Home Sweet Home

We want to thank everyone who took time to come to the airport and welcome us back to Phoenix. It was a big moment for our new family, and we are grateful that you were there to share it with us. We are so happy that many of you got the chance to meet Andrew and Bethany already.

Got the kids into the car seats without the expected fuss. Sorry, but we did not belt them in properly. It was too dark, we were too tired and we had not practiced enough. The manual has since been studied, so we are OK for the next ride.

Made it in the door around the midnight hour. First Gayle went in to be welcomed by Angie, then they came outside to meet the kids, while Uncle Stephen and Grandma Eleanor caught up with us. Next, I went in to greet and comfort Lily and Sarah. Aunt Laura arrived and everyone came in with lots of reassuring pets for the pets.

Andrew took it all in stride, but Bethany got very excited. It was clear that she knew she was home, because of the wonderful job that Gayle did on the kid's photo albums – that Bethany had looked through, over and over and over, while in Russia and on the trip home.

She was thrilled to see the dog "saBAKa" and the cats "KOSHkee".

More on the trip and our stay in Moscow later, but it is remarkable to think of all the new experiences the kids troupered through in the last few days.

Their whole world was just a few rooms and maybe an outdoor play area. From the moment we had them in our arms, they experienced so many firsts: their new American names and language, they traveled in cars, stayed in a hotel, rode on a train, moved into an apartment at 5:30 am, visited an embassy, toured Red Square and the Moscow Zoo, ate in two restaurants, rode on the subway, escalators, elevators and two planes; went through three airports. We joked when we arrived in Phoenix that they must think that this is their new life...traveling from one site to another. They didn't know this is a trip. To them trains, planes and cars were just their new normal day's routine.

They had seen so few people in their lives before we came, now crowds and crowds of people.

They had nothing of their own. They shared clothes, toys and caregivers. Now they have a new permanent family and possessions. That part's a little sad; especially when we see Bethany instantly become very possessive of things.

The kids are still on Moscow time. They slept today, Sunday, from about Noon to about 10pm...a normal long Moscow night's sleep. Andrew is now taking a nap and Bethany is playing with mommy now at 4:00 am Phoenix time. We are doing OK, due to the several tag-team naps that we have taken. Hopefully, we will quickly transition them to Phoenix time and overcome any jet lag and cold symptoms, all around.

Today we may visit the supermarket, swing on the swings and go for a ride in the stroller.

She Sings When She's Happy

We made it back from the Moscow Zoo. Mamma and Pappa are exhausted. Andrew has been sleeping; Bethany remains active. We took turns taking a short nap. I made the 15 minute walk here to the post office, in part, just to wake up.

Bethany cried when I left. Not because she was sad to see me go, but because she likes to go out. Anytime someone gets dressed to go out, she does also, then cries when she is left behind.

She very much likes the backpack carrier that we got from Tony and Carrie...part of the reason I am so exhausted. She sings when she is happy and is often singing while in the backpack. Very sweet songs to serenade me. She also falls a sleep while in the carrier.

The zoo was fun. I think the best part were the farm animals at the beginning, but we did see the usual: lion, cheetah, giraffe, etc. Also saw reindeer and they have a wonderful indoor display with butterflies. Orange slices were placed out and the butterflies sat on them drinking.

We bought pinwheels for the kids, then left to go across the street to have lunch in a cafe. Found some meat and cheese-filled pancakes on the menu for the kids and we had sandwiches. The best part for them were the vanilla milkshakes; had to put Andrew's in his sippy cup. When the food started running low, we paid the check and made a quick dash out, just as he began acting up again.

Milla had kindly driven us to the zoo on her way to an appointment. So our best choices to get home were cab or subway. We choose the adventure of the subway. Bethany stayed in the backpack and I carrier the umbrella stoller. Gayle hand-carried Andrew.

Good that we had gotten used to the subway already on our own. I walked them around while Gayle bought the tickets. At one point someone tapped me on the shoulder and presented me with one of Bethany's shoes.

Through the crowds, down two escalators, look for where the cars are most empty as the first train leaves and move there to catch the next train.

Andrew loves the subway. Especially the loud noise. He just smiles and laughs, much to the amusement of the two men standing by, one of which gave up his seat for Gayle and Andrew. Bethany was asleep in the backpack most of the time.

As we plodded back from the subway station to the apartment a young boy "malisch" ran up, said something, pointed at Bethany's now bare sock and pointed back down the walkway. Gayle went back to find the lost shoe...the other shoe this time. While I was waiting with the kids, a woman stopped to also tell me that she saw the shoe. I told her yes, that my wife had gone to retrieve it. Kind people!

Yesterday and today have been sunny. I do not know the temperature, but I have gone without my coat. It appears that I have adapted well to the cold here considering my "thinned out" desert-dweller's blood.

When I return, Gayle will take Bethany out to the market.

