3/31/2009
We played outside and Nina got dirty. It was great. I don't think she is allowed much time to get dirty nor use a whole lot of her imagination. So, we had fun scooping up the sand and pouring... as so many kids do... over and over and over. She does NOT like bugs. She enjoyed the twirly slide and climbing the stairs to the play area. Actually, she loves to tackle all stairs by herself. We played so hard that she wore a hole in the bottom of her special, soft bottom shoes. We mentioned to the staff as we were leaving and caused quite a stir. Our purpose was to find out where we could purchase more of the same kind of shoe. (They are soft bottom high-top, house shoe-like shoes. They kind of look like moccasins to me.) When we returned this evening, they had removed the holey shoes and put on tennis shoes with hard bottoms. Nina was having a very difficult time walking in them. So, we inquired again with the staff and caused more confusion. Ultimately, we called our translator and asked one of the caregivers to talk with her. We found out that they had removed the soft shoes and were repairing the holes. (Sewing them.) We asked if we could remove the tennis shoes, and they agreed. One of the caregivers expressed with the frown that she had never seen Nina in tennis shoes. So, off they came. We will see what tomorrow brings, as everyday brings new adventures.
This evening, there were two other visiting "families" in the BIG ROOM with us. After Nina polished off her banana and yogurt, she moved to the other family for food! She eventually worked them out of another piece of candy. Sugar is apparently a big deal here! She decided they were a nice family sitting at the only table in the room, so she proceeded to stick with them. (We were forced to move over and join her!) What was at first a very uncomfortable situation, ended up being quite nice. The other family was very receptive and joined in our "conversation." They helped us understand words Nina was saying and even told us words in Russian. It was good. I had a sticker/coloring book and was able to engage their "daughter." It was fun. She was scared at first, but then she participated. Nina got a little possessive and proceeded to pull the book/stickers near her. (That made me feel good!) Then, Nina and I played Peek-a-Boo (a favored game for us.) And, Jordan had some tickle time and tag time with Nina. The other family took one of our English picture books and worked with their "daughter" on the big rug. It was a good day. In the end, Nina was hungry. One of the caregivers was passing through the play room and spoke to Nina. Nina perked up with a smile, grabbed her hand, blew us a kiss and scampered quickly out of the room to dinner. She had a good day, too, we think!
Between visits, Jordan and I had lunch back at the apartment. Then, we ventured to a local flea market. We wandered through this maze of stands... think of the State Fair stands, cut in half and scooted close together with sloping tables of stuff out in front. We bought apples, an onion, garlic, bananas, a pair of shoes for Nina (that she didn't like), four pieces of Ukrainian made candy and typical Ukrainian shopping bag (made of woven plastic strips.) The little babushkas carry them all over town. We felt like "residentials." We even bought a fried pastry full of pork and onions off the street... it was delicious and sold by the precious little ol' ladies. Their little stand had lace linens in the window. And, they had beautiful, snow white hair. Everything about their little stand was immaculate. We almost returned to find out if they had something sweet and fried! After we left the flea market, we ventured into a baby store to investigate carriage prices. We have seen these really fancy carriages all over town. They are quite expensive. We will stick with our own. We ended up at the grocery store to pick up a few things. Then, we wandered back to the apartment. It was a good day!
Now, we are exhausted but are anxious to hear from the kids today. We missed them yesterday. We miss them everyday.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sugar
3/30/09 Pm
Our afternoon visit today was joined by another well-intentioned Baboshka visiting her grandson (we think). She proceeded to offer Nina multiple large cookies (about 7-8) and a banana before we could communicate that she had probably had enough. Needless to say, this made any reading type of interaction hopeless. She completely focused on eating not responding to anything else, then she was "sugared up" followed by the inevitable "sugar down." We still had some fun but were frustrated by the interuption of "our" time with Nina. We are reminded that she is not our daughter...yet. However, as protective future parents, we understand that weight could quickly become a problem with her mobility issues. The best we can tell food is not a problem currently at this orphanage. They, including Nina, seem to be well fed and sweets are offered frequently. Valentina, who is one of the caretakers that we see often and with whom Nina seems to have a connection, escorted Nina and us across the building, up the stairs to her office and placed some candy in a basket for Nina to take back to her "grouper." This, including up and down the stairs twice before being asked to be carried, is good exercise for this determined little girl who had 7-8 cookies and needs to maintain strength in her leg muscles considering her mobility issues. More to come...
Our afternoon visit today was joined by another well-intentioned Baboshka visiting her grandson (we think). She proceeded to offer Nina multiple large cookies (about 7-8) and a banana before we could communicate that she had probably had enough. Needless to say, this made any reading type of interaction hopeless. She completely focused on eating not responding to anything else, then she was "sugared up" followed by the inevitable "sugar down." We still had some fun but were frustrated by the interuption of "our" time with Nina. We are reminded that she is not our daughter...yet. However, as protective future parents, we understand that weight could quickly become a problem with her mobility issues. The best we can tell food is not a problem currently at this orphanage. They, including Nina, seem to be well fed and sweets are offered frequently. Valentina, who is one of the caretakers that we see often and with whom Nina seems to have a connection, escorted Nina and us across the building, up the stairs to her office and placed some candy in a basket for Nina to take back to her "grouper." This, including up and down the stairs twice before being asked to be carried, is good exercise for this determined little girl who had 7-8 cookies and needs to maintain strength in her leg muscles considering her mobility issues. More to come...
Additional thoughts
3/30/2009
In the baby house, you are only allowed to visit the children Monday through Friday from 9-11am and 4-5pm. Saturday from 9-11am is the last visitation time of the week. Those are the rules! And, they hold to these times fairly strictly.
After our court date on April 2nd, we have to wait out the ten day waiting period. It used to be 30 days, so we are not to complain about ten. We did attempt a request to wave the waiting period. However, this region goes by the rules. And, the rules state 10 days. This would be the 3rd through the 12th. However, this falls on a Monday. The office we need to go to on that day is not open on Monday. So, we will pick up final paperwork, Nina and take a 1.5 hour car ride to the passport office in Dnepro. From there, Nina and I will catch a flight back to Kiev. After we are in Kiev, we will wait for the passport to be processed (usually 2-3 days.) Then, we will go for the final medical check up at the US Embassy. Nina will be given any immunizations that our country requires. The next day, we will go back to the Embassy to finalize VISA, etc. Then, we will be able to leave. According to our facilitator, this part of the process will take about 10 days. We have a flight booked to return to the US on April 22nd. We are praying that we can make this flight. If not, it will have to be changed. But, Natalia is pushing for us to depart on that date. Big Nina (our translator) called to check on us today. She is too kind to us. I think she was a little worried about us, and she asked if we had enough groceries. She said we would be "residential" soon. She has a great sense of humor! We are now waiting to go back to visit little Nina this afternoon.
