Torres Family....and Adoption

2011-10-14T14:24:00.001-07:00

Building a new future for Ukrainian people with Down syndrome
Posted on October 2, 2011 by Frank Buckley
Last year we began a three year outreach project in Ukraine. Just one year on, the project is already making fantastic progress improving support for people with Down syndrome throughout the country – far more than we could have initially hoped for.

We estimate that there are 10,000-15,000 people with Down syndrome living throughout Ukraine, including 6,000-8,000 children
I first visited Kyiv in September 2008 at the request of (what was then) EDB Business Partner (which, following a merger, is now EDB ErgoGroup). EDB was considering options for a new corporate social responsibility project and wanted to know if we could develop a project that would deliver a marked improvement in the lives of people with Down syndrome living in Ukraine – one of several countries where the company has significant investments.
Kyiv is a former member of the Soviet Union and a country which suffered great brutality in the first half of the twentieth century – first through the two Soviet famines of 1921-22 and (the arguable genocide) of 1932-33 in which over 8 million people died, and then subsequently at the hands of German and Soviet armies during World War II (when a further 7 to 8 million people lost their lives). Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the legacy of state control and corruption hindered economic and political progress. Economic output fell 40% during the 1990s. The Orange Revolution of 2004 promised change and despite political turbulence, the economy started to grow again until the global financial crisis of 2008. GDP then fell 15% in 2009. Per capita GDP is currently around $3,000 (around $6,700 based on purchasing power parity) – placing Ukraine among lower middle income countries.
Discrimination against the disabled, violence against women, child abuse, child trafficking and child labour are all commonly reported problems in Ukraine. In general, public understanding of Down syndrome is poor and expectations are low. There are very few early intervention services and very limited educational opportunities for young people with Down syndrome. Doctors, psychologists and speech therapists receive little training in learning disabilities and the limited information available is often outdated. Parents of new babies therefore rarely have an accurate understanding of the condition and maternity hospitals do not encourage families to keep their children. Indeed, it is a legal requirement that doctors offer to take the baby into care when diagnosed.

Around 70% of babies born in Kyiv are taken into state-run orphanages (perhaps more elsewhere).
With very limited public services and little encouragement from professionals or officials, many families make the difficult decision to leave their child to the care of the state. Thankfully, this is starting to change, but we still estimate that around 70% of babies born in Kyiv are taken into state-run orphanages. From birth until around 4 years of age, these young children live in a “baby home”. From 4 or 5 years, they live in a home for mentally disabled children. From 21 years, people with Down syndrome live in a hospital for mentally disabled adults.
There is limited special education provision for children with Down syndrome in Ukraine. There are residential and non-residential educational institutions (internats) for specific categories of disabled children ranging from those with severe disabilities to those with mild impairments and those with emotional and behavioural problems. According to the Ministry of Health in Ukraine, there were 136,000 disabled children in Ukraine in 2004. A reported 65,000 disabled children were enrolled in over 400 institutions.

According to the Ministry of Health in Ukraine, there were 136,000 disabled children in Ukraine in 2004. A reported 65,000 disabled children were enrolled in over 400 institutions.
We calculated that some 600 babies would be expected to be born annually (though official statistics from the Ministry of Health for 2002 and 2003 only record 330 annual births). Given this, we might expect some 10,000-15,000 people with Down syndrome to be living throughout Ukraine, including 6,000-8,000 children.
With substantial difficulties facing people with Down syndrome and their families in the country, a lack of public and private resources, and turbulent political environment, it was far from clear that we would be able to deliver a plan to EDB that had a good chance of succeeding in delivering marked improvements in the lives of these children and adults and their families.
We had tracked down a group of families in Kyiv who had started a national charity to support and advocate for people with Down syndrome. They had already achieved notable success attracting media attention to the plight of people with Down syndrome, holding seminars for families and starting to provide information to parents of newly diagnosed babies.

The new centre in Kyiv
These were considerable achievements, but this was still a fledgling charity, underpinned by a small number of families with few resources. The families told me about the challenges facing them, their aspirations for their children and how they wanted to improve support for people with Down syndrome throughout the country. We set about developing a plan.
It is easy to forget how much has changed for people with Down syndrome in Western countries over the past 40 years. It may not be enough, but it is dramatic. In 1970 life expectancy for people with Down syndrome was 30 years – now (where good healthcare is provided) it is 60. In 1970, people with Down syndrome were considered uneducable. Today (with the right support), we can expect most young people with Down syndrome to achieve useful levels of literacy and numeracy skills, and to learn much from access to a broad academic curriculum. Rising numbers of people with Down syndrome are employed and living with increasing levels of independence.

Education and Healthcare Conference, Kyiv, September 2010
Social change has driven much of this change – coupled with advances in our understanding of the particular medical and developmental needs of people with Down syndrome. Scientific progress driven by clinical, developmental and educational research has driven the development of effective medical care guidelines, early intervention techniques and better teaching practices. The drive for acceptance, inclusion and the recognition of the rights of people with disabilities has helped ensure better standards of care and support are put into practice.
With this in mind, the plan we drew up had five main aims:
Improving information and knowledge among families, and healthcare and education professionals to underpin the provision of effective, evidence-based health, early intervention and education services. This would involve the translation, adaptation and publication of up-to-date information about healthcare, early intervention and education, and the provision of conferences and seminars for families and professionals.

New early education services in Kyiv
Providing evidence-based model support services to demonstrate potential and to develop professional experience and expertise, and encourage replication across the country. This would involve the development of a centre in Kyiv hosting support groups, early education services, seminars, advice and consultation services. We would recruit and train professional staff to provide these services and subsequently support others to replicate them more widely.
Building expertise and capacity for service delivery and support within the Ukrainian Down syndrome organisation and across state and other nonprofit service providers to create the foundations for lasting improvements and ensure the long-term impact of the project. In addition to professional staff development, this would include helping develop the charity’s administrative, financial and fundraising functions.
Improving public awareness and advocating on behalf of people with Down syndrome to promote a more realistic understanding of the condition among the general public, health and education professionals and political leaders to encourage support for effective services and inclusion. This would include proactive and constructive engagement with governmental, non-governmental, professional and academic agencies, concerted PR and targeted campaigning activities.
Evaluating outcomes carefully to provide evidence of effectiveness and provide the justification for wider changes in public health and education provision. This would include documenting outcomes from model services, client satisfaction, family needs and researching standards in existing education and health services.

UK Ambassador to Ukraine hosts reception on World Down Syndrome Day
It was clear we could not achieve substantial change overnight and we agreed that we had to commit to a three year project to enable sufficient time to build a sustainable Ukrainian charity equipped with sufficient expertise to deliver a lasting impact.
Last year we finalised our plans and the project agreement between EDB ErgoGroup, the Ukrainian Down Syndrome Organisation and Down Syndrome Education International. The refurbishment of a building in Kyiv to house the charity commenced in the middle of the year.
To mark the start of the project and to begin to spread current information about Down syndrome, we hosted a one day conference in September that offered information about Down syndrome, effective early intervention, education and healthcare, and introduced the Ukraine Down Syndrome Project. Speakers at the conference included Professor Sue Buckley OBE from Down Syndrome Education International, and Dr Phillip Mattheis, a Developmental Paediatrician and member of the US Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group.

New family services, Kyiv, March 2011
Turnout at the conference was excellent, with over 200 parents, educators, healthcare professionals and care staff from orphanages across Ukraine attending. Representatives from the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health attended and the conference was reported on five Ukrainian national television channels.
In November 2010 the centre officially opened in Kyiv. In the eleven months since opening, the Ukrainian Down Syndrome Organisation has enrolled 324 families in regular services including new parent support groups, early education classes, and information seminars. In addition, information and training has been provided to hundreds of professionals through conferences, seminars and translated information resources – including the first steps in the See and Learn Language and Reading program.

Children attending a new model teaching project in Kyiv
In a nearby internat (special school), a new model teaching project has recently got underway including children with Down syndrome in an experimental evaluation (officially supported by the education authorities in Kyiv) of more flexible teaching approaches designed to meet individual needs. Legislation was passed in recent years giving families the right to choose the type of school they wish their child to be educated in. However, this has not been backed up with the necessary resources and teacher training, nor the necessary flexibility with regard the state mandated curriculum taught in Ukrainian schools. One consequence has been a rapid rise in the numbers of children with learning disabilities (including children with Down syndrome and children with autism) attending academic internats previously only educating children with milder difficulties and behaviour problems. This model project, supported by funding from the Dutch embassy, Kyiv city education department and local companies, aims to develop curriculum adaptations and individualised teaching approaches suitable for replication and demonstrate how they can improve outcomes.

Addressing guests at a reception hosted by the UK Ambassador to Ukraine on World Down Syndrome Day 2011
On World Down Syndrome Day 2011, Her Majesty’s Ambassador to Ukraine, Leigh Turner, very kindly hosted a reception at his official residence to mark the occasion and celebrate the achievements of the Ukraine Down Syndrome Project. The event was attended by ambassadors, government officials and business leaders from Kyiv and was covered by the major Ukrainian TV channels.
Over 1,000 people throughout Ukraine have already benefited directly from the project, which has attracted the support of the Ukrainian Ministry of Education, Kyiv City education and children’s services. Across Kyiv, some children with Down syndrome are starting to be accepted in mainstream kindergartens. The project has helped to establish parent support groups around the country, and encouraged the formation of a Ukrainian Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group.
Building on the successes of our first year, we are now reaching out to support change across Ukraine and to improve support for the many children with Down syndrome living in baby houses and internats.

Press conference launching Ukrainian editions of See and Learn Language and Reading, October 2011
DSE has supported the Ukrainian Down Syndrome Organisation with information resources for translation, staff training and advice, contributing to seminars, conferences and advice sessions, and assistance with fundraising and business planning.
That said, the success of the project to date has largely been down to the excellent work of the families and staff at the Ukrainian Down Syndrome Organisation. Importantly, this success has been underpinned not just by cash funding from EDB ErgoGroup, but also the expertise and voluntary assistance provided by the company and, in particular, through Infopulse - an EDB ErgoGroup subsidiary headquartered in Kyiv.
We are exploring opportunities to replicate this success in other countries (where there is no shortage of desperate need).
How to help
If you would like to support our efforts to improve support for young people with Down syndrome in low and middle income countries, please donate to our Global Education Fund either through Down Syndrome Education International (a registered UK charity) or Down Syndrome Education USA (a 501(c)(3) US nonprofit). You can also choose to specify you’re your donation supports work in Ukraine:
Donate to Down Syndrome Education International
Donate to Down Syndrome Education USA
You may also be able to help by putting us in touch with companies with corporate social responsibility or giving programs with interests in low and middle income countries.

2011-08-21T20:41:00.000-07:00

Winding down Summer....

2011-08-21T20:34:00.000-07:00

Had a fulfilling summer with the family...now we will wind down and change gears for school mode..The kids are excited to be getting back to see their friends & new teachers..not sure they care about the school work....I have been up to my ears in laundry and organizing.

Bumps in the Road: Surpassing Those Hurdles and Learning from Them

2011-08-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

What did I learn this week? That life is a lesson and I will always be a student. Why am I saying this? Because, every day is different. Our routine or schedule may be the same but at anytime life can throw us a curve ball. Your train can be late, your car can break down, the school nurse calls to tell you that your child is sick, or maybe you learn life is not perfect.

Whatever the case, your day is never going to be the same and it’s learning to manage those curve balls that enables us to be strong, capable, and valuable individuals.

I am grateful today for my curve balls and learning about myself and family..not so fun while in the midst but later comes clear if all of life’s big problems include the words “indictment” or “inoperable.” Everything else is small stuff. Thank You Lord for the small stuff...

A quote I like:
A smooth sea never made a skilled mariner.

Our trip to Florida & Myrtle Beach...

2011-08-07T06:31:00.000-07:00

The start of our trip...driving & picnicking at the Rest area...

Our villa at Wyndam Bonnet Creek Resort on Disney property..

Pool Time!

I have set up a separate blog from this trip..It was a big fun one..so I will be added many pics for all our kids & their friends who came with us to view all year long. We had a great time..A labor of Love...www.summervaca2011.blogspot.com

Adventure to the airport!

2011-08-06T20:17:00.001-07:00

Marco got to spend a little time with his old pals from his orphanage in Bucha...Wish they could have had a day together but we were happy to see them even for an hour..Here are some pictures.
The airport and boys together took me back to Ukraine for awhile...The airport was full of people heading back home to Ukraine and Russia & Eastern Europe..Our adoptions from Russia & Ukraine is big chunck of our lives and family...Our 6 bio children have loved and blended into a pot of compassion and culture.. not always bliss, but what family is a steady flow of that? That could get boring right? The most important thing to me is family time, and we sure have had a good time this summer together..we will be winding down soon and getting ready for school mode..The change of season and activities will be welcome although I will miss the time we had together all summer. Structure is a good thing in a big family whether you can achieve that yourself as a Mom or have the help of school etc.. I need the help of others..I am a right brain thinker and am a social director at heart...I need a good stable in put for most of the year and in the summer I get to be creative & free with our schedule & time. Too much of that is not a good thing for me...LOL Now it's time to have a little more organization and left brain thinking . Thank God hubby is a left brain thinker or we'd be a train without a driver! I married a good one...Someone once gave me advice..Marry a man that will meet you half way or further..he sure does that. I am very blessed.

Great Day with good friends & our kids at Knoebels...

2011-08-06T20:15:00.001-07:00

Great time with another adoptive family we met while in Ukraine in 2009..

My 3 little pips from Ukraine! Almost 2 years already!

2011-07-27T16:25:00.001-07:00

This August will be 2 years since we brought home our 3 little angels with Down Syndrome! I feel so blessed to have been a part of a great big picture and making 3 little ones happy & secure..something they will never have felt if ended up in an institution...Please consider adoption or donating to a family working on bringing home some angels..Lord knows it's a lot of money and effort to do so. Some of the children have some big grants to help off set expenses..check out some at reecesrainbow.org
Ministry Video
reecesrainbow.org

From Wendy Saunders...

2011-07-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

For those who are curious about some very recent strides in research may I suggest a blog of a very close and trusted friend of mine. Her daughter participated in Dr. Capone and Kennedy Krieger's research trial. The purpose of this trial was to determine if the drug (Rigvastigmine) used in Alzheimer patients will be safe and beneficial for individuals with DS.... especially since they have linked Alzheimers patients with a 21st chromosome. I think you will find that Beth breaks down some of the more technical hard to read information into something easier to read along with some fun antics of her daughter, some endearing qualities as well as some not so pretty truths... (okay so I am partial to Hannah she is a house guest from time to time) However for those who do like the more technical information Beth does link to the original research and information. I have posted the link below which is the end of their experience of the research but if you are intrigued and interested Beth has put a link at the end of the post that will take back so you can read their experiences from the Beginning. Hope everyone has a wonderful day with all things good, calm and smooth coming your way. ;-)

Hannah's Shenanigans: Research Study 4th Visit
hannigans.blogspot.com
After much harassment encouragement, I entered the blogosphere to document the delightful (or otherwise) and unexpected moments of my younger daughter's life. Hannah was born in 1998. She surprised us with her extra chromosome, and continues to surprise us with her humor, intellect and obstinacy.

Reeces Rainbow Reunion...

2011-07-04T05:22:00.000-07:00

Had a great day at the Yogi Bear camp ground with all the families and Andrea! Now we can match the faces to their personalities..We almost didn't go because of the weather..It was pouring in PA and we went anyway and the weather turned out great.. Loved the campground and camping experience even if only for a day...Loved meeting the woman who brought us together with our kiddies and was so neat for her to meet them in person after only seeing pictures. Was good day over all. Long ride home though with one eye open but worth it! We left just before the fireworks so the littles wouldn't get scared.

Adventure Camp!

2011-06-22T13:04:00.001-07:00

We have 4 of the pre-teens/teens going to adventure camp...Seems the boys are having a better time then the girls..but they need to finish and follow through and I think they'll be glad they did..It is so neat all that they do there..The 1 st day was biking & wall climbing..yesterday more wall climbing and canoing & fishing..today not sure what they were doing, but they needed their rain ponchos..It just started about 2o minutes ago..so they're prepared..

Getting some stuff around the house done..inside & out..We made a fence to block the kids from being able to enter the pool area through the gate..Our pool guy accidentally left if open ..Uh OH! My 2 older girls with Downs found one of the younger ones near the low end..very scary..so we have finished our make shift 6 foot fence to block off that area..Also we are adding smaller wire fence to the chain link fence so they can't climb it...These little monkeys can do amazing things.. shocking & scary sometimes..

Need to go up in the attic today to find the goggles..Our pool will be ready maybe by the weekend...hope the weather will be good..

Having a good summer ...

2011-06-21T20:25:00.000-07:00

Been so busy with the kids & Life..haven't had much time for blogging..just enjoying. Our pool is almost ready for swimming...we got a late start this year..but soon enough it'll be ready. Also off to Florida sometime this summer with all the kids & some of their friends..Should be a fun trip...Marco has blended right in like he was always here.. He is speaking English pretty well and is hoping to lose the accent..."Lose the accent" has become a joke around the house along with "It's just impossible"..you have to say that with a thick accent for it to be authentic though!..

A couple of Marco's friends will be coming to PA soon and we will meet up with them for a visit..Also a teacher..This is so exciting that they will be within an hour from us..who would have ever thought! We are so happy that he can see them. He has transitioned so well that this will make for an an more secure feeling for him knowing her can see some old friends from time to time..a couple more are being adopted..one in CA..far but maybe he can email with him when he gets to America. This can help the other boy during his transition.

Please Help the Duekes bring home Katya!

2011-06-10T05:17:00.000-07:00

Katya has some real medical issues that need to be addressed and needs to get to America for proper care...Please help this self-less family raise the last of what they need to break her out of the orphanage forever!

2011-06-09T08:22:00.001-07:00

Every day this little boy comes up to me and talks & talks... I don't understand his language, but he is asking me questions, and saying something very adamantly. I know what he's saying... he wants me to take him home with Cole. The director said he wants a family desperately. He calls me Mama and my husband, Papa. It's tearing me up!

He wants what his friend, Kolya (my Cole) has. Someone to visit him, and bring him toys, and take him away from the groupa to play tag and hide and seek. A dad to wrestle with and throw a ball. He wants so badly to belong to someone!!!

Today Yulia said that our son was supposed to have been transferred, but the director kept him there b/c we were coming for him. He also kept Sasha and his friend Danyl, because a family had committed to them. But no one's coming now, and Yulia said there is "a man from the church" who will take these boys to live at a monastery! Sasha doesn't want to live in a monastery! He wants to play soccer and baseball, and ride a bike! I've mentioned him time and again on this blog and on facebook, but I'm flat-out PLEADING for this boy's future now! His and Danyl's.

It's not too late to start the process to bring them home! The director WANTS him to have a family! As far as I know he still thinks one is on the way... and I'm not about to tell him differently. Sasha still has a chance if someone will just step up and say, "I want him! He's my son!"

Life is Good...

2011-05-25T10:40:00.000-07:00

Been very busy living life over here...All is going well with Marco..He fits in as if he always was here...doing well in school and we are very proud of him and all the kids.

We are looking forward to summer and this weekend kicking off the summer for weekend trips tot he beach. We will be taking a vacation in July to Orlando to do our usual Disney trip & maybe even Universal. Otherwise the pool is all we need and the beautiful tropical resort to relax and enjoy the many amenities. We will return there again at Christmas at our timeshare and see our family who lives there.

Getting our home in order for summer...opening the pool next week and doing some landscaping around the house done too. I have been without my own washer for a few weeks and looking forward to replacing that..but in the meantime throwing mega clothes away..Becoming minimalists as much as possible with a large family..The only thing left to heave is more clothes..Otherwise we live pretty simple.. I need a sign no hoarding allowed LOL.

All the kids are doing well and transition seems to be at a minimum. Everyone seems to have found their place and getting along fine. Can't ask for anything more..

Kelsey the Miracle Baby

2011-05-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

Beautiful Inspiring story we can relate to..
Praise God

Been a while....

2011-05-02T06:02:00.000-07:00

Well the statement holds true ......No news is good news!" Marco is doing very well and we are all happy he is fitting in. Everyday brings something new but all is going good. We have been busy spending time together and enjoying the kids. The great weather has allowed us finally to do things and get out of the house. Had a nice time at the beach yesterday and Saturday the kids loved the Animal/Snake farm local.

Today the Sears man is coming to fix our 2 broken washers...and a dryer..OY! That has been tough and expensive going to the laundromat! I am grateful for the simple things in life.

UKRAINE ORPHANAGES: MYTHS V. REALITY (MOMCAST PODCAST)

2011-04-20T14:33:00.000-07:00

check out a great blog I stumbled upon...

2011-04-13T08:29:00.003-07:00

http://stringsattachedministries.wordpress.com

The Boy From Baby House 10

2011-04-11T10:59:00.000-07:00

Patricia Heaton raising awareness for Reeces Rainbow..Please follow on Twitter

2011-04-05T15:57:00.001-07:00

For years and years, companies have sought out and paid exorbitant amounts to get just the right celebrity to endorse their product.

Some turn out great, some bizarre, and some are just plain memorable.

Do you remember Bo Jackson, Bo Diddley, and a host of other big-time athletes, peddling for Nike? (here)

How about Gene Simmons & son pushing Dr. Pepper? (here)

And who can forget the classic Mean Joe Green Coca-Cola commercial? (here)

A good cause can always use the momentum and support of the right celebrity endorsement.

And Reece's Rainbow is no different.

Reece's Rainbow is an International Down Syndrome Orphan ministry committed to adoption, advocacy, outreach, and aid for children born with Down Syndrome, as well as other special needs.

Started by former Atlantan Andrea Roberts, the organization has recently made national press via People magazine, but is still seeking to gain further ground and reach more people on both national and international levels.

Just this week, actor Patricia Heaton stepped up and helped that effort tremendously, when she began backing Reece's Rainbow via Facebook and Twitter.

To have a well-known celebrity like Heaton (Everybody Loves Raymond, The Middle) backing them was great news.

Pictures from our trip to Virginia Beach...

2011-04-05T09:08:00.001-07:00

2011-04-05T08:17:00.001-07:00

2011-04-05T07:55:00.001-07:00

2011-04-05T07:24:00.001-07:00

Virginia Beach

2011-04-05T06:18:00.000-07:00

Spent a couple days in Virginia Beach a little while back. We got to visit with the Daulton Family, who I must say we loved and have so much in common with. Dave Daulton speer headed getting Pastor Sasha from Ukraine to visit his church to take them on for support for missions. We had a wonderful time with them all and hope to do it again soon. Also met with Sherry white & kids..another great family who is in the process of adopting and traveling soon.

Home on the range...

2011-04-05T06:15:00.000-07:00

Glad to be home more now...Ruben is working the day shift...So I am a house wife again! I have been so busy preparing for the adoption and working during the day that I need to stop that pace for a little while..so home is good..I had a fruitful morning already...I have the flylady.net on my mind..but didn't follow her daily digest faithfully yet today..One thing she says is to get fully dressed every day..so I have showered & dressed and all the kiddies are up & fed while I straighten up. For those of you not familiar with flylady.net...check out her website..she has some great info for mothers to use to help keep your houses in order..I need this Big time...They take on room at a time for about 4 days and just work on that..I think the goal is after a month you can have a finished house..Here I have to start over every couple days LOL But it does help me.

Marco is doing well..each week we get a little further in teaching him new things and rules in the house...We have learned that he can not or should not have soda & caffeine LOL Shortly after he morphs into a silly, wiry, buzzing child that cannot hear well! Soda is not usually on our menu, but since I am on weight watchers, there is diet soda here to help fill me up! I know it's not healthy..but it's a way to feel full..Every time I get a hold of myself through eating better...it seems to get the rest of my life into some order..maybe it's because I can stay awake all day LOL..Before I was eating way too many carbs and calories and border line diabetes would just knock me down..either to a chair or a bed for a nap.

Haven't been posting much but will try more now that I am home..It gives me a break from the cleaning..Woo Hoo! My other break will be spending more time with the littles and Ben who still home schools & is also sick.....Today I have 5 littles home for sickness...They will manage to tear up the house though if I turn my back..right now they are not moving..Oh I spoke to soon..Lillia is out of her high chair with a glove on ready to start some trouble!

Going just fine...most of the time ...

2011-03-23T13:28:00.000-07:00

Well I got firm for the first time yesterday morning and it helped...Marco needed to hear that from me, because he has a new attitude..A good one! He came home from school a new kid..So happy..it's working! I was reminded of this psalm yesterday while cutting Pastor Thornton's hair...verse 4 in particular...Please pray with me for Marco to become the boy/man that we hope for him. He has many many great traits and respect for things we Americans don't...but he is also 13 YIKES! Can't say I didn't expect it...just keep laughing & take it as it comes...I am reminded from time to time by God, when I slow down enough to listen...that it's not about me...eeesh!

Unless the Lord Builds the House
A Song of Ascents. Of Solomon.

127:1 Unless the Lord builds the house,
those who build it labor in vain.
Unless the Lord watches over the city,
the watchman stays awake in vain.
2 It is in vain that you rise up early
and go late to rest,
eating the bread of anxious toil;
for he gives to his beloved sleep.

3 Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord,
the fruit of the womb a reward.
4 Like arrows in the hand of a warrior
are the children [1] of one's youth.
5 Blessed is the man
who fills his quiver with them!
He shall not be put to shame
when he speaks with his enemies in the gate. [2]

Marco Loves School!

2011-03-16T21:17:00.000-07:00

I am so relieved that Marco like school...His first day was yesterday and when he came home he was like a little boy...He was jumping on the trampoline saying "I did it! I did it! He rattled off his classmates who were from all over the world..China, Bulgaria, India, Honduras, and a few other places..He learned to spell his name in Hindi..then today in Egyptian...he got to draw...He is learning about the weather and having a good time. I am so happy for him and for me LOL...What a relief. He knows more English than I thought and he is learning more everyday. While I was working with him I saw how much he knew, all the letters and sounds...numbers and their words..colors...he can read in English with a heavy accent! And he can type on the computer what he want to get at...and he can write some English. SO he is well on his way to being an American! His social security card should be coming soon and his certificate of citizenship from the president of the United States!

Busy, Busy Busy

2011-03-13T06:55:00.000-07:00

Having a busy time settling in and transitioning..Trying to keep Marco busy with new things other than the internet and xbox although it's every teen's fav....
Limiting this feels right to us.
Last night he experienced the laundