I've been checking everyone's blogs out, wondering why no one has posted lately. Then I realized I hadn't either :) lol
Wednesday was a bittersweet day. God reminded me that He really is still in control. Thank you, God. It may seem we can't bear any more, but when it comes right down to it, You step in and lift us up.
Busyness has become the "reason for the season," it seems. Gotta do this, go here, get that, wrap this, stash that, bake this, clean that. My prayer for all of you is that in the midst of this, you could do a "freeze frame" of the world around you, take a deep breath,............. and another..........and spend a moment reflecting on what truly is important, and what commercialism has deemed important.
I posted on our chat group the other day some scripture from Galatians. Wow! Repeating the fruit of the Spirit out loud does amazing things. When I'm mad, driving down the road, contemplating how mad I am- When I speak these fruits out loud- the "mad" flies out the window and is replaced by sweetness of spirit.
Our CHRISTmas Fruit Basket to you ;0)
Galatians 5:22
"BUT WHEN THE HOLY SPIRIT CONTROLS OUR LIVES HE WILL PRODUCE THIS KIND OF FRUIT IN US: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-Control...
Those who belong to Christ have nailed their natural evil desires to his cross and crucified them there. If we are living now by the Holy Spirit's power, let us follow the Holy Spirit's leading in EVERY part of our lives......And let us not get tired of doing what is right, for after a while we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't get discouraged and give up. That is why whenever we can we should always be kind to everyone, and especially to our Christian brothers."
Thanking God for the Love He showed to us that we are celebrating now, the Joy that brings to our lives, the Peace to our hearts. Praying that He will continue to grant us Patience, Kindness and Goodness in our dealings with all around us as we remain Faithful to Him, Gentle to others and in Control of ourselves at all times.
As we prepare our hearts to celebrate the birthday of the Christ child, Tim and I are also preparing our hearts for the child Christ has for us, which is why I have 2 little baby boys in my heart during this amazing Christmas season. Thank you God for giving me your son to focus on while I am waiting for the time to be complete for my son to come home.
Just in case any of us forget:
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday, Dear Jesus,
Happy Birthday to you!!! And many more..............
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Monday, December 17, 2007
Love Quilt
Greetings, family and friends!
As we head toward the New Year, and all the amazing things that will be happening in our family, I would love to express my heart to you. Many have asked what you can do for our son, to show him not only the love of God, but also the love God has already given you in your hearts for us and for Elisha.
I would love to be able to have anyone that has been praying for us during this journey to be involved. I am going to make a quilt for Elisha. What I ask of you would be the blocks to make up that quilt, and also the expression of your heart as you get that block together.
This would be a request for 5” square blocks, in blues and/or reds. This can be a pieced block, or a scrap- or even a cut out from a favorite old pair of pj’s your own child wore when growing up. Along with that square, a brief prayer, or letter, or thought about Elisha becoming a part of our family.
I am going to take all the squares, and, after scanning them into the computer, make a quilt for Elisha to cuddle under. The scanned images I am going to use to make a scrapbook, with the thoughts and prayers listed with each square and who sent it.
My idea in this is to show love to our son in such a practical way, so if he ever doubts how much we love him and God loves him, he can look through this book and see the prayers and thoughts brought for him while he was still on his way here.
You can give them to me at any time, and please, if you have an interest in this, try to get it to me before Easter.
We have also been asked about donations. If you feel God leading you to help monetarily in this process, any tax-deductible donations can be made out to the church with “Swingle Adoption Fund” in the memo. The church address is:
Rolling Plains United Methodist Church
3350 Moxahala Park Road
Zanesville, Ohio 43701 740-453-4192
Thank you for covering us in prayer as we continue in our journey to bring home our son!!
Possible example 1:
1. 5X5 piece from an old blue spotted flannel or fuzzy red sleeper
2. A brief note:
Dear Eli,
This is a piece of flannel from my son’s sleeper. I chose this because it reminds me of tucking my son in to sleep at night and how much we loved to cuddle. I pray that you will have wonderful memories of your mom and dad reading stories to you and tucking you in. You should see how excited they are to be able to bring you home!! The only sad part of this process has been seeing how long it is taking to bring you home. Praying your mom and dad will soon have you in your own sleeper, tucking you in bed and reading you stories.
Possible example 2:
1. 5X5 pieced block of flying geese
2. A brief note:
Dear Eli,
I chose to make my block for you in the shape of flying geese. There is strength in numbers, as you can see by the way the geese fly. We are just one of many people who have been praying for you and waiting for so long to watch your mom and dad bring you home. I am praying for you as I make this block for safe travel, that God would be at the front of your pack, smoothing the way, and making your flight home smooth.
As we head toward the New Year, and all the amazing things that will be happening in our family, I would love to express my heart to you. Many have asked what you can do for our son, to show him not only the love of God, but also the love God has already given you in your hearts for us and for Elisha.
I would love to be able to have anyone that has been praying for us during this journey to be involved. I am going to make a quilt for Elisha. What I ask of you would be the blocks to make up that quilt, and also the expression of your heart as you get that block together.
This would be a request for 5” square blocks, in blues and/or reds. This can be a pieced block, or a scrap- or even a cut out from a favorite old pair of pj’s your own child wore when growing up. Along with that square, a brief prayer, or letter, or thought about Elisha becoming a part of our family.
I am going to take all the squares, and, after scanning them into the computer, make a quilt for Elisha to cuddle under. The scanned images I am going to use to make a scrapbook, with the thoughts and prayers listed with each square and who sent it.
My idea in this is to show love to our son in such a practical way, so if he ever doubts how much we love him and God loves him, he can look through this book and see the prayers and thoughts brought for him while he was still on his way here.
You can give them to me at any time, and please, if you have an interest in this, try to get it to me before Easter.
We have also been asked about donations. If you feel God leading you to help monetarily in this process, any tax-deductible donations can be made out to the church with “Swingle Adoption Fund” in the memo. The church address is:
Rolling Plains United Methodist Church
3350 Moxahala Park Road
Zanesville, Ohio 43701 740-453-4192
Thank you for covering us in prayer as we continue in our journey to bring home our son!!
Possible example 1:
1. 5X5 piece from an old blue spotted flannel or fuzzy red sleeper
2. A brief note:
Dear Eli,
This is a piece of flannel from my son’s sleeper. I chose this because it reminds me of tucking my son in to sleep at night and how much we loved to cuddle. I pray that you will have wonderful memories of your mom and dad reading stories to you and tucking you in. You should see how excited they are to be able to bring you home!! The only sad part of this process has been seeing how long it is taking to bring you home. Praying your mom and dad will soon have you in your own sleeper, tucking you in bed and reading you stories.
Possible example 2:
1. 5X5 pieced block of flying geese
2. A brief note:
Dear Eli,
I chose to make my block for you in the shape of flying geese. There is strength in numbers, as you can see by the way the geese fly. We are just one of many people who have been praying for you and waiting for so long to watch your mom and dad bring you home. I am praying for you as I make this block for safe travel, that God would be at the front of your pack, smoothing the way, and making your flight home smooth.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
An Orphan's Prayer
I found this poem in some paperwork as I was sorting and cleaning. I remember getting from someone's website clear back in January- but I didn't write down who wrote this. Soo, whoever wrote this out there- thank you. It meant a lot in Jan of this year, but it means a whole lot more now. If anyone knows the author, please let me know so I can give recognition :) (Thank you, Carey- The poem was written by Nancy Kaywork)
I may not know who you are or what you look like,
But somehow deep in my heart I know you are out there.
That one day you will come and find me.
It's a long journey, and it takes a lot of time...
I wish it could be easier.
But I know that the ones who come for me will not count the cost.
They will only see the joy of finding me.
For now I abide in the fields of the fatherless.
Day by day wondering why I was born here and not somewhere else?
Asking... why my life couldn't have been different?
It is so lonely...
Even though I am surrounded by hundreds of other children,
I know that something is missing... I know in my heart that I need a place to call home.
My arms long to be wrapped in a father's embrace...
I long to be saved by a mother's love...
Gazing out of the orphanage window, I offer a prayer of hope,
"Oh God please help them come quickly."
Even as I lay in the darkness each night somehow I feel assured,
That no matter how lost I appear I am not alone.
Holy hands guard my steps, sacred fingers wipe my tears, touching my lonely heart.
The one who made me,
The God that knew me before I was born,
Hears me every time I call.
He whispers His promises in my ear.
I listen with hope to His voice.
But what I worry about most is that no one wants to look for me.
The fields are vast and there are so many scattered all over the earth.
I wonder how one little child, so lost, can be found?
Yet He calms my heart and assures me that He will find you.
That He will make sure you hear His voice clearly.
He has promised me that He will make a way through the fields,
That He will personally cut a path, and lead you right to my orphanage door.
My prayer is...
When He speaks... Please don't forget to listen...
When He calls don't be too afraid to go
For I am waiting...somewhere, far...far...away
On the other side of the world
To come Home.
Keep praying, my son. We are doing our best, watching as God moves mountains to bring us together once again. I can't wait to tell you about all that God did to bring us halfway around the world to find you and bring you home. I pray it will be soon !
ya tebya lyublyu, Sergey!
An Orphan's Prayer
by Nancy Kaywork
I am waiting...somewhere far...far...away on the other side of the world.by Nancy Kaywork
I may not know who you are or what you look like,
But somehow deep in my heart I know you are out there.
That one day you will come and find me.
It's a long journey, and it takes a lot of time...
I wish it could be easier.
But I know that the ones who come for me will not count the cost.
They will only see the joy of finding me.
For now I abide in the fields of the fatherless.
Day by day wondering why I was born here and not somewhere else?
Asking... why my life couldn't have been different?
It is so lonely...
Even though I am surrounded by hundreds of other children,
I know that something is missing... I know in my heart that I need a place to call home.
My arms long to be wrapped in a father's embrace...
I long to be saved by a mother's love...
Gazing out of the orphanage window, I offer a prayer of hope,
"Oh God please help them come quickly."
Even as I lay in the darkness each night somehow I feel assured,
That no matter how lost I appear I am not alone.
Holy hands guard my steps, sacred fingers wipe my tears, touching my lonely heart.
The one who made me,
The God that knew me before I was born,
Hears me every time I call.
He whispers His promises in my ear.
I listen with hope to His voice.
But what I worry about most is that no one wants to look for me.
The fields are vast and there are so many scattered all over the earth.
I wonder how one little child, so lost, can be found?
Yet He calms my heart and assures me that He will find you.
That He will make sure you hear His voice clearly.
He has promised me that He will make a way through the fields,
That He will personally cut a path, and lead you right to my orphanage door.
My prayer is...
When He speaks... Please don't forget to listen...
When He calls don't be too afraid to go
For I am waiting...somewhere, far...far...away
On the other side of the world
To come Home.
Keep praying, my son. We are doing our best, watching as God moves mountains to bring us together once again. I can't wait to tell you about all that God did to bring us halfway around the world to find you and bring you home. I pray it will be soon !
ya tebya lyublyu, Sergey!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Sonshine
Aha! The thing about a rainy week- the good thing- I've discovered it. I've been looking...
You begin looking so intently for the good thing in the dreary landscape around you, really looking, not just going about your journey oblivious to all the love letters God is trying to send your way.
Then, suddenly, just as God has you where He wants you- looking intently for what He has to show you, a little tiny ray of sunshine peeks through.
Normally, this is a little ray we would pass over and think nothing about. But not now. Not when we are intently looking.
Now it is a promise. A promise of more sonshine to come.
Wow, how much more we appreciate and actually see the sun shining down when we go through a time of not seeing it.
HHHHhmmmmm.......... sounding familiar to some life lessons? It is for me.
As Casting Crowns says- I'll praise you through the storm. But I thank you for the "Sonshine" in our lives......
Looking forward to the radiant smile of our own son reflecting the smile of Your son........
You begin looking so intently for the good thing in the dreary landscape around you, really looking, not just going about your journey oblivious to all the love letters God is trying to send your way.
Then, suddenly, just as God has you where He wants you- looking intently for what He has to show you, a little tiny ray of sunshine peeks through.
Normally, this is a little ray we would pass over and think nothing about. But not now. Not when we are intently looking.
Now it is a promise. A promise of more sonshine to come.
Wow, how much more we appreciate and actually see the sun shining down when we go through a time of not seeing it.
HHHHhmmmmm.......... sounding familiar to some life lessons? It is for me.
As Casting Crowns says- I'll praise you through the storm. But I thank you for the "Sonshine" in our lives......
Looking forward to the radiant smile of our own son reflecting the smile of Your son........
Monday, December 10, 2007
Noah
Well, the weather outside is frightful, but our fire is so delightful. On our last post we had no place to go- but watch it snow, watch it snow, watch it snow. We got our 3 inches of snow they were calling for. And it was COLD!!
Then the warm front moved in..................
It's been raining for several days now........................
The weather forecast doesn't show anything but rain until Friday. How did Noah stand this for 40 days and nights!!??!!! Can you imagine how "sad" they must have all been. I keep remembering that as I wipe mud from the dogs after they've been out.
I'm trying to find the beauty in the sodden ground, the mud everywhere and the dreary scenery. I know it is there somewhere, but, as with some of us, it's just sometimes more difficult to see. Gotta get to deeper layers, I guess. I'm sure God will give us eyes to see the beauty ......Oh- the Christmas lights- They do look beautiful through the rain- especially when a drop gets in your eye and it looks all prismy. (If that's not a word- I'll claim it as one of my own creations- you know-like a prism.......)
Still praying for our CPS letter to come in. Still no word. Have orders for our chest x-rays- will get our labs done soon, and then the whole process of notarizing, certifying and apostilling begins.
I'm trying to clean out our paperwork and organize our office. AARGHhhh!! Not a good thing to do when it's so dreary, and yet, that is the best time to do it. I know it will be so amazing when it's done, but, wow, I can think of many other things I'd like to be doing right about now. (But don't worry- I won't stay on here and type for hours- just a few more minutes in my break..) Even working on adoption paperwork isn't this painful- literally- I have stuff spread all over the floor in piles. Amazing what you find when that nesting instinct hits and no pile is safe, isn't it?
Just a thought to ponder as we look forward to celebrating Christ's birth in a few weeks. I posted a few days ago a thought I had, and it has really stuck with me. I have only been in my son's presence for about 3 hours. Total. But I can't imagine living the rest of my life without him. I pray nothing will harm him and God will give us the strength and courage to raise him as we should. God knew his son from eternity past. I'm beginning to get a glimpse of what it must have been like for him to give up his son, though I pray it is something I never have to experience. But then I am blown away- because of the Love of the Father for me. He gave up His Son because He couldn't imagine life without me!! Thank you for giving up your son so you could adopt me into your family to spend eternity with you!!
Soon- our post will read something about a winter wonderland in Siberia- praying, praying, praying........(PS looking forward to a little sunshine;0p
Then the warm front moved in..................
