4/25/2009
I'm tired, so I will be brief. We left this morning from Kiev at 8:30am (from our apartment.) We passed through gates, passport checks and security and more passport stops. We met our friends from Alabama... they got their Visa. I was so happy for them. Mrs. Alabama was ready to get her tail home! We also traveled with Alina and her parents. We did not sit together but we did the airport stuff together. They are neat people!
Our flight was delayed, and we sat on the plane for about an hour. Nina could not understand why we could not go outside. She was asleep within minutes of take off. She slept for about an hour and a half. Then, she awakened and ate some cold lunch. She watched videos until the battery on the computer died. Then we read books, colored and she played in her chair by herself. She pretended with her doll. We then started our trips to the bathroom... a total of ten (I lost count!) I finally cut her off toward the end of the flight.
She was a jewel. We had a few tantrums and she tossed her body around in her seat and threw her arms around. Our neighbor had enjoyed a few too many "non complimentary" drinks. Then, they spilled their drinks all over their seats. We enjoyed the odor from that direction of the plane. Then, another passenger was sick... all over the place. We enjoyed that odor. All that aside, it was a fabulous flight. Nina was great!
We arrived in New York and survived customs and entry into the USA! I was so thrilled that I could have kissed the ground when we got here. I was bubbly until we reached our room. I am beat! It's almost 2:00am in Kiev! Nina was asleep by 6:30pm, and I am about to join her. We have to be up at 3:30am to catch our 6:00am flight. See some of you tomorrow. I can't wait to see the kids!
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
A few final pictures of fun
Nina is just happy to be kid and happy with her new life, so far. Kids are supposed to play and experience the world with an open mind, believing they can do anything. Our new daughter thinks she can do anything and everything. She might need some assistance, but she will get there. She has incredible upper body strength, and she never ceases to amaze me with the effort she puts forth. I often envision her swimming because of it. She is precious and fun, and I have fallen madly in love with her! She will fit in nicely with our three little action heroes back home. 
Our Final Day in the Ukraine
Spring is in bloom all over the city. The tulips are comin' out. Nina has already succumb to the American way... eating and talking on her cell phone. I thought the "I love McDonald's balloon sealed it!
She's all-American! 4/24/2009Wow! I can't believe it's coming to an end, but it is. We woke up this morning in our usual leisurely fashion. We had breakfast, got our clothes on and the telephone rang. Our ride had arrived. We exited the apartment to the elevator. Nina has been stopping in the doorway to the elevator all week. I have been hurrying her through it so that it doesn't close on us. (Actually, it slams into me everytime, and Nina thinks this is really funny.) So this morning, she hesitated just long enough that she ended up on the elevator alone when the door closed! (I don't know why traumatic events occur with my kids and elevators.) She begins to scream, and I am on the other side hoping and praying that it does not move from our floor. I also cannot tell her to push the "open door" button because she is unable to reach the buttons. Finally, the light goes out, and I push the button again. The door opened to a terrified little girl. She hasn't hesitated across the doorway since!
We met our friends from Florida and made our way to the embassy. It was so nice to have friends! My heart swells as I recall just having friends through this part of the process. We went to the visa area and waited. This was the first time we have had to wait for an extended period of time. Alina was so busy, but she has the perfect parents. I was in awe of their energy. Alina ran up and down the hallway, in and out of rooms. She was crazy. It was fun to "watch." Her parents are incredible the way they are curious about Alina, focused on her best interest, planning for her future... God put her into the perfect family. It was then that I realized we were the right family for Nina. She is perfect for us and us for her. Nina was precious and calm at first. Then, Alina got her stirred up a bit. I mourned Nina's lack of mobility, and yet I rejoiced in this moment. Instead of running, we "cruised" the hallways and waiting area. Alina's mom offered Nina some water from the water cooler. The water cooler then became the focus of entertainment. Nina decided she wanted some more water, and she wanted to get it herself. She can be quite pushy and quite forceful. She will often do whatever it takes to get to the thing she wants. We will have to work on impulse control. In this case, she pushed me aside and bullied her way up to the water cooler. The weight of her body, as she plowed forward, shoved into the HOT spigot on the water dispenser with her arm as the target. She burned her arm. She has a quarter sized blister on her left arm. It looks really painful, and yet I guess that's part of growing up and learning.
Two painful events down and it's not even ten o'clock!
We visited during the waiting period... Alina's parents are awesome. They told me about some things they had experienced, like being told that Ukrainians are a superior race. Well, what is one to say to that?
Anyhow, we met another lady who is adopting a 15 year old boy. She's from Alabama and had the accent to prove it! She quickly asked me where I was from... I guess my accent told her I was not from around "these parts." She has been in the Ukraine since March 15th! Wow! We also met another woman who lives in New York. She is originally from Ukraine and came back to get an older son. The embassy rejected her request. She did not provide any details, but she did leave disappointed.
We completed our process! There was no fanfare. I kept waiting for a bunch of people to jump from behind the curtain and yell "Congratulations and throw balloons!" Or something?!?!? There was nothing. The lady from Alabama said, "you'll have to get that back home." She was tired of being in the Ukraine. I could tell by many of her comments. She was ready to go home.
We left and went to lunch at Nina's favorite Ukrainian restaurant. She ate every bite and wanted more. So, we went for a pastry and coffee at our local bakery. We walked around the city some, and then took our toys down to the little park outside the apartment. Nina is bored with this. I think she's looking for playmates! She wanted to walk around, and we headed over to the outdoor street market. Nina fell asleep in the stroller. One little catnap later, we were awake and in the BIG park. Nina played by herself for a little bit, then she wanted a friend. She hauled me all over that park and stopped at nothing! (And, it was getting cold!) We had a great final day in the park. We left the park and freshened up for dinner.
We had dinner at Nina's favorite Ukrainian restaurant... yes, meal number two! She again ate every last morsel, then proceeded to take her spoon and put it into her drink. In the process, she knocked her glass over and spilled her drink all over the floor. I told her not to put her spoon into her drink, and she started crying so loudly that everyone was looking at us. One of the waitresses came to our table and told Nina to stop crying. She gestured around the room, and my best guess is that she was telling Nina that she needed to stop crying because she was disrupting the dinner of all these people around her. She was very stern! Nina started crying louder. So, we left. Not the best ending to our day, but kids will be kids and that waitress was one too! We came home for bath and bed. She cried about bedtime and fell fast asleep by 7:30pm. I'm glad, because we have a big day tomorrow. We will leave our apartment at 8:00am. Our flight will leave Kiev at 10:50am. I have got to finish packing. See you all very soon!
Some things I will miss about Ukraine: the slow pace, the tasty pastries, the walking, the lovely weather, the intensity of my relationship with Nina, the good coffee. Some things I will NOT miss about Ukraine: the lack of hot water/water pressure, the dirt in our noses/nails/knuckles, the unhappy expressions, the abrasiveness of the people, the overwhelming feeling of impermanence. I say these things, but it's all part of the experience. It's been a molding experience. Yes. I feel like clay! Good night.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
An Angel
4/23/2009
Night, night. Sleep tight.
Today, we awakened bright and early to the sound of the telephone. Jordan provided our wake-up call this morning at 6:45am. It's so weird... he was actually going to bed because it was 10:45pm there. Well, we did the morning routine: potty, breakfast, clothes, brush teeth and hair, wait by the door for mommy to get ready, wait by the door for mommy to hang the wet clothes out to dry, wait by the door for mommy to get everything before we leave, wait by the door for mommy to make sure she has not forgotten the kitchen sink, wait on mommmmmmmyyyyy! Nope, she was done waiting on mommy. As she proceeded out the front door, I had to quickly grab my things and leave with her! The girl was ready to be outside.
We headed to the medical clinic at 8:30 this morning. When we arrived, there was a "new" family waiting for us. They are a couple from Miami, Florida. Dad is originally from Cuba and mom is from somewhere else? They both speak English. However, I found out later that they speak Spanish at home! He is 43 and she is 51, so mom is too old, according to Ukrainian law, to adopt. (At least, that was what I understood.) The dad is adopting the little girl, and mom is too, unofficially.
Alina is the little girl they are adopting. She is precious. She is four years old and smaller than Nina. She is extremely pale with very short hair all over. She has spirit! Their adoption is a little different from ours. They just got Alina yesterday and will leave for the US on Saturday. This was their first day with her, with doctor's appointments and the embassy visit! Wow! The parents also have two sons back home, 10 and 14. They have always wanted a little girl, and they have always wanted to adopt. They amaze me! They are sweet people and very relaxed. Mom is extremely fashionable and gorgeous. Dad is very handsome also. Their intention is to continue Alina's Ukrainian language. They have a Ukrainian nanny set up back home! They will speak Spanish to her at home. And, she will have English in school. Wow! That is amazing and overwhelming to me for some reason. I wish I could say I planned the same for Nina. I was merely focused on English... oops!
We all entered the medical center together. We waited about 5 minutes, then we were asked to go pay for the visit. We were sent into the hallway/waiting area where we waited about another 5 minutes, and a nurse took Nina for weight and height. Nina started crying. She quickly stopped when she realized it was all over. Then, we waited another 10 minutes and went in to see the doctor. He was very thorough and asked Nina all of the questions directly. She took this very seriously and answered all of the questions while looking him in the eyes. However, she did tell him that she goes to school. We told him that was not true! She laughed, so she still had her sense of humor eventhough she was stressed. He asked her to remove her shirt and did a complete physical. She laughed and did great! He handed me her immunization records, and it occurred to me that we will have the dreaded 4 year shots with her in July... ugh! Those are brutal.
Well, we dressed and went into the hallway/waiting area which was crowded with people at this point. Little Alina and her parents followed the same routine. Once all of the check ups were complete, we had to wait in the hallway for about 10 minutes. Alina is a spritely little thing. She took a drink of someone's juice (whom none of us knew), she ran crazy from person to person in the crowd waiting area (a hallway), she went up to a person and called him a witch, she apparently stamped the doctor's desk with his seal multiple times and pulled the paper from the exam table off the roll. She was out of control, like a kid with way too much sugar. I think even Nina was appalled at her behavior. Don't get me wrong, Alina was not being bad. She was experiencing a million new stimuli all at once! And, she doesn't even know these people she is supposed to call "mom and dad!"