Tommorow we meet with Olga to wrap up the process and Saturday we are off for home.

The Kids Have Their Russian Passports

The visit to the American Embassy went smoothy. There was another five American couples (with kids) going through the process also, so we got to chat a little. Out hosts were not allowed past the outside gates to the embassy, so we were on our own inside. I'll say a few words about that visit in a later post.

Afterwords, Milla wanted to take us back to Red Square. This time to get photos of us with the kids. Especially one in front of St Basil's. We also went into the first floor of the Historical Museum gift shop. Lots of things for the kids to see, safely behind glass.

Now for one of the questions that Gayle mentioned we should have asked other parents. Should we carry food and water with us absolutely everywhere we go? Andrew was nice enough to answer the question for us...very loudly...all the way back to the car.

Another question we should have asked: Should you hand your child, who is learning to pour, an open bag of partially crushed Goldfish crackers, while seated in the back seat of a car? Bethany kindly provided that answer for us.

It was a long, long ride back, due to very heavy traffic. I'll save some comments about driving habits for a later posting. Let me just say that drivers think they have the right of way–always. Other cars and pedestrians beware. And don't think that just because you are on a sidewalk, you are safe from cars. As said in an earlier post, then also park on the sidewalk.

We made it back to the apartment, cleaned the car of Goldfish crumbs, had a nice hot dinner and some fun music (Russian children songs from the CD we bought on the last trip, and also the Wiggles.)

Everyone slept well. The kids and Gayle on a sleeper sofa, while I enjoy the bed in the other room. Andrew tosses and turns alot.

Gayle is back in the apartment with the kids. She is getting them ready to go to the zoo. Oh boy!

Did you hear the crying this morning? Tue Mar 20

Monday night went well. Bethany was extremely tired and fell asleep around 7:00 pm and pretty much slept till 7 this morning. She woke up smiling and happy. Andrew stayed up with us 'til about 10 and he slept straight through to 7:00 also. So we all got some good sleep!

Cooked up some breakfast cereal concoction, which they were OK with, and opened some jar food, and of course they had their Cheerios. Andrew has a really good appetite.

After breakfast came bath time. I'm sure you could hear the cries from here! We put them both in just a little very lukewarm water and they were just terrified. Squirmed all over the place. But got them washed and their hair washed and, once out, gave lots of hugs & kisses, and I think all was forgiven. Bethany kept looking into the tub afterwards and was also watching us get in and out of our showers. It can only get easier, right?!

We now realize we should've asked many more questions of all of you other parents out there!

We all walked over to the post office to write this up and John is outside with the kids while I update the blog. Then off to the market to buy more milk, water and cereal. Then we go to the American Embassy appointment; leaving around 1:00. Afterwards we may go to the zoo; we'll see how it goes!

Bethany and Andrew Are Now Ours Forever!

Yes, we have them; happy and healthy. They are now part of our family forever...but we don't know how they work!! Someone please come and get us now!!!

OK, deep breath...

We are doing alright. Don't understand why they do what they do, most of the time, but we are making progress amid the many mistakes.

This will be short, as I am on my own for the first time since the trip began. Gayle stayed behind at the apartment with the kids. I am writing this from the post office, pronounced "pohschta" about a mile walk from our current home-away-from-home. We didn't think it wise to bring the kids, as I'm sure they would bar the door if they saw Andrew coming again.

We made two attempts at getting his visa picture taken earlier today at a booth inside the lobby just behind me now. The first time we were alone. The second time our host Milla came with just Gayle, thinking she could help. We won't know until tomorrow if the poor pictures taken are acceptable. Let's just say that there was screaming.

The "snatch" from the orphanage went amazing well. No crying from Bethany. She seemed ready for us to come and handled all the strange experiences we have put her through without any complaints. She has been quite calm and inquisitive always. Andrew cried for a minute or two when he left his caregiver's arms, but was quiet by the time we were in the car. They even slept all the way on the train. Our kids have really tried to make it easy on us, but incompetence has a way of catching up with you.

We have many, many stories and details to tell in further postings. I will stop by the grocery store to buy a few things on the way home, then we'll have dinner and hope for some more sleep.

Tomorrow we go to the American Embassy and maybe afterward will have some time to visit the Moscow zoo.

Thanks as always for your kind thoughts and encouragement.

Touring and Sight Seeing - Friday Mar 16

Milla asked us if we wanted to have her do the Armory tour and the Diamond Vault tour at the Kremlin for us. We decided to take up her, so we met Milla at 9:15 and she drove us into the city narrating all the time about the buildings and statues and good places for us to see. She parked the car on a side street where a friend works. We walked to the Kremlin and there's quite a long line to get in for the opening at 10 am. Milla put on her tour guide badge and told us to follow behind her. She walked up through the line, almost to the top, and stop to speak with a few women leading a tour group of kids. We think she asked if we can follow their group, and they OK it. Not sure what the people behind us thought! We got past the metal detector and continue to follow Milla to the coat check area and to the ticket counter. We bought our tickets and the tour begans.