It's been raining for several days now........................
The weather forecast doesn't show anything but rain until Friday. How did Noah stand this for 40 days and nights!!??!!! Can you imagine how "sad" they must have all been. I keep remembering that as I wipe mud from the dogs after they've been out.
I'm trying to find the beauty in the sodden ground, the mud everywhere and the dreary scenery. I know it is there somewhere, but, as with some of us, it's just sometimes more difficult to see. Gotta get to deeper layers, I guess. I'm sure God will give us eyes to see the beauty ......Oh- the Christmas lights- They do look beautiful through the rain- especially when a drop gets in your eye and it looks all prismy. (If that's not a word- I'll claim it as one of my own creations- you know-like a prism.......)
Still praying for our CPS letter to come in. Still no word. Have orders for our chest x-rays- will get our labs done soon, and then the whole process of notarizing, certifying and apostilling begins.
I'm trying to clean out our paperwork and organize our office. AARGHhhh!! Not a good thing to do when it's so dreary, and yet, that is the best time to do it. I know it will be so amazing when it's done, but, wow, I can think of many other things I'd like to be doing right about now. (But don't worry- I won't stay on here and type for hours- just a few more minutes in my break..) Even working on adoption paperwork isn't this painful- literally- I have stuff spread all over the floor in piles. Amazing what you find when that nesting instinct hits and no pile is safe, isn't it?
Just a thought to ponder as we look forward to celebrating Christ's birth in a few weeks. I posted a few days ago a thought I had, and it has really stuck with me. I have only been in my son's presence for about 3 hours. Total. But I can't imagine living the rest of my life without him. I pray nothing will harm him and God will give us the strength and courage to raise him as we should. God knew his son from eternity past. I'm beginning to get a glimpse of what it must have been like for him to give up his son, though I pray it is something I never have to experience. But then I am blown away- because of the Love of the Father for me. He gave up His Son because He couldn't imagine life without me!! Thank you for giving up your son so you could adopt me into your family to spend eternity with you!!
Soon- our post will read something about a winter wonderland in Siberia- praying, praying, praying........(PS looking forward to a little sunshine;0p
Thursday, December 6, 2007
God Speaking
What an amazing site we see all around us!! We got well over 6 inches of snow yesterday, and we are expecting another 3 inches or so tonight. It is so beautiful, and peaceful, and serene and..... COLD!!! It makes me think, hehehe, God is so preparing us for our son- in south central Siberia..... hehehe.
As I was driving to work this morning it was absolutely breathtaking. Wait, let me back up to last night. It has been a bit stressful at work lately, and here, trying to get everything done, follow all the rules, keep everyone happy and realize all that is going to be changing and has already changed. I have gone into full fledged nesting mode, too. I am such a pack rat, it is difficult for me to understand myself wanting to "get rid" of all this "stuff" around me.
Well, with all this, I have let my time set aside for worshipping our creator and God slip. I hate to even admit it, but it is so true. The one friendship I can always count on, the One who knows me even when I don't know or can't stand myself, that friendship I've let slide while I fuss and fret over all the little stuff. So, I have been working on that friendship the last few days.
Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of the light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.
Ok, back to this morning. As I was driving up Bagley Rd, our beautiful country lane, I was blown away by how beautiful it was- picture the sunlight streaming down, glistening off the frozen tundra- making the world look like a crystal palace, or a place of prisms. It was breathtaking. I remarked to myself, I wish I had my camera with me, this would be great to take with me to Russia to show our people helping us. Too bad I'm missing this. Maybe we'll have something beautiful again soon.
Suddenly, I thought to myself, is it really just now beautiful, or is it beautiful because I am just now noticing it, because I am more in tune with the Creator that made it. I realized I have been so focused on me and what I "have" to do and get done that I have become self absorbed and am missing out on all the beauty my Creator has put around me like a love letter. Thank you, God, for opening my eyes to see Your beauty. Please open my ears to hear your voice and my mind to go in the direction you lead!!
I heard this song on the way home and it brought it all together for me. OK, so it is another you tube video- but wow! Thanks for indulging me- God always speaks to me through music.....
As I was driving to work this morning it was absolutely breathtaking. Wait, let me back up to last night. It has been a bit stressful at work lately, and here, trying to get everything done, follow all the rules, keep everyone happy and realize all that is going to be changing and has already changed. I have gone into full fledged nesting mode, too. I am such a pack rat, it is difficult for me to understand myself wanting to "get rid" of all this "stuff" around me.
Well, with all this, I have let my time set aside for worshipping our creator and God slip. I hate to even admit it, but it is so true. The one friendship I can always count on, the One who knows me even when I don't know or can't stand myself, that friendship I've let slide while I fuss and fret over all the little stuff. So, I have been working on that friendship the last few days.
Ephesians 5:8 For you were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of the light (for the fruit of the light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) and find out what pleases the Lord.
Ok, back to this morning. As I was driving up Bagley Rd, our beautiful country lane, I was blown away by how beautiful it was- picture the sunlight streaming down, glistening off the frozen tundra- making the world look like a crystal palace, or a place of prisms. It was breathtaking. I remarked to myself, I wish I had my camera with me, this would be great to take with me to Russia to show our people helping us. Too bad I'm missing this. Maybe we'll have something beautiful again soon.
Suddenly, I thought to myself, is it really just now beautiful, or is it beautiful because I am just now noticing it, because I am more in tune with the Creator that made it. I realized I have been so focused on me and what I "have" to do and get done that I have become self absorbed and am missing out on all the beauty my Creator has put around me like a love letter. Thank you, God, for opening my eyes to see Your beauty. Please open my ears to hear your voice and my mind to go in the direction you lead!!
I heard this song on the way home and it brought it all together for me. OK, so it is another you tube video- but wow! Thanks for indulging me- God always speaks to me through music.....
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Encouragement
Isn't it amazing, even with so many blessings in our lives, so many wonderful things happening and about to happen, we can fall into such a state of discouragement. I was there just a little bit ago. I was pretty happy about figuring out how to post a video from YouTube on our blog, but still kinda blah and blue.
So, I think this was really a God thing. I, still in YouTube watching Mark Schultz, praying for Elisha's biological mom, decided I'd type in encouragement, since I was really feeling like I needed some. What came up was an excerpt from the movie Facing the Giants. If any of you have not seen this movie, I think it is one of the best movies I've seen in a good while and I give it 2 thumbs up!
Here is the excerpt- May God encourage you as much as He did me, bolster you up, and refresh your spirit as He did mine. God Bless you all!!
Have you given your all today???? Your very best????
PS I'm not planning on posting a YouTube video with every post, just 'cause I know how now- these 2 were just pretty special :)
So, I think this was really a God thing. I, still in YouTube watching Mark Schultz, praying for Elisha's biological mom, decided I'd type in encouragement, since I was really feeling like I needed some. What came up was an excerpt from the movie Facing the Giants. If any of you have not seen this movie, I think it is one of the best movies I've seen in a good while and I give it 2 thumbs up!
Here is the excerpt- May God encourage you as much as He did me, bolster you up, and refresh your spirit as He did mine. God Bless you all!!
Have you given your all today???? Your very best????
PS I'm not planning on posting a YouTube video with every post, just 'cause I know how now- these 2 were just pretty special :)
Everything to me
This song by Mark Shultz really touched my heart. It's his song to his biological mom who gave him up at birth. I wish we adoptive moms could give a copy of this to all biological moms. Wow! What a message.
Thank you to those who give us the incredible privilege of raising these most precious gifts from God!
Thank you to those who give us the incredible privilege of raising these most precious gifts from God!
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Adoption Poem
ADOPTION POEM
I didn't give you the gift of life,
but in my heart I know,
the love I feel is as deep & real,
as if it had been so.
For us to have each other
is like a dream come true.
No, I didn't give you the gift of life.
Life gave me the gift of you.
~Author Unknown
Thank you God for these most amazing gifts you give- first the gift of Your son, allowing us to become Your children, and then the give of our son, giving us an even deeper understanding of all it is to be adopted! Thanks for adopting us into Your family! Love, Your Daughter :0)
I didn't give you the gift of life,
but in my heart I know,
the love I feel is as deep & real,
as if it had been so.
For us to have each other
is like a dream come true.
No, I didn't give you the gift of life.
Life gave me the gift of you.
~Author Unknown
Thank you God for these most amazing gifts you give- first the gift of Your son, allowing us to become Your children, and then the give of our son, giving us an even deeper understanding of all it is to be adopted! Thanks for adopting us into Your family! Love, Your Daughter :0)
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Doin' the Happy Dance!!
I am doing the happy dance, for so many reasons!!
We got our petition to court document last Tues, just after I had posted. This document has been taking months to get back, ours is now complete. Saturday our papers came from our home study agency- yeah !! After a delightful time spent with Tim's family on Thurs and my family over the weekend, we went to Columbus yesterday and got 36 documents apostilled!! and copied in quadruplicate!! and stapled together!! and mailed out to our agency!! and it was received today by them!! and will go out tonight to Russia!!!
We have only 4 more documents to gather for the regional court, that we know of so far. 2 will travel with us as we go. We are praying for the CPS (Child Protective Services) letter to come back very soon. Thank you all for joining in with us to pray that document comes very quickly and we are able to get it finished, certified and apostilled and to Russia very soon.
Secondly, I'm praising and dancing and, yes, crying even, because the 1st of our 4 families, waiting in another region of Russia for almost 2 years for their sons (since they met them in Nov of 2005), finalized their adoption today. They should be able to be home before Christmas with their son. What joy wells up inside to be able to rejoice with them after their long wait. I can not even imagine it! Tomorrow will be one month since we met our son for the first time, and it feels like much longer.
Thank you for your prayers and your love. They mean so much to us. I'm praying that this first completed adoption will be a harbinger of great things to come and the flood gates, so long closed, would fling wide their doors and reunite all these children with their families.
Thank you God for your perfect timing. Help us to rest secure in that, even when we think we know better. Thank you for being in control!!
We got our petition to court document last Tues, just after I had posted. This document has been taking months to get back, ours is now complete. Saturday our papers came from our home study agency- yeah !! After a delightful time spent with Tim's family on Thurs and my family over the weekend, we went to Columbus yesterday and got 36 documents apostilled!! and copied in quadruplicate!! and stapled together!! and mailed out to our agency!! and it was received today by them!! and will go out tonight to Russia!!!
We have only 4 more documents to gather for the regional court, that we know of so far. 2 will travel with us as we go. We are praying for the CPS (Child Protective Services) letter to come back very soon. Thank you all for joining in with us to pray that document comes very quickly and we are able to get it finished, certified and apostilled and to Russia very soon.
Secondly, I'm praising and dancing and, yes, crying even, because the 1st of our 4 families, waiting in another region of Russia for almost 2 years for their sons (since they met them in Nov of 2005), finalized their adoption today. They should be able to be home before Christmas with their son. What joy wells up inside to be able to rejoice with them after their long wait. I can not even imagine it! Tomorrow will be one month since we met our son for the first time, and it feels like much longer.
Thank you for your prayers and your love. They mean so much to us. I'm praying that this first completed adoption will be a harbinger of great things to come and the flood gates, so long closed, would fling wide their doors and reunite all these children with their families.
Thank you God for your perfect timing. Help us to rest secure in that, even when we think we know better. Thank you for being in control!!
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Thank you, God!!
When God is in control, look out world!
The Living Bible, in Ephesians 3:20-21 reads: "Now glory be to God who...is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of- infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes."
I just finished reading a book. At the end of it, the author quotes this scripture and reminds that we often forget we should "dare to ask" or expect blessings "beyond our highest hopes." She goes on to say that her goal is to "dream big, ask largely, praise Him generously and surrender what I think so the Lord can supply what He wants for me." What a great thought for us to ponder on as we, as a nation, thank God for all the blessings He has given us!
The huge backlog for completing the background checks was to have taken 10-15 business days to complete. So, I really wasn't looking for anything until the first part of December. Bummed out, knowing that God is doing this on His timetable, which is perfect, compared to mine, which us just fast :). So, I told anyone who would listen to pray that we would get these documents back more quickly. I believe I said to pray that the urgency I have in my heart and spirit to bring our son home would quickly spill over into the hearts of the people we are waiting on to finalize our paperwork.
When I left for work Friday, I had so much paperwork left to do. I contacted our friend, Jeri, who has been so awesome to notarize everything we've needed so we can bring home our son. I told her we had yet another pile to complete. This amazing woman, knowing that urgency we feel to get him home, came over Sunday morning before we left for church and notarized all 14 documents we had ready. We were so happy to share our photos, like the proud parents we are :)
WHHHhooo HOOooo!!! Yeah God!! You are awesome!! I know that this is the "season" for giving thanks- but wow- I am overwhelmed, yet again, by Your blessings in our lives!
We got our police clearances- the notarized ones- with duplicate originals so we can update both national and regional paperwork at the same time- on Sat- just 4 days after requesting them. Can you feel this amazing love that God our Father is pouring down on us? This is why we leave it in His hands!! So, Friday morning, only 2 documents ready to be apostilled, out of 30 for the regional paperwork and 12 to update national paperwork. Yesterday morning, I went to the Muskingum County courthouse, got 17 documents certified, mailed away 5 more to be certified in different counties, and copied the documents that evening we had ready to go- all 65 pages worth!
Our homestudy agency director, Therese, emailed to say that she has everything but one paper ready to go, and she'll be mailing it out soon- This is almost a third of our documents.
So, as I'm sitting here, still allowing some unease and a bit of stress to color my view, I began looking at the calender. Though I feel as if we've been away from our son forever, we just arrived home 2 weeks ago. I must share with you, though, these 2 weeks have felt longer than the last 2 weeks of school before Christmas break when we were children. The tree is up, presents under the tree, but we can't touch. My, how the time would drag by as you sat in class, contemplating what was in the package waiting for you.........seconds seem like minutes, ......minutes like hours, ..........hours like days ............and days like months.
I am so thankful to know that God is totally in control here. Otherwise, I know I'd most likely go crazy :) Of course, as any who know me know how focused I can get, I'll probably drive Tim crazy before I go there myself, as I try to get everything done that I can, as quickly as I can, and give him updates all along the way. I'm sure he'd appreciate your prayers for me that I can leave this totally in God's hands.
In this "season" of Thanksgiving, I thank God for the opportunity to pause for a minute. To consider how blessed we are, as a person, as a family and as a nation. My prayer is that we not get so hung up on the traditions, on rushing here and there, eating all that good food, wishing we had more room for that extra bit of dessert, that we miss the blessing of stopping what we are doing and thanking the One who makes it all possible. For so many things God, you know my heart, I thank you deeply and fervently. May this thankfulness carry on to every day, every minute, as we realize the extent of the blessings You've poured into our lives! And may God continue to bless you in ways that are "beyond your highest hopes!"
Thank you!