On the flip side, our little Nina was a angel. I realized how blessed I was to have such a jewel sitting with me. She looked up at me several times for confirmation that she could play with something. She was content to sit in my lap and play with her one toy. She asked to get down from my lap and stand at my feet. She then just played quietly, talking to herself and stomping her feet. She did not leave my side, nor act inappropriately. She is just amazing!
Another note about Alina: she has some internal health issues. She was born without an anus and has endured three surgeries thus far. (She's only four!) She has one small and non-functioning kidney and the other is enlarged. She has some other internal organ problems, and they will have to address those when they arrive back in the US. She is a precious little girl who is getting used to her new world.
We went to the US Embassy after the clinic appointment. Nina and I entered with some paperwork and passports and money. We went to the office and waited for about 15 minutes. Nina started to cry... I think she was scared. She stopped when I found her a chair and stood next to her. I played some little games with her and she was fine again. I went to the counter and our paperwork was processed, which took about 15 minutes. We walked down the hallway to pay for Nina's visa. Then, we went back to the office with the receipt. The lady said, "Thank you for having all of your paperwork completed and in order. Please come back tomorrow for your final interview and visa, between 9:00 and 10:00 in the morning." That was it! Nina was ready to be outside and get some lunch. We were back to the apartment by noon. Thank you, God, for speedy work!
We went to our little French restaurant to celebrate and Nina didn't like any of the food I chose for her. She had two cookies and orange juice. We played in the main center plaza of the city for hours and Nina was filthy! Jordan called and Nina wanted to talk to him. She said, completely unprevoked by me, "I love you!" I think it melted his heart!
We returned to the apartment to get our sand toys and went out in front of the apartment and played. Nina wanted to stroll around the city. And, we actually ate pastries for dinner. (I probably should not say that outloud! It makes me sound like a bad mom.) Nina had one with sausage and cheese and finished with a chocolate pastry. We shared water and apples, oranges and bananas. This is the life, if we only had a beach!
Back at the apartment, Nina said she was ready for bath. Afterward, I started packing up a few things. She remained glued to my heels, following me all over the apartment. She still struggles a bit at bedtime, but I hold my ground. I needed for her to get some rest, because we have to go to the embassy again tomorrow. I'm not sure what the remainder of the day tomorrow looks like yet... more sand, dirt and a final stroll around the city? I think I'll treat her to her favorite Ukrainian restaurant for lunch and maybe dinner too! Nina had a good day!
I am now beginning to pray about Mia, Karly and Wiley claiming me back home. That will be a shocker for Nina since she has been my sole focus for so long. I pray she continues to feel loved, cared for and important. We met one other family at the clinic today. The dad was there completing the process and mom had returned to Indiana. They adopted a ten year old boy. He is so incredibly handsome. He seemed overwhelmed by all of the activity in the clinic, but he found security in his dad. I could tell the way he nuzzled up against his dad's arm. The dad was telling me they have no other children, that he will be their only focus. Nina will have a brother and sisters to learn when she arrives home. She will not be our only focus. I pray she is in the right family! Good night!
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
We're in the Home Stretch
I love these pictures... just having good kid time. And, "look mom, I'm running!" Gotta love it!
4/22/2009
I have to add a comment about the zebra outfit and give credit where it should given. As we were gathering things to come to the Ukraine, it occurred to me that we didn't have any clothes for Nina. I looked in the stores for winter clothing, but as you all know, Texas is not really the place to look for REAL winter clothing, especially in March. A friend of ours, Anne, offered some of her girls' clothes that she had saved. I selected a few little outfits and that was one of them. She actually left the orphanage in that outfit! When we get home, Nina has some more clothes from Anne waiting in her closet. Anne, many thanks!
Well, it's official. Nina's new name is Nina Louise Post. I'm not sure if we mentioned that before or not. But, Natalia, our attorney, just called me, and she is filling out the paperwork for the passport. Nina Louise Post will be entering the United States of America on Saturday, April 25th if all goes well. Tickets have been purchased for our trip home. We opted to fly to New York on Saturday and spend the night. We will fly into San Antonio on Sunday afternoon. This will alleviate some travel stress, I think/I hope. Travelling for 20 hours is hard on anyone but especially a toddler who doesn't understand what is happening.
Today, we went for our typical coffee and blueberry muffin. Then, we walked the city some more. We ended up at this statue called the Golden Gate. Apparently, it's the entry to the city from the 9th Century. They have obviously updated things. Nina walked all over the plaza there. We returned to the apartment to change and meet Natalia at Maydan. Before she arrived, we discovered new streets and bought some bubbles. One of my favorite things is turning down a street that we have passed a million times only to discovered it's the short route to all the places we've been going! We hung out at Maydan, blowing bubbles, people watching, dog watching. Then, Natalia arrived. We had to go to the bank and take care of some account stuff. Then, as she returned us to our apartment, we stopped at our favorite bakery for more bread. The day ended with playtime in the little community park area outside of our apartment. Nina so enjoys that time. The day is done... bath, dinner, bed.
Today, we went for our typical coffee and blueberry muffin. Then, we walked the city some more. We ended up at this statue called the Golden Gate. Apparently, it's the entry to the city from the 9th Century. They have obviously updated things. Nina walked all over the plaza there. We returned to the apartment to change and meet Natalia at Maydan. Before she arrived, we discovered new streets and bought some bubbles. One of my favorite things is turning down a street that we have passed a million times only to discovered it's the short route to all the places we've been going! We hung out at Maydan, blowing bubbles, people watching, dog watching. Then, Natalia arrived. We had to go to the bank and take care of some account stuff. Then, as she returned us to our apartment, we stopped at our favorite bakery for more bread. The day ended with playtime in the little community park area outside of our apartment. Nina so enjoys that time. The day is done... bath, dinner, bed.
Nina sat in my lap tonight as I was doing some work on the computer. She is precious, and just like my aunt told me (who has kept kids for years) that all kids are the same. They have to go to the bathroom, eat, sleep and play in-between. She's right. The language barrier has not been an issue thus far. It may be one down the road, but really she is like any kid this age. She has to have help and direction... me, too!
Even as great as she is, Nina had a very hard, emotional day. She cried about everything! I recognized that most of the crying occurred when she didn't get what she wanted! I think she may be tired. Early bedtime is good. Tomorrow, we have to go to the final medical appointment at 8:00am. Nina has a little rash under her left arm. And, there are bumps all down her left side. My best guess is that the detergent is irritating her. It is nothing serious, and I am praying it doesn't effect the medical appointment tomorrow. If all goes well there, we will head straigh to the US Embassy from there. They will issue us her passport later in the day, or we will have to pick it up on Friday. Apparently, the embassy is somewhat unpredictable. Hopefully, we will still get the passport and be allowed to leave by Saturday. I am feeling the heart's-tug toward home. Our adventure is coming to an end... at least the Ukrain part! I know the Lord has so much more in store for us, and I'm praying that my heart will remain open to Him.
Even as great as she is, Nina had a very hard, emotional day. She cried about everything! I recognized that most of the crying occurred when she didn't get what she wanted! I think she may be tired. Early bedtime is good. Tomorrow, we have to go to the final medical appointment at 8:00am. Nina has a little rash under her left arm. And, there are bumps all down her left side. My best guess is that the detergent is irritating her. It is nothing serious, and I am praying it doesn't effect the medical appointment tomorrow. If all goes well there, we will head straigh to the US Embassy from there. They will issue us her passport later in the day, or we will have to pick it up on Friday. Apparently, the embassy is somewhat unpredictable. Hopefully, we will still get the passport and be allowed to leave by Saturday. I am feeling the heart's-tug toward home. Our adventure is coming to an end... at least the Ukrain part! I know the Lord has so much more in store for us, and I'm praying that my heart will remain open to Him.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Took It Easy
4/21/2009
There are signs all over the place that look like something a toddler wrote! The yellow building is one of the most gorgeous government buildings ever! Nina loves playing in the dirt outside of the apartment, or anywhere for that matter. And, the children with the eggs... well, that's the Happy Easter from the president. These signs are everywhere!
Today, we took easy. We got up and slowly got ready for the day. We made our daily morning run to the local bakery for coffee and a blueberry muffin. We walked through the city and discovered it is NOT stroller friendly. We bought more minutes for the cell phone and some fruit. Finally, we made our way into the natural haven of the botanical gardens. It was lovely. Down in the deepest part of the gardens, you can not hear the noise of the city. You only hear wind in the trees and the birds singing happily. It was such an oasis in the midst of chaotic city life. We had a light lunch there and trekked down the street to the city center.
There is a very large maze of shops beneath the city. We ventured down into the "mall" and ate another light lunch in the "food court." Nina discovered that she likes gelato, the Italian ice cream! Apparently, she has expensive taste! She loved the water fountains and fish and the glass elevator. We left the underground and went to another little coffee shop, Chocolate. Our waiter was deemed, "Daddy" by Nina! He looked like Jordan did when he was in high school! It was so weird. Nina flirted with him during our stay. We finally concluded our day back at our apartment with some time playing in the dirt. Those who claim we do not get enough dirt in our diet have not met Nina. She loves to eat dirt, but I think the interest is fading!
I decided we needed a hot dinner out on the town. We went to the local Ukrainian restaurant, where Nina loves the food. She had meat balls (beef and onions with a light tomato sauce) and buckwheat (also now one of my favorites) and hard rolls (the tougher, the tastier in her book) and compote (a juice/water mix) and borsch and cabbage salad. American food will be a shock to her! I wanted to record this menu and one day show her what she "used to" eat! We stopped at a little treat place and bought 3 chocolates and a cookie. Nina actually calls them "cookies" now. They are no longer "pechenyas!" She counted our stairs today in English! We walked back to the apartment and found that there was no hot water. Nina was READY for bathtime. So, she was mad when I didn't put her in the water. I couldn't get hot water so I boiled it and added hot water to the cold bath water. Although she shivered some, she loved her bath! She was a jewel this evening... so happy and contented. Again, I dried her hair with the blow dryer and she liked it! She went to bed with little difficulty other than the typical toddler requests for potty, a drink, something to eat, potty, a drink, something to eat, etc...
I found out that Nina's paperwork was not ready to be sent on the train tonight so it will be sent on Wednesday night. Natalia (our attorney) told me we should be able to go to the US Embassy on Thursday and have the medical check-up and release done on Friday so that we can fly out on Saturday! We are booking our return flights for Saturday, April 25th and trying to determine whether to fly straight through the 20-hour trip or to stop and sleep in New York???