First to the Diamond Fund Exhibition collected by tsars and empresses. She described it as a big safety deposit box with all of the great Russian treasures. Lots of diamonds and jewelry in addition to saphires, amethysts, rubies, emeralds, etc., and some beautiful historical jewelry. Also a lot of gold and platinum nuggets and bars.

Then to the next museum, The Armory. There are no paintings in the Armory but works of art none the less. Gowns of the royalty, royal carriages, suits of armor and weapons, Faberge Eggs, gold or silver gifts from other countries that are very ornate and intricately designed.

Milla is a wonderful tour guide and walked us around all the rooms and the exhibitions and gave us so much information. She was even allowed to stay in and continue her tour with us during the time that they clean and "refresh" things, including the air, and other tour groups have to leave.

We met up with Nathan and Keir in front of St. Basil's Cathedral in Red Square at 1:30 pm. Thought we'd grab a quick bite for lunch at McDonalds's, but the line was very long and there were no tables to eat at so we went to Sbarro's pizza, another American chain restaurant.

With Nathan and John reading the maps, we found the corner where Old Arbat street starts. This has been converted from a road to a pedestrian walkway. Many small shop, booths and kiosks. Lots of souvenirs and a farmer's market; not as many shops as I had imagined. Then walked back on New Arbat street; lots of casinos. There are also many kids on skateboards practicing on the planter boxes and walkways, as if this was a skateboard park for them.

We stopped for some drinks at a small cafe; wasn't easy but finally got our drink orders in. Their English wasn't very good and none of our Russian made it any easier! We've got to memorize the words for, "Please come back in a few minutes.", because they never give us enough time to read the menu.

The hardest part of the day was coming back on the subways. We're lucky to have had Nathan & Keir show us how to get the grey line - the same line as they use, but they go south and we head north. So many people on the escalators (very, very long escalators); quitting time in Moscow!

We're meeting Nathan & Keir on Saturday about 10:00 am, maybe head over to Gorky Park area and then take a slef-tour of the subway stations that are considered works of art themselves.

Tentative schedule for Bryansk is to leave Sunday on the noon train; get in around 6 pm and check into the Chernigov. Then, finally, on Monday, we go to the court to get the court decree and whatever else we need to do, and then, along with the Clarks, in two cars, drive to Klintzy to get their two children and Bethany, come back and then we'll go and get Andrew in Karachev.

We'll have a few hours then to spend before the 11 pm train back to Moscow and then there are doctor appts for the kids and going to the embassy, and more paperwork to complete before we get to bring them home on Saturday 3/24. That could all change, but we'll try to keep you posted. We are using Sasha's laptop that he dropped off in his apartment, but he wants it back tonight, so not sure if he'll let us borrow it other nights or not. Besides how much free time will we have once we get the kids?!

Where Did the Day Go? Mar 15

We arrived in Moscow about 45 minutes early, got through Passport Control with no problem (!) and waited for our bags. We have two big suitcases and two fairly big duffels. They all showed up, and we made our way out. We saw a sign with our name on it, but this time it wasn't Vladimir who is picking us up. Our driver today was Milla. She is a good friend of Olga (our facilitator) and we are staying in her son Sasha's apartment, which is right next to her apartment.

We got lost on the way from the airport to the apartment and she stopped to ask directions a few times; a traffic cop, a guy at the bus stop, the woman working at a kiosk, etc. Soon she was oriented again and continues with no trouble.

Milla is a professional tour guide, so as we drive, she pointed out landmarks, giving historical notes and other interesting facts and insights. She has done this work for many years and tells about being sent to the U.S. to work on a movie, The Blue Bird (1976). She worked directly with Cicely Tyson and formed a friendship. Years later Cicely contacted Milla and invited her to come back to see her.

She works for a company that does tours for high profile clients. She mentioned working with Edsel Ford of Ford Motor Company.

Once we got near her place, she started pointing out shops that are in walking distance and the nearest metro stations. We stopped at a kiosk to exchange some money and at a supermarket to pick up some basic groceries: milk, cereal, apples, bread, a frozen pizza, some fruit tarts and of course, bottled water (with "no gas", instead of the sparkling water that is commonly drunk here). There we ran into her son, Sasha. Milla is very proud of her son, who is in his last year studying finance.

We got to Milla's second floor apartment in a eight story building that is attractive on the outside, but worn inside in the hallways and stairs. She said it is 40 or 50 years old. She opened a door into a mud room with two interior doors. Our's (Sasha's) is to the right and her's is straight ahead.

Milla showed us around our new home, for the next most of 10 days. It's a one bedroom apartment with large living room, plus bath and kitchenette. She gave us a quick tour of her apartment also. Both have big rooms with high ceilings.