The Living Bible, in Ephesians 3:20-21 reads: "Now glory be to God who...is able to do far more than we would ever dare to ask or even dream of- infinitely beyond our highest prayers, desires, thoughts, or hopes."
I just finished reading a book. At the end of it, the author quotes this scripture and reminds that we often forget we should "dare to ask" or expect blessings "beyond our highest hopes." She goes on to say that her goal is to "dream big, ask largely, praise Him generously and surrender what I think so the Lord can supply what He wants for me." What a great thought for us to ponder on as we, as a nation, thank God for all the blessings He has given us!
The huge backlog for completing the background checks was to have taken 10-15 business days to complete. So, I really wasn't looking for anything until the first part of December. Bummed out, knowing that God is doing this on His timetable, which is perfect, compared to mine, which us just fast :). So, I told anyone who would listen to pray that we would get these documents back more quickly. I believe I said to pray that the urgency I have in my heart and spirit to bring our son home would quickly spill over into the hearts of the people we are waiting on to finalize our paperwork.
When I left for work Friday, I had so much paperwork left to do. I contacted our friend, Jeri, who has been so awesome to notarize everything we've needed so we can bring home our son. I told her we had yet another pile to complete. This amazing woman, knowing that urgency we feel to get him home, came over Sunday morning before we left for church and notarized all 14 documents we had ready. We were so happy to share our photos, like the proud parents we are :)
WHHHhooo HOOooo!!! Yeah God!! You are awesome!! I know that this is the "season" for giving thanks- but wow- I am overwhelmed, yet again, by Your blessings in our lives!
We got our police clearances- the notarized ones- with duplicate originals so we can update both national and regional paperwork at the same time- on Sat- just 4 days after requesting them. Can you feel this amazing love that God our Father is pouring down on us? This is why we leave it in His hands!! So, Friday morning, only 2 documents ready to be apostilled, out of 30 for the regional paperwork and 12 to update national paperwork. Yesterday morning, I went to the Muskingum County courthouse, got 17 documents certified, mailed away 5 more to be certified in different counties, and copied the documents that evening we had ready to go- all 65 pages worth!
Our homestudy agency director, Therese, emailed to say that she has everything but one paper ready to go, and she'll be mailing it out soon- This is almost a third of our documents.
So, as I'm sitting here, still allowing some unease and a bit of stress to color my view, I began looking at the calender. Though I feel as if we've been away from our son forever, we just arrived home 2 weeks ago. I must share with you, though, these 2 weeks have felt longer than the last 2 weeks of school before Christmas break when we were children. The tree is up, presents under the tree, but we can't touch. My, how the time would drag by as you sat in class, contemplating what was in the package waiting for you.........seconds seem like minutes, ......minutes like hours, ..........hours like days ............and days like months.
I am so thankful to know that God is totally in control here. Otherwise, I know I'd most likely go crazy :) Of course, as any who know me know how focused I can get, I'll probably drive Tim crazy before I go there myself, as I try to get everything done that I can, as quickly as I can, and give him updates all along the way. I'm sure he'd appreciate your prayers for me that I can leave this totally in God's hands.
In this "season" of Thanksgiving, I thank God for the opportunity to pause for a minute. To consider how blessed we are, as a person, as a family and as a nation. My prayer is that we not get so hung up on the traditions, on rushing here and there, eating all that good food, wishing we had more room for that extra bit of dessert, that we miss the blessing of stopping what we are doing and thanking the One who makes it all possible. For so many things God, you know my heart, I thank you deeply and fervently. May this thankfulness carry on to every day, every minute, as we realize the extent of the blessings You've poured into our lives! And may God continue to bless you in ways that are "beyond your highest hopes!"
Thank you!
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
This Most Amazing God We Serve!!
We went into town yesterday morning with several items on our list to fulfill. Our first big one was to get the fingerprinting done, starting our background checks. With the right documents in hand, this went off without a hitch!! How wonderful to be able to get it started so quickly and easily. And how friendly everyone seemed today.
We decided to go ahead and update our paperwork expiring the first of the year so we could be done with all that, too. So, while Tim went into one office to get yet another certified copy of our marriage license, I went into the Auditor's office to see if we could get the affidavit we needed for our property. We had already been told by a couple of offices that we'd have to hire a lawyer to fill out this simple form. Big thank you to our Muskingum County Auditor/Assessor Anita Adams. She took the document template we had, retyped it on her office letterhead, finished it and had it notarized. What a huge blessing that was for us!! Thank you God for the reminder to continue to place things in Your hands. You are AWESOME!!
We mailed out some documents to be certified, getting the ball rolling on several fronts at once, and, amazingly, I received my employment letter today, too. Which means, I have everything done I can do for the moment..........until I get a few more papers back.......then I can start on the next step.......
So, the items we worry about; no problem- God's got them under control.
The children we worry about; no problem- God's got it under control.
The changes we have no control over; no problem- God's got them under control.
The officials driving us crazy with new requirements; no problem- God's got it under control.
My relationship with God- the one thing He asks of me- time to spend with Him and learn to love Him- hopefully will grow since I no longer have to waste time to worry about any of the above- because really; no problem- God's got them under control.
Thank you, God!! You're timing is not always what I would plan, but you see the master plan, and Your timing is always perfect. Thank you for finding new ways everyday to show Your love for us. Could you give our son a little extra squeeze for me tonight? I'm sure missing him. Thanks for always keeping him, Tim and me safe under the shadow of your wings. I must say, what an amazing family You've made for us!! I love you!
We decided to go ahead and update our paperwork expiring the first of the year so we could be done with all that, too. So, while Tim went into one office to get yet another certified copy of our marriage license, I went into the Auditor's office to see if we could get the affidavit we needed for our property. We had already been told by a couple of offices that we'd have to hire a lawyer to fill out this simple form. Big thank you to our Muskingum County Auditor/Assessor Anita Adams. She took the document template we had, retyped it on her office letterhead, finished it and had it notarized. What a huge blessing that was for us!! Thank you God for the reminder to continue to place things in Your hands. You are AWESOME!!
We mailed out some documents to be certified, getting the ball rolling on several fronts at once, and, amazingly, I received my employment letter today, too. Which means, I have everything done I can do for the moment..........until I get a few more papers back.......then I can start on the next step.......
So, the items we worry about; no problem- God's got them under control.
The children we worry about; no problem- God's got it under control.
The changes we have no control over; no problem- God's got them under control.
The officials driving us crazy with new requirements; no problem- God's got it under control.
My relationship with God- the one thing He asks of me- time to spend with Him and learn to love Him- hopefully will grow since I no longer have to waste time to worry about any of the above- because really; no problem- God's got them under control.
Thank you, God!! You're timing is not always what I would plan, but you see the master plan, and Your timing is always perfect. Thank you for finding new ways everyday to show Your love for us. Could you give our son a little extra squeeze for me tonight? I'm sure missing him. Thanks for always keeping him, Tim and me safe under the shadow of your wings. I must say, what an amazing family You've made for us!! I love you!
Saturday, November 10, 2007
F.R.O.G.
Hard to believe that just 2 weeks ago this morning we were heading out to the airport for our 1st Russian adventure to begin. Now we've been home for a week and are beginning the next leg of our journey.
We were showing Elisha the photo album we brought for him- it has pictures of us, our house, the dog, his room. It was exciting to see him actually look at the pictures. We've been told that the Nanny's will go through the photo album with him. I'm not expecting this, but I sure would love to go back to the orphanage and have him recognize us and come running...... "Mama, Papa"..........AAAwwww!! OK, now that mental picture makes it hard to see the screen for me- how about you?
OK- for those of you that read the last post- when I said he, our son, had no idea how much his life was going to change- how many of you completed that thought with your own- "and neither do you Tim and Debbie?" I figure probably about 9 out of 10 of you, especially if you already have children. lol
I have been looking at pictures and watching video as we share our joy with our friends. I'm fine for the most part, but boy, do I miss our boy! I blew up some of the photos and printed them for the family album we have to complete (boy, there is a lot of paperwork still to do!!), and I'm finding it more difficult to not cry when I look at the "big picture".
OK- so here is a sneak preview, or 2.........
We were showing Elisha the photo album we brought for him- it has pictures of us, our house, the dog, his room. It was exciting to see him actually look at the pictures. We've been told that the Nanny's will go through the photo album with him. I'm not expecting this, but I sure would love to go back to the orphanage and have him recognize us and come running...... "Mama, Papa"..........AAAwwww!! OK, now that mental picture makes it hard to see the screen for me- how about you?
We found out he is very ticklish- just like his Mama- we had some good belly lau
ghs together. I already mentioned what the sound of his laughter did to my heart. How am I going to be able to handle all this love I'm feeling for him so far away when I am able to hold and love and see him 24/7?
ghs together. I already mentioned what the sound of his laughter did to my heart. How am I going to be able to handle all this love I'm feeling for him so far away when I am able to hold and love and see him 24/7? I love that these 2 photos have all 3 of our hands together!! We have been united into a family by such a loving God. He's been preparing our hearts for this for sooooo long. Hang on baby boy, God's working on our behalf to complete what He started!!
OK- so, for those of you wondering about the title of this blog- F.R.O.G. is an acronym for Fully Reliant On God. One would have thought that we would have learned this fully during the 14 months the whole process was shut down and the 21 months since we started this process. I am only now becoming aware of it in ways I didn't even imagine before.
I mentioned all the additional paperwork we have to complete. One of these papers is another criminal background check through the state of Ohio. Tim and I went on Wed, after I got off work. My AAARRRGhhhh moment came when I realized that my driver's license no longer has my SS# on it. Well, appears you have to have photo ID and your SS# to have a background check done. So- the process is delayed another week from even starting.
I tried to get a few hours off early Fri morning to at least get the process started. (this is where the FROG kicks in.....) It is hard for me to remember that everyone else has their own things happening and their own priorities. I look at our baby boy's picture and video and want to move mountains to bring him home. Unfortunately, not everyone has the same urgency. So, we wait.
Office closed Monday for the holiday, get printed Tues, there is a 10-15 business day back log right now, and Thanksgiving falls in the middle of that- so we will most likely not get this one document back before the beginning of December. Then we have to send it away to have it certified, and once we gather all 30 remaining documents, take them to Columbus, have them all apostilled and to our agency, then they go to Russia and we have a minimum 1 month wait from that point before they call us for court to go get our baby boy.
So, this is where I lean not unto my own understanding, which drives me crazy and says we'll never get him home. This is when I lean on God, the one who created the heavens and the earth, who goes before us and prepares the way. This is where I lean on His strength, His power, His amazing grace and love. This is where I become a FROG!!
Thank you, God, that we can be FROG's with you!! I think I may begin to wear green :0)
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
First Day Home
We actually woke up early on Monday- well around 8 or 9 was when we got up. I think it is easier to travel West regarding the time changes.
A fellow adoptive mom called to welcome us home and say that she had just received her referral! How exciting to see this process moving again! There are so many children out there that need homes and we are excited every time one of them is introduced to their forever families!
We headed out to church just before noon. A very good friend who had been battling brain cancer received a new body from God Thursday night. She is in a new pain free body, worshiping at God's feet, hearing Him say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant!" She will be greatly missed by all us remaining behind, especially her best friend and husband and 3 children. We were able to join our worship team to sing songs of praise to God at her funeral. I had such a hard time. The songs were a perfect example of the shining faith, great courage, strong witness and caring outlook of our friend. Even from the grave, she was reaching out to comfort those around her. Boy, will we miss her.
Tim's mom had a good report from the Dr- no blockages- the problems she was having must have been a virus she picked up, she should be OK!
We picked up Penny from the vet- and another good report- yes, she is old, arthritic and a little senile, but Penny should be OK and we don't need to have her put down just yet- thank you, God!!
Tim headed off for work as soon as we got home, I called our coordinator and my parents to give updates, and just like that we were back in the swing of things as if nothing were different or had changed and our trip to Russia was just a dream.
But no, it was not a dream! We have video to prove it! Our son is real and he is beautiful- 12 hours in the future, with no idea of how much his life will change in a few short months. Our lives will forever be changed just by seeing his picture and meeting him. He's already been written on the tablets of our hearts. How amazing is this- If I can love him so much and not even be near him- can you imagine the love God has for us? I am overwhelmed by this great love that surpasses anything I can even dream or imagine.
There was an encouragement posted on our chat room just before we left Columbus to start our trip on the 27th. It is one I intend to hang onto- as it works for any circumstance. She said,
"For what it's worth, I will share the best advise I got from a good family friend prior to our trip 1: God is already there. I am not walking into the orphanage, into the situation, into the hotel, into the airport (where ever it is) without God already being there, advocating on our behalf and already having set everything up for us."
Thank you, God!
Hang on sweet baby boy! We're getting our paperwork done as fast as we can, and praying for a short time between trips and that the judge calls us back soon to bring you home! This is not the end- it is merely the start of the beginning of the rest of our lives with you!
A fellow adoptive mom called to welcome us home and say that she had just received her referral! How exciting to see this process moving again! There are so many children out there that need homes and we are excited every time one of them is introduced to their forever families!
We headed out to church just before noon. A very good friend who had been battling brain cancer received a new body from God Thursday night. She is in a new pain free body, worshiping at God's feet, hearing Him say, "Well done, my good and faithful servant!" She will be greatly missed by all us remaining behind, especially her best friend and husband and 3 children. We were able to join our worship team to sing songs of praise to God at her funeral. I had such a hard time. The songs were a perfect example of the shining faith, great courage, strong witness and caring outlook of our friend. Even from the grave, she was reaching out to comfort those around her. Boy, will we miss her.
Tim's mom had a good report from the Dr- no blockages- the problems she was having must have been a virus she picked up, she should be OK!
We picked up Penny from the vet- and another good report- yes, she is old, arthritic and a little senile, but Penny should be OK and we don't need to have her put down just yet- thank you, God!!
Tim headed off for work as soon as we got home, I called our coordinator and my parents to give updates, and just like that we were back in the swing of things as if nothing were different or had changed and our trip to Russia was just a dream.
But no, it was not a dream! We have video to prove it! Our son is real and he is beautiful- 12 hours in the future, with no idea of how much his life will change in a few short months. Our lives will forever be changed just by seeing his picture and meeting him. He's already been written on the tablets of our hearts. How amazing is this- If I can love him so much and not even be near him- can you imagine the love God has for us? I am overwhelmed by this great love that surpasses anything I can even dream or imagine.
There was an encouragement posted on our chat room just before we left Columbus to start our trip on the 27th. It is one I intend to hang onto- as it works for any circumstance. She said,
"For what it's worth, I will share the best advise I got from a good family friend prior to our trip 1: God is already there. I am not walking into the orphanage, into the situation, into the hotel, into the airport (where ever it is) without God already being there, advocating on our behalf and already having set everything up for us."
Thank you, God!