Nina and I still have a few more days of this "bondathon" as a friend deemed it. We will take in every moment. I miss the kids back home, and I am longing to be with them again. I even missed the dogs today. (Nina watched this huge white dog walk past us today and didn't say a word! I think she doesn't like their bark. This one was walking peacefully down the street with it owner.)
This has been a good bonding time for Nina and I. I am glad we have had it! Hot water is flowing again, and I'm off to take advantage of it while we have it...
Monday, April 20, 2009
A Change of Scenery
See below... this was Nina's amazing feat for the day.
She crossed the entire bridge and decided she needed to do it again.
With other kids going back and forth behind her, she made her way back across the moving bridge all by herself!
4/20/2009
Well, I finally had enough of the old apartment and its lack of an elevator, non-funtioning stove/oven and lack of other amenities. Nina and I moved across the street from the old apartment and it's awesome. It's like moving from a dirty, smokey motel to the Four Seasons! And, it's only $5 more per night. I think we'll manage. Nina and I are still on budget. We're cutting out daily coffees! Nina is so funny. We now leave the apartment and the first thing she will ask is "mommy, coffee?" How quickly they catch on! Of course, she was right. We went to our favorite little local bakery for coffee and Nina's newly found favorite... blueberry muffins. Karly has a kindred spirit since those are one of Karly's favorites as well.
She was so good while we hassled with the move. We didn't complete the task and get out until 1 o'clock. For her, it was torcher. She loves being outside amongst all the activity and noise and people. We spent the day at the park. I purchased some sand toys (buckets, shovels, etc.) She was thrilled and spent two hours simply playing in the sand. I finally pulled her out of the sand and encouraged her to move. She was hesitant at first because there were so many kids running around. Then, she asked to try everything. And, of course, I helped her try everything she asked to do. Her last achievement was skillfully making her way across this bridge that hangs from chains so that each slat of the bridge wiggles. She was timid at first and there were lots of kids passing back and forth on the bridge around her. She would grasp tightly to the handle and ask for help. Then, off she would go. Once she successfully made it across the first time, she went back across! There was one little boy who tried to tell her to move and then proceeded to pull her hands off the railing! I stepped up to say something to him, and his mom jumped in and scolded him. He moved on. However, Nina decided next to go down the slide. She did this, but he came down right after her and pushed her down. I think he was being intentionally mean to Nina. She started crying, and I brushed off her hands and pants and directed her to a new activity. She quickly recovered... she's amazing! I know that's not the last of the mean people she will encounter, and she shouldn't dwell on them.
We came back to the apartment, stopping first at our favorite bakery for bread only! Dinner, bath and dry hair! We love hair dryers. I wondered if Nina had her hair dried with a blow dryer at the orphanage? She sure did like it--just like Mia and Karly used to love getting their hair dried when they were younger. Nina had a very hard time going to bed tonight, and it may have been the new apartment. I stayed with her, but she just cried until she fell asleep--still whimpering. That breaks my heart, but I knew she was tired. I read a book and sang to her, but she kept crying. I know the move to the apartment was a good thing. Her knee was hurting her again today. And, after the park, I think even she appreciated the elevator. She doesn't really like to be carried, and the stairs were sometimes too much for her at the end of the day. It was a good move. We'll just take it one day at a time! Good night!
Well, I finally had enough of the old apartment and its lack of an elevator, non-funtioning stove/oven and lack of other amenities. Nina and I moved across the street from the old apartment and it's awesome. It's like moving from a dirty, smokey motel to the Four Seasons! And, it's only $5 more per night. I think we'll manage. Nina and I are still on budget. We're cutting out daily coffees! Nina is so funny. We now leave the apartment and the first thing she will ask is "mommy, coffee?" How quickly they catch on! Of course, she was right. We went to our favorite little local bakery for coffee and Nina's newly found favorite... blueberry muffins. Karly has a kindred spirit since those are one of Karly's favorites as well.
She was so good while we hassled with the move. We didn't complete the task and get out until 1 o'clock. For her, it was torcher. She loves being outside amongst all the activity and noise and people. We spent the day at the park. I purchased some sand toys (buckets, shovels, etc.) She was thrilled and spent two hours simply playing in the sand. I finally pulled her out of the sand and encouraged her to move. She was hesitant at first because there were so many kids running around. Then, she asked to try everything. And, of course, I helped her try everything she asked to do. Her last achievement was skillfully making her way across this bridge that hangs from chains so that each slat of the bridge wiggles. She was timid at first and there were lots of kids passing back and forth on the bridge around her. She would grasp tightly to the handle and ask for help. Then, off she would go. Once she successfully made it across the first time, she went back across! There was one little boy who tried to tell her to move and then proceeded to pull her hands off the railing! I stepped up to say something to him, and his mom jumped in and scolded him. He moved on. However, Nina decided next to go down the slide. She did this, but he came down right after her and pushed her down. I think he was being intentionally mean to Nina. She started crying, and I brushed off her hands and pants and directed her to a new activity. She quickly recovered... she's amazing! I know that's not the last of the mean people she will encounter, and she shouldn't dwell on them.
We came back to the apartment, stopping first at our favorite bakery for bread only! Dinner, bath and dry hair! We love hair dryers. I wondered if Nina had her hair dried with a blow dryer at the orphanage? She sure did like it--just like Mia and Karly used to love getting their hair dried when they were younger. Nina had a very hard time going to bed tonight, and it may have been the new apartment. I stayed with her, but she just cried until she fell asleep--still whimpering. That breaks my heart, but I knew she was tired. I read a book and sang to her, but she kept crying. I know the move to the apartment was a good thing. Her knee was hurting her again today. And, after the park, I think even she appreciated the elevator. She doesn't really like to be carried, and the stairs were sometimes too much for her at the end of the day. It was a good move. We'll just take it one day at a time! Good night!
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Easter continued...
The stairs are the ones from St. Andrews Cathedral that she successfully climbed the other day. She is an angel even when she sleeps.4/19/2009 continued...
Well, the afternoon included naptime and lunch and laundry. We have to start the laundry early in the day or it will not be dry by the next morning. After nap, we stopped for coffee and ice cream. However, Nina turned down the ice cream and fruit when it arrived at our table. I think she was really craving the walk outside... I was craving the coffee. My parents called while we were having coffee. It's always a treat to hear from them! Nina spoke to my mom. It was so cute. While I visited with my parents, she was quite well behaved.
Nina attempted the stairs at St. Andrews Cathedral again. She was distracted by all of the visitors going up and down the stairs. It was a busy day at the Cathedral! She concluded her climb with a tumble down a step at the bottom. Her sweet little hand slipped out of mine, and she fell. She has quite a bruise next to her right eye. I think this in one of many to come once we arrive home. Next, we went up to the street market and picked out some hand painted eggs. The artist was the same one Jordan and I met on our first visit, elderly and wearing a beret. He is such a kind man. Then, we stopped and Nina got to play in the dirt, a favorite pasttime. I visited with Jordan and the kids. And, all of them visited with Nina. She started talking with each one of them as if they totally understood her. She recognizes them as part of her life already. Even when I put her on the telephone, she said, "Mia, Karly, Wiley?" When they all turn into mean teenagers, someone will have to remind me of these precious times!
We left the market and went to the park behind St. Andrews Cathedral. She loved it. She even let me pet a small horse without freaking out. I had to pull her away from the park because it was getting late. I love how she desires to be outside and active! We left and passed a few dogs along the way. She handled it just fine. She even barked at one of them. And, she asked me to turn the stroller around so that she could see one (keeping her distance of course.) What a change from two days ago! Aunt Liz called us and we visited while strolling the main street, Maydan, which was closed for the holiday. We ventured back to the apartment, stopping first to buy a few pastries. The day ended with dinner and bedtime. No tears tonight!!!!!!
A few things from the day: she had two pieces of turkey on her plate and she said, "one, two!" She also said, "bye bye pechenya." (Cookie) She dropped one of her cookies and told it bye. I laugh at her ability to use English words mixed with Ukrainian words. She says "apple" and "banana" and "orange." She has mastered "thank you." At bedtime, Nina was asking to go potty. She had just been to the potty soI said no. And, she said, "yes peska." Again, she uses English and Ukrainian words. We both started giggling after that. Our conversations are wild, but as Jordan said, "you are communicating!" Although I miss Jordan and kids everday, this has been an important time for mother and daughter. Good night!
Well, the afternoon included naptime and lunch and laundry. We have to start the laundry early in the day or it will not be dry by the next morning. After nap, we stopped for coffee and ice cream. However, Nina turned down the ice cream and fruit when it arrived at our table. I think she was really craving the walk outside... I was craving the coffee. My parents called while we were having coffee. It's always a treat to hear from them! Nina spoke to my mom. It was so cute. While I visited with my parents, she was quite well behaved.
Nina attempted the stairs at St. Andrews Cathedral again. She was distracted by all of the visitors going up and down the stairs. It was a busy day at the Cathedral! She concluded her climb with a tumble down a step at the bottom. Her sweet little hand slipped out of mine, and she fell. She has quite a bruise next to her right eye. I think this in one of many to come once we arrive home. Next, we went up to the street market and picked out some hand painted eggs. The artist was the same one Jordan and I met on our first visit, elderly and wearing a beret. He is such a kind man. Then, we stopped and Nina got to play in the dirt, a favorite pasttime. I visited with Jordan and the kids. And, all of them visited with Nina. She started talking with each one of them as if they totally understood her. She recognizes them as part of her life already. Even when I put her on the telephone, she said, "Mia, Karly, Wiley?" When they all turn into mean teenagers, someone will have to remind me of these precious times!
We left the market and went to the park behind St. Andrews Cathedral. She loved it. She even let me pet a small horse without freaking out. I had to pull her away from the park because it was getting late. I love how she desires to be outside and active! We left and passed a few dogs along the way. She handled it just fine. She even barked at one of them. And, she asked me to turn the stroller around so that she could see one (keeping her distance of course.) What a change from two days ago! Aunt Liz called us and we visited while strolling the main street, Maydan, which was closed for the holiday. We ventured back to the apartment, stopping first to buy a few pastries. The day ended with dinner and bedtime. No tears tonight!!!!!!