Nina has really attached herself to Jordan. We were told this would not happen. That she would cry and be afraid of him. I am not surprised at her willingness to accept Jordan. He has been on her level, tickled her, hugged her, wrestled with her. It's amazing how much she laughs and enjoys his presence. She does not seem to be interested in me. And, I am trying very hard not to focus on myself, to be so self-centered. I am rejoicing in the moments when she "eats up" Jordan's attention and affection. It's precious to watch. I feel a little like an outsider as a mom, but I pray that will change some day. Jordan said that she recognizes me as another caregiver since I am a woman. He said Nina sees him as an oddity. Plus, they interact outside of the normal routine of care: dressing, potty, eating, teaching, medical care, etc. I have hope that he is right.
We will take books this afternoon and begin to work on English terms. The doctor at the baby house recommended this today. We took a piece of candy today... she has quite a sweet tooth! She will fit well in our family! More to come...
In the baby house, you are only allowed to visit the children Monday through Friday from 9-11am and 4-5pm. Saturday from 9-11am is the last visitation time of the week. Those are the rules! And, they hold to these times fairly strictly.
After our court date on April 2nd, we have to wait out the ten day waiting period. It used to be 30 days, so we are not to complain about ten. We did attempt a request to wave the waiting period. However, this region goes by the rules. And, the rules state 10 days. This would be the 3rd through the 12th. However, this falls on a Monday. The office we need to go to on that day is not open on Monday. So, we will pick up final paperwork, Nina and take a 1.5 hour car ride to the passport office in Dnepro. From there, Nina and I will catch a flight back to Kiev. After we are in Kiev, we will wait for the passport to be processed (usually 2-3 days.) Then, we will go for the final medical check up at the US Embassy. Nina will be given any immunizations that our country requires. The next day, we will go back to the Embassy to finalize VISA, etc. Then, we will be able to leave. According to our facilitator, this part of the process will take about 10 days. We have a flight booked to return to the US on April 22nd. We are praying that we can make this flight. If not, it will have to be changed. But, Natalia is pushing for us to depart on that date. Big Nina (our translator) called to check on us today. She is too kind to us. I think she was a little worried about us, and she asked if we had enough groceries. She said we would be "residential" soon. She has a great sense of humor! We are now waiting to go back to visit little Nina this afternoon.
Nina has really attached herself to Jordan. We were told this would not happen. That she would cry and be afraid of him. I am not surprised at her willingness to accept Jordan. He has been on her level, tickled her, hugged her, wrestled with her. It's amazing how much she laughs and enjoys his presence. She does not seem to be interested in me. And, I am trying very hard not to focus on myself, to be so self-centered. I am rejoicing in the moments when she "eats up" Jordan's attention and affection. It's precious to watch. I feel a little like an outsider as a mom, but I pray that will change some day. Jordan said that she recognizes me as another caregiver since I am a woman. He said Nina sees him as an oddity. Plus, they interact outside of the normal routine of care: dressing, potty, eating, teaching, medical care, etc. I have hope that he is right.
We will take books this afternoon and begin to work on English terms. The doctor at the baby house recommended this today. We took a piece of candy today... she has quite a sweet tooth! She will fit well in our family! More to come...
Sunday, March 29, 2009
A Day of Rest
3/29/2009
Today is Sunday, and we took the day to listen to a sermon from Dallas, sleep in and hike to the grocery store/mall. It was a good day, but we missed our visit with Nina. As we walked back to our apartment at the end of the day, Jordan looked up as we passed the baby house and said, "Hi Nina!" She, of course, couldn't hear him, but it was a sweet thought. The lights were on inside the baby house, but we could not see anything.
The extra sleep was so good for us. We feel refreshed and alive again. The fatigue was overwhelming. Jordan suggested going for a run, and I declined. I miss running, but I feel the drain of the experience. In lieu of a run, we walked for an hour to a mall which also had a grocery store. We sat for coffee first, then shopped. We didn't really buy anything except a few movies (in English.) The guy in the movie store spoke a few words of English--a very rare occurrence. We appreciated his help and input about the movie selections. Then, we went to the grocery store, but we had a bag. So, Jordan had to wait for me outside while I shopped. Many people checked out my basket as I went through the store... I guess popcorn, pizza and potato chips are not very common purchases here! FYI... you are charged for the larger shopping bags from the store. I tried to exchange my large plastic bag for the small one (always trying to save money.) My translation from the sales clerk is that she had already charged me. I even tried to put it back, and she would not allow that. So, I ended up paying for the larger bag. Ugh! I learned that you must ask for the "malenkiy" bags at the start of check out... so many things to learn!
It was starting to get late, so Jordan and I began our hour walk back to the apartment. As dusk set in, we started speaking Spanish on the street to confuse any passersby. This was fun only due to the fact that I know more Spanish than Russian.
We used the washing machine and hung our clothes out to dry. We also used the stove to heat up our pizza, which was different from Pizza Hut but still tasty, "kosna."
We met a family on the airplane on our way into Kiev who were from Florida. They are visiting with children here in the Ukraine. Please pray for them: the Perry's.
We talked to the stateside kiddos today. Jordan and I miss them bunches. Thanks again for prayers and for loving on our kiddos back home.
Today is Sunday, and we took the day to listen to a sermon from Dallas, sleep in and hike to the grocery store/mall. It was a good day, but we missed our visit with Nina. As we walked back to our apartment at the end of the day, Jordan looked up as we passed the baby house and said, "Hi Nina!" She, of course, couldn't hear him, but it was a sweet thought. The lights were on inside the baby house, but we could not see anything.
The extra sleep was so good for us. We feel refreshed and alive again. The fatigue was overwhelming. Jordan suggested going for a run, and I declined. I miss running, but I feel the drain of the experience. In lieu of a run, we walked for an hour to a mall which also had a grocery store. We sat for coffee first, then shopped. We didn't really buy anything except a few movies (in English.) The guy in the movie store spoke a few words of English--a very rare occurrence. We appreciated his help and input about the movie selections. Then, we went to the grocery store, but we had a bag. So, Jordan had to wait for me outside while I shopped. Many people checked out my basket as I went through the store... I guess popcorn, pizza and potato chips are not very common purchases here! FYI... you are charged for the larger shopping bags from the store. I tried to exchange my large plastic bag for the small one (always trying to save money.) My translation from the sales clerk is that she had already charged me. I even tried to put it back, and she would not allow that. So, I ended up paying for the larger bag. Ugh! I learned that you must ask for the "malenkiy" bags at the start of check out... so many things to learn!
It was starting to get late, so Jordan and I began our hour walk back to the apartment. As dusk set in, we started speaking Spanish on the street to confuse any passersby. This was fun only due to the fact that I know more Spanish than Russian.
We used the washing machine and hung our clothes out to dry. We also used the stove to heat up our pizza, which was different from Pizza Hut but still tasty, "kosna."
We met a family on the airplane on our way into Kiev who were from Florida. They are visiting with children here in the Ukraine. Please pray for them: the Perry's.
We talked to the stateside kiddos today. Jordan and I miss them bunches. Thanks again for prayers and for loving on our kiddos back home.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
A visit home
3/28/2009
Plans change continually. As of today, Jordan and I have a flight booked to return to the US on Monday, April 6th (without Nina.) Our court hearing will be on April 2nd. There is a ten day waiting period required by the Ukrainian government. I will return on April 13th to complete the process and return with Nina, hopefully around April 22nd. That's the plan, but things can always change. We need much prayer to remember that God is in control. If plans change or the court date does not happen on April 2nd, all will be as God has planned. This is very hard when everything, every moment is out of our control as well.
Plans change continually. As of today, Jordan and I have a flight booked to return to the US on Monday, April 6th (without Nina.) Our court hearing will be on April 2nd. There is a ten day waiting period required by the Ukrainian government. I will return on April 13th to complete the process and return with Nina, hopefully around April 22nd. That's the plan, but things can always change. We need much prayer to remember that God is in control. If plans change or the court date does not happen on April 2nd, all will be as God has planned. This is very hard when everything, every moment is out of our control as well.
Ulitsca
3/28 Today when we arrived to speak with the secretary of the orphanage it was sunny! She immediately said we should take Nina ulitsca which we learned last night was one of our options (outside). She ushered us to the stairwell were there was a buggy. (There are nice buggies with "shocks" which Amy commented the buggies have but the cars don't as the streets are quite neglected). Nina was carried down to us in a bib type snow suit, coat and tie-on hat. She smiled when she saw us (she has a characteristic beautiful smile which will blend well at her new home). We took her outside to stroll around the baby house. The sunshine was wonderful. We gave her some bubbles which she thoroughly enjoyed; showing them off to another person pushing a buggy.
Her "grouper" came out also, and we all strolled around the baby house. This particular complex, like others, consists of several tall apartment buildings around a "courtyard" which you enter by driving through/under (rather than around) one side of the apartments. The exterior of the buildings as well as the stair wells are neglected as well. The inside of our particular apartment is quite European in its utilization of space and sits in stark contrast to the cold, muddy, neglected exterior. There are formidable locks which we understand are to protect ones' belongings. It was explained to us that in the present situation there is not a banking crisis, but there is a government moratorium on withdrawals so people keep there valuables in their possession. In our courtyard sits the walled baby house. It has a cement wall with a gate that protects the cement drive, the building and a play area. As Amy mentioned, the baby house is immaculate inside (cleanliness and bugs may be one our first challenges, see below) and not neglected appearing as the rest of the outer complex.
Nina's friend Vitali enjoyed pushing her stroller and blowing bubbles. She did not like the ladybug that the caretaker showed her at all. She in fact was terrified. She dropped her bubbles and was bothered by the dirt on the lid. Oh, the joy she will have in the country with two dogs and a bird.
We were told it was time to go inside. As we all shuttled in, Nina wanted out of the buggy to negotiate the stairs. When we reached their outer room, all the kids began taking off their coats, hats, suits, shoes and putting them in their locker. I use "their" because they know where to put the stuff they have on; however, none of them have anything that is truly theirs. The clothes are labeled with the seal of the orphanage. The shoes/clothes are community property but to the process is very orderly. Nina was concerned about getting her bubble bottle back, but with only a little prompting, she put her clothes into the locker. With Amy pointing to the door, she closed it. It was time for lunch, and while we were discovering that it was time for us to go, several other kids quickly went in to potty (the next orderly step in the procedure before lunch) and came back to us wanting to give Amy a kiss on the lips (after she kissed Nina good-bye) and not wanting us to leave. Definitely more heart-breaking than leaving your fussing child at the church nursery or school room.
We went for a walk as the sun was still out. We remain amazed at the general neglect of the streets and buildings, yet the signs of coming spring with bulbs peaking through the mud testify that the people are resilient. Apparently, things that the government was responsible for are not as well cared for now and privatization hasn't overtaken streets and existing buildings. We bought a "yablaca" (apple) an orange and a carrot at the local street market. We then returned to our apartment.
more to come
Her "grouper" came out also, and we all strolled around the baby house. This particular complex, like others, consists of several tall apartment buildings around a "courtyard" which you enter by driving through/under (rather than around) one side of the apartments. The exterior of the buildings as well as the stair wells are neglected as well. The inside of our particular apartment is quite European in its utilization of space and sits in stark contrast to the cold, muddy, neglected exterior. There are formidable locks which we understand are to protect ones' belongings. It was explained to us that in the present situation there is not a banking crisis, but there is a government moratorium on withdrawals so people keep there valuables in their possession. In our courtyard sits the walled baby house. It has a cement wall with a gate that protects the cement drive, the building and a play area. As Amy mentioned, the baby house is immaculate inside (cleanliness and bugs may be one our first challenges, see below) and not neglected appearing as the rest of the outer complex.
Nina's friend Vitali enjoyed pushing her stroller and blowing bubbles. She did not like the ladybug that the caretaker showed her at all. She in fact was terrified. She dropped her bubbles and was bothered by the dirt on the lid. Oh, the joy she will have in the country with two dogs and a bird.
We were told it was time to go inside. As we all shuttled in, Nina wanted out of the buggy to negotiate the stairs. When we reached their outer room, all the kids began taking off their coats, hats, suits, shoes and putting them in their locker. I use "their" because they know where to put the stuff they have on; however, none of them have anything that is truly theirs. The clothes are labeled with the seal of the orphanage. The shoes/clothes are community property but to the process is very orderly. Nina was concerned about getting her bubble bottle back, but with only a little prompting, she put her clothes into the locker. With Amy pointing to the door, she closed it. It was time for lunch, and while we were discovering that it was time for us to go, several other kids quickly went in to potty (the next orderly step in the procedure before lunch) and came back to us wanting to give Amy a kiss on the lips (after she kissed Nina good-bye) and not wanting us to leave. Definitely more heart-breaking than leaving your fussing child at the church nursery or school room.
We went for a walk as the sun was still out. We remain amazed at the general neglect of the streets and buildings, yet the signs of coming spring with bulbs peaking through the mud testify that the people are resilient. Apparently, things that the government was responsible for are not as well cared for now and privatization hasn't overtaken streets and existing buildings. We bought a "yablaca" (apple) an orange and a carrot at the local street market. We then returned to our apartment.
more to come
In Krivoy Rog
Random thoughts from today in Ukraine... I sent some of this in an email yesterday...
It's been busy and stressful and crazy. It's cold and drury here in Krivoy Rog, but today we had about an hour of sunshine... yippee. It's like having dessert. You soak up every little morsel. We haven't mastered the language yet. We are on the way to learning the alphabet... Don't be too impressed... the Ukranians actually find us pretty funny. Our driver laughed at us today as we were sitting in the car sounding out words on signs... we sounded like little ones reading words for the first time. He would eventually say the word for us. And, he finally got out of the car to smoke.
The apartment we are staying in is pretty cozy and compared to the outside, it's like heaven. The orphanage is just the same... like a ray of sunshine. We have learned so much about Ukraine, the people, the country and the legal system and the way the orphanages are set up. Nina was supposed to be in a school for invalids and would have been cast aside. However, the "baby house" which is where children go from ages 1-3 kept her because they liked her. And, they were going to "have to" send her to the invalid house in July on her fourth birthday. Wow! I guess God had other plans for her. You would be amazed at the stimulation and affection she has received. What a different story it would have been for her. I think God has big plans for her... two dogs, two sisters and a brother, for starters!
We bought a few toys for the children at the baby house today. It was too much fun, knowing they love anything you give them. So, we had our first experience in a mall today! Big Nina and I shopped like women together. It was fun. We looked and compared prices. We LOVED shopping for our kids, or just shopping in general. And, we were very aware of the prices! It was good. Nina and I bonded in some small way. We also went to the grocery store and at the end there were little stores where you could buy miscellaneous things. She bought some slippers (because they are of good quality and cheap in Krivoy Rog.) Then, she shopped for sunglasses. I stepped in and tried some on. It was a very girly experience. Jordan just stood out side and waited... a good man! I found some and Nina said, "Oh, you look very European! You should buy them." I thought that would be great and she translated the price. I started sweating and casualy mentioned it to Jordan. Ha! He was not on board with this decision. I left them. Nina wrote down the brand but said that she and her husband do not spend that amount without talking to each other first. She was going back home to a local shop to ask him about buying them. So fun! And, the funny thing is that Jordan and I have the same agreement. We discuss purchases first... around the globe, couples are so similar. It was fun to recognize that! She appreciated the similarity as well.
We also had to go to a clinic to get blood tests for Nina, Syphillis, Hep B & C. All were negative. Then we had to haul her over to another clinic for an HIV test... results next week. Please pray for negative test results! It was a hard morning. She had nothing to eat (required) and they woke her up early and then we hauled her out of her "safe place" and we have known her one day. That was hard and emotionally draining. We loved on her and I got to hold her on the bus ride over. But, she was very scared and happy to return to the baby house.
Our facilitator gave Nina an apple. I had offered her a little cookie, but she chose the apple and some water. I got to hold her on the bus. She was scared but still snuggly.
Another part of our day, we saw Nina again today. We played with her "grouper" and the children are so fun and eager for attention. Nina was slightly possessive at first, but then she allowed us to interact with the group. Apparently, this is common as our translator asked us about this tonight (she was not with us at the time.) The kids don't care if we speak their language. They talk to us, and we just smile and try our best to understand.
The "baby house" is immaculate. Nina and the other kids are well loved and fed. They live, eat and play and potty in a small area of the "baby house" but it is very well taken care of. We took a video of all of the children and it will be fun to watch when we return. Nina is beautiful and warm and loves hugs and kisses. She called us mama and papa or dada. It's precious and so unexpected. But, the caregivers encouraged this from day one. This is all so amazing. We will be here for another few days... until possibly April 4th to fly home April 5th. Our court date is set for April 2nd tentatively. We will both fly home and I will return around April 13th. The translator advised me to go home and see my kids (I guess I missed them on the outside more than I knew.) We have had scary and trying moments, but Jordan and I are praying and God has carried us through it all.
Our translator pointed out to us that it may seem overwhelming and scary to us, but our sensations are nothing compared to the uncertainty she is feeling and will continue to feel.
Based on her experience, it will take Nina about a year to adjust. She will be speaking English within two months. This is amazing to me. Big Nina suggested we be very patient with her and realize her trauma. Big Nina has adopted a little boy as well. He was 18 months when he was adopted by her and her husband Dennis. Sasha is the boy's name. Dennis, her husband, does the same job as Big Nina, but for primarily French-based agencies. They sound like an amazing couple. They have an aparment in Kiev and a country house North of Kiev. Her son had many adjustments and he was younger. Nina told us that if she adopted again, she would adopt one within the ages of 3-5. She was very open about her past experience with pregnancy. She had a tubal pregnancy and it ruptured. The removed both tubes. Now, they may pursue invitro. In order to do this, she will endure HIV testing on a regular basis, among others. She told us that when she had surgery, the anesthesiologist said if she could pay, he would give her good drugs. If not, he would give her the older drugs. We took this to mean the more advanced and less advanced drugs. She also had to pay the surgeon when he came to visit her room right before surgery. So different! This is obviously a very painful experience for her. She would like to have a baby, but she also has the strong personality of so many here... it's all presented as facts, nothing emotional.
Nina and I stayed up last night talking about parenting. It was good. She is very healthy, concerned about sugar intake. It was fun and enlightening because her son is also adopted. She has no other children and she kept commenting about how great it is that we have other children. We prayed for her. She is in a job that is emotional and draining and stressful. I admire her. She is very intelligent and very strong and very independent... but her husband expects her to wear high heels when they go out, and she concedes (with comfortable shoes in the trunk of the car!)
It's been busy and stressful and crazy. It's cold and drury here in Krivoy Rog, but today we had about an hour of sunshine... yippee. It's like having dessert. You soak up every little morsel. We haven't mastered the language yet. We are on the way to learning the alphabet... Don't be too impressed... the Ukranians actually find us pretty funny. Our driver laughed at us today as we were sitting in the car sounding out words on signs... we sounded like little ones reading words for the first time. He would eventually say the word for us. And, he finally got out of the car to smoke.
The apartment we are staying in is pretty cozy and compared to the outside, it's like heaven. The orphanage is just the same... like a ray of sunshine. We have learned so much about Ukraine, the people, the country and the legal system and the way the orphanages are set up. Nina was supposed to be in a school for invalids and would have been cast aside. However, the "baby house" which is where children go from ages 1-3 kept her because they liked her. And, they were going to "have to" send her to the invalid house in July on her fourth birthday. Wow! I guess God had other plans for her. You would be amazed at the stimulation and affection she has received. What a different story it would have been for her. I think God has big plans for her... two dogs, two sisters and a brother, for starters!
We bought a few toys for the children at the baby house today. It was too much fun, knowing they love anything you give them. So, we had our first experience in a mall today! Big Nina and I shopped like women together. It was fun. We looked and compared prices. We LOVED shopping for our kids, or just shopping in general. And, we were very aware of the prices! It was good. Nina and I bonded in some small way. We also went to the grocery store and at the end there were little stores where you could buy miscellaneous things. She bought some slippers (because they are of good quality and cheap in Krivoy Rog.) Then, she shopped for sunglasses. I stepped in and tried some on. It was a very girly experience. Jordan just stood out side and waited... a good man! I found some and Nina said, "Oh, you look very European! You should buy them." I thought that would be great and she translated the price. I started sweating and casualy mentioned it to Jordan. Ha! He was not on board with this decision. I left them. Nina wrote down the brand but said that she and her husband do not spend that amount without talking to each other first. She was going back home to a local shop to ask him about buying them. So fun! And, the funny thing is that Jordan and I have the same agreement. We discuss purchases first... around the globe, couples are so similar. It was fun to recognize that! She appreciated the similarity as well.
We also had to go to a clinic to get blood tests for Nina, Syphillis, Hep B & C. All were negative. Then we had to haul her over to another clinic for an HIV test... results next week. Please pray for negative test results! It was a hard morning. She had nothing to eat (required) and they woke her up early and then we hauled her out of her "safe place" and we have known her one day. That was hard and emotionally draining. We loved on her and I got to hold her on the bus ride over. But, she was very scared and happy to return to the baby house.
Our facilitator gave Nina an apple. I had offered her a little cookie, but she chose the apple and some water. I got to hold her on the bus. She was scared but still snuggly.
Another part of our day, we saw Nina again today. We played with her "grouper" and the children are so fun and eager for attention. Nina was slightly possessive at first, but then she allowed us to interact with the group. Apparently, this is common as our translator asked us about this tonight (she was not with us at the time.) The kids don't care if we speak their language. They talk to us, and we just smile and try our best to understand.
The "baby house" is immaculate. Nina and the other kids are well loved and fed. They live, eat and play and potty in a small area of the "baby house" but it is very well taken care of. We took a video of all of the children and it will be fun to watch when we return. Nina is beautiful and warm and loves hugs and kisses. She called us mama and papa or dada. It's precious and so unexpected. But, the caregivers encouraged this from day one. This is all so amazing. We will be here for another few days... until possibly April 4th to fly home April 5th. Our court date is set for April 2nd tentatively. We will both fly home and I will return around April 13th. The translator advised me to go home and see my kids (I guess I missed them on the outside more than I knew.) We have had scary and trying moments, but Jordan and I are praying and God has carried us through it all.
Our translator pointed out to us that it may seem overwhelming and scary to us, but our sensations are nothing compared to the uncertainty she is feeling and will continue to feel.
Based on her experience, it will take Nina about a year to adjust. She will be speaking English within two months. This is amazing to me. Big Nina suggested we be very patient with her and realize her trauma. Big Nina has adopted a little boy as well. He was 18 months when he was adopted by her and her husband Dennis. Sasha is the boy's name. Dennis, her husband, does the same job as Big Nina, but for primarily French-based agencies. They sound like an amazing couple. They have an aparment in Kiev and a country house North of Kiev. Her son had many adjustments and he was younger. Nina told us that if she adopted again, she would adopt one within the ages of 3-5. She was very open about her past experience with pregnancy. She had a tubal pregnancy and it ruptured. The removed both tubes. Now, they may pursue invitro. In order to do this, she will endure HIV testing on a regular basis, among others. She told us that when she had surgery, the anesthesiologist said if she could pay, he would give her good drugs. If not, he would give her the older drugs. We took this to mean the more advanced and less advanced drugs. She also had to pay the surgeon when he came to visit her room right before surgery. So different! This is obviously a very painful experience for her. She would like to have a baby, but she also has the strong personality of so many here... it's all presented as facts, nothing emotional.
Nina and I stayed up last night talking about parenting. It was good. She is very healthy, concerned about sugar intake. It was fun and enlightening because her son is also adopted. She has no other children and she kept commenting about how great it is that we have other children. We prayed for her. She is in a job that is emotional and draining and stressful. I admire her. She is very intelligent and very strong and very independent... but her husband expects her to wear high heels when they go out, and she concedes (with comfortable shoes in the trunk of the car!)
Meeting Nina
3/26/2009
Sleep on the train... ha! That was pointless. And, everything that people say about train bathrooms is true, but sometimes you just have to go.
We traveled through a tremendous snow storm only to arrive on the other side in Krivoy Rog to an overcast yet cold day. We picked up coffee at "McDrive Thru" and went to the apartment for showers. Some of the frustration is communication. Our translator does not give us a whole lot of details. But, we can overcome that.
The build up to Nina's meeting was incredible. We met with the director of the orphanage and talked some more. There was paperwork, other meetings. Then, finally, the purpose of our trip came to a climax... and I cried yet again, as I cried at the initial meeting with the SDA. I knew just exactly which one she was when we walked into the room. She is a sweet, little, healthy, blonde. The caregivers are overwhelming, but were so kind to describe Nina in glowing terms: bright, leader, assertive, desires to be first, orderly and enjoys letting her "grouper" buddies haul her around in the stroller. She is walking unsteadily, but she tackled the stairs independently. We met with the medical director who gave us a thorough report on Nina's condition and current medical needs. They have performed one surgery on her right foot, and they don't have the money for the other foot. So, we will need to address that when we return to the USA.
We had time to play with her but still more meetings. We were "allowed" to make a donation to the orphanage... in order to get her paperwork! Then, we drove around running paperwork hither and yon... no fax or courier allowed. We did! It's amazing how things are done here. Jordan and I fell asleep in the car. Finally, we made it back to the aparment, which is very nice, very European on the inside. The outside is frightening and very unattended. Big Nina said that it was taken care of under USSR. Now, there is no one to take care of the government buildings. So, they fall apart. The inside of our aparment comparatively is a haven.
Tomorrow, we meet Nina and take her to the hospital for blood work. We proposed that it was not good for Jordan and I to take her second meeting with us. They disagreed. So, we will do that tomorrow and hopefully have a little more time to play with her in the afternoon.
On a side note, we had a fabulous lunch of cabbage salad, borsch, fried potatoes/onion and battered chicken. All tasty or as they say in Russian, "kosna."
Sleep on the train... ha! That was pointless. And, everything that people say about train bathrooms is true, but sometimes you just have to go.
We traveled through a tremendous snow storm only to arrive on the other side in Krivoy Rog to an overcast yet cold day. We picked up coffee at "McDrive Thru" and went to the apartment for showers. Some of the frustration is communication. Our translator does not give us a whole lot of details. But, we can overcome that.
The build up to Nina's meeting was incredible. We met with the director of the orphanage and talked some more. There was paperwork, other meetings. Then, finally, the purpose of our trip came to a climax... and I cried yet again, as I cried at the initial meeting with the SDA. I knew just exactly which one she was when we walked into the room. She is a sweet, little, healthy, blonde. The caregivers are overwhelming, but were so kind to describe Nina in glowing terms: bright, leader, assertive, desires to be first, orderly and enjoys letting her "grouper" buddies haul her around in the stroller. She is walking unsteadily, but she tackled the stairs independently. We met with the medical director who gave us a thorough report on Nina's condition and current medical needs. They have performed one surgery on her right foot, and they don't have the money for the other foot. So, we will need to address that when we return to the USA.
We had time to play with her but still more meetings. We were "allowed" to make a donation to the orphanage... in order to get her paperwork! Then, we drove around running paperwork hither and yon... no fax or courier allowed. We did! It's amazing how things are done here. Jordan and I fell asleep in the car. Finally, we made it back to the aparment, which is very nice, very European on the inside. The outside is frightening and very unattended. Big Nina said that it was taken care of under USSR. Now, there is no one to take care of the government buildings. So, they fall apart. The inside of our aparment comparatively is a haven.
Tomorrow, we meet Nina and take her to the hospital for blood work. We proposed that it was not good for Jordan and I to take her second meeting with us. They disagreed. So, we will do that tomorrow and hopefully have a little more time to play with her in the afternoon.
On a side note, we had a fabulous lunch of cabbage salad, borsch, fried potatoes/onion and battered chicken. All tasty or as they say in Russian, "kosna."
Day Two in Kiev
3/25/2009
Well, we are struggling to get internet access. Natalia (actually called Natasha locally) advised us not to purchase an internet card because there's internet access available everywhere! We have tried every place in Kiev that she recommended which included purchasing two lunches at two different locations and "almost" coffee as well. We are still working on that.
On the more important side of things, we met Natalia (our attorney) in person. She is great. We enjoyed her company this afternoon on a walk to our appointment with the SDA (State Department of Adoption.) I was nervous to the point of shaking prior to our appointment. We stood in a crowded hallway at the bottom of some stairs awaiting our turn. There were people speaking French and Spanish. It was wonderful to see so many people here to adopt. Apparently, one of the couples desired a "healthy" child and her facilitator seemed to be complaining about it. Natalia told us that "healthy" "Barbie-like" children are not available. Then, we were called up the stairs, past a "security guard" looking man into small, hot office bustling with women! Women are three to one man in this country! And, it's apparent everywhere!
Back to our appointment, it was simple. We sat before a young woman named Maria, who seemed very nervous. She aksed if we had ever seen Nina in person before today. We answered that we had not. Then, she asked about our family, children, grandparents, jobs. We presented our picture book of our family, extended family, kids, animals. Then, she gave a brief description of Nina and her physical challenges. She said thank you for adopting a child. Then, we left. We were in there for about ten minutes! Thank you for your prayers. It was a breeze!
We are leaving for an overnight train ride into Krivoy Rog City ("curved horn"). We will hopefully meet Nina on 3/26.
We have eaten some yummy soups (borsch.) And, tasty Americanas (coffees.) But, we did have McDonald's for breakfast (our most expensive meal of the day.) More later!
3/25 continued...
Wow! What a ride! Natalia picked us up from our apartment about 4pm, took us to pick up our paperwork at the SDA, and the we headed to the notary. In order to expedite the doption more quickly, we signed and notarized some additional documents in what seemed like a "back alley." Then, we went to the train station to get our tickets. While I waited in the car with Natalia's husband (who speak no English), he proceeded to back the car into a person walking across the parking lot! Oops! And, the way people drive here is crazy! I'm not surprised that this doesn't happen more often. I said many prayers... Finally, we were taken back to the apartment after sitting through tremendous traffic ( a big problem in Kiev). We packed, ran to McDonald's for a quick snack (and to check our internet access there.) And, we returned to our apartment. A man showed up and told us it was time to leave! We didn't know who he was and we had to wait to call Natalia. We handed our phone to him and they talked. Then, he handed the phone back to Jordan and it was settled. He was the right guy, we had to pay him and leave the aparment. I think he could tell I was not happy with that, as our ride was not there yet. We were stuck out on the curb with our luggage at night in Kiev! Talk about stressful... Now, we are on the train, an overnight train. Our translator, whose name happens to be Nina, is riding on the train with us to take us to Krivoy Rog City. And, by the way, we brought way too much luggage... ugh! Nina said with a smug look, "It's not the most I've seen."
We have been able to talk to the kids today. They seem to be having great time, with a few tears at bedtime. It miss them terribly, but my tears are lessening... maybe as the intensity of the trip builds!
Another note about the adoption... we might be able to move the court date to April 1st or 2nd, which means that our plans for Jordan to return for the week prior to court will change. This is still unknown. We won't know for sure if the court date can be bumped up until Friday, March 27th. We need lots of prayer for wisdom and direction. We have everything in place for Jordan to return, and this change would completely blow our plans. But, it may be the best decision for everyone, as it could allow Nina and I to return to the USA almost a week early.
I'm now going to try to sleep on the train; although, everything seems to be rattling including my stomach... hang on to your hats! More to come...
Well, we are struggling to get internet access. Natalia (actually called Natasha locally) advised us not to purchase an internet card because there's internet access available everywhere! We have tried every place in Kiev that she recommended which included purchasing two lunches at two different locations and "almost" coffee as well. We are still working on that.
On the more important side of things, we met Natalia (our attorney) in person. She is great. We enjoyed her company this afternoon on a walk to our appointment with the SDA (State Department of Adoption.) I was nervous to the point of shaking prior to our appointment. We stood in a crowded hallway at the bottom of some stairs awaiting our turn. There were people speaking French and Spanish. It was wonderful to see so many people here to adopt. Apparently, one of the couples desired a "healthy" child and her facilitator seemed to be complaining about it. Natalia told us that "healthy" "Barbie-like" children are not available. Then, we were called up the stairs, past a "security guard" looking man into small, hot office bustling with women! Women are three to one man in this country! And, it's apparent everywhere!
Back to our appointment, it was simple. We sat before a young woman named Maria, who seemed very nervous. She aksed if we had ever seen Nina in person before today. We answered that we had not. Then, she asked about our family, children, grandparents, jobs. We presented our picture book of our family, extended family, kids, animals. Then, she gave a brief description of Nina and her physical challenges. She said thank you for adopting a child. Then, we left. We were in there for about ten minutes! Thank you for your prayers. It was a breeze!
We are leaving for an overnight train ride into Krivoy Rog City ("curved horn"). We will hopefully meet Nina on 3/26.
We have eaten some yummy soups (borsch.) And, tasty Americanas (coffees.) But, we did have McDonald's for breakfast (our most expensive meal of the day.) More later!
3/25 continued...
Wow! What a ride! Natalia picked us up from our apartment about 4pm, took us to pick up our paperwork at the SDA, and the we headed to the notary. In order to expedite the doption more quickly, we signed and notarized some additional documents in what seemed like a "back alley." Then, we went to the train station to get our tickets. While I waited in the car with Natalia's husband (who speak no English), he proceeded to back the car into a person walking across the parking lot! Oops! And, the way people drive here is crazy! I'm not surprised that this doesn't happen more often. I said many prayers... Finally, we were taken back to the apartment after sitting through tremendous traffic ( a big problem in Kiev). We packed, ran to McDonald's for a quick snack (and to check our internet access there.) And, we returned to our apartment. A man showed up and told us it was time to leave! We didn't know who he was and we had to wait to call Natalia. We handed our phone to him and they talked. Then, he handed the phone back to Jordan and it was settled. He was the right guy, we had to pay him and leave the aparment. I think he could tell I was not happy with that, as our ride was not there yet. We were stuck out on the curb with our luggage at night in Kiev! Talk about stressful... Now, we are on the train, an overnight train. Our translator, whose name happens to be Nina, is riding on the train with us to take us to Krivoy Rog City. And, by the way, we brought way too much luggage... ugh! Nina said with a smug look, "It's not the most I've seen."
We have been able to talk to the kids today. They seem to be having great time, with a few tears at bedtime. It miss them terribly, but my tears are lessening... maybe as the intensity of the trip builds!
Another note about the adoption... we might be able to move the court date to April 1st or 2nd, which means that our plans for Jordan to return for the week prior to court will change. This is still unknown. We won't know for sure if the court date can be bumped up until Friday, March 27th. We need lots of prayer for wisdom and direction. We have everything in place for Jordan to return, and this change would completely blow our plans. But, it may be the best decision for everyone, as it could allow Nina and I to return to the USA almost a week early.
I'm now going to try to sleep on the train; although, everything seems to be rattling including my stomach... hang on to your hats! More to come...
Our travel to Ukraine
Wow! Part of the struggle has been our lack of technology. We have a laptop and two telephones, and yet things seem quite complicated. I have journaled since we left the US on our laptop. However, we only have internet through a local computer which is in Cyrillic alphabet. I have not mastered that yet! Ha! I wish I had before now for Nina's sake only. Communication is our biggest hurdle. Here we go.
3/23-3/24/2009
Note: some things are journaled for Nina's future benefit!
Our flights to Kiev were uneventful, which is so great! I felt everyone's payers. Jordan was able to sleep on the flight from JFK to Kiev, but I was not. So, now I have just awakened from a nap at 9:30pm, about the time Jordan came to bed!
On our flight into Kiev, we met one couple adopting through a Christian organization (from Pennsylvania) and another family with three kids adopting. They were from Florida. They seem really cool. I hope we meet up with them again. The mom was great and talkative and the dad is a baseball coach. All very tan from the Florida sun. We called the kids before we left NY. We left them a few new toys by their beds the morning we departed. They were thrilled. Wiley was obsessed with the new race cars, and the girls loved their new "Fur Real" dogs, which moved and barked. They also had new outifts for the American girls dolls (Target knock offs.) Mia told me she was saving those for tomorrow. :) Karly told me they were having so much fun. Denae took them swimming and to McDonalds. What more could a kid ask for! I'm so glad they sounded so contented. Thank you, Lord for Denae! It was really hard for me to hear the kids. I missed them so much and it had been only a short time. I cried so hard, but I think it was the prospect of being gone from them for such a long period of time. I hurt to see them again, and I knew it would be a long time and they will have grown and changed. They will experience so much without me. This was a very hard moment for me. And, cried the ugly cry. I think Jordan was very concerned about me, since this was probably the third time I had had such an emotional break down.
Our arrivl in Kiev was not stressful. We filled out all of the appropriate paperwork, followed all of the rules, and no one ever stopped us or asked to look at our baggage or anything. Kelli sent us some encouraging notes to open along our trip. We opened Day Two's note, and the words were just what Jordan and I needed. We were washed wtih His presence at that moment when we needed it. He knows just what we need: encouraging words and friends like Kelli to make sure we have them. Thank you, Kelli! You're an angel.
After our smooth arrival, we met Nicholay. He does not speak English, and we told him we were working on our Ukrainian. He talked most of the time as if we could understand him. We tride, but that part is exhausting, especially when you are already exhausted. My little dictionary was very limited. But, he took us straight to this museum about the war and the Germans in the Ukraine. It was heart-wrenching. One of their displays was a wall sized picture of tiny Ukrainian-Jewish children standing behind barbed wire fencing in a concentration camp. They wore little gowns, had shaved heads and their little bodies wee so skinny. We couln't read anything in the museum, but the pictures told a thousand stories of events we need not forget. The museum is beautiful, but all of the pictures were very graphic. Nothing was left to the imagination. Above the museum stands a statue of a woman hodling a tablet in one hand and a torch in the other, I believe. I asked Nicholay what you call her. He said, "Big Mama" in English. We got so tickled, and so did he! We never determined her real name or maybe that is it!
The car had a low tire, so Nicholay stopped to borrow a bicycle pump from someone and hand-pumped the tire. Jordan offered to help, but he would not allow it. He wouldn't let us carry anything, including a large bottle of water. He was so gracious!
Then, he wisked us off to a monastery, where we entered and took a candle. Before we entered, Nicholay asked me to pull my "sharf" over my head. Then, we continued down tiny underground tunnels and into little chambers where (Jordan and I determined) the Saints were buried, or mummified. It was very unusual. There were pictures of Jesus everywhere along with these Saints. People were hugging their glass tombs and kissing them and praying over them. We felt a little like we were intruding on some personal moments. There was a life-sized nativity scene outside enclosed in glass. I mentioned baby Jesus and Mary and Joseph, and Nicholay nodded yes. On our walk, we passed by buildings with beautiful wood lined windows that crank out. And, they were covered in these ornate iron grates. There are lovely details like this all over the city. You see such care and tedious work in small things. Yet, so many things seem in disrepair.