Hang on sweet baby boy! We're getting our paperwork done as fast as we can, and praying for a short time between trips and that the judge calls us back soon to bring you home! This is not the end- it is merely the start of the beginning of the rest of our lives with you!
Trip home
Sunday morning we woke early, went to breakfast in the hotel and were able to relax through our meal. We checked out and sat in the lobby for a few minutes until Max, the driver taking us to the airport, showed up. He is much younger than Vladimir, who picked us up on our first trip.
It is amazing how much less traffic there is on Sunday morning, compared with Wednesday morning when we came in. We were able to move along without any problems or congestion all the way to the airport. I was very glad that Vladimir had taken us the "second route" on the way in to Moscow from the airport so we could see the "suburbs" of Moscow.
Max showed us pictures of his beautiful wife and daughter as we were travelling to the airport. She is just a few months older than our son. It is so amazing to say that. Our son. WOW! I've longed for so long to be able to use those words. OK, back to the trip.
Max took us in the airport to the first security line. He could go no further with us. We scanned the bags coming in the door, scanned the bags going into the ticketing area, took our bags over and opened them up to be searched, then over to the ticketing counter were we checked our big bags. The woman was able to speak English :) and checked us all the way through to Columbus :)
From there we went into another set of lines and through customs, where they checked our passports and visas and took back the paperwork we filled out on the way in, making sure we did not extend our stay past our visa.
Once past this area, we were in a duty free "mall". Our gate was on the other side of the airport, so we walked around, jostling past the crowds until we reached our gate. It was at this point that we had to remove all jackets, shoes and have everything scanned yet again. Whew, we made it!! We were able to sit down and relax.
I saw a couple come through the line with a small child. HHMmmm, I thought to myself, I wonder if that is the other family from our adoption agency that should be coming home today. Being the "shy" and "quiet" person I am :), I walked over and said- "Hello- are you the Dini's? I'm Debbie Swingle." It was!!! We were able to talk for almost an hour before our flight started boarding. They saw their son later in the same week we met our son. It was neat to be able to compare notes on how their journey went. Their small son had done very well meeting his brother:)
Our flight was uneventful. 3 movies, 2 meals, 2 snacks and multiple drinks- wow, 10 1/2 hours is a long flight! We arrived in New York on time, but by the time we taxied in and unloaded our full flight, we had about 40 minutes before our next flight. Boy could we feel the prayers! We went through the airport to baggage, got our bags, carried them to the re ticketing area, rechecked them, went back through screening (jackets, shoes, purses, bags all on the conveyor belt through the scanner) on through the next area- customs. We were able to make it through there pretty quickly, and had 20 minutes till our flight- at the other end of the airport!! We stopped, breathlessly at a Delta gate we were speeding past, and I asked if they could please call our gate and tell them we were on our way- please don't close the door. We heard the "final boarding call for Columbus, Ohio" 2 times while moving at a very fast clip through the airport.
And then, amazingly, we arrived- and even more amazingly, the door was still open! Thank you all for your prayers getting us home! We got on the plane and settled in. Amazing how warm the body gets after a 20 minute run in boots and wool cardigans :) Also, amazing how short a 1 1/2 hour flight is after having just completed a 10 1/2 hour one!!
We arrived in Columbus and Tim listened to his voicemail. He had a message from his sister, to call him as soon as he got the message. We soon discovered that Tim's mom had been in and out of the hospital all week and was currently in for observation for a possible heart attack, with a heart cath scheduled for the next morning. We couldn't wait to get home!!
Our luggage actually made it with us on the plane, so after a few minutes, Tim's coworker picked us up and took us back to the fire station where we had parked. After talking with his coworkers for a few minutes about our son, we took off for home.
We arrived home and checked in with Tim's Dad and talked to his mom- who seemed to be doing well. When we finally got home and in bed we realized we had been up for almost 24 hours. What a day!
It is amazing how much less traffic there is on Sunday morning, compared with Wednesday morning when we came in. We were able to move along without any problems or congestion all the way to the airport. I was very glad that Vladimir had taken us the "second route" on the way in to Moscow from the airport so we could see the "suburbs" of Moscow.
Max showed us pictures of his beautiful wife and daughter as we were travelling to the airport. She is just a few months older than our son. It is so amazing to say that. Our son. WOW! I've longed for so long to be able to use those words. OK, back to the trip.
Max took us in the airport to the first security line. He could go no further with us. We scanned the bags coming in the door, scanned the bags going into the ticketing area, took our bags over and opened them up to be searched, then over to the ticketing counter were we checked our big bags. The woman was able to speak English :) and checked us all the way through to Columbus :)
From there we went into another set of lines and through customs, where they checked our passports and visas and took back the paperwork we filled out on the way in, making sure we did not extend our stay past our visa.
Once past this area, we were in a duty free "mall". Our gate was on the other side of the airport, so we walked around, jostling past the crowds until we reached our gate. It was at this point that we had to remove all jackets, shoes and have everything scanned yet again. Whew, we made it!! We were able to sit down and relax.
I saw a couple come through the line with a small child. HHMmmm, I thought to myself, I wonder if that is the other family from our adoption agency that should be coming home today. Being the "shy" and "quiet" person I am :), I walked over and said- "Hello- are you the Dini's? I'm Debbie Swingle." It was!!! We were able to talk for almost an hour before our flight started boarding. They saw their son later in the same week we met our son. It was neat to be able to compare notes on how their journey went. Their small son had done very well meeting his brother:)
Our flight was uneventful. 3 movies, 2 meals, 2 snacks and multiple drinks- wow, 10 1/2 hours is a long flight! We arrived in New York on time, but by the time we taxied in and unloaded our full flight, we had about 40 minutes before our next flight. Boy could we feel the prayers! We went through the airport to baggage, got our bags, carried them to the re ticketing area, rechecked them, went back through screening (jackets, shoes, purses, bags all on the conveyor belt through the scanner) on through the next area- customs. We were able to make it through there pretty quickly, and had 20 minutes till our flight- at the other end of the airport!! We stopped, breathlessly at a Delta gate we were speeding past, and I asked if they could please call our gate and tell them we were on our way- please don't close the door. We heard the "final boarding call for Columbus, Ohio" 2 times while moving at a very fast clip through the airport.
And then, amazingly, we arrived- and even more amazingly, the door was still open! Thank you all for your prayers getting us home! We got on the plane and settled in. Amazing how warm the body gets after a 20 minute run in boots and wool cardigans :) Also, amazing how short a 1 1/2 hour flight is after having just completed a 10 1/2 hour one!!
We arrived in Columbus and Tim listened to his voicemail. He had a message from his sister, to call him as soon as he got the message. We soon discovered that Tim's mom had been in and out of the hospital all week and was currently in for observation for a possible heart attack, with a heart cath scheduled for the next morning. We couldn't wait to get home!!
Our luggage actually made it with us on the plane, so after a few minutes, Tim's coworker picked us up and took us back to the fire station where we had parked. After talking with his coworkers for a few minutes about our son, we took off for home.
We arrived home and checked in with Tim's Dad and talked to his mom- who seemed to be doing well. When we finally got home and in bed we realized we had been up for almost 24 hours. What a day!
Last tour in Moscow
Saturday morning when we woke up, it wasn't raining :) It was snowing- with the wind blowing the flurries sideways past our hotel window:( Brrrrrr!
After a big breakfast in the hotel restaurant , we met with Anya again around 11:00 a.m. to head out to see the sights. Outside, the air was cold and the blustery wind made us think we were in Ohio in December or January. Thinking I'd leave my hair down for warmth on my neck was a mistake. It was so staticy it ended up stuck all over my face when we went out in the wind! Kinda funny, I'm sure, for any observers out there :)
We travelled on the Metro again, and were we ever glad for the warmth in the station this day! It was amazing how empty the station was. Most people had the day off, so the crowd was much, much thinner than we had seen it any previous time. We travelled for a while on the Metro, changing trains several times. The Metro is color coded, making it much easier to get to where you are going- the trains on each color all go to the same place- you don't have to check the front of each tram to see if you are getting on the correct tram or not. Well, it's easier if you can read Russian to see which color you need to choose!! We were very thankful for Anya's assistance.
We went to Ismaylavo market- an open air market located outside the inner circle of Moscow. It was quite amazing, sort of like a permanent farmer's market on steroids :0) The booths were all made of wood and looked very permanent. We later went up into a flea market area.
Then we continued our unique experience seeing the flea market, Moscow style, in a separate building. There were a lot of vendors selling goods from clothing, food, used items to souvenirs. We walked through the pathways between each vendor, seeing a variety of things for sale. The area, much like the rest of Moscow, was very clean. No trash along the wayside. The vendors were, each, very friendly, either talking directly to us or through Anya, our guide/interpreter. Some folks had new things to offer, often items they had made themselves. Others had pieces of their lives they no longer had need of keeping.
After spending 2 or 3 hours at the market, we made our way back to the hotel via the Metro.
It was really too cold to do much more outside. When we got back to the hotel, Anya gave us our bill from Phillip for the Moscow part of our stay. After going up to the room to get the payment for her, we ended up sitting in the lobby and talking about our lives- us in Ohio and her in Moscow- for almost an hour. We went back up to our room, rested a little, watched our tape of our time with our son again and headed out for dinner.
We didn't feel quite comfortable venturing out too far for dinner, so we went to the restaurant at the hotel again. And, again, as with the first night's dinner, we spent almost 3 hours there. It is amazing to me, even now sitting here typing this how rushed all our meals in America are. We don't take the time to enjoy each other and the meal. It's rush, rush, rush, chew as fast as you can and swallow, finish up quickly and move onto the next thing. Why do we do that? Shouldn't we enjoy every moment we have with each other, not be continually striving toward the next thing to do? I think I'll start brewing a pot of tea after each meal. It was a great end to the dining experience. I've been thinking- we prepare the meal for hours and finish in 15 minutes- no wonder I like baking better- it's much more savored :)
We had Pelmeni again- that's the name for the Russian dumplings we had for dinner the night before. They were pretty good- Tim wants me to get the recipe- I think I'll see if Kroger's carries them :)
Not a whole lot happened today. We were pretty tired after all the fresh cold air and exercise, so we packed and went to bed, thinking about our travels home the next day.
After a big breakfast in the hotel restaurant , we met with Anya again around 11:00 a.m. to head out to see the sights. Outside, the air was cold and the blustery wind made us think we were in Ohio in December or January. Thinking I'd leave my hair down for warmth on my neck was a mistake. It was so staticy it ended up stuck all over my face when we went out in the wind! Kinda funny, I'm sure, for any observers out there :)
We travelled on the Metro again, and were we ever glad for the warmth in the station this day! It was amazing how empty the station was. Most people had the day off, so the crowd was much, much thinner than we had seen it any previous time. We travelled for a while on the Metro, changing trains several times. The Metro is color coded, making it much easier to get to where you are going- the trains on each color all go to the same place- you don't have to check the front of each tram to see if you are getting on the correct tram or not. Well, it's easier if you can read Russian to see which color you need to choose!! We were very thankful for Anya's assistance.
We went to Ismaylavo market- an open air market located outside the inner circle of Moscow. It was quite amazing, sort of like a permanent farmer's market on steroids :0) The booths were all made of wood and looked very permanent. We later went up into a flea market area.
There was everything one could possibly dream of here, and we only saw part of it! Jeans, tops, jackets, coats, furs, lace, handbags- just in the first few feet! There were several stands carrying all types of matruyska dolls- ranging from the original type with very simple features, all the way up to the number 24 car with Jeff Gordon- We even saw OSU- yes, Ohio State Football Matruyska dolls in the middle of Moscow, almost half way around the world!!!
Some of the dolls were so amazing! One had 30 dolls stacked within! It was almost a foot tall! We went into a t-shirt shop for a few minutes. Not to buy t-shirts, so much, as we wanted to thaw our noses :) The small shop was enclosed and heated. It was very cold and blustery outside. Reminded me of Ohio in Jan or Feb. They have temperatures very similar to ours normally, but they had an early cold snap just before we left. Anya, smiling at us, asked us if we had warmer jackets to bring back in Jan or Feb when we go back to get our son. We began thinking if we had anything warm enough :) Look out Cabela's- we may be storming the winter section soon :)
Some of the dolls were so amazing! One had 30 dolls stacked within! It was almost a foot tall! We went into a t-shirt shop for a few minutes. Not to buy t-shirts, so much, as we wanted to thaw our noses :) The small shop was enclosed and heated. It was very cold and blustery outside. Reminded me of Ohio in Jan or Feb. They have temperatures very similar to ours normally, but they had an early cold snap just before we left. Anya, smiling at us, asked us if we had warmer jackets to bring back in Jan or Feb when we go back to get our son. We began thinking if we had anything warm enough :) Look out Cabela's- we may be storming the winter section soon :)
Then we continued our unique experience seeing the flea market, Moscow style, in a separate building. There were a lot of vendors selling goods from clothing, food, used items to souvenirs. We walked through the pathways between each vendor, seeing a variety of things for sale. The area, much like the rest of Moscow, was very clean. No trash along the wayside. The vendors were, each, very friendly, either talking directly to us or through Anya, our guide/interpreter. Some folks had new things to offer, often items they had made themselves. Others had pieces of their lives they no longer had need of keeping.
After spending 2 or 3 hours at the market, we made our way back to the hotel via the Metro.
It was really too cold to do much more outside. When we got back to the hotel, Anya gave us our bill from Phillip for the Moscow part of our stay. After going up to the room to get the payment for her, we ended up sitting in the lobby and talking about our lives- us in Ohio and her in Moscow- for almost an hour. We went back up to our room, rested a little, watched our tape of our time with our son again and headed out for dinner.
We didn't feel quite comfortable venturing out too far for dinner, so we went to the restaurant at the hotel again. And, again, as with the first night's dinner, we spent almost 3 hours there. It is amazing to me, even now sitting here typing this how rushed all our meals in America are. We don't take the time to enjoy each other and the meal. It's rush, rush, rush, chew as fast as you can and swallow, finish up quickly and move onto the next thing. Why do we do that? Shouldn't we enjoy every moment we have with each other, not be continually striving toward the next thing to do? I think I'll start brewing a pot of tea after each meal. It was a great end to the dining experience. I've been thinking- we prepare the meal for hours and finish in 15 minutes- no wonder I like baking better- it's much more savored :)
We had Pelmeni again- that's the name for the Russian dumplings we had for dinner the night before. They were pretty good- Tim wants me to get the recipe- I think I'll see if Kroger's carries them :)
Not a whole lot happened today. We were pretty tired after all the fresh cold air and exercise, so we packed and went to bed, thinking about our travels home the next day.
Friday, November 2, 2007
Another Day in Historical Moscow
Today is sort of dreary, overcast, rainy and cold. Temperature is in the upper thirties. Our day started on the Metro, with several train changes at numerous striking terminals. We began by walking, through the rain, in the old Arbat street area. With a lot of attractions, such as souvenir shops, restaurants, including the Hard Rock Cafe Moscow, and all the old buildings- looking beautifully restored, this historical street was pretty amazing.