A few things from the day: she had two pieces of turkey on her plate and she said, "one, two!" She also said, "bye bye pechenya." (Cookie) She dropped one of her cookies and told it bye. I laugh at her ability to use English words mixed with Ukrainian words. She says "apple" and "banana" and "orange." She has mastered "thank you." At bedtime, Nina was asking to go potty. She had just been to the potty soI said no. And, she said, "yes peska." Again, she uses English and Ukrainian words. We both started giggling after that. Our conversations are wild, but as Jordan said, "you are communicating!" Although I miss Jordan and kids everday, this has been an important time for mother and daughter. Good night!
Easter! Bockpeck?
Having a banana on the walk home!
When we were sitting in the park sharing our Easter bread, Nina was cold. So, I bundled her up in a wrap that I had purchased in the street market. I just brought it along in case she got cold... she did, and she was glad to have it!
This is Nina after the service at the Catholic Polish church. 
A little babushka offered to take our picture at St. Michael's Cathedral following the Easter ceremony where Nina was sprinkled and blessed along with the Easter baskets!
4/19/2009
We got up early this morning and went to church. Nina put on her new pants and hair clip. She wanted to wear the new blouse, but was too cold. And, I discovered just how cold when we stepped out of the door of the apartment house. BRRRR... It rained last night and I guess that cooled things a bit. We left and started seeing all of the babushka's walking with their baskets up to the churches. We followed the crowd to St. Michael's Cathedral. We entered the main chapel. People were lighting candles and praying. We went outside to stand in front of the smaller chapel. People were gathering with their baskets full of Easter bread, boiled eggs (some decorated, some not) and some had cheese and champagne. Each was covered with these ornately decorated cloths. (We must find one on the street today!) We gathered with everyone, but we didn't have a basket (I didn't think I could get it home with us.) But, we had Easter bread. So, I stuck Nina out there amongst all of the baskets (wearing her sunglasses, of course.) Everyone watched and was very accomodating. She and her bread and the other baskets were blessed (sprinkled with water) by the passing priest. A small group of young "priests-in-training" were walking amongst the baskets singing in harmony. It was a lovely ceremony. Afterward, a babushka walked up and offered to take our photograph. I was so grateful. She handed Nina a boiled egg. It was a sweet moment.
We left the cathdral and it was only 8:45am. So, we went to the Catholic Polish church. They had a service in English. It was the "second Sunday of Easter?" We left and sat in the park to share our egg-gift and Easter bread. A little coffee stand was open so I bought some coffee. Nina kept her eyes on the dogs running through the park. Nina polished off a banana on our walk back to the apartment.
By 10:30am, we had enjoyed two Easter services and some Easter bread. We are now back at the apartment and Nina is getting bored. It is very cold outside, and we have little do in the apartment. None of the stores are open today... or at least not yet. More to come...
We got up early this morning and went to church. Nina put on her new pants and hair clip. She wanted to wear the new blouse, but was too cold. And, I discovered just how cold when we stepped out of the door of the apartment house. BRRRR... It rained last night and I guess that cooled things a bit. We left and started seeing all of the babushka's walking with their baskets up to the churches. We followed the crowd to St. Michael's Cathedral. We entered the main chapel. People were lighting candles and praying. We went outside to stand in front of the smaller chapel. People were gathering with their baskets full of Easter bread, boiled eggs (some decorated, some not) and some had cheese and champagne. Each was covered with these ornately decorated cloths. (We must find one on the street today!) We gathered with everyone, but we didn't have a basket (I didn't think I could get it home with us.) But, we had Easter bread. So, I stuck Nina out there amongst all of the baskets (wearing her sunglasses, of course.) Everyone watched and was very accomodating. She and her bread and the other baskets were blessed (sprinkled with water) by the passing priest. A small group of young "priests-in-training" were walking amongst the baskets singing in harmony. It was a lovely ceremony. Afterward, a babushka walked up and offered to take our photograph. I was so grateful. She handed Nina a boiled egg. It was a sweet moment.
We left the cathdral and it was only 8:45am. So, we went to the Catholic Polish church. They had a service in English. It was the "second Sunday of Easter?" We left and sat in the park to share our egg-gift and Easter bread. A little coffee stand was open so I bought some coffee. Nina kept her eyes on the dogs running through the park. Nina polished off a banana on our walk back to the apartment.
By 10:30am, we had enjoyed two Easter services and some Easter bread. We are now back at the apartment and Nina is getting bored. It is very cold outside, and we have little do in the apartment. None of the stores are open today... or at least not yet. More to come...
Saturday, April 18, 2009
A few more pictures from Saturday
Nina is so expressive as you can see in these pictures. At the kitchen tablette, she is counting for me. Of course, in some of the other pictures, you can see we still had the sunglasses. All of these were taken in the little parkette outside of our apartment. She loves to have her picture made. I did have to teach her how to put her sunglasses on top of her head. For some reason, this was funny!More pictures from Saturday
The park was a big hit... with lots to do. In one picture, she is sitting on the bed next to a table. She has claimed that as her table where she keeps all of her newly acquired possessions. When we arrive with something new for her, she takes it from me and runs to "her table" with it. That's where "her" things stay, except for her sunglasses which made it off the table for our evening outing.
Easy Day #3
4/18/2009
Well, Nina awakened with a sore knee this morning. We have been doing so much walking and she simply is accustomed to it. We walked around a bit and stopped at McDonald's for coffee. We shopped! She quickly getting the hang of that. She picked out a purse (on sale... good girl!) and some sunglasses (which she did not remove the entire day) and a book and some barretts. I selected a little outfit for her as well. Clothes are NOT cheap here in Kiev, but it was so fun. When I gave her the little items (purse, sunglasses, etc.) she held them close to her body and said, "Nina's?" She had the biggest and brightest smile on her face when she said it. I felt a nudge to buy her so much more, but I resisted. We took some pictures today. Hopefully those will post soon. It was a relatively easy day. We went to this great park, and she climbed the stairs to slide once. Then, she came and sat down in the sand. We played together. Tomorrow, we might try to find some sand toys. She is craving time with other children. I hope the desire continues until we meet Mia, Karly and Wiley and all of our kid-friends back home. She will love all of them. One of our friends sent me an email that said her daughter was wondering when Nina was coming home because she wants to "get used to playing with her." I love the ready-to-receive spirits of children!
After we played in the sand, we sat in front of St. Michael's Cathedral and I got to talk on the telephone! What a joy! Nina had some time to just play without my entertainment, and that is good too. My mom called me and Jordan too! I relished the time to speak English with loved ones and I didn't want to let them go.
We had lunch at another of our favorite places: a little bakery/deli around the corner from our apartment. (Nina and I will have to diet when we get home! They have wonderful pasteries!) We came back to the apartment for some "down time" and I had so much stuff in my arms that Nina had to climb the stairs on her own. She was NOT happy about that. But, I couldn't leave her or our stuff. So, I made her climb the two floors up to our apartment. Once she reached the top, she was very proud of her accomplishment. We rested and had dinner.
This evening, she really wanted to go outside. So, we ventured outside. There's a little park outside our apartment door. It's a few benches and little green patches and flowers and trees. Apparently, all of the living spaces surround these little parks/sitting areas. And, there are always people there... sitting, visiting, eating, smoking, drinking. So, we walked around and around and around and around (you get the idea.) Then, Nina said her tummy was hurting so we took a bench. A man was already sitting there and he proceeded to start talking to us... ugh! I love that people will talk to you, but it's so frustrating not being able to reciprocate the conversation. We did communicate some. He asked about Nina's foot (of course). He also asked how old "we" are!?!? He told us he was 48 and studied in London for two years. He was eating a loaf of bread and offered us some. This is very common. Everyone is very quick to share, and it's an insult not to accept their offer. So, we did. It was a very dark bread (very fresh) with black olives and some kind of seeds. It had something like a licorice flavor to it... I think they might have been Anise seeds. Anyway, it was very flavorful, and Nina LOVED it. I asked where it came it from and he directed me across the street. We will go tomorrow, because the man asked if Iwas married?????? I said "yes" and he quickly left--it also was starting to rain. We came straight back into the apartment.
Nina loves taking baths. She lights up when she gets into the water. I let her play until she was a prunish and cold! But, once she got out and dry and into bed, she was quickly asleep... by 7:40pm! We have this book that I read to her, and she already pulls it out like it's routine. I read that one and another, and she was out! Hopefully, I will be asleep soon and we will go to church tomorrow!
Well, Nina awakened with a sore knee this morning. We have been doing so much walking and she simply is accustomed to it. We walked around a bit and stopped at McDonald's for coffee. We shopped! She quickly getting the hang of that. She picked out a purse (on sale... good girl!) and some sunglasses (which she did not remove the entire day) and a book and some barretts. I selected a little outfit for her as well. Clothes are NOT cheap here in Kiev, but it was so fun. When I gave her the little items (purse, sunglasses, etc.) she held them close to her body and said, "Nina's?" She had the biggest and brightest smile on her face when she said it. I felt a nudge to buy her so much more, but I resisted. We took some pictures today. Hopefully those will post soon. It was a relatively easy day. We went to this great park, and she climbed the stairs to slide once. Then, she came and sat down in the sand. We played together. Tomorrow, we might try to find some sand toys. She is craving time with other children. I hope the desire continues until we meet Mia, Karly and Wiley and all of our kid-friends back home. She will love all of them. One of our friends sent me an email that said her daughter was wondering when Nina was coming home because she wants to "get used to playing with her." I love the ready-to-receive spirits of children!
After we played in the sand, we sat in front of St. Michael's Cathedral and I got to talk on the telephone! What a joy! Nina had some time to just play without my entertainment, and that is good too. My mom called me and Jordan too! I relished the time to speak English with loved ones and I didn't want to let them go.
We had lunch at another of our favorite places: a little bakery/deli around the corner from our apartment. (Nina and I will have to diet when we get home! They have wonderful pasteries!) We came back to the apartment for some "down time" and I had so much stuff in my arms that Nina had to climb the stairs on her own. She was NOT happy about that. But, I couldn't leave her or our stuff. So, I made her climb the two floors up to our apartment. Once she reached the top, she was very proud of her accomplishment. We rested and had dinner.