At this point, we went to a bank, where I almost stepped out in front of a car crossing the street. Nicholay jokingly grabbed my hand and walked me across the street at the crosswalk. He laughed about it. We exchanged money, one dollar to their 8.08 (grivna). It was a little uncomfortable doing this since we exchanged so much money and were being watched (or felt like it.) We crossed the street again, and Jordan grabbed my hand as we crossed. Nicholay laughted.
Then, we went to the grocery store. That was very stressful. I couln't read what anything was... ham? turkey? roast? swiss cheese? smelly cheese? Who knew? I did find chocolate, sour cream and onion chips, yogurt (very cheap!) water, bread, oranges and laundry detergent. Poor Nicholay found this equally frustrating, because he ended up ordering our meat and cheese for us. And, he had to show us how to buy oranges and get them weighed (all produce gets weighed before it goes into your basket.) It was about $20. Then, we went to our apartment. It is so nice and clean. I was quite surprised at how nice it was. We got settled, ta some lunch and I could not keep my eyes open. It started snowing, and I enjoyed the view of the city street from our window. McDonald's is right down the street, which is great since we will need coffee in the morning. After all of this, I crashed! And, now I'm headed back to bed at 10:07pm, anxious for our appointment tomorrow morning. We have yet to see Natalia. Hopefully, we will see her in the morning. Good night!
3/23-3/24/2009
Note: some things are journaled for Nina's future benefit!
Our flights to Kiev were uneventful, which is so great! I felt everyone's payers. Jordan was able to sleep on the flight from JFK to Kiev, but I was not. So, now I have just awakened from a nap at 9:30pm, about the time Jordan came to bed!
On our flight into Kiev, we met one couple adopting through a Christian organization (from Pennsylvania) and another family with three kids adopting. They were from Florida. They seem really cool. I hope we meet up with them again. The mom was great and talkative and the dad is a baseball coach. All very tan from the Florida sun. We called the kids before we left NY. We left them a few new toys by their beds the morning we departed. They were thrilled. Wiley was obsessed with the new race cars, and the girls loved their new "Fur Real" dogs, which moved and barked. They also had new outifts for the American girls dolls (Target knock offs.) Mia told me she was saving those for tomorrow. :) Karly told me they were having so much fun. Denae took them swimming and to McDonalds. What more could a kid ask for! I'm so glad they sounded so contented. Thank you, Lord for Denae! It was really hard for me to hear the kids. I missed them so much and it had been only a short time. I cried so hard, but I think it was the prospect of being gone from them for such a long period of time. I hurt to see them again, and I knew it would be a long time and they will have grown and changed. They will experience so much without me. This was a very hard moment for me. And, cried the ugly cry. I think Jordan was very concerned about me, since this was probably the third time I had had such an emotional break down.
Our arrivl in Kiev was not stressful. We filled out all of the appropriate paperwork, followed all of the rules, and no one ever stopped us or asked to look at our baggage or anything. Kelli sent us some encouraging notes to open along our trip. We opened Day Two's note, and the words were just what Jordan and I needed. We were washed wtih His presence at that moment when we needed it. He knows just what we need: encouraging words and friends like Kelli to make sure we have them. Thank you, Kelli! You're an angel.
After our smooth arrival, we met Nicholay. He does not speak English, and we told him we were working on our Ukrainian. He talked most of the time as if we could understand him. We tride, but that part is exhausting, especially when you are already exhausted. My little dictionary was very limited. But, he took us straight to this museum about the war and the Germans in the Ukraine. It was heart-wrenching. One of their displays was a wall sized picture of tiny Ukrainian-Jewish children standing behind barbed wire fencing in a concentration camp. They wore little gowns, had shaved heads and their little bodies wee so skinny. We couln't read anything in the museum, but the pictures told a thousand stories of events we need not forget. The museum is beautiful, but all of the pictures were very graphic. Nothing was left to the imagination. Above the museum stands a statue of a woman hodling a tablet in one hand and a torch in the other, I believe. I asked Nicholay what you call her. He said, "Big Mama" in English. We got so tickled, and so did he! We never determined her real name or maybe that is it!
The car had a low tire, so Nicholay stopped to borrow a bicycle pump from someone and hand-pumped the tire. Jordan offered to help, but he would not allow it. He wouldn't let us carry anything, including a large bottle of water. He was so gracious!
Then, he wisked us off to a monastery, where we entered and took a candle. Before we entered, Nicholay asked me to pull my "sharf" over my head. Then, we continued down tiny underground tunnels and into little chambers where (Jordan and I determined) the Saints were buried, or mummified. It was very unusual. There were pictures of Jesus everywhere along with these Saints. People were hugging their glass tombs and kissing them and praying over them. We felt a little like we were intruding on some personal moments. There was a life-sized nativity scene outside enclosed in glass. I mentioned baby Jesus and Mary and Joseph, and Nicholay nodded yes. On our walk, we passed by buildings with beautiful wood lined windows that crank out. And, they were covered in these ornate iron grates. There are lovely details like this all over the city. You see such care and tedious work in small things. Yet, so many things seem in disrepair.
At this point, we went to a bank, where I almost stepped out in front of a car crossing the street. Nicholay jokingly grabbed my hand and walked me across the street at the crosswalk. He laughed about it. We exchanged money, one dollar to their 8.08 (grivna). It was a little uncomfortable doing this since we exchanged so much money and were being watched (or felt like it.) We crossed the street again, and Jordan grabbed my hand as we crossed. Nicholay laughted.
Then, we went to the grocery store. That was very stressful. I couln't read what anything was... ham? turkey? roast? swiss cheese? smelly cheese? Who knew? I did find chocolate, sour cream and onion chips, yogurt (very cheap!) water, bread, oranges and laundry detergent. Poor Nicholay found this equally frustrating, because he ended up ordering our meat and cheese for us. And, he had to show us how to buy oranges and get them weighed (all produce gets weighed before it goes into your basket.) It was about $20. Then, we went to our apartment. It is so nice and clean. I was quite surprised at how nice it was. We got settled, ta some lunch and I could not keep my eyes open. It started snowing, and I enjoyed the view of the city street from our window. McDonald's is right down the street, which is great since we will need coffee in the morning. After all of this, I crashed! And, now I'm headed back to bed at 10:07pm, anxious for our appointment tomorrow morning. We have yet to see Natalia. Hopefully, we will see her in the morning. Good night!
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