From there, to the Kremlin and Cathedrals contained within its walls. There was quite an interest in the Kremlin. We had to wait in line to buy tickets for admission, 300 rb per person. But the sun came out while we were waiting and felt so good, making the weather seem so much more pleasant.
Again, Anna was very knowledgeable in regard
to the history of buildings and past dignitaries, both rulers and We walked by the State Kremlin Palace and religious leaders.Anna told that congress use to meet here, and now meet at the Senate building. There was a monastery there originally, which Stalin had blown up to replace with the utilitarian looking building, so out of place with the rest of the architecture in the Kremlin. It now houses concerts and shows. There was a group of folk singers/dancers outside the front entrance to this building when we went past. They were dressed in traditional Russian peasant wear- as they would have dressed for a celebration. They were quite talented, and were having a lot of fun, grabbing passers by to dance with them.
We toured the Assumption Cathedral (It houses the remains of the Metropolitans, or Patriarchs of the Russian Orthodox church. Frescos on the one wall were the original, painted in the 14th century- it is so hard to grasp the age of history we are seeing here!-1st pic on left), the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe (the small family chapel for the Tsar and his close family- very similar in size to the chapels in St. Basil's), the Archangel's Cathedral (where the remains of the Tsars, Tsarettes and their families are buried- some from as early as the 13 hundreds!! 2nd pic to the left) and Ivan the Great Bell tower(which is now used to house exhibits- we got to see the Emperial China collection- Tim was soo excited! 1st pic on right).
While at the Archangel's Cathedral a five person choir sang a prayer which sounded very nice inside the total stone and masonry construction.
From there, to the Kremlin and Cathedrals contained within its walls. There was quite an interest in the Kremlin. We had to wait in line to buy tickets for admission, 300 rb per person. But the sun came out while we were waiting and felt so good, making the weather seem so much more pleasant.Again, Anna was very knowledgeable in regard
to the history of buildings and past dignitaries, both rulers and We walked by the State Kremlin Palace and religious leaders.Anna told that congress use to meet here, and now meet at the Senate building. There was a monastery there originally, which Stalin had blown up to replace with the utilitarian looking building, so out of place with the rest of the architecture in the Kremlin. It now houses concerts and shows. There was a group of folk singers/dancers outside the front entrance to this building when we went past. They were dressed in traditional Russian peasant wear- as they would have dressed for a celebration. They were quite talented, and were having a lot of fun, grabbing passers by to dance with them.
We toured the Assumption Cathedral (It houses the remains of the Metropolitans, or Patriarchs of the Russian Orthodox church. Frescos on the one wall were the original, painted in the 14th century- it is so hard to grasp the age of history we are seeing here!-1st pic on left), the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe (the small family chapel for the Tsar and his close family- very similar in size to the chapels in St. Basil's), the Archangel's Cathedral (where the remains of the Tsars, Tsarettes and their families are buried- some from as early as the 13 hundreds!! 2nd pic to the left) and Ivan the Great Bell tower(which is now used to house exhibits- we got to see the Emperial China collection- Tim was soo excited! 1st pic on right).While at the Archangel's Cathedral a five person choir sang a prayer which sounded very nice inside the total stone and masonry construction.
We left the Kremlin and traveled by Metro to the Moscow University. When
we got off the Metro, we jumped on a "taxi" that took us up to the top of the hill. It was only 10Rb per person- and warm and dry :) Very beautiful old buildings. The design of the buildings at the University have some uniqueness due to the fact that there are seven sister buildings around Moscow that share the same design as the main building. One of the "Seven Sisters" is pictured here to the right. This is a building on campus. The other 6 are all around Moscow housing things as varied as hotels to governmental offices- visible from the overlook just below the college. We thought a lot about my sister, Amity, as we were walking around campus. I wondered what buildings she had classes in, where she was able to hang out. It was very beautiful up there!
The overlook over the Moscow river is an incredible view of the city. Just down the street from the University in front of one of the "sisters," the six other sister buildings can be seen.
From the overlook we walked down the hill, around some wooded areas, and onto the newest
Metro station. The station itself is above ground with a view of the river. It was beautiful, both inside, as well as the view outside. We came home in rush hour pedestrian traffic. Definitely not the time to be out if you suffer from any form of agoraphobia or claustrophobia! The good news is, the more crowded the Metro, the less chance you have of falling- as the masses hold you up!
We went to a little bar/diner for dinner with Anna and had Russian dumplings- yummy! They are a special breading wrapped around a meatball type filling in chicken broth. It took forever to come- but we enjoyed talking to Anna and watching the Ladies play Arena Soccer on the TV.
Well, that's all for today. Back in the room, and the internet connection ends in a few hours, so we're trying to get caught up on the last few days. Tomorrow we hit Ismaylovo (sp?) market and possibly something else- I asked Anna to take us someplace special.
we got off the Metro, we jumped on a "taxi" that took us up to the top of the hill. It was only 10Rb per person- and warm and dry :) Very beautiful old buildings. The design of the buildings at the University have some uniqueness due to the fact that there are seven sister buildings around Moscow that share the same design as the main building. One of the "Seven Sisters" is pictured here to the right. This is a building on campus. The other 6 are all around Moscow housing things as varied as hotels to governmental offices- visible from the overlook just below the college. We thought a lot about my sister, Amity, as we were walking around campus. I wondered what buildings she had classes in, where she was able to hang out. It was very beautiful up there!The overlook over the Moscow river is an incredible view of the city. Just down the street from the University in front of one of the "sisters," the six other sister buildings can be seen.
From the overlook we walked down the hill, around some wooded areas, and onto the newest
Metro station. The station itself is above ground with a view of the river. It was beautiful, both inside, as well as the view outside. We came home in rush hour pedestrian traffic. Definitely not the time to be out if you suffer from any form of agoraphobia or claustrophobia! The good news is, the more crowded the Metro, the less chance you have of falling- as the masses hold you up!We went to a little bar/diner for dinner with Anna and had Russian dumplings- yummy! They are a special breading wrapped around a meatball type filling in chicken broth. It took forever to come- but we enjoyed talking to Anna and watching the Ladies play Arena Soccer on the TV.
Well, that's all for today. Back in the room, and the internet connection ends in a few hours, so we're trying to get caught up on the last few days. Tomorrow we hit Ismaylovo (sp?) market and possibly something else- I asked Anna to take us someplace special.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
II Chronicles 20:13,15,17
"All the men of Judah, with their wives and children and little ones, stood there before the Lord...
This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. Tomorrow march down against them..
You will not have to fight this bottle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you."
This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. Tomorrow march down against them..
You will not have to fight this bottle. Take up your positions; stand firm and see the deliverance the Lord will give you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Go out to face them tomorrow, and the Lord will be with you."
Taking in the sites
We left the Moscow Marriott Tverskaya hotel with Anna and headed to the Metro. The subway 
system here is beautifully designed, complete with marble floors and chandelier lighting. Each stop has a different look.
system here is beautifully designed, complete with marble floors and chandelier lighting. Each stop has a different look.Our stop was at Red Square. We walked and talked with Anna, she is very knowledgeable of the history of Moscow. We watched the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier. Very cool. The Kremlin was closed to visitation for the day, so Anna said we could try again tomorrow or Saturday.
We stopped a St. Basil's Cathedral for a visit. The building is fascinating. The age of the 
structure itself is amazing. The artwork in each of the seven chapels are very old. The history of of our country, though old, can't hold a candle to the "centuries" of history here. Anna was very informative about the Russian Orthodox Religion as we walked through the different chapels and she spoke about the Icons (the pictures painted of the Saints, Holy Family, etc), as well as the Relics (St Basil's bones in a tomb).
structure itself is amazing. The artwork in each of the seven chapels are very old. The history of of our country, though old, can't hold a candle to the "centuries" of history here. Anna was very informative about the Russian Orthodox Religion as we walked through the different chapels and she spoke about the Icons (the pictures painted of the Saints, Holy Family, etc), as well as the Relics (St Basil's bones in a tomb).Outside St. Basil's, across Red square, we could see the clock tower entrance to the Kremlin and Lenin's tomb. We chose not to visit Lenin's tomb, kind of creepy, and a long line.
We then walked to Christ the Saviour Cathedral, once destroyed by Stalin in 1930 to make way 
for a skyscraper. When it was later discovered the soil was too soft to support such a structure, a swimming pool was built. In 1997, a new cathedral was opened. The inside of this building is beautiful with much painting and sculpting of marble, and an exact replica of the building that Stalin had demolished. We spent a lot of time inside just marveling at the design and dedication to detail. Services are held daily in the Lower level, and for special occasions- like Christmas, and the holiest of all days- Easter, upstairs.
for a skyscraper. When it was later discovered the soil was too soft to support such a structure, a swimming pool was built. In 1997, a new cathedral was opened. The inside of this building is beautiful with much painting and sculpting of marble, and an exact replica of the building that Stalin had demolished. We spent a lot of time inside just marveling at the design and dedication to detail. Services are held daily in the Lower level, and for special occasions- like Christmas, and the holiest of all days- Easter, upstairs. After a quick trip back on the Metro, we had dinner at Sabarro's Moscow style with Anna. She seemed as interested in us and what life is like for us in the states as we were in her and what life is like in Russia.
We are now sitting in our room, catching up on email and recording the days events, looking forward to what tomorrow may hold.
Did I mention that the bed is comfortable? Oh, and we have a towel warmer in the bathroom- helps in the drying of clothes when you wash them in the sink :)
Moscow Day 2
We got up this morning and saved some snapshots of video of our son on Tim's IPod. How cool is that? He clipped the parts where he is laughing with us. It will be so wonderful to have this video as we count the days until we can hold and cuddle him again, and claim him as our own.
We had a huge breakfast at the buffet downstairs and prepared for our excursion out today. It was raining quite steadily in the am, so we were very grateful when it stopped before 11.
We went to the front desk to see if our papers were in yet. In Russia, you have to be registered in whatever area you travel in. The hotel, fortunately, can take care of this for you. Otherwise, you'd have to visit the consulate to register yourself. Unfortunately, they just changed the policy, and now it takes a day to do this, so we'll check back later. This paperwork must be with you at all times in case you are stopped by the police. We certainly take our land of Liberty for granted. The police checked Vladimir's papers before letting us leave the airport yesterday morning. I was so thankful that it was just a check!
As we were standing in the lobby, we saw a woman come in. She approached us and said hello that she was Anna. She seemed very pleasant, showing us pictures of her son and asking about ours. We were able to show her the video, with the precious footing of him laughing. She wasn't able to hear the sound- but she could see his laughing face :)
We had a huge breakfast at the buffet downstairs and prepared for our excursion out today. It was raining quite steadily in the am, so we were very grateful when it stopped before 11.
We went to the front desk to see if our papers were in yet. In Russia, you have to be registered in whatever area you travel in. The hotel, fortunately, can take care of this for you. Otherwise, you'd have to visit the consulate to register yourself. Unfortunately, they just changed the policy, and now it takes a day to do this, so we'll check back later. This paperwork must be with you at all times in case you are stopped by the police. We certainly take our land of Liberty for granted. The police checked Vladimir's papers before letting us leave the airport yesterday morning. I was so thankful that it was just a check!
As we were standing in the lobby, we saw a woman come in. She approached us and said hello that she was Anna. She seemed very pleasant, showing us pictures of her son and asking about ours. We were able to show her the video, with the precious footing of him laughing. She wasn't able to hear the sound- but she could see his laughing face :)
Moscow Day 1
We got our bags, drove around the airport (about 10 minutes) and dropped off Phillip and the Goeppners for their flight home. Vladimir was our driver again- it was so great to see a familiar face :) He took us out on the "second road" to avoid the downtown traffic as much as possible. It was so nice to get a different view and see the "'burbs" of Mosow. Some houses appeared to be nothing more than shacks, some were very similar to what we'd see in America, and many, as we grew closer to the city, looked like small mansions. We also drove by many wooded areas. How nice that was!
Traffic is absolutely insane in downtown Moscow. We had heard that it was crazy, but hadn't experienced it until we were actually downtown. Apparently, there are 2 or 3 main roads closed, so everyone is using different roads, going in loops- Kinda reminded us of the intersection in Haiti- 5 roads coming from all different directions- merging to get everyone where they are going. We were so glad we didn't have to drive!
Then we got to the hotel. WOW!! It is so beautiful! Vaulted ceilings, cherry furniture, a beautiful, comfortable bed, very nice bathroom- with wash cloths and big bath towels. The lobby has glass elevators- marble everywhere. We feel so pampered and spoiled! Philip said he'd call us in the evening to let us know about Thurs- so we had the whole day to ourselves.
We went to the restaurant and ate breakfast, came back, and then...We took a nap! I slept for several hours. Did I mention how comfortable the bed is? In the middle of our nap, Philip called to let us know Anna, his wife, would meet us at 11 in the morning to be our guide and interpreter.
Then, when we woke up, we went for a walk to the grocery store down the road. It is quite different from ours in the states. There are many similar elements, but very different. We were trying to figure out what was available here, so we'd know what we would need to bring on our next trip for our son.
By this time it was dinner time, so we went back to the restaurant and had dinner- which lasted 3 hours!! Quite yummy! Why is it we are always sooo rushed when we eat at home? It was a very nice change, as we had to wait for the bill, to sit, sip tea and talk abou our lives and all that has been happening over the last few weeks, and especially about our son.
Believe it or not, then we went to bed. I slept like a baby- until about 8 the next morning. Tim was awake most of the early morning hours, after 3. Our bodies don't quite know what to make of all this time zone jumping. Looking forward to seeing the sites!
Traffic is absolutely insane in downtown Moscow. We had heard that it was crazy, but hadn't experienced it until we were actually downtown. Apparently, there are 2 or 3 main roads closed, so everyone is using different roads, going in loops- Kinda reminded us of the intersection in Haiti- 5 roads coming from all different directions- merging to get everyone where they are going. We were so glad we didn't have to drive!
Then we got to the hotel. WOW!! It is so beautiful! Vaulted ceilings, cherry furniture, a beautiful, comfortable bed, very nice bathroom- with wash cloths and big bath towels. The lobby has glass elevators- marble everywhere. We feel so pampered and spoiled! Philip said he'd call us in the evening to let us know about Thurs- so we had the whole day to ourselves.
We went to the restaurant and ate breakfast, came back, and then...We took a nap! I slept for several hours. Did I mention how comfortable the bed is? In the middle of our nap, Philip called to let us know Anna, his wife, would meet us at 11 in the morning to be our guide and interpreter.
Then, when we woke up, we went for a walk to the grocery store down the road. It is quite different from ours in the states. There are many similar elements, but very different. We were trying to figure out what was available here, so we'd know what we would need to bring on our next trip for our son.