This evening, she really wanted to go outside. So, we ventured outside. There's a little park outside our apartment door. It's a few benches and little green patches and flowers and trees. Apparently, all of the living spaces surround these little parks/sitting areas. And, there are always people there... sitting, visiting, eating, smoking, drinking. So, we walked around and around and around and around (you get the idea.) Then, Nina said her tummy was hurting so we took a bench. A man was already sitting there and he proceeded to start talking to us... ugh! I love that people will talk to you, but it's so frustrating not being able to reciprocate the conversation. We did communicate some. He asked about Nina's foot (of course). He also asked how old "we" are!?!? He told us he was 48 and studied in London for two years. He was eating a loaf of bread and offered us some. This is very common. Everyone is very quick to share, and it's an insult not to accept their offer. So, we did. It was a very dark bread (very fresh) with black olives and some kind of seeds. It had something like a licorice flavor to it... I think they might have been Anise seeds. Anyway, it was very flavorful, and Nina LOVED it. I asked where it came it from and he directed me across the street. We will go tomorrow, because the man asked if Iwas married?????? I said "yes" and he quickly left--it also was starting to rain. We came straight back into the apartment.
Nina loves taking baths. She lights up when she gets into the water. I let her play until she was a prunish and cold! But, once she got out and dry and into bed, she was quickly asleep... by 7:40pm! We have this book that I read to her, and she already pulls it out like it's routine. I read that one and another, and she was out! Hopefully, I will be asleep soon and we will go to church tomorrow!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Full Day #2 in Kiev
4/17/2009
Well, Nina had a restless night’s sleep. She awakened at 6:30am on the dot! She asked to go to the bathroom, and then I directed her back to bed. She played for a bit, then I woke up! Apparently, she and I both fell back to sleep for the second time. She awakened shortly after me at almost 10am! Amazing! We both needed the extra sleep. We had breakfast and the girl was ready to go! So, we went outside by 11:00am and started the morning. We had breakfast at our favorite little French place around the corner (that’s the life, right??!!) We continue to receive funny looks and hear whispering as people walk past, but I am getting used to it. We walked all over the city today and shopped on the street for little memorabilia for Nina, Karly, Mia and Wiley. An elderly lady saw Nina sitting in the stroller and told her she was "beautiful." I love to hear that word spoken to her. It sounds like "kraseeva." She asked me if she could give Nina a piece of candy. I know we were taught not to take candy from strangers, but today I needed to!
Nina climbed to the TOP of the stairs at St. Andrew's Church… that was a feat. She was filthy and tired afterward and asked to ride in the stroller. I celebrated her achievement by directing her eyes to the top of the stairs, and she seemed to understand. We stopped for ice cream at McDonald’s. It does not seem that she has had an ice cream cone before… I had to teach her, who better than the master of sweets!
We stopped a local bread shop in the city center and squished in the door (with the stroller.) People are so pushy, but a distinguished lady offered to hold the door open for us so that we could enter... there are nice people in the world after all! The line was terrible, but we took our place and waited. We bought some kind of brown bread (think, ordering in a deli in New York--pressure!) and some little unsalted pretzel-like things. (They had them in the orphanage.) When I showed Nina, a huge smile crossed her face. It was grand. We exited the bread shop and proceeded into the city center. She then decided to disobey me and threw her body on the ground. (What’s a new mom to do?) I stepped about 3 steps away from her with my back turned (only briefly), and she quickly called "mama!" She was unable to get up, and also realized that she had made the wrong choice. (Parenting is so hard. Surviving public scrutiny with a physically challenged child in a foreign country has proven even harder.)
Ok, so we walked some more… she loves the underground shopping area and the city center. She got to play in the dirt… more scrutiny incurred since no one else allows their children to do that in the city center! We were walking home a different direction and found a little bakery/coffee shop. We had dinner there only because it smelled good and I was completely spent. There was an elderly lady cleaning up the bakery. She stopped and talked to us. I couldn't understand her, but I could tell she was saying something kind. (Nina understood her!!) She gave Nina some little chocolates and continued to pass us while she worked and talk to us. I still didn't understand her, but I could just sense she was a precious lady and she was saying kind things. And, that was all I needed in that moment of our day.
We walked some more and headed to buy fruit (we are trying strawberries tomorrow) and toilet paper. Yes, we bought a roll of toilet paper off a street vendor for 1 grivna (one Ukrainian dollar) which is equivalent (today, of course, as it changes daily) to 12.5 cents in USD! I should have bought two! Anyway, we arrived home very tired.
We washed our hands and started to settle in for the night when Natalia called. She asked to take us to the large grocery store. I reluctantly agreed. We got ready, but I could tell Nina was beat. In the car, she crawled into her emotional "shell." She snuggled into my arms and would not respond to Natalia's attempted conversation. In the store, Natalia asked Nina if she did not want to ride in the shopping cart. Nina told her no. I had to object. I could not shop and carry Nina around the store. She is too heavy. I don't think Natalia liked this, but Nina was ok with it, I think. She interacted with me during our store visit with smiles. We left and came back to the apartment. Nina bathed... she loves baths! Natalia and I set up the USB modem for tonight. I'm not sure it will last because of the constant need to buy these "minutes" out on street and add them threw my cell phone. It's pretty complicated.
Nina is asleep, but she had a hard time going to sleep. She told Natalia that I needed to sleep with her! Dependence is a good thing! I guess she is beginning to trust me and rely on me.
We have good food in the apartment for a change. And, Nina tried out the ham tonight and ate two large slices. She asked for more, but I told her no. I think she really loves meat! She does NOT like cheese nor milk. HMMMMMMM.....
That's all for today. I will try to remember the camera tomorrow along with the stroller, Nina, my purse and a bag for purchases... Good night!
Well, Nina had a restless night’s sleep. She awakened at 6:30am on the dot! She asked to go to the bathroom, and then I directed her back to bed. She played for a bit, then I woke up! Apparently, she and I both fell back to sleep for the second time. She awakened shortly after me at almost 10am! Amazing! We both needed the extra sleep. We had breakfast and the girl was ready to go! So, we went outside by 11:00am and started the morning. We had breakfast at our favorite little French place around the corner (that’s the life, right??!!) We continue to receive funny looks and hear whispering as people walk past, but I am getting used to it. We walked all over the city today and shopped on the street for little memorabilia for Nina, Karly, Mia and Wiley. An elderly lady saw Nina sitting in the stroller and told her she was "beautiful." I love to hear that word spoken to her. It sounds like "kraseeva." She asked me if she could give Nina a piece of candy. I know we were taught not to take candy from strangers, but today I needed to!
Nina climbed to the TOP of the stairs at St. Andrew's Church… that was a feat. She was filthy and tired afterward and asked to ride in the stroller. I celebrated her achievement by directing her eyes to the top of the stairs, and she seemed to understand. We stopped for ice cream at McDonald’s. It does not seem that she has had an ice cream cone before… I had to teach her, who better than the master of sweets!
We stopped a local bread shop in the city center and squished in the door (with the stroller.) People are so pushy, but a distinguished lady offered to hold the door open for us so that we could enter... there are nice people in the world after all! The line was terrible, but we took our place and waited. We bought some kind of brown bread (think, ordering in a deli in New York--pressure!) and some little unsalted pretzel-like things. (They had them in the orphanage.) When I showed Nina, a huge smile crossed her face. It was grand. We exited the bread shop and proceeded into the city center. She then decided to disobey me and threw her body on the ground. (What’s a new mom to do?) I stepped about 3 steps away from her with my back turned (only briefly), and she quickly called "mama!" She was unable to get up, and also realized that she had made the wrong choice. (Parenting is so hard. Surviving public scrutiny with a physically challenged child in a foreign country has proven even harder.)
Ok, so we walked some more… she loves the underground shopping area and the city center. She got to play in the dirt… more scrutiny incurred since no one else allows their children to do that in the city center! We were walking home a different direction and found a little bakery/coffee shop. We had dinner there only because it smelled good and I was completely spent. There was an elderly lady cleaning up the bakery. She stopped and talked to us. I couldn't understand her, but I could tell she was saying something kind. (Nina understood her!!) She gave Nina some little chocolates and continued to pass us while she worked and talk to us. I still didn't understand her, but I could just sense she was a precious lady and she was saying kind things. And, that was all I needed in that moment of our day.
We walked some more and headed to buy fruit (we are trying strawberries tomorrow) and toilet paper. Yes, we bought a roll of toilet paper off a street vendor for 1 grivna (one Ukrainian dollar) which is equivalent (today, of course, as it changes daily) to 12.5 cents in USD! I should have bought two! Anyway, we arrived home very tired.
We washed our hands and started to settle in for the night when Natalia called. She asked to take us to the large grocery store. I reluctantly agreed. We got ready, but I could tell Nina was beat. In the car, she crawled into her emotional "shell." She snuggled into my arms and would not respond to Natalia's attempted conversation. In the store, Natalia asked Nina if she did not want to ride in the shopping cart. Nina told her no. I had to object. I could not shop and carry Nina around the store. She is too heavy. I don't think Natalia liked this, but Nina was ok with it, I think. She interacted with me during our store visit with smiles. We left and came back to the apartment. Nina bathed... she loves baths! Natalia and I set up the USB modem for tonight. I'm not sure it will last because of the constant need to buy these "minutes" out on street and add them threw my cell phone. It's pretty complicated.
Nina is asleep, but she had a hard time going to sleep. She told Natalia that I needed to sleep with her! Dependence is a good thing! I guess she is beginning to trust me and rely on me.
We have good food in the apartment for a change. And, Nina tried out the ham tonight and ate two large slices. She asked for more, but I told her no. I think she really loves meat! She does NOT like cheese nor milk. HMMMMMMM.....
That's all for today. I will try to remember the camera tomorrow along with the stroller, Nina, my purse and a bag for purchases... Good night!
Mom and Nina in Kiev
4/16/2009
Nina is napping, and just as with the others, I am relishing this quiet time. She had a very rough morning, although she is still so incredibly amazing. I have learned her “currency”… her shoes. When she misbehaves, I can take her shoe off very calmly. She does not like this. She will concede and so far obey. I only use that for things like playing with the washing machine, sticking her fingers in plugs, trying to open the back door to the balcony, turning the gas stove on… dangerous things.
She does eat dirt. I have not figured that one out. I think it is a sign of defiance, because the caregivers were very concerned about the children staying clean. I don’t think she was really allowed in the dirt. But, at the park this morning, she put it into her and chewed it. I thought it was gross and told her so. She continued to eat it and laugh. Again, I think she was assuming she was “getting to me” by eating it. I finally explained the best I could that it was gross and not good for her. I redirected her attention elsewhere. Later, she did it again. I will need help with that one!
Nina awakened at regular time this morning, 6:30am! And, she was sad when we didn’t jump up and put our clothes on. I did the best I could, moving as fast as I could. But, I realized she was hungry. We had breakfast and put our clothes on. Then, while I was getting ready, she had some “book time.” She will play pretend with her doll and empty water bottles. She is very imaginative, which is incredible! Again, she never ceases to amaze.
After wrestling stroller and all down the stairs, we made it outside. She walked for a while then conceded to the stroller. We walked to the park and played. Then, she had a meltdown, nothing unusual. We had a little snack, crackers dipped in dirt! Then, we had another meltdown and went for coffee… me not Nina. She had another little snack and some water. She walked through the middle of the square. She, of course, pushed the stroller. Then, we had another breakdown over some stairs. So we headed back to the apartment, stopping on the way for fruit and pigs-in-blankets and more water. We made it to the apartment, climbing stairs with a bag of stuff, stroller and Nina (who was so exhausted I carried her up the stairs as well.) We had lunch, and I set a bowl of fruit on the table. We talked about the fruit names, and she wanted all of it. She finally understood that we were finished with lunch.
Nina is a fabulous helper, and she helped me start a load of laundry. That was an adventure for her. I hope that she naps well, and we can step out for a good dinner and possibly to find a few blocks or puzzles. She needs a few toys here in the apartment, since I found out that we will receive her passport no earlier than Wednesday of next week. This means we will most likely head home on Friday at the earliest. It will probably be Saturday. Big Nina instructed me to NOT book any tickets to home until the passport is on the train for delivery here in Kiev. By then, Little Nina might think this is her final destination!!! I think I will nap for a little. She is so precious when she is sleeping.
I return… Nina is asleep for the night…
Well, post-nap has always been one of my favorite times of the day with my kiddos and now Nina included. After tears from awakening, she had a snack and we headed out to find a few “personal” items and eat dinner. I have noticed that she prefers me to carry her. The stairs here in the apartment are more than challenging for her. So upon occasion, I have given in to her requests. But at the bottom, she chooses to walk. This evening, however, she reached the outdoors and all of the chaos of the city streets, and quickly decided to “take the stroller.” She road in the stroller the entire evening. At one point, I encouraged her to walk but she refused. Something is telling me that she is starting to recognize the differences in her feet and legs from all of the other feet and legs on the streets. I have observed her looking down at her feet and looking up at other’s and looking down again at her own. Soon after I saw her doing this, she asked to be put in the stroller. I don’t really know… but she is very intelligent. As they said at the orphanage, she will be a professor some day. I think that was it!
On our second adventure for the day, we went through the city to the stores underground. We found a few things, including some pink fingernail polish that she picked out! We found a good place for dinner. A Ukrainian woman joined our table saying all kinds of things. I felt so bad then finally told her I did not understand. She started talking in English! Amazing!!! We visited briefly. She was so excited for Nina. She had watched Nina walk to our table and when she discovered that I was adopting her, she became so animated and lively in her conversation. I was so caught off guard! I think Nina was overwhelmed too. I enjoyed the adult interaction and the English. As we were leaving the woman jumped up from the table and kissed Nina. Nina just stood there, stunned. It was really very cute.
We came back to the apartment for Beauty School 101 and a bath. She LOVED bath time… the bath toys I brought were a huge hit! She has obviously washed herself, as she did NOT want my help. After I had already helped some, she had a meltdown. It happens. She quickly recovered when she received seven new pairs of panties with varying princesses on them. She carefully opened each one and gathered them into her lap and deemed them “Nina’s” with the largest of grins. (When was the last time you got excited over your stack of panties?) I thought back to our exit from the orphanage… she brought nothing. So, of course, the cartoon toothbrush that we purchased today was also a huge hit. She was desperate to open it and use it. I put it next to mine and she claimed with a smile, “Mama’s e Nina’s.”
She also gets to sleep with a ballerina doll and pretty much anything else she chooses… I thought she was going to sleep with a plastic water bottle and soup spoon and fork tonight. Thankfully, I was wrong. Only the ballerina doll stayed. After we read our book and said a verse and prayer, I stayed next to her to help her get to sleep (plus she smelled sweet and clean from her bath and yummy lotion. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to snuggle!) In bed, lights out, she played with the doll, turning it to watch the eyes open and close. She rubbed the silk ribbons between her fingers, like little girls do. It was so precious to watch. I think she has spent quiet hours in bed awake. She never got out of bed nor asked for anything… just wait until she learns a few things from our crew?!?!!? Maybe Nina will influence them instead?
She enjoys the adult attention, not just my attention, but the fact that we laugh and hang out together. She also mimics my every move, from how I brush my teeth and spit to how I rest my fork on my plate; unbeknownst to me, I turn it over on my plate! I caught her watching me, and she reached over and turned her fork over. Wow! Hopefully she won’t copy everything, but she’s running pretty close so far!!!
I am praying that she overcomes this fear of dogs because I’m not sure how to handle it. Dogs are so common in people’s houses, and she is terrified of them. Today, this one the size of my hand ran up the stairs towards her. When she saw him coming, she ran over to me screaming. I picked her up and her entire body was shaking. Maybe there’s some research on that topic???? There are also dogs barking all over the city, running loose and barking inside our building, and she comments on every bark and everyone she sees. She watches their every move and does all she can to avoid them. I’ll have to consult Mia on that one!!!
One other thing is that Nina regularly asks for food. I am trying to determine between true hunger and the desire for food because it’s available. She eats very fast and shovels food into her mouth; although after watching me, I noticed that her eating habits are slowly changing.
She has discovered the refrigerator! Thankfully, it’s slim pickin’s in there. This makes it less of a temptation. Tomorrow, Natalia (our attorney) is taking us to a larger grocery store. The only options nearby are restaurants and curbside stands. Hopefully, she will make it and we will go through another great adventure with Little Nina. Imagine her thoughts in a large building filled with isles upon isles of food!?!?!??
I’m off to shower since she is asleep. Hope all is well back home. I’ve had little contact. My phone has very few minutes and I’m too cheap to add any. And, the internet service is too expensive as well. Natalia said she might be able to bring a USB modem to me tomorrow. That would be awesome! I can’t wait for all of you to meet Nina. Unlike everyone here, I know she will be received and loved no matter what her little body looks like. I’m off to shower…Good night!
Nina is napping, and just as with the others, I am relishing this quiet time. She had a very rough morning, although she is still so incredibly amazing. I have learned her “currency”… her shoes. When she misbehaves, I can take her shoe off very calmly. She does not like this. She will concede and so far obey. I only use that for things like playing with the washing machine, sticking her fingers in plugs, trying to open the back door to the balcony, turning the gas stove on… dangerous things.
She does eat dirt. I have not figured that one out. I think it is a sign of defiance, because the caregivers were very concerned about the children staying clean. I don’t think she was really allowed in the dirt. But, at the park this morning, she put it into her and chewed it. I thought it was gross and told her so. She continued to eat it and laugh. Again, I think she was assuming she was “getting to me” by eating it. I finally explained the best I could that it was gross and not good for her. I redirected her attention elsewhere. Later, she did it again. I will need help with that one!
Nina awakened at regular time this morning, 6:30am! And, she was sad when we didn’t jump up and put our clothes on. I did the best I could, moving as fast as I could. But, I realized she was hungry. We had breakfast and put our clothes on. Then, while I was getting ready, she had some “book time.” She will play pretend with her doll and empty water bottles. She is very imaginative, which is incredible! Again, she never ceases to amaze.
After wrestling stroller and all down the stairs, we made it outside. She walked for a while then conceded to the stroller. We walked to the park and played. Then, she had a meltdown, nothing unusual. We had a little snack, crackers dipped in dirt! Then, we had another meltdown and went for coffee… me not Nina. She had another little snack and some water. She walked through the middle of the square. She, of course, pushed the stroller. Then, we had another breakdown over some stairs. So we headed back to the apartment, stopping on the way for fruit and pigs-in-blankets and more water. We made it to the apartment, climbing stairs with a bag of stuff, stroller and Nina (who was so exhausted I carried her up the stairs as well.) We had lunch, and I set a bowl of fruit on the table. We talked about the fruit names, and she wanted all of it. She finally understood that we were finished with lunch.
Nina is a fabulous helper, and she helped me start a load of laundry. That was an adventure for her. I hope that she naps well, and we can step out for a good dinner and possibly to find a few blocks or puzzles. She needs a few toys here in the apartment, since I found out that we will receive her passport no earlier than Wednesday of next week. This means we will most likely head home on Friday at the earliest. It will probably be Saturday. Big Nina instructed me to NOT book any tickets to home until the passport is on the train for delivery here in Kiev. By then, Little Nina might think this is her final destination!!! I think I will nap for a little. She is so precious when she is sleeping.
I return… Nina is asleep for the night…
Well, post-nap has always been one of my favorite times of the day with my kiddos and now Nina included. After tears from awakening, she had a snack and we headed out to find a few “personal” items and eat dinner. I have noticed that she prefers me to carry her. The stairs here in the apartment are more than challenging for her. So upon occasion, I have given in to her requests. But at the bottom, she chooses to walk. This evening, however, she reached the outdoors and all of the chaos of the city streets, and quickly decided to “take the stroller.” She road in the stroller the entire evening. At one point, I encouraged her to walk but she refused. Something is telling me that she is starting to recognize the differences in her feet and legs from all of the other feet and legs on the streets. I have observed her looking down at her feet and looking up at other’s and looking down again at her own. Soon after I saw her doing this, she asked to be put in the stroller. I don’t really know… but she is very intelligent. As they said at the orphanage, she will be a professor some day. I think that was it!
On our second adventure for the day, we went through the city to the stores underground. We found a few things, including some pink fingernail polish that she picked out! We found a good place for dinner. A Ukrainian woman joined our table saying all kinds of things. I felt so bad then finally told her I did not understand. She started talking in English! Amazing!!! We visited briefly. She was so excited for Nina. She had watched Nina walk to our table and when she discovered that I was adopting her, she became so animated and lively in her conversation. I was so caught off guard! I think Nina was overwhelmed too. I enjoyed the adult interaction and the English. As we were leaving the woman jumped up from the table and kissed Nina. Nina just stood there, stunned. It was really very cute.
We came back to the apartment for Beauty School 101 and a bath. She LOVED bath time… the bath toys I brought were a huge hit! She has obviously washed herself, as she did NOT want my help. After I had already helped some, she had a meltdown. It happens. She quickly recovered when she received seven new pairs of panties with varying princesses on them. She carefully opened each one and gathered them into her lap and deemed them “Nina’s” with the largest of grins. (When was the last time you got excited over your stack of panties?) I thought back to our exit from the orphanage… she brought nothing. So, of course, the cartoon toothbrush that we purchased today was also a huge hit. She was desperate to open it and use it. I put it next to mine and she claimed with a smile, “Mama’s e Nina’s.”
She also gets to sleep with a ballerina doll and pretty much anything else she chooses… I thought she was going to sleep with a plastic water bottle and soup spoon and fork tonight. Thankfully, I was wrong. Only the ballerina doll stayed. After we read our book and said a verse and prayer, I stayed next to her to help her get to sleep (plus she smelled sweet and clean from her bath and yummy lotion. I couldn’t resist the opportunity to snuggle!) In bed, lights out, she played with the doll, turning it to watch the eyes open and close. She rubbed the silk ribbons between her fingers, like little girls do. It was so precious to watch. I think she has spent quiet hours in bed awake. She never got out of bed nor asked for anything… just wait until she learns a few things from our crew?!?!!? Maybe Nina will influence them instead?
She enjoys the adult attention, not just my attention, but the fact that we laugh and hang out together. She also mimics my every move, from how I brush my teeth and spit to how I rest my fork on my plate; unbeknownst to me, I turn it over on my plate! I caught her watching me, and she reached over and turned her fork over. Wow! Hopefully she won’t copy everything, but she’s running pretty close so far!!!
I am praying that she overcomes this fear of dogs because I’m not sure how to handle it. Dogs are so common in people’s houses, and she is terrified of them. Today, this one the size of my hand ran up the stairs towards her. When she saw him coming, she ran over to me screaming. I picked her up and her entire body was shaking. Maybe there’s some research on that topic???? There are also dogs barking all over the city, running loose and barking inside our building, and she comments on every bark and everyone she sees. She watches their every move and does all she can to avoid them. I’ll have to consult Mia on that one!!!
One other thing is that Nina regularly asks for food. I am trying to determine between true hunger and the desire for food because it’s available. She eats very fast and shovels food into her mouth; although after watching me, I noticed that her eating habits are slowly changing.
She has discovered the refrigerator! Thankfully, it’s slim pickin’s in there. This makes it less of a temptation. Tomorrow, Natalia (our attorney) is taking us to a larger grocery store. The only options nearby are restaurants and curbside stands. Hopefully, she will make it and we will go through another great adventure with Little Nina. Imagine her thoughts in a large building filled with isles upon isles of food!?!?!??
I’m off to shower since she is asleep. Hope all is well back home. I’ve had little contact. My phone has very few minutes and I’m too cheap to add any. And, the internet service is too expensive as well. Natalia said she might be able to bring a USB modem to me tomorrow. That would be awesome! I can’t wait for all of you to meet Nina. Unlike everyone here, I know she will be received and loved no matter what her little body looks like. I’m off to shower…Good night!
I HAVE NINA!
4/15/2009
We have had another exciting day… as you all can imagine! Thank the Lord, first of all, because the clothes I brought for Nina fit perfectly. And, layering is always good here.
While I was changing Nina’s clothes, I was carefully watched by all of the staff. So, I began to sweat, terribly. Thankfully, I had already discovered the joy of layering myself! I assumed they were observing how I interacted with her while changing her clothes. I believe, upon reflection, they were actually scrutinizing the clothes I put on her. The black and white leopard print outfit was acceptable! We all said our goodbyes, which made me so very sad. I began to cry, but tried hard to avoid letting Nina see me. Her friends, her community, her caregivers for the few years of her little life, all said goodbye with kisses and hugs. It was touching, and I began to regret our purpose. Then I remembered the kids in the cribs crying incessantly, and no one going to attend to them. I also remember how tired the caregivers often seemed around the children. I was reminded that Nina’s present caregivers do not have any long term place in Nina’s life. She would eventually go to the Invalid House, amongst new caregivers and children with physical and mental challenges. I quickly dried my tears, signed the remaining paperwork at the orphanage and left with both Nina’s for the local passport office.
She was photographed and amazingly precious and patient. (The orphanage did include a pair of shoes for Nina, which I did not discover until later… how generous of them. They knew that the shoes were an issue. How very thoughtful of them all!)
Next stop, LUNCH! We ate the best food at one of the best restaurants I’ve enjoyed yet… all I kept thinking was why haven’t we been here before now!??! It also had the most wonderful bathrooms—I so appreciate our bathrooms back home. Anyway, we had eggs over easy on two slices of toast with sausage and slices of delicious tomatoes. Nina tasted French fries and ketchup (with mayonnaise?) for the first time. She preferred my tasty meal instead. (I don’t blame her!) She also tries to drink my coffee all the time… and I keep saying that it’s coffee. She still wants it. I have not allowed it as of yet and will try to avoid that. I don’t really think she had coffee in the orphanage but who knows. She also REALLY likes meat. She gobbles down every bite of mine and hers. Apparently, they did not receive meat often, only in soups, borsch, etc.
As we climbed into the car, she climbed right into my lap. I opened a note from a friend, and she had typed out the lyrics to one of my favorite songs. It was so appropriate and timely. I sang the song to her softly as she slowly but surely fell asleep. The lack of shocks coupled with the crater-like holes in the road led to a rapid awakening after roughly 30 minutes.
Arriving at the passport office in Dnipro (the capital of the region in which Krivoy Rog sits,) we quickly ran up four flights of stairs (Nina in tow.) We were called into this lady’s office almost immediately, and all five of us squeezed into her office. We signed papers then left the office to find a bathroom. In the hallway, the lady came over and gestured to Nina and me (while Big Nina) was down the hall. I found out later that the lady said she felt sorry for Little Nina. This statement solidified some thoughts I had begun having… I was very aware of the stares and rudeness with which people gawked and frowned upon little Nina. One elderly lady stopped right in front of us, turned around and looked at Nina’s legs. She then mumbled something with a frown on her face and whisked her body around and back out onto the streets. I questioned Big Nina about all of this, and she said, “There is no place in this country for people like Nina, people who are different. Kids who have physical or mental challenges just stay home with their parents. People are rude and mean to people who are different.”
Big Nina, on the other hand, has been a real trooper, such a help to me. It’s amazing what she has been willing to do. We went to the train station after the passport office, bought tickets and went to eat. Big Nina offered to take Little Nina to the potty, because I told her that Little Nina could not relax with me. They too were unsuccessful. (I will also tell you that they were Turkish potties… straddle and squat!) Nina can not bend her knees, which is required with these potties. We had to accommodate her in another manner by holding her stiff body over the hole. It sounds terribly uncomfortable for all involved… and it was. Not to upstage the potties, but the restaurant did have a kid’s area painted with brilliant colors and cartoons on a flat screen hung on the wall!
Big Nina also told me that during this process I have been very naïve… she told me that she has used lots of “oil” to make this adoption happen. We both understood that she was talking about money, applied where needed.
Another event was the train station… Big Nina went inside to buy the tickets. She told Little Nina and me to stay in the car, roll up the windows and lock the doors. She said there were a lot of gypsies and she (Big Nina) “would not be there to protect me.” So we stayed put and got really hot together. Little Nina snacked on yet another banana.
We got on the train for our six hour ride! Of course, when we got onto the train, Little Nina had to “pupka”—on a moving train! Well, we survived that trip and about ten others. Nina did fall and smash her head on the trash can during one visit. It was terrible. We put some ice on it, and I swear I got some strange looks over the new, purple bump on her head. Oh, well. That’s not the only time I got funny looks. People craned their necks from their seats to watch Nina walk down the isle, which we did many times. However, I never got used to the stares.
We made it Kiev and to our apartment by 11:00 pm. We were all tired. I asked Big Nina if all adoptions feel this rushed and chaotic. She said yes. These poor little ones have no idea what is happening. Everyone left Little Nina and me in the apartment, and we went about getting pjs on and getting ready for bed. She is amazingly resilient and content. I am not sure if she yet realizes that this is not the final destination. She went to sleep about 12:30am. I am learning so much about her, but she still has so much for me to learn. It was a long day.
We have had another exciting day… as you all can imagine! Thank the Lord, first of all, because the clothes I brought for Nina fit perfectly. And, layering is always good here.
While I was changing Nina’s clothes, I was carefully watched by all of the staff. So, I began to sweat, terribly. Thankfully, I had already discovered the joy of layering myself! I assumed they were observing how I interacted with her while changing her clothes. I believe, upon reflection, they were actually scrutinizing the clothes I put on her. The black and white leopard print outfit was acceptable! We all said our goodbyes, which made me so very sad. I began to cry, but tried hard to avoid letting Nina see me. Her friends, her community, her caregivers for the few years of her little life, all said goodbye with kisses and hugs. It was touching, and I began to regret our purpose. Then I remembered the kids in the cribs crying incessantly, and no one going to attend to them. I also remember how tired the caregivers often seemed around the children. I was reminded that Nina’s present caregivers do not have any long term place in Nina’s life. She would eventually go to the Invalid House, amongst new caregivers and children with physical and mental challenges. I quickly dried my tears, signed the remaining paperwork at the orphanage and left with both Nina’s for the local passport office.
She was photographed and amazingly precious and patient. (The orphanage did include a pair of shoes for Nina, which I did not discover until later… how generous of them. They knew that the shoes were an issue. How very thoughtful of them all!)
Next stop, LUNCH! We ate the best food at one of the best restaurants I’ve enjoyed yet… all I kept thinking was why haven’t we been here before now!??! It also had the most wonderful bathrooms—I so appreciate our bathrooms back home. Anyway, we had eggs over easy on two slices of toast with sausage and slices of delicious tomatoes. Nina tasted French fries and ketchup (with mayonnaise?) for the first time. She preferred my tasty meal instead. (I don’t blame her!) She also tries to drink my coffee all the time… and I keep saying that it’s coffee. She still wants it. I have not allowed it as of yet and will try to avoid that. I don’t really think she had coffee in the orphanage but who knows. She also REALLY likes meat. She gobbles down every bite of mine and hers. Apparently, they did not receive meat often, only in soups, borsch, etc.
As we climbed into the car, she climbed right into my lap. I opened a note from a friend, and she had typed out the lyrics to one of my favorite songs. It was so appropriate and timely. I sang the song to her softly as she slowly but surely fell asleep. The lack of shocks coupled with the crater-like holes in the road led to a rapid awakening after roughly 30 minutes.
Arriving at the passport office in Dnipro (the capital of the region in which Krivoy Rog sits,) we quickly ran up four flights of stairs (Nina in tow.) We were called into this lady’s office almost immediately, and all five of us squeezed into her office. We signed papers then left the office to find a bathroom. In the hallway, the lady came over and gestured to Nina and me (while Big Nina) was down the hall. I found out later that the lady said she felt sorry for Little Nina. This statement solidified some thoughts I had begun having… I was very aware of the stares and rudeness with which people gawked and frowned upon little Nina. One elderly lady stopped right in front of us, turned around and looked at Nina’s legs. She then mumbled something with a frown on her face and whisked her body around and back out onto the streets. I questioned Big Nina about all of this, and she said, “There is no place in this country for people like Nina, people who are different. Kids who have physical or mental challenges just stay home with their parents. People are rude and mean to people who are different.”
Big Nina, on the other hand, has been a real trooper, such a help to me. It’s amazing what she has been willing to do. We went to the train station after the passport office, bought tickets and went to eat. Big Nina offered to take Little Nina to the potty, because I told her that Little Nina could not relax with me. They too were unsuccessful. (I will also tell you that they were Turkish potties… straddle and squat!) Nina can not bend her knees, which is required with these potties. We had to accommodate her in another manner by holding her stiff body over the hole. It sounds terribly uncomfortable for all involved… and it was. Not to upstage the potties, but the restaurant did have a kid’s area painted with brilliant colors and cartoons on a flat screen hung on the wall!
Big Nina also told me that during this process I have been very naïve… she told me that she has used lots of “oil” to make this adoption happen. We both understood that she was talking about money, applied where needed.
Another event was the train station… Big Nina went inside to buy the tickets. She told Little Nina and me to stay in the car, roll up the windows and lock the doors. She said there were a lot of gypsies and she (Big Nina) “would not be there to protect me.” So we stayed put and got really hot together. Little Nina snacked on yet another banana.
We got on the train for our six hour ride! Of course, when we got onto the train, Little Nina had to “pupka”—on a moving train! Well, we survived that trip and about ten others. Nina did fall and smash her head on the trash can during one visit. It was terrible. We put some ice on it, and I swear I got some strange looks over the new, purple bump on her head. Oh, well. That’s not the only time I got funny looks. People craned their necks from their seats to watch Nina walk down the isle, which we did many times. However, I never got used to the stares.
We made it Kiev and to our apartment by 11:00 pm. We were all tired. I asked Big Nina if all adoptions feel this rushed and chaotic. She said yes. These poor little ones have no idea what is happening. Everyone left Little Nina and me in the apartment, and we went about getting pjs on and getting ready for bed. She is amazingly resilient and content. I am not sure if she yet realizes that this is not the final destination. She went to sleep about 12:30am. I am learning so much about her, but she still has so much for me to learn. It was a long day.
Paperwork!
4/14/2009
Today, we began the morning by getting off the train at 6 o’clock and heading straight to “McDrive-Thru,” as Nina calls it, for coffee. Our driver, Igor, took us to the apartment for showers. Once dressed, we jumped right into a litany of activities:
1. To see the judge to get a copy of the court decree. (There were lots of mistakes—even in Cyrillic you can find mistakes as I did—so we had to wait for the final paper to be printed and ten copies to be “tied.” Literally, they take a large needle and some thick thread and sew the sheets together. Who needs binders?!?!!)
2. Wait for corrections/copies to be sewn together and go get coffee again! (Nina mentioned that the people at the court are lazy because they don’t start working until 9:30am—she did give them some grace by clarifying that they work until 6:00pm.)
3. Drop off papers for the new birth certificate and adoption certificate
4. To local passport office for a form to be filled out and signed by the orphanage director
5. Pick up Nina and take her for a passport photo
6. Return Nina for lunch
7. To see the inspector to petition for a new passport
8. Pick up passport photos
9. Lunch with espresso, because no meal is complete without espresso!
10. Pick up new birth certificate and adoption certificate
11. To the notary and copy place to make notarized copies of the adoption and birth certificates.
12.Pick up Anya, a representative from the orphanage, to sign papers at tax (social security) office to change Nina’s name to correspond with existing social security number
13.Go to passport office to process Nina’s passport under new name and corresponding social security number
14.To the bank, a whole new can of worms!
15.Return Anya to the bus station at 6:45pm
16.Dinner
17.To the grocery store in order to have snacks for Nina on the car ride tomorrow!
It has been quite a day. Most of the time, I sat in the car and read a book. Our driver generally gets out of the car to avoid having to practice his English or listen to my questionable Russian. I will have to say that I think many of the men he visits with are drivers as well.
Carpeted in a brilliant shade of green, the city is beginning to take on it’s true identity. One author of a travel book Jordan and I read before we started this adventure described Krivoy Rog as “park-like.” It is certainly earning that reputation. The tulip bulbs that once barely poked out of the ground are now standing tall and a few have buds. The city will be blooming with color very soon, as if the people and their culture is not enough!
Getting Nina was the highlight of the day. I was nervous and excited and anxious… all in one. Once there, I found her smile contagious. She said, “hi mama” followed quickly by “where’s papa?” She looked all over the room for him! I explained that he was at home, and Big Nina walked in to finish the statement… thank goodness. Little Nina was so hungry, but we rushed off for quick passport photos. Her smile was beautiful, with a hint of tears from the beginning. (I had to leave her in the chair for the pictures.) She persevered! When we returned to the orphanage, she anxiously went into her room. However, she quickly turned without prompting and ran to give me a hug and “high five,” (something she remembered from our last visit.) She is precious. What a joy!
As we climbed back into the car, the subject of money came up with Big Nina. I naively assumed we had avoided the standard bribes. I was wrong. After some discussion, we started negotiations with the director of the orphanage. All is well now, but I was informed during all of this that if we didn’t agree to some amount, the director could possibly hold up her end of the paperwork. Clearly I was uncomfortable with all of this and Jordan was sleeping… it’s 3:30 in the morning in Texas. Finally, nothing changed hands until I spoke with Jordan. All is well. Another odd event was a stop with Anya and Nina to buy “presents” (chocolates, coffees, liquors, teas) for people in the local passport office and social security office (just to speed things along.)
It was a crazy, busy day. Tomorrow, we will leave the apartment to go get Nina. We will go by the bank, and then go to the local passport office for Nina’s full body scan. By eleven o’clock, we should be on the road to Dnipro Regional Passport Office. The drive will take about 1.5 hours. Once tasks are completed there, we will catch a 5-hour train to Kiev which will leave Dnipro Region at 4 o’clock in the evening. More to come… it’s been a full day!
Today, we began the morning by getting off the train at 6 o’clock and heading straight to “McDrive-Thru,” as Nina calls it, for coffee. Our driver, Igor, took us to the apartment for showers. Once dressed, we jumped right into a litany of activities:
1. To see the judge to get a copy of the court decree. (There were lots of mistakes—even in Cyrillic you can find mistakes as I did—so we had to wait for the final paper to be printed and ten copies to be “tied.” Literally, they take a large needle and some thick thread and sew the sheets together. Who needs binders?!?!!)
2. Wait for corrections/copies to be sewn together and go get coffee again! (Nina mentioned that the people at the court are lazy because they don’t start working until 9:30am—she did give them some grace by clarifying that they work until 6:00pm.)
3. Drop off papers for the new birth certificate and adoption certificate
4. To local passport office for a form to be filled out and signed by the orphanage director
5. Pick up Nina and take her for a passport photo
6. Return Nina for lunch
7. To see the inspector to petition for a new passport
8. Pick up passport photos
9. Lunch with espresso, because no meal is complete without espresso!
10. Pick up new birth certificate and adoption certificate
11. To the notary and copy place to make notarized copies of the adoption and birth certificates.
12.Pick up Anya, a representative from the orphanage, to sign papers at tax (social security) office to change Nina’s name to correspond with existing social security number
13.Go to passport office to process Nina’s passport under new name and corresponding social security number
14.To the bank, a whole new can of worms!
15.Return Anya to the bus station at 6:45pm
16.Dinner
17.To the grocery store in order to have snacks for Nina on the car ride tomorrow!
It has been quite a day. Most of the time, I sat in the car and read a book. Our driver generally gets out of the car to avoid having to practice his English or listen to my questionable Russian. I will have to say that I think many of the men he visits with are drivers as well.
Carpeted in a brilliant shade of green, the city is beginning to take on it’s true identity. One author of a travel book Jordan and I read before we started this adventure described Krivoy Rog as “park-like.” It is certainly earning that reputation. The tulip bulbs that once barely poked out of the ground are now standing tall and a few have buds. The city will be blooming with color very soon, as if the people and their culture is not enough!
Getting Nina was the highlight of the day. I was nervous and excited and anxious… all in one. Once there, I found her smile contagious. She said, “hi mama” followed quickly by “where’s papa?” She looked all over the room for him! I explained that he was at home, and Big Nina walked in to finish the statement… thank goodness. Little Nina was so hungry, but we rushed off for quick passport photos. Her smile was beautiful, with a hint of tears from the beginning. (I had to leave her in the chair for the pictures.) She persevered! When we returned to the orphanage, she anxiously went into her room. However, she quickly turned without prompting and ran to give me a hug and “high five,” (something she remembered from our last visit.) She is precious. What a joy!
As we climbed back into the car, the subject of money came up with Big Nina. I naively assumed we had avoided the standard bribes. I was wrong. After some discussion, we started negotiations with the director of the orphanage. All is well now, but I was informed during all of this that if we didn’t agree to some amount, the director could possibly hold up her end of the paperwork. Clearly I was uncomfortable with all of this and Jordan was sleeping… it’s 3:30 in the morning in Texas. Finally, nothing changed hands until I spoke with Jordan. All is well. Another odd event was a stop with Anya and Nina to buy “presents” (chocolates, coffees, liquors, teas) for people in the local passport office and social security office (just to speed things along.)
It was a crazy, busy day. Tomorrow, we will leave the apartment to go get Nina. We will go by the bank, and then go to the local passport office for Nina’s full body scan. By eleven o’clock, we should be on the road to Dnipro Regional Passport Office. The drive will take about 1.5 hours. Once tasks are completed there, we will catch a 5-hour train to Kiev which will leave Dnipro Region at 4 o’clock in the evening. More to come… it’s been a full day!
Monday, April 13, 2009
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)