Another week I suppose I'll know for sure whether it's this month or next Fall. It's crazy that this is not handled better. I can't believe the judge would want to go over all of the documents a second time after they're all renewed. Just about every document will expire if I don't get there this month so, basically, we'll all be starting over. It just makes no sense. I have to believe it will be this month.

CM must be very busy with Nicholas - there have been no postings since the day she picked him up at the orphanage! They should be in Moscow right now getting to know each other and finalizing his departure. I can't wait to see pictures of little Nicholas and the many pictures she took of the girls before leaving the orphanage.

Hoping for tomorrow . . .

No date but a good day anyway

2008-07-09T20:22:00.001-07:00

CM, whose blog idea I'm using, picked up Nicholas today! She visited Nicholas 1 month before I visited Camryn & Courtney - hopefully, I'm right behind her. What a day for Carla and Nicholas! And, Carla visited the girls during her last visit to their orphanage. She took tons of pictures that I'm waiting to see and she said they were happy and busy playing outside. They were all smiles!

Hope to hear something good tomorrow!

Right around the corner

2008-07-08T13:46:00.000-07:00

My first adoption blog. I thought this would be a great way to communicate to everyone who has been following this journey from the beginning and who are interested in hearing the details between now and bringing the girls home.

It's been 7 1/2 months since leaving the twins in Orphanage #8 in Nizhny Tagil, 2 1/2 hours outside of Ekaterinburg. Since then they've celebrated another Christmas, another Easter, and, another Birthday (4/15/06) without their family.

It's been 7 1/2 months of documents, delays, more documents and more delays. I've always thought that court was right around the corner and feel lucky that today, I still believe that. I had a scare last week when I heard that we may not receive a court date until the Fall as the judge is leaving for over a month at the end of July. Today I learned that they're still trying to complete our case before she goes and that they have all my documents. Right around the corner. Tomorrow I hope to hear - how many times have I said that? I can't begin to describe how the slightest news elevates or plummets my moods so I'll leave all that alone for now and won't bore you with those details. Anyone around me knows - and they thought pregnancy created moods!

I don't have any pictures of Nizhny Tagil or Ekaterinburg to post. I have hundreds of pictures of the twins but can't post them. I was so focused on meeting the girls and quickly getting home to Katy that I didn't think to look around me while there. I know there's a beautiful forest between the two cities but to me, it was just more traveling on top of an already grueling trip. Next time I will take pictures and hopefully they will include Camryn, Courtney and, of course, Katy too.

I have been so lucky to have Katy during this time to keep me busy and to keep me focused. I have many reasons for wanting to adopt again but one of my reasons is I want Katy to have siblings. Once meeting the girls, there's no turning back but, at my lowest points I just look at Katy and know how important the girls will be in her life too. And, it's scary to think of Camryn and Courtney growing up in that environment and what their futures would be. That keeps me going.

I can't imagine having to have gone through this torturous wait for the first adoption. I don't think I would have believed that it would ever happen. I wouldn't have had this amazing little girl to divert and demand my attention! She has been such a joy this past year and is growing leaps and bounds. I have a new Katy story every day that has kept me and everyone around us entertained. I feel so fortunate to not have gone through this with her adoption. 7 weeks after meeting her, her adoption was finalized in Russia - 7 WEEKS! What a difference.

I'll fill in back details later for those who are interested. I just wanted to get started now so that I'm proficient at this by the time we get back to Russia - which, hopefully, is right around the corner. But, for now, I'm off to pick-up my little Katy and enjoy our afternoon together.