By this time it was dinner time, so we went back to the restaurant and had dinner- which lasted 3 hours!! Quite yummy! Why is it we are always sooo rushed when we eat at home? It was a very nice change, as we had to wait for the bill, to sit, sip tea and talk abou our lives and all that has been happening over the last few weeks, and especially about our son.
Believe it or not, then we went to bed. I slept like a baby- until about 8 the next morning. Tim was awake most of the early morning hours, after 3. Our bodies don't quite know what to make of all this time zone jumping. Looking forward to seeing the sites!
Flight to Moscow
We met in the lobby at the Krasnoyarsk hotel at 4:30. After a long ride to the airport, we arrived, unloaded and went in to the lobby. We were so glad to have Yelena and Sergey with us. She took all our passports and tickets and checked us in. Fortunately, none of us had luggage that was overweight.
We walked through the doors to the right, put our shoes, coats and bags through the scanners, waved goodbye to Yelena and Sergey, and headed over to the holding tank (gate). It is hard to imagine what it feels like to be in a foreign land, not able to read or understand the language around you, and wonder if the overhead announcements are for you or for your flight. The area we were in was poorly lit, many people sitting very quietly all around. We were quite the oddity. We'd taken off our jackets and were talking and laughing a little. When the time came to board, we saw people stand up, so we did the same, stepping out into the night air, waiting en masse to board the plane.
We flew on Aeroflot. The plane was older, with very small seats, narrow aisles and very little storage space. Tim and I ended up with our 2 carryons on the floor talking up our foot space. O boy, we thought- 4 1/2 hours- we can handle it :0) Then, the lady in front of me put her chair back. It was quite a humorous moment. I actually could breath down her neck by leaning forward 5 or 6 inches. I thought about laying my head on her seat to sleep.
They served a hot "lunch" on the plane around 8am Kras time. When they came to serve the food, the stewardess made the woman put her seat up- she wasn't able to put the food on my tray, since the woman was in my lap.;0) Though restless, the flight was uneventful.
As we followed everyone off the plane and wound through the terminal we were praying we were headed the right way and would soon find our luggage and Philip, who would be taking care of us. We arrived at the baggage claim area, and after a few minutes, a gentleman came up to us and said, "Hello, are you flying in from Krasnoyarsk?" It was Philip. Apparently, we are very easy to pick out from the Russian crowd :)
We walked through the doors to the right, put our shoes, coats and bags through the scanners, waved goodbye to Yelena and Sergey, and headed over to the holding tank (gate). It is hard to imagine what it feels like to be in a foreign land, not able to read or understand the language around you, and wonder if the overhead announcements are for you or for your flight. The area we were in was poorly lit, many people sitting very quietly all around. We were quite the oddity. We'd taken off our jackets and were talking and laughing a little. When the time came to board, we saw people stand up, so we did the same, stepping out into the night air, waiting en masse to board the plane.
We flew on Aeroflot. The plane was older, with very small seats, narrow aisles and very little storage space. Tim and I ended up with our 2 carryons on the floor talking up our foot space. O boy, we thought- 4 1/2 hours- we can handle it :0) Then, the lady in front of me put her chair back. It was quite a humorous moment. I actually could breath down her neck by leaning forward 5 or 6 inches. I thought about laying my head on her seat to sleep.
They served a hot "lunch" on the plane around 8am Kras time. When they came to serve the food, the stewardess made the woman put her seat up- she wasn't able to put the food on my tray, since the woman was in my lap.;0) Though restless, the flight was uneventful.
As we followed everyone off the plane and wound through the terminal we were praying we were headed the right way and would soon find our luggage and Philip, who would be taking care of us. We arrived at the baggage claim area, and after a few minutes, a gentleman came up to us and said, "Hello, are you flying in from Krasnoyarsk?" It was Philip. Apparently, we are very easy to pick out from the Russian crowd :)
Krasnoyarsk Day 2
After leaving baby home number 5 (and part of our hearts), we drove back into Krasnoyarsk. The countryside was pretty amazing, dotted with small villages. The houses are all so different in many ways, and yet, the same as home.
After we left Galena's office, we went to the notary and officially accepted Sergey as our referral. We went in, one couple at a time, and they made sure we knew what we were signing. The most exciting news this day, I think, was that his name would be officially removed from the official data bank for adoption. We didn't think this would happen until our final court date and 10 day wait was complete. Soo exciting!! Our first official step in Russia to bring home our son.
We went to Moma Roma's for lunch- the business lunch buffet. It was a beautiful place- the staff was extremely efficient and kind. We were able to check our coats in on the lower level. The food were tastes of Karanoyarsk. Many things we were not familiar with. With help from Yelena and Marina, we were able to discover some of the local foods. The wood all around the quaint dining room looked like dark cherry or mahogany, with, what looked like marble tile on the floor and walls. The top step going downstairs to the restroom and coatcheck was a little shorter than the rest- but fortunately, none of us practiced flying on our own.
After we finished with lunch, our driver (another Sergey) took us to a little chapel that overlooked the city, The Chapel On the Hill. What a beautiful site from the top of the hill. With snow in the air, visibility was limited, but still very pretty.
There is also a very large cannon, just below the chapel. Marina told us they shoot the cannon each day at noon. I laughingly said I bet the people below in the town were glad it was a blank, to which she replied they really don't like it. The percussion of the cannon going off sets off all the car alarms in the area :)
Then on to a shop that sold souvenir things, mostly created by local talent. Marina helped with the communications and recommended several things of which she knew some history. We were able to get a matruska (sp?) doll painted by a local artist in Krasnoyarsk with the local buildings on the dolls and also a disk full of pictures from the sights around Krasnoyarsk.
Someone mentioned "chocolate", so we stopped at a chocolate shop located across the street from the courthouse where we will go for our adoption hearing for Sergey, during our second trip to Krasnoyarsk. We bought a box set of chocolate. Marina, being the thoughtful person she is, purchased some chocolate pieces and gave us each several to try so we could sample the chocolates made from fruit in Krasnoyarsk.
And then, almost suddenly, we were back at the hotel. And I realized it was goodbye! We would not see Marina again on this trip. So, we said good bye and Tim was able to get a quick shot of the 2 of us before we left.
Tim had purchased a pass earlier in the morning to use the internet . So, when we got back to the room, we sat down and I typed out our posts for the last few days while Tim worked on packing things up. He then went on line and posted them. I, on the other hand, after having taken medication to help me sleep zonked out completely.
It really isn't very late here, around 8:30 p.m. But, it seems like we have been awake for several days in a row. Our return flight to Moscow is at 7:10 a.m. and Yelena says they will pick us up at 4:30 a.m.:P
On to Moscow!
After we left Galena's office, we went to the notary and officially accepted Sergey as our referral. We went in, one couple at a time, and they made sure we knew what we were signing. The most exciting news this day, I think, was that his name would be officially removed from the official data bank for adoption. We didn't think this would happen until our final court date and 10 day wait was complete. Soo exciting!! Our first official step in Russia to bring home our son.
We went to Moma Roma's for lunch- the business lunch buffet. It was a beautiful place- the staff was extremely efficient and kind. We were able to check our coats in on the lower level. The food were tastes of Karanoyarsk. Many things we were not familiar with. With help from Yelena and Marina, we were able to discover some of the local foods. The wood all around the quaint dining room looked like dark cherry or mahogany, with, what looked like marble tile on the floor and walls. The top step going downstairs to the restroom and coatcheck was a little shorter than the rest- but fortunately, none of us practiced flying on our own.
After we finished with lunch, our driver (another Sergey) took us to a little chapel that overlooked the city, The Chapel On the Hill. What a beautiful site from the top of the hill. With snow in the air, visibility was limited, but still very pretty.
Marina was able to give us some history on the chapel, and we were able to go in and look around. She then showed us where she lived, down in Krasnoyarsk. We have really enjoyed talking to her the last 2 days. She is the kind of person you feel you've known your whole life. We are soo thankful she was our translator on this trip- and hope we have her on the next one.
There were padlocks on the fence surrounding the chapel with people's names and dates engraved on them. We found out these are the couples that got married at the chapel. Before they would tie ribbons in the trees surrounding the chapel for good luck, but now everyone seems to be using these locks so they can't be removed. There is such a lack of graffiti here, it is quite amazing. Everything is very clean!There is also a very large cannon, just below the chapel. Marina told us they shoot the cannon each day at noon. I laughingly said I bet the people below in the town were glad it was a blank, to which she replied they really don't like it. The percussion of the cannon going off sets off all the car alarms in the area :)
Then on to a shop that sold souvenir things, mostly created by local talent. Marina helped with the communications and recommended several things of which she knew some history. We were able to get a matruska (sp?) doll painted by a local artist in Krasnoyarsk with the local buildings on the dolls and also a disk full of pictures from the sights around Krasnoyarsk.
Someone mentioned "chocolate", so we stopped at a chocolate shop located across the street from the courthouse where we will go for our adoption hearing for Sergey, during our second trip to Krasnoyarsk. We bought a box set of chocolate. Marina, being the thoughtful person she is, purchased some chocolate pieces and gave us each several to try so we could sample the chocolates made from fruit in Krasnoyarsk.
And then, almost suddenly, we were back at the hotel. And I realized it was goodbye! We would not see Marina again on this trip. So, we said good bye and Tim was able to get a quick shot of the 2 of us before we left.Tim had purchased a pass earlier in the morning to use the internet . So, when we got back to the room, we sat down and I typed out our posts for the last few days while Tim worked on packing things up. He then went on line and posted them. I, on the other hand, after having taken medication to help me sleep zonked out completely.
It really isn't very late here, around 8:30 p.m. But, it seems like we have been awake for several days in a row. Our return flight to Moscow is at 7:10 a.m. and Yelena says they will pick us up at 4:30 a.m.:P
On to Moscow!
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Sosovnoborsk day 2
This morning I woke refreshed and ready to go around 5-5:30. We met the Goeppners for breakfast (Boy were the candy bars good :))and headed on out to Sosnovoborsk again. The trip seems so long, especially in the pre-morning dark.
When we arrived, we were told that since we were early, we could go ahead and play with the children, and talk to Galena afterwards. This time when they brought in Sergey, he cried like he'd lost his best friend for several minutes. It was probably only 5- but it's the 5 minutes that last forever. Again, the stacking toy saved the day... :)
Once he quieted down, we went back over to the couch area. Though he still wanted to get up and go off and play, he seemed content to stay with us and play. He looked at his picture book- and seemed excited about Cobaka. He looked at all the pages. We took off his shoes and socks and traced his foot to get a size reference.
That, along with the crackers Penny shared with us for him, seemed to break the ice. We took off his outfit and tried on the 2 that we brought. The 12 month was just a touch too small- when he leaned over, the side buttons snapped open :) The other outfit, 18m in size was missized. The onsie was too small and the jacket to go over it, too big. I thought he didn't like the hat, but, when watching from a different view- I think he may have been trying it on himself :)
The most amazing thing happened while we were putting his clothes on. I had him on the floor to fasten the snaps, leaned over, tickled and kissed him, and he laughed!!! OK, this was amazing. I don't think even I have any idea what that belly laugh did to my heart. I'm tearing up right now, just thinking about this.
Tim and I tickled and cuddled, pounded on the xylophone and looked at pictures with Sergey, but way, way, way, way too soon, they came back and got him. It was time for his nap- so we only got to see him for a mere hour today. It was so disappointing!! :(
When we arrived, we were told that since we were early, we could go ahead and play with the children, and talk to Galena afterwards. This time when they brought in Sergey, he cried like he'd lost his best friend for several minutes. It was probably only 5- but it's the 5 minutes that last forever. Again, the stacking toy saved the day... :)
Once he quieted down, we went back over to the couch area. Though he still wanted to get up and go off and play, he seemed content to stay with us and play. He looked at his picture book- and seemed excited about Cobaka. He looked at all the pages. We took off his shoes and socks and traced his foot to get a size reference.
That, along with the crackers Penny shared with us for him, seemed to break the ice. We took off his outfit and tried on the 2 that we brought. The 12 month was just a touch too small- when he leaned over, the side buttons snapped open :) The other outfit, 18m in size was missized. The onsie was too small and the jacket to go over it, too big. I thought he didn't like the hat, but, when watching from a different view- I think he may have been trying it on himself :)
The most amazing thing happened while we were putting his clothes on. I had him on the floor to fasten the snaps, leaned over, tickled and kissed him, and he laughed!!! OK, this was amazing. I don't think even I have any idea what that belly laugh did to my heart. I'm tearing up right now, just thinking about this.
Tim and I tickled and cuddled, pounded on the xylophone and looked at pictures with Sergey, but way, way, way, way too soon, they came back and got him. It was time for his nap- so we only got to see him for a mere hour today. It was so disappointing!! :(
The one good thing about him leaving was his caregiver. She sat down with him for a few minutes and did a rhyme, or clapping game- not too sure with the language barrier, but he laughed and clapped and rubbed his hands and put his hands on his head, pointed to his ears, eyes and nose when told, laughed and looked like a totally different child. Can't wait to see him respond to us that way!! Can't wait to spend enough time with him that he feels comfortable with us like that!!
But, Tim was able to video tape for the Goeppners, who are adopting 2 sons. They were able to stay with their parents for almost an extra hour. After about 1/2 an hour of wondering what we should do now, Yelena came in and got us and we went to Galena's office to ask any questions and find out more about Sergey. We found out some great things, which we can't post until after the adoption is complete- but nothing new was brought out with any health concerns, and they were able to answer questions about our next trip and what would happen.
Sosnovoborsk day 1
And then, amazingly, we left for Sosnovoborsk. Marina and I chatted quite a bit on the way there. She is such a lovely woman. We were really glad that she was our interpreter. She told us that Sosnovoborsk was actually founded when the factory was built there. The housing was for the workers. It means something like the city in the pine trees, or surrounded by pine trees. We saw these on the other side of the city. They had their first snow fall of the season on Sunday night- so we got to see a beautiful landscape, complete with snow. Sosnovoborsk has the largest babyhome in Russia. Where most baby homes have 60 children, Sosnovoborsk has 150 or more- up to 180 we heard.
We arrived at a nondescript building, parked and went in. On entering, we saw the old swimming pool area that we had seen in several other folk's pictures. We exchanged shoes for slippers and headed down the hall and up the stairs. At the end of the next hall upstairs was a very spacious room called the Music Room. There was a piano, couches and a large playing area, and the carpet we saw in the referral pics. We kinda stood around, nervous, yet feeling great anticipation. I was afraid I would burst out in tears at any moment. We had a chance to meet Galena, the doctor and director of the orphanage. She is an amazing woman, knowing all the children and caregivers by name.
We arrived at a nondescript building, parked and went in. On entering, we saw the old swimming pool area that we had seen in several other folk's pictures. We exchanged shoes for slippers and headed down the hall and up the stairs. At the end of the next hall upstairs was a very spacious room called the Music Room. There was a piano, couches and a large playing area, and the carpet we saw in the referral pics. We kinda stood around, nervous, yet feeling great anticipation. I was afraid I would burst out in tears at any moment. We had a chance to meet Galena, the doctor and director of the orphanage. She is an amazing woman, knowing all the children and caregivers by name.
Then the door opened. One of the caregivers walked in with Sergey on her hip. I knew him immediately from the pictures. She came over and set him down next to the table and put a stacking toy next to him. "Come on, Mama- come play, Papa" she said to us. Tim and I went over and, trying to keep from tearing up, began to play with our son for the first time. "Behold what manner of love the Father has given unto us" and I got a very large dose of "He loved us even before He knew us". Thank you, God! It was hard not to give in to urge to bawl like a baby, sitting there, finally holding our son, whom we had been waiting sooo long to meet.
Sergey loves to stack.. The stacking toy played music each time you put a ring on. He is also a budding musician. He loves the xylophone. We sat on the floor and as he pounded away on the xylophone, I pulled over the bear we had brought, and snuck it up to him to give a kiss. He kept pounding away with his right hand, and without looking reached over and grabbed the bear by the head. I thought he was going to throw him out of the way, but he brought the bear up to his face, and gave himself several more kisses from the bear. He began to try to get away from us- not running, just picking up the toy he was playing with and moving to other side of the room. We soon found out why. He made a little face, and I thought I heard a toot. Then another. Then more noises. Tim was very proud of his boy for the volume of noise and smell :0) lol Very soon one of his caregivers came back to get him and wash him up. He was gone for a while, and when he came back in, with his striped outfit he had on for the referral pictures, began to cry when the caregiver left. What a heartbreak to hear your son cry and not know the language to console him. We got him distracted with more stacking toys, and soon we were playing peek a boo and bounce the ball. It was so precious to see Tim holding his son. I leaned over his shoulder to play peek-a-boo, and thought my heart would bust as we heard the little giggles come from our son. The highlight was when he saw himself in the camera and waved to himself. He even began to feel comfortable enough with us that he began to babble a little. Not sure if it was Russian or baby talk. Can't wait to hear more! And all too soon, the caregiver came back for Sergey. It was so sad to see him go, but we knew we'd be back the next day.
We stopped at California Pizza, and had pizza and Coca Cola before we came back to the hotel. The pizza was pretty good! Boy were we tired. Don't think we've actually slept more than a few hours since we left Sat. Tim downloaded the videocamera, and I got the gifts together. We fell into bed exhausted around 10:00 and got up at 5:30 to get ready for what the morning holds.
Sergey loves to stack.. The stacking toy played music each time you put a ring on. He is also a budding musician. He loves the xylophone. We sat on the floor and as he pounded away on the xylophone, I pulled over the bear we had brought, and snuck it up to him to give a kiss. He kept pounding away with his right hand, and without looking reached over and grabbed the bear by the head. I thought he was going to throw him out of the way, but he brought the bear up to his face, and gave himself several more kisses from the bear. He began to try to get away from us- not running, just picking up the toy he was playing with and moving to other side of the room. We soon found out why. He made a little face, and I thought I heard a toot. Then another. Then more noises. Tim was very proud of his boy for the volume of noise and smell :0) lol Very soon one of his caregivers came back to get him and wash him up. He was gone for a while, and when he came back in, with his striped outfit he had on for the referral pictures, began to cry when the caregiver left. What a heartbreak to hear your son cry and not know the language to console him. We got him distracted with more stacking toys, and soon we were playing peek a boo and bounce the ball. It was so precious to see Tim holding his son. I leaned over his shoulder to play peek-a-boo, and thought my heart would bust as we heard the little giggles come from our son. The highlight was when he saw himself in the camera and waved to himself. He even began to feel comfortable enough with us that he began to babble a little. Not sure if it was Russian or baby talk. Can't wait to hear more! And all too soon, the caregiver came back for Sergey. It was so sad to see him go, but we knew we'd be back the next day.
We stopped at California Pizza, and had pizza and Coca Cola before we came back to the hotel. The pizza was pretty good! Boy were we tired. Don't think we've actually slept more than a few hours since we left Sat. Tim downloaded the videocamera, and I got the gifts together. We fell into bed exhausted around 10:00 and got up at 5:30 to get ready for what the morning holds.
Krasnoyarsk Day 1
Wow- The last two days have flown by faster than a shooting star.
We arrived at 5:30am in Krasnoyarsk, after an extremely cramped trip on our Aeroflot plane from Moscow. It was amazing trying to eat our little meal, with our little fork and spoon, on the little tray, with little room. My knees almost touched the seat in front of me- can't imagine how a tall person would feel. The engine was shut completely off when we landed- making for quite a sureal ending to our flight. It was earily quiet, no one talking loudly and very dark. We walked down the steps and followed the people off the tarmac, through a gate in the fence and around through the snow, past the parking area to baggage. Penny and I stood at the end of the room, waiting for the guys to bring the luggage.
After a few minutes, a very attractive woman came up to us and said, "Hello." It was such a welcome word! Tim later told me she came up behind them and said, "Hi, Guys!" They wanted to know how she knew who they were- and she said- easy! She took us out to the van to wait while the men collected the luggage. We began to pray earnestly when they didn't show up after quite a few minutes. Then we realized that our luggage was probably the first on the plane- thus the last off. Sergey and Yelena and the guys came out with all our luggage :O) and we headed on out for the Krasnoyarsk Hotel. When we arrived Yelena took our passports and checked us into the hotel. In Russia, one must be registered in the region they are staying in within 72 hours of arriving. Fortunately, the hotel takes care of this for us.
Our room is quite nice. We are on the 7th floor with a beautiful view of the Yeseny river and bridge and a little courtyard outside the ballet and opera theater. We have a king size bed, desk, closet, fridge and tv. And, for a small fee, internet service :)
We came to our rooms and knew we had our appointments with the MOE (Ministry of Education) at 2:00. Since our rooms come with a free breakfast, we headed on over there to grab a bite to eat. We came back to the room and took an all too brief nap.
We arrived at 5:30am in Krasnoyarsk, after an extremely cramped trip on our Aeroflot plane from Moscow. It was amazing trying to eat our little meal, with our little fork and spoon, on the little tray, with little room. My knees almost touched the seat in front of me- can't imagine how a tall person would feel. The engine was shut completely off when we landed- making for quite a sureal ending to our flight. It was earily quiet, no one talking loudly and very dark. We walked down the steps and followed the people off the tarmac, through a gate in the fence and around through the snow, past the parking area to baggage. Penny and I stood at the end of the room, waiting for the guys to bring the luggage.
After a few minutes, a very attractive woman came up to us and said, "Hello." It was such a welcome word! Tim later told me she came up behind them and said, "Hi, Guys!" They wanted to know how she knew who they were- and she said- easy! She took us out to the van to wait while the men collected the luggage. We began to pray earnestly when they didn't show up after quite a few minutes. Then we realized that our luggage was probably the first on the plane- thus the last off. Sergey and Yelena and the guys came out with all our luggage :O) and we headed on out for the Krasnoyarsk Hotel. When we arrived Yelena took our passports and checked us into the hotel. In Russia, one must be registered in the region they are staying in within 72 hours of arriving. Fortunately, the hotel takes care of this for us.
Our room is quite nice. We are on the 7th floor with a beautiful view of the Yeseny river and bridge and a little courtyard outside the ballet and opera theater. We have a king size bed, desk, closet, fridge and tv. And, for a small fee, internet service :)
We came to our rooms and knew we had our appointments with the MOE (Ministry of Education) at 2:00. Since our rooms come with a free breakfast, we headed on over there to grab a bite to eat. We came back to the room and took an all too brief nap.
I can't even explain how suddenly nervous I felt. I knew we needed to pray, and was so comforted when Tim and I quietly prayed in our room before going out to meet with the Goeppners. What an awesome presence it was that went before us!
We met in the lobby and prayed with the Goeppners and then headed on out, after Yelena got our passports back from the hotel clerk. We went to the MOE and were all ushered into a small office with 2 ladies, Galena and Tatiana, our interepreter Marina, whom we met in the van on the way to the office, and Yelena. The process was surprisingly painless. Galena spoke for a few minutes to make sure we understood what was about to happen, and then asked us a few questions. What made you choose Russia? What do you do? What is your family like? How long did it take you to complete your dossier? She was very friendly and engaging. When she was finished, Tatiana went through the information about the documents we were to sign to accept our referrals. She then showed us some additional pictures, gave us the actual birthdates and full names of our children. She explained that after we met the children we would go to the notary and formally accept our referrals.
Moscow airport
We have arrived...or should I say, we arrived around eight hours ago. For this posting it is 7:30 p.m. Moscow time, 12:30 p.m. EST. Depending on internet service, we will upload this to the blog then. DST Russia happened this morning at 2:00 a.m while we were somewhere over the North Atlantic Sea. Delta airlines was a little tight on the leg room, but the staff was very nice, maybe that should offset one another. Flight service included dinner last night and light breakfast this morning. That was a nice change in the "routine" during the 8.5 hr. flight.
We arrived in Moscow airport, and, with our new friends we met sitting in front of us who are returning for their court date, and our other couple from our adoption agency, we made our way off the plane into the airport. I must admit, I felt a high level of fear here. It took quite a few pep talks with God as we walked off the gangplank into the unknown. We wound around through the airport, following signs in russian, very glad this other couple had taken us under their wing. We came down the steps to a large room with the little custom booths at the far end.
The couple I mentioned earlier was with the 4 of us. The wife leaned over to me and said how nice this was. The last time she had been here it was dark and chaotic. They had put in a dropped ceiling and lighting and painted lines on the ground so everyone was standing in orderly lines, waiting their turn to enter the Motherland. We made it through without incident and followed the crowd to get our luggage.
We stepped outside the area where the luggage was, and there was a man holding a sign that said Swingle/Goeppner. It was Vladimir :) He speaks little English- but a whole lot more English than we speak Russian :) He loaded us up and we drove about 1 mile to the Novotel Hotel.
Wow- it was amazing! It had the large lobby that extends to the roof with the glass elevators to ride up to your room. It was very posh! Vladimir handed me his phone, motioning for me to talk. I said, "Hello?" and found I was talking to Phillip, the gentleman who made all our arrangments. He had items for us to take with us to Krasnoyarsk- paperwork and such, and he said when to meet Vladimir later that evening to go back to the airport for the next flight.
We had adjoining rooms with the Goeppners. We really enjoyed our time with them. We shared our photos of our sons and spoke back and forth between the rooms until we both settled in for some shut eye.
We enjoyed a nice Russian version of Don Pepe's mexicano at the Novotel hotel just before we checked out.
Currently, we are waiting in very smoke laden Moscow airport for AeroFlot flight #779 to Krasnoyarsk. The airport here is sort of confusing for us non-Russian speaking folks. Vladamir, our driver was a Huge blessing to make certain we are were we needed to be and standing in
the correct line.
We arrived around 10:00 a.m. this morning, checked into the Novotel hotel and crashed. Sleeping on the aircraft in totally over rated. Checked out of the non smoke filled hotel at 6:15 p.m., to wait in a hazy environment. We should arrive in Krasnoyarsk around 6:00 a.m.
Monday morning. Not sure if we will be able to stop at our hotel before the MOE appointment, so we are dressed for the occasion. Praying the next flight will be kind to the business attire.
The weather has been very overcast today. The temperature is about 30 degrees F. Forecast for Krasnoyarsk is calling for measurable snow during our three days visit. Chris and Penny Goeppner are excited about the snow, being from south Florida. We are tired, but on the flip side, very excited about seeing our son for the first time. The MOE meeting will be torture! God willing, it will be short and we will get to spend as much time as possible tomorrow with him.
We arrived in Moscow airport, and, with our new friends we met sitting in front of us who are returning for their court date, and our other couple from our adoption agency, we made our way off the plane into the airport. I must admit, I felt a high level of fear here. It took quite a few pep talks with God as we walked off the gangplank into the unknown. We wound around through the airport, following signs in russian, very glad this other couple had taken us under their wing. We came down the steps to a large room with the little custom booths at the far end.
The couple I mentioned earlier was with the 4 of us. The wife leaned over to me and said how nice this was. The last time she had been here it was dark and chaotic. They had put in a dropped ceiling and lighting and painted lines on the ground so everyone was standing in orderly lines, waiting their turn to enter the Motherland. We made it through without incident and followed the crowd to get our luggage.
We stepped outside the area where the luggage was, and there was a man holding a sign that said Swingle/Goeppner. It was Vladimir :) He speaks little English- but a whole lot more English than we speak Russian :) He loaded us up and we drove about 1 mile to the Novotel Hotel.
Wow- it was amazing! It had the large lobby that extends to the roof with the glass elevators to ride up to your room. It was very posh! Vladimir handed me his phone, motioning for me to talk. I said, "Hello?" and found I was talking to Phillip, the gentleman who made all our arrangments. He had items for us to take with us to Krasnoyarsk- paperwork and such, and he said when to meet Vladimir later that evening to go back to the airport for the next flight.
We had adjoining rooms with the Goeppners. We really enjoyed our time with them. We shared our photos of our sons and spoke back and forth between the rooms until we both settled in for some shut eye.
We enjoyed a nice Russian version of Don Pepe's mexicano at the Novotel hotel just before we checked out.
Currently, we are waiting in very smoke laden Moscow airport for AeroFlot flight #779 to Krasnoyarsk. The airport here is sort of confusing for us non-Russian speaking folks. Vladamir, our driver was a Huge blessing to make certain we are were we needed to be and standing in
the correct line.
We arrived around 10:00 a.m. this morning, checked into the Novotel hotel and crashed. Sleeping on the aircraft in totally over rated. Checked out of the non smoke filled hotel at 6:15 p.m., to wait in a hazy environment. We should arrive in Krasnoyarsk around 6:00 a.m.
Monday morning. Not sure if we will be able to stop at our hotel before the MOE appointment, so we are dressed for the occasion. Praying the next flight will be kind to the business attire.
The weather has been very overcast today. The temperature is about 30 degrees F. Forecast for Krasnoyarsk is calling for measurable snow during our three days visit. Chris and Penny Goeppner are excited about the snow, being from south Florida. We are tired, but on the flip side, very excited about seeing our son for the first time. The MOE meeting will be torture! God willing, it will be short and we will get to spend as much time as possible tomorrow with him.
Saturday, October 27, 2007
In the Port Columbus Airport
I can't even begin to describe the beauty of the morning. We woke early and loaded everything in the car and headed out for the airport. The ride there was nothing short of amazing. There were dark grey storm clouds in the distance, with the brilliant morning fall sun setting all the trees on fire around us. What an amazing picture that made, blazened on my mind. It was so beautiful! What a gift to start us out on our journey with!
We stopped at the fire station in Whitehall where Tim works. One of his fellow employees was going to give us a ride to the airport, just 5 minutes up the road. We met a man there with his son who had been adopted from the same baby home our son is from a few years earlier. He let us borrow a few phrase books and sent some pictures with us for Yelena, the coordinator in Krasnoyarsk. It was very interesting to be able to talk to him about what he had experienced at the same place 3 or 4 years ago. His son was fascinated with the equipment, so Tim showed him around. He just turned 8. They live in Columbus now, we met them through the International Ohio Adoption yahoo chat group.
Well, we are sitting here in the airport- with about an hour before we board the plane. Whooo hoooo- we have Internet here and power- so, we're trying to see if we can get all our addresses and such sorted out before we go to make posting easier and quicker while in Russia. We
made it through the first check just fine- had breakfast, sipped some Latte, read some mail- I guess we didn't really need to be here so early after all.......But, hey, it's the first chance we've had to just sit and relax for the last 10 days since we found out about our son. So, hopefully this works, and we'll be able to keep in touch with everyone while we are halfway around the world. Until next blog.......
We stopped at the fire station in Whitehall where Tim works. One of his fellow employees was going to give us a ride to the airport, just 5 minutes up the road. We met a man there with his son who had been adopted from the same baby home our son is from a few years earlier. He let us borrow a few phrase books and sent some pictures with us for Yelena, the coordinator in Krasnoyarsk. It was very interesting to be able to talk to him about what he had experienced at the same place 3 or 4 years ago. His son was fascinated with the equipment, so Tim showed him around. He just turned 8. They live in Columbus now, we met them through the International Ohio Adoption yahoo chat group.
Well, we are sitting here in the airport- with about an hour before we board the plane. Whooo hoooo- we have Internet here and power- so, we're trying to see if we can get all our addresses and such sorted out before we go to make posting easier and quicker while in Russia. We
made it through the first check just fine- had breakfast, sipped some Latte, read some mail- I guess we didn't really need to be here so early after all.......But, hey, it's the first chance we've had to just sit and relax for the last 10 days since we found out about our son. So, hopefully this works, and we'll be able to keep in touch with everyone while we are halfway around the world. Until next blog.......
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
The "Hour of Power"
Amazing what a difference an hour can make, isn't it?
I came home from work this afternoon, hoping to make it to the Credit Union in time to withdrawal the cash we need to take with us. They had just received "new" money in, which we need for our journeys around the world.
So, as I am driving home, I am thinking about what we need to pack, what we need to do, what else needs to happen, etc. I know that Tim's mom has already rec'd the packet that has our passports and visas, so I stop there first. They are really neat looking-a sticker that takes up a whole page in our passports.
I head across the way to our house, and in the time it takes to park the car, put down the garage door and walk downstairs, the Fed Ex truck is parked in the driveway!! Now, mind you, I was planning on spending about 15 min at home- just to let the dogs out! And all this took place in less than half an hour!!!!
So, she hands me 2 packages- one containing our tickets for the flight from Moscow to Kras and back, and the second containing the adaptor and surge protector for our electronic equipment. I hadn't even shut the door yet when the phone rang- It was another friend and fellow adoptive mom- She got submitted to the same region we are in!!!! After some hooting and hollering and praising God we chatted for a bit and I drove into Columbus.
The credit union had all we needed, and more. We got a roll of Presidential Dollars to use for tipping. And the cashier was wonderful- she had many great stories to tell of adoption stories and God working in Russia.
And then, to top it all off, as if all this wasn't blessing enough, I stopped at the Fire Station and had dinner with Tim and had some time to talk to him at work.
God, I am so amazed by you. Thank you for calming my fears and answering my prayers so quickly and completely. Thank you for your guidance for the rest of our Journey of Faith.........
I came home from work this afternoon, hoping to make it to the Credit Union in time to withdrawal the cash we need to take with us. They had just received "new" money in, which we need for our journeys around the world.
So, as I am driving home, I am thinking about what we need to pack, what we need to do, what else needs to happen, etc. I know that Tim's mom has already rec'd the packet that has our passports and visas, so I stop there first. They are really neat looking-a sticker that takes up a whole page in our passports.
I head across the way to our house, and in the time it takes to park the car, put down the garage door and walk downstairs, the Fed Ex truck is parked in the driveway!! Now, mind you, I was planning on spending about 15 min at home- just to let the dogs out! And all this took place in less than half an hour!!!!
So, she hands me 2 packages- one containing our tickets for the flight from Moscow to Kras and back, and the second containing the adaptor and surge protector for our electronic equipment. I hadn't even shut the door yet when the phone rang- It was another friend and fellow adoptive mom- She got submitted to the same region we are in!!!! After some hooting and hollering and praising God we chatted for a bit and I drove into Columbus.
The credit union had all we needed, and more. We got a roll of Presidential Dollars to use for tipping. And the cashier was wonderful- she had many great stories to tell of adoption stories and God working in Russia.
And then, to top it all off, as if all this wasn't blessing enough, I stopped at the Fire Station and had dinner with Tim and had some time to talk to him at work.
God, I am so amazed by you. Thank you for calming my fears and answering my prayers so quickly and completely. Thank you for your guidance for the rest of our Journey of Faith.........
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
My view
Thought I would add a photo I found of a bridge over the Yenisey River in Krasnoyarsk.Just ended a conference call with our coordinator Kristen from AWAA and another couple we will be traveling with when we leave JFK airport in New York. The count down clock is running. Soooooo many things to do, organize and verify. Currently, we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of our airline tickets for international travel and in country travel on Aeroflot airlines. Our visas were suppose to arrive today...and haven't yet, though it is still early in California. Maybe tomorrow?
When one puts their schedule together for weeks and months ahead of time, one is never aware of the changes that are to be encountered in moments notice. Although, I know, that God supplies our every need. We are seeing every day how God has been preparing us for this "Little Man" to come into our lives. We go about our day to day tasks, sometimes not giving our full attention to what God is doing in our lives. Then all of a sudden, there He is, in your face, saying "Have you been listening?" Debbie and I are seeing things that He has put in motion for a decade.....A DECADE! Can you say WOW! And folks have the nerve to say "There is no GOD?" I think different.
Monday, October 22, 2007
Baby Boy Swingle
Hey, my sweet little guy,
I was getting stuff ready to meet you, and I realized- We've been waiting for you your whole life!! Even before you were born, we were getting ready for you. We can't wait to see you and hold you and look into your eyes for the first time.
See you soon!!!
Mom and Dad
I was getting stuff ready to meet you, and I realized- We've been waiting for you your whole life!! Even before you were born, we were getting ready for you. We can't wait to see you and hold you and look into your eyes for the first time.
See you soon!!!
Mom and Dad
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Our updated visa pics
We had to update our photos for our visas- so I thought- hey, why not add them- I don't have enough photos on here. I can't wait to post pictures of our son (In the adoption process- this can't be done until he is home with us- so I'm really saying I can't wait to have him home :0D)
So, here we are- sans the smiles- since it is for our Russian visas ;0}
So, here we are- sans the smiles- since it is for our Russian visas ;0}
Saturday, October 20, 2007
The Calm Amidst the Storm
Wow- who ever knew there was so much to this foreign travel? Now I know why I always like to have things done ahead of time....
God really sunk the lesson down deep over the last 18 months- Trust in me- I know the plans I have for you- Hold my hand and I will lead you-
He's been smoothing the way, preparing us for this journey. I've mentioned to several friends- I feel as if I am in a movie- where the screen if full of chaos- nothing stationary, everything moving at break neck speed, the camera sweeping back and forth so you feel you might be sick- the characters all running for their lives, the car about to go over the cliff, but... instead of the usual music and chaoticness with the heavy bass drum beat and the crazy music swirling all around you- it is just......hmmmm......... quiet, ..........peaceful, ...........almost ......relaxing- so if I close my eyes and concentrate on God, and breath deep in His presence,........instead of my surroundings, I feel this surreal peace- the actual "peace that passes all understanding" that we talk about so flippantly sometimes. Wow- it is amazing.......
Praying we get our visas back with our original passports by Tuesday and our airline tickets sorted out this weekend, everything packed in our limited space and all our paperwork in order.
Thank you Lord that your ways are not our ways, your thoughts are not our thoughts, and that you have everything worked out already- all we have to do is "walk ye in it."
Thank you for this deep peace- and thank you for continuing to surround our son with your perfect love- preparing him even now to meet us- to know that we are the parents you have been raising up for him. I selfishly pray for the maximum amount of time to be with him while we are there.
As Andrew would say- God- You Rock!!!
God really sunk the lesson down deep over the last 18 months- Trust in me- I know the plans I have for you- Hold my hand and I will lead you-
He's been smoothing the way, preparing us for this journey. I've mentioned to several friends- I feel as if I am in a movie- where the screen if full of chaos- nothing stationary, everything moving at break neck speed, the camera sweeping back and forth so you feel you might be sick- the characters all running for their lives, the car about to go over the cliff, but... instead of the usual music and chaoticness with the heavy bass drum beat and the crazy music swirling all around you- it is just......hmmmm......... quiet, ..........peaceful, ...........almost ......relaxing- so if I close my eyes and concentrate on God, and breath deep in His presence,........instead of my surroundings, I feel this surreal peace- the actual "peace that passes all understanding" that we talk about so flippantly sometimes. Wow- it is amazing.......
Praying we get our visas back with our original passports by Tuesday and our airline tickets sorted out this weekend, everything packed in our limited space and all our paperwork in order.
Thank you Lord that your ways are not our ways, your thoughts are not our thoughts, and that you have everything worked out already- all we have to do is "walk ye in it."
Thank you for this deep peace- and thank you for continuing to surround our son with your perfect love- preparing him even now to meet us- to know that we are the parents you have been raising up for him. I selfishly pray for the maximum amount of time to be with him while we are there.
As Andrew would say- God- You Rock!!!
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Travel Dates!
God has been soo amazing this week. We are so overwhelmed!! Tim was able to get all our info faxed and mailed today to officially accept Sergey as our son.
Kristen called this afternoon. It is always great to hear her voice. She wanted to know how everything was going- fine- just looking at our son- falling even more in love with this little guy. She asked if I was really sure? Of course. Not going to change your mind? NO WAY!!
Then how about travelling on Oct 27?
I jumped up and down, sank to the floor and praised God as I realized that in less than 2 weeks, we will be in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, holding our son and seeing him with our own eyes!! Whooo Hooooo!!!!!!! I'm doing the happy dance all over!!!
So, now begins that paperwork chase to get ready to go- the visas, the airline tickets, hotel reservations, etc. How wonderful to know that God has brought us this far- and He will direct our steps and lead us completely through this Journey Of Faith!!
Next stop, Russia!!!
Kristen called this afternoon. It is always great to hear her voice. She wanted to know how everything was going- fine- just looking at our son- falling even more in love with this little guy. She asked if I was really sure? Of course. Not going to change your mind? NO WAY!!
Then how about travelling on Oct 27?
I jumped up and down, sank to the floor and praised God as I realized that in less than 2 weeks, we will be in Krasnoyarsk, Russia, holding our son and seeing him with our own eyes!! Whooo Hooooo!!!!!!! I'm doing the happy dance all over!!!
So, now begins that paperwork chase to get ready to go- the visas, the airline tickets, hotel reservations, etc. How wonderful to know that God has brought us this far- and He will direct our steps and lead us completely through this Journey Of Faith!!
Next stop, Russia!!!
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Accepting Referral
It was hard to sleep last night- imagine that :0)
I got up very early and packaged all the info we had into an email and sent it to our international adoption specialist Doctor. He is Dr. Douglass from Cebarrus Pediatrics out of North Carolina.
I then got ready for work, and just after the office opened called them to make sure they had received the information. They normally take 24-48 hours to get back with you to set up a phone conference to go over a referral. I requested they call us back later in the afternoon- the same day!! I have such an urgency to bring Sergey home. The receptionist was very friendly, took my information and said she'd be glad to leave them a note, about calling this afternoon.
I finished getting ready for work, and was just about to walk out the door when the phone rang- the office wanting to know if 4:30 this afternoon would work for us...... God, you are overwhelming me. I don't even know the words to use to express how much your faithfulness and very real answers to our prayers means to me.
Work was pretty slow today- thank goodness!! My mind was halfway around the world, staring into the eyes of our child- "writing him on the tablet of my heart." Oh my- what a feeling. It is so indescribably incredible. Like sinking into a down comforter of God- with Him supporting, filling and carrying me. It is a beautiful cloud to bask in, let me tell you!!
When 4:30 rolled around, Tim and I were ready and waiting. We had all our referral information in front of us. I had even printed off the growth charts and charted Sergey's progress up to now. Dr. Douglass was great. He gave us a few impressions, and generalities about foreign adoptions, and then went, in depth, through all our paperwork with us. He was able to clear up a lot of info we weren't sure about, and give us other things to watch for, both now and down the road.
After giving us the time we needed to ask questions and answer, he prayed with us, committing it all to God's care. How awesome is that?
We have now officially filled out all the acceptance paperwork, and will send that in tomorrow morning. Look out, Russia- Here we come!!
Next call- Travel????? !!!!!
I got up very early and packaged all the info we had into an email and sent it to our international adoption specialist Doctor. He is Dr. Douglass from Cebarrus Pediatrics out of North Carolina.
I then got ready for work, and just after the office opened called them to make sure they had received the information. They normally take 24-48 hours to get back with you to set up a phone conference to go over a referral. I requested they call us back later in the afternoon- the same day!! I have such an urgency to bring Sergey home. The receptionist was very friendly, took my information and said she'd be glad to leave them a note, about calling this afternoon.
I finished getting ready for work, and was just about to walk out the door when the phone rang- the office wanting to know if 4:30 this afternoon would work for us...... God, you are overwhelming me. I don't even know the words to use to express how much your faithfulness and very real answers to our prayers means to me.
Work was pretty slow today- thank goodness!! My mind was halfway around the world, staring into the eyes of our child- "writing him on the tablet of my heart." Oh my- what a feeling. It is so indescribably incredible. Like sinking into a down comforter of God- with Him supporting, filling and carrying me. It is a beautiful cloud to bask in, let me tell you!!
When 4:30 rolled around, Tim and I were ready and waiting. We had all our referral information in front of us. I had even printed off the growth charts and charted Sergey's progress up to now. Dr. Douglass was great. He gave us a few impressions, and generalities about foreign adoptions, and then went, in depth, through all our paperwork with us. He was able to clear up a lot of info we weren't sure about, and give us other things to watch for, both now and down the road.
After giving us the time we needed to ask questions and answer, he prayed with us, committing it all to God's care. How awesome is that?
We have now officially filled out all the acceptance paperwork, and will send that in tomorrow morning. Look out, Russia- Here we come!!
Next call- Travel????? !!!!!
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