After that, as with our last trip, we got to sleep about 3 pm and woke around 7 pm. Up for a few hours and then back to sleep till about 7:30 Friday morning. Gayle's cell phone alarm function wasn't working as expected because her phone had been manually set at Phoenix time. It good that we sets alarms on both phones, because Gayle's would have gone off 10 hours late.

Can You Spell "Double"? Mar 14

The third and final trip started smoothly. Got up at 4 am. I had just five hours of sleep. Arrived in Atlanta about 30 minutes late, so an attendant asked those of us who did not have rushed connections to remain in our seats to let those in the back pass through first. That worked surprisingly well. When the aisles cleared, we got off and headed for the food court, then onto the gate. The gate was mostly filled with Russians this time, but there were a number of Americans. All the non-Russians had to have their passports checked at the gate counter. The agent thought something looked odd on our visas, but Ok'd us just the same.

When it was time to board, the same agent was checking passports and boarding passes at the door to the walkway. This time she decided they were not OK and sent us back to the counter. There a British gate agent puzzled over the visas as the departure time closed in on us. We called the travel agent in New York and told them of the problem and they assured us that the visas issued were double-entry visas. The gate agent then called someone who brought over a "cheat sheet" of what the Russian visa should look like and they didn't look like ours. It's now about 4:20, the flight is to leave Atlanta a 4:30 and everyone has boarded but us. Gayle suggested they have one of the Russian passengers read the visa to look for the word "double" and he left us there. He came back with the confirmation they wanted from a flight attendant. They told us they get charged $8000 if they let someone on with an incorrect visa. Better that we get it all checked in Atlanta, than have a problem at Passport Control in the Moscow airport!!

Hotel Shermetyevo - Mar 5 & 6

Valdimir came to the door of our compartment to help us with our luggage, then on to his favorite parking space near the train and out of town to the Hotel Shermetyevo at the airport. This trip we would get a good night sleep and a good breakfast before going to the airport. No seven hour wait at the airport as with the last trip.

We were able to use the business center in the morning. They have three computers in a small room. There was no charge to access the Internet and this time we successfully signed on and updated this blog.

Next a quick shuttle to the terminal. short lines to the gate. A few minutes to shop and it was time to check in. Much better experience than before.

This trip we did not see as many families returning with adopted kids. Only three that we could tell. One was a family on third trip, but also their second adoption in two years. We got some good tips from them.

The flights back were uneventful. except when Gayle poured a glass of water on my pants. I could explain, but it's more fun to leave it up to your imaginations.

We found a charging station at gate A21 in the Atlanta airport that we may need on the next trip and there is a small plastic playground set at gate A25 with slides. We will want to hang out there on the way back next time.

And speaking of next time, the flight leaves in eight hours, so time to wrap up this trip. Time to get a few hours sleep and start again in the morning. This next one will sure to be exciting!

Railway Companions - Mar 5

For the first time, we were on an afternoon train. And for the first time we had traveling companions in the car next to us.

At one point somebody stopped by our compartment and was asking us about the dining car. We thought that he was either soliciting us to dine there or to order room service. We kept politely saying No and he seemed to give up and leave. Nathan poked his head in to ask if we knew what that was about. He had just had the same encounter. We thought nothing more about it, unitl later he came by with a container of packed snacks for each of the four of us. He indicated that there was no charge. Cheeses, meat spread, crackers, vegetable juice, tea and red caviar. The others weren't interesting in the fish eggs, but I volunteered to try. I would definitely classify caviar as an acquired taste, that I can live without.

Later our Moscow dirver and host, Vladimir told us that he takes a hard boiled egg, removes the yolk and replaces it with caviar. Eats that and a vodka chaser.

As the four of us rode together on the train back to Moscow, playing a little Gin Rummy, our trip was nearing its end, but Keir and Nathan would remain in an apartment in Moscow for the waiting period. We will join up with them again as soon as we arrive in Moscow on our third trip.

Video Update

New video has been added to the links at the right. Also, there was a technical difficulty with the Kodak Gallery link that I posted earlier. It has been fixed and the second trip photos are now available. Thanks.

The Long Awaited Court Date - Mar 5

We got up early the next day because Olga said that our driver Constantine would help us to access the Internet at the post office next to the hotel. The have three or four computers in the lobby behind a glass partition. Constantine had already filled out some paperwork before we arrived. We were able to get up to the blog sign-on screen, but could get no further; possibly a security setting issue. Did get off an e-mail or two.

Gayle paid the clerk the few rubles needed and we left to get in the waiting car. When Contantine heard that we were not successful he pulled out his laptop and used his cell phone to make an Internet connection right there in the back seat of his car. But, we still only got so far. So no blog updates from Bryansk.

The court house was just a short distance. When we arrived the guard directed us straight into a small court room. Across the room was a long bench. Behind it were three high-back chairs. On the wall was the Russian flag and crest. This is where the judge would sit. To the left was a similar bench, but with a mismatched collection of plain chairs. The benches were a laminate. Those chairs and benches were on raised platforms.

We sat in the first row of pew-type bench seats. On the right was a table and chairs, and behind that a jail cell bolted to the wall. The walls were laminate wood panel half way up.
There was a speaker's podium in front of us, but we did not use it.

Some of the participants were already there and Olga immediately started to conference with them; others arrived later.

The judge dressed in a black robe, a clerk, a prosecutor dressed in a blue wool uniform suit, two social workers, a Department of Education representative and the Director from Karachev.

Olga briefed us ahead of time on some of the questions and answers. What actually took place was a bit stressful and mostly a blur. First the judge spoke, then Olga. Then I was asked a series of questions, by the judge and prosecutor; then it was Gayle's turn in the hot seat. Olga said to look at the judge when we spoke; she translated what everyone said.

Next the DOE rep and social workers made statements. Some were questioned by the judge and prosecutor. We were asked to make a summary statement about our desire to adopt.

The prosecutor read a summary statement, then the judge left for maybe five minutes. Came back and read her decree granting us permanent rights as parents. Thank you, thank you, thank you.

We are especially grateful to the Karachev orphanage director who was very supportive of us. She said something to the effect that she had seen many prospective fathers visit children in her orphanage, but not one that made such a connection with the child.

After us, Keir and Nathan were next. Constantine took us back to the hotel to wait, while we checked out of our room. We they return we all four new parents went to La Veranda for lunch and a champagne toast, then on to the train station.

Karachev Bound - Mar 4

Olga met us as planned and we headed out to Karachev; with the current road conditions, about an hour away. Got lost after arriving in town, but asked a couple of residents walking along the rutted, snow-packed side streets, and arrived without much delay.

Andrew was not feeling well; had a fever possibly due to an immunization shot, and also teething. Olga said that the young woman who brought him was a nurse. Andrew was quite attached to her, as he was to the caretaker on the last trip. I kept a good distance, as she brought him up to Gayle, who did not want to try to hold him, for fear of further upsetting our sick little boy. She played with Andrew while he stood next to the nurse. Then the nurse walked him about the room. They said that he likes music and the nurse danced with him a bit.

I circled slowly around him and sat down on the floor as he was steered in our direction, then I danced with him a little. He was less afraid of me this visit.

The little guy did really well considering how shy he was last time, and feeling so poorly this time.

The visit was all too brief and we made our way back to the hotel to rest a few minutes before meeting up with Keir and Nathan for dinner.

Let's Sleep In - Mar 4

We slept in the next morning as we did not need to meet Olga until 3:00. Not too late though as they were setting up for their End of Winter Festival just outside our window in front of the hotel and the noise woke us up.

Once the festival had started, we strolled out into the crowd. There were food and craft booths, two stages for performers, activities for the kids, a farmers market, and more.

It was a bright, relatively warm day and we enjoyed mingling with the locals, and feeling a connection.

One vendor was selling beautifully costumed little dolls, with burlap faces. We wanted to get one for Bethany, so Gayle asked the woman "skolka", which means "how much". She saw that we did not understand her reply, so she made a writing motion with her hand to draw the amount. This we understood and paid her in rubles. She placed the doll in a bag. We said thanks and were about to leave, then the women motioned for us to pick another doll. We thought she was just encouraging us to buy another. We were OK with that, so selected a second doll, which she bagged. When Gayle tried to pay she motioned that she did not want anymore money. So perhaps she felt sorry for us, because we did not bargain for the price of the first one; or maybe she just liked us. Either way it was a kind gesture.

Next we headed out into the neighborhood and stopped into the department store around the corner to explore, so we knew what was available in case something was needed on the next trip.

Back to La Veranda for lunch, ran into the girl from England again, then back to the hotel to wait for Olga and head off to Karachev.

New Slideshow

Check out the Kodak Photo Gallery link on the right side of this page. We've add a new slideshow of the photos from Russia Trip 2. Enjoy!

Chianti For Everyone! – Mar 3

When we got back to the hotel, we took a nap and waited for Keir and Nathan, our new found traveling companions, to arrive from Moscow. They had to wait until today to travel because the sleeper compartments were all taken on our train.

We dined at the beautiful La Veranda, the Italian restaurant on the side of the hotel. It is actually two restaurants in one. The full-service Italian and the self-service Russian restaurant in the back. It also has a wonderfully decorated kids playroom in the back.

We sat next to a group of young people. After hearing us talk for awhile, a charming girl came over to introduce herself. She was from this region, but now lives and studies in Birmingham, England. Her English was very good; the best I had heard since arriving.

We had a very relaxing meal and stayed out to late, but it was a needed retreat.

Naptime Visit – Mar 3

In the morning, had breakfast in the cafe and met Olga and the driver, Constantine. We had been on the road for about 15 minutes when we realized this was the way to Klintsy to see Bethany, instead of to Karachev to see Andrew. We had the wrong photo album and wrong toys. Oh well! When here, we know to expect the unexpected.

The ride was uncomfortable for me. For some reason I was feeling car sick. Eventually dozed off for a few minutes (I know!), then felt better. The ride was close to three hours this time, due to the weather and bad road conditions. The ground was covered with snow from the recent cold spell, but it had warmed up to just above freezing, so there was rain, fog and slush.

The Klintsy Baby Home has always been an orphanage since it was built in 1937 in the Stalinist era. Did have 80 children, but is now down to 32, due to recent domestic foster care adoption incentives.

We arrive in the middle of Bethany's naptime. So they have to wake her and dress her in a festive outfit before bringing her into a large room on the first floor at the main entrance at the front of the building. It has a couch and chair along the wall, an upright piano and fish tank; otherwise is open for play, exercise and music.

We are told that Bethany was moved into another room with older children and is continuing to do well.

I stayed back a little as Bethany was carried into the room by a women in a white coat (not the Director). She kept her eye on me either because she recognized me, or because I had a camcorder pointed at her, or just the novelty of seeing a man again.

While she was sitting in Gayle's lap I zoomed in to pull a bunny out of a bag to give to her. I must have moved too quickly toward her because she started crying. We calmed her down without much trouble.

After a few minutes, I tried to gently move her over onto my lap. We got a pouty look at first, then she burst out into tears again. I kept her on my lap and she brightened up again. After a little while I stood her up on the floor so I could take more photos and video.

At one point she began to slowly walk backwards toward the door holding the plastic toy we gave her. Gayle held out the bunny and Bethany walked forward to get it. When she got close, she reached out, quickly grabbed it and took a fast step backwards. Then she started the slow backward walk again. I was convinced that she was going to slip out on her own. We were laughing. It was so cute. Olga and the caretaker were saying something to her and she came back. Gayle gave her a hug and kiss and she was carried out.

Waiting For The Train – Mar 2

Still Friday – After lunch we still had some time before the train. Across from the Kievsky station is a huge Evropeiskiy (European Station) mall that opened in 2006; lots of upscale, brandname shops, plus multi-screen movie theater, food court, supermarket . We walked around there people-watching and being watched by people. The women are very fashionably dressed, especially the younger generation. Many of them wear "tre chic" boots with high heels and designer jeans that (as others observed and later told me) were quite formfitting.

We got to the platform about 6:15 pm; and were allowed on at 6:30. At that time, the Vladimirs helped us on board and to our compartment. Bryansk here we come.

The train ride was a little noisier that before, as we were right next to the dining car, so there were frequent bangs of the doors between cars. The car was too warm for sleeping again, but acceptable. Had the usual entertainment watching the stuffed animal vendors at that long stop.

Olga was on the platform at the Bryansk train station as promised, when we got in about 12:45 am. She shuttled us to the Hotel Chernigov, checked us in and said to meet her in the lobby at 11:00.

The hotel was as before, though I think they painted in the lobby. There seemed more white than before. The room felt familiar from our 1st trip.

Picking Up Where We Left Off – Mar 2

Last I left off on the more detailed chronology, we were about to go back to sleep for part two of our afternoon and night at Vladimir's apartment. We did get a few more hours of sleep, then showered, shaved, repacked and ate a little.

Friday, March 2nd – We were ready when the doorbell rang at 9 am. Irina was at the door, but Valdimir was busy elsewhere for the day, so Vladimir was with her instead and Vladimir was waiting outside in the car. That's right, you heard me. Our regular driver Vladimir could not be with us today, so his 18 year old son, also Vladimir, who didn't have regular classes at the university that day, was drafted to guide and translate for us. We left our bags behind, said our goodbyes to Irina and headed out to the waiting car to meet our driver for the day, a friend of our regular driver. The friend's name is also Vladimir. When I have told this to others and mused at the number of Vladimirs, Gayle chimes in, "That's right...JOHN". Yeah alright, point taken.

We are now headed to the clinic that Olga has chosen for our medicals. It is about an hour on streets and freeways before we arrive. We are early, so wait in the car, on the street. When it is time to go in there is some confusion. We end up waiting in two other wings, until we finally make contact with Olga's daughter-in-law who guides us around back to a third entrance.

In the lobby, we were asked to check out coats and put fabric booties over our shoes, then go upstairs where we are greeted by Olga. The wide hallway has several couches. Waiting there
were the other adoptive parents that I mentioned earlier. We took turns going into a small room where three women doctors are waiting and a fourth male doctor then joins us. Olga translated for the doctors, mostly.

We were asked to take our shirts off and sit together on an examination table. The women doctors took turns with us. They checked blood pressure; throat glands; abdomen; tapped our knee caps, wrists and elbows; checked our teeth and tongue. One had me stand, close my eyes, stretch my arms out, then touch by nose. One had us follow her mallet with our eyes. That was about it.

We waited more in the hallway, while we exchanged stories with the other adoptive parents.

Next we took turns going individually into a room with another doctor for a psychological exam. Olga translated. Name? How old are you? What is your job? Do you drink? Have you tasted drugs? When were you married? Did you marry for love? Is this your first marriage? Do you have any biological children? Were you a good student? What did you do after school? Did you have hobbies? That was it. Maybe we just answered all the questions right, so there was no need for others.

We waited for paperwork, which we signed. Next paid the fee, then left. Olga says that perhaps our insurance plan will reimburse for this exam.

Including the delay in getting to the right place and the extra waiting because of the number of other couples, it all took three hours.

Back to the car where the Vladimirs were waiting to return to the apartment to pick up our luggage. We stopped along the way to exchange some dollars for rubles and to buy some bottled water at a tiny grocery. There are lockers (as in a bowling alley or airport). We had to put our bags in a locker while we shopped. There was a guard standing by. The exchange rate at the time was $1 equaled 26.80 rubles. As a guide we said that 100 rubles was about $4.

Then we headed off to buy some souvenirs form the street vendors at Sparrow Hills near Moscow University. We invited the Vladimirs to join us for dinner. They chose a pizza place.

While standing in line at the pizza place, I felt something touch my shin. I realized that it was my money belt about to drop onto the floor. Apparently while trying to quickly put my shirts back on after the exam, I popped the clasp open and it slowly worked its way from my waist and down my leg.

So as not to draw attention to myself, I nonchalantly worked it back up the leg to where I could grab it through my pocket lining and secured it. Wow! That was close. It could have easily dropped out unnoticed.

Running On Empty, But Oh So Excited

It's been go go go! Squeezed a lot into the hours since we have been home. Leave for Moscow again in just five short days. Still don't know were we will be staying.

Back at work yesterday. My partner, Lori, had everything under control and running smoothly. I'm grateful for that.

My sister Laura, Gayle's mom and brother, cousins Lorraine (and friend) from Indiana and John from Casa Grande came by to visit last night.

We had to replace our failing cell phones that were mostly useless in the Atlanta airport when we needed them.

We had our pool drained and acid washed yesterday. Now we're worried because we did not know that it was getting so hot here. A little to high a temperature to expose the plaster to the sun.

We visited a couple of more daycare facilities and think we know which we will use come June when we're are both back to work at the same time.

Have been really exhausted by the end of the day, but perk back again each morning. So it appears that we have mostly avoided jet lag and viruses this time. Hope to be back to normal by the end of the weekend.

Here are a few new pictures of Bethany and Andrew. (Remember one was woken from a sound sleep and the other had a fever.) And, let's never speak about the magenta running suit and the bunny with the pink bow. The orphanage caretakers picked out Andrew's outfit and there was a miscommunication when we went to visit Bethany. We thought we were going to see Andrew until in the car and part way there. So we gave Bethany Andrew's gifts, and vice versa.

We're Home, Mostly

Just waking up after a short night's sleep. Have to get ready to pick Andrew and Bethany up from their childcare facility. We've got them in a place 6,000 miles down the road. Should we have looked around for some place closer?

The flight back from Moscow was uneventful and, again, sooo much better connections than the has trip. Hopefully this trip, no down time for viruses or jet lag. And, yes, we did know to pick up our checked luggage upon arrival in the US.

Today is a day of rest from both of us...I mean, "for both of us" (Ooh, Freudian slip? Never! We travel well together.)...then back to work tomorrow at 6 pm (Sorry, 8 am...still on Moscow time).

We flew the high route over Greenland this time again. The air temperature outside the aircraft at 34,000 feet was minus 81 degrees Farenheit. So, Moscow wasn't so bad.

I know what you're thinking. They traveled halfway around the world to see their children, and the first pictures he posts are of Greenland. Yeah, I've got to get my priorities straight.

More later today.

Mama and Papa

We are parents!!! It is Tuesday morning at 8:21. We are at the Sheremetyevo-2 Hotel at the Business Center. Just finished breakfast and will soon be on the shuttle to the airport terminal for our 12:30 flight.

It was an exciting day yesterday. We had the pleasure of sharing the experience with another couple Keir and Nathan from Ft Collins area of Colorado. We had back to back court appearances and both went well. They are now the proud parents of two children from the Klintsy home where our Bethany lives. We visited Bethany on Saturday. When they visited their kids on Sunday, the caretaker brought Bethany in the room with their kids. She knows their boy.

We'll fill you in on court details later when we get home. We are pleased that others here are happy with this adoption. Especially with Olga our facilitator and the orphanage director at Karachev. It is rewarding to receive their good wishes for us and our children.

The update below is what we tried to post from the Bryansk post office (and later form a laptop mobile phone connection) with no luck. (Just to keep things in order!)

Monday 3/5, a.m. -- A lot has happened since the last update. Some leisurely, some whirlwind. We only have a few minutes for this update while our driver helps us at the Bryansk post office, so we'll be brief and give more details later. We are now minutes away from our appearance in court. We expect all will go smoothly, as we believe that Olga has worked very hard ahead of time to insure that. We got a little lost finding the right place at the clinic for our physicals on Friday, but once there it was a very simple process. All the doctors that examined us were together in one room with us and Olga. It lasted only a few minutes, then we waited awhile for the individual psychological exams which were short. We passed!

Going through the same process that morning were three other couples, and a single mom, from the US. We got a chance to talk with most. One couple also working with Olga and our agency are Keir and Nathan and we've had dinner with them a couple of times in Bryansk. It's been great sharing our stories with each other.

We visited Bethany on Saturday afternoon. The ride was almost three hours each way this time due to bad weather conditions. She looked healthy and happy although she had just been woken from her nap, so she was more subdued than the last time. We have yet to hear her speak, so clearly she is not fully comfortable around us at this point. But, she is fascinated with us and knows what the workers are saying to her in Russian.

We saw Andrew on Sunday afternoon. He was running a fever; possibly from a recent vaccination or from teething. The nurse who brought him in did a great job of getting him to play a little and sit near us. We were cautious about holding him, so as not to upset him more, so we just touched from arm's length. Although John danced with him at one point. We are told he loves music. He should be OK again by our next trip when we "snatch" them both and drive off to bring them home!

What Day Is It?

We slept very well for about four hours, but now it is evening here and morning in Phoenix, so either way, not a time that we would normally be sleeping. Hopefully, we'll doze off again in an hour or two.

There is snow on the ground. It was just below the freezing point when we arrived at midday. The roads are wet. They used to use salt and sand on the roads to prevent ice. Now they use what Vladimir calls a "black chemical". He said it makes the roads and cars look dirty and is bad on the car and especially on the shoes.

The cars do look very dirty. It is not easy to see out of the windows. Vladimir is constantly using the windshield washer.

The apartment is very quiet. Don't hear neighbors or outside noises other than one car alarm. We are in an area with a number of different highrise apartment buildings. That is what we see when we look out the windows. There are trees all about, none with leaves. It appears that parking is a real problem. Along the roads in this area are, here and there, clumps of little green buildings, tucked in at odd angles, space permitting. These are rental garages.

They have no light-darkening or even privacy curtains in their apartment. Just transparent open weave type that are elegant and attractive, but allow the outside to see in at night, and hard to sleep if it were a sunny day.

Gayle is heating up some soup that Irina left for us. A kind of late-night snack/early lunch, depending on how we want to look at it.

We're Here – Whew!

This trip has been a much better start than the last one. First, we got a good night sleep before we left (definitely better than last time). Laura got us to the airport smoothly and right to the door nearest to check-in. Check-in and security was fairly painless. The ticket agent waived the excess baggage fee that would have been due because of the two car seats that we checked.

The flight to Atlanta was overbooked, so we left a little early and the flight was a little shorter than expected. The layover was less than two hours.

We had good seats on both planes (a window and an aisle on a 2/3/2 row configuration.

Gayle said the 10 1/2 hour flight seemed easier than last time, but I still could not sleep. Did not take the advice given to use a prescription sleep aid. I tried Benadryl and a white wine instead, but no luck.

Still, over all the trip was much shorter because we didn't need to go through JFK-New York and we didn't have those extreme layovers from last time.

I did have a little trouble passing through Customs in Moscow. Ended up being the last person through because the computer system was not cooperating for the young Customs girl in charge of my freedom. But, I finally cleared OK and we were still waitng on the luggage anyway.

Vladimir was waiting past security. He drove us through very heavy, bumper-to-bumper, traffic on a long ride into the center of Moscow to his apartment.

We did not know it would be Vladimir's where we would stay. Surprise for us, and surprise for him. He just heard about it this morning. He, his wife and son will stay elsewhere for the night; he said at their country home. We were welcomed to enjoy the comfort of his apartment. It is a small apartment, but very well decorated with a large flat panel TV.

His wife, Irina, cooked us lunch (a really delicious chicken/ham fried meal) and there's soup for dinner if we wake up! The hot meal really hit the spot.

Vladimir called Olga, our facilitator, and she gave us a rough outline of the next few days. Our medical appointment is tomorrow at 11. We'll leave for Bryansk on the evening train and get to see Andrew & Bethany this weekend. She tells us Andrew is walking on his own now.
Our court date is Monday at 10 (Sunday at midnight Phoenix time). May take two hours.

We are updating this blog from their son's computer. All the comforts of home. Even got to meet their cat, who then left with them.

It is now 3:00 pm Moscow time and we are looking to getting to bed. We've been up 24 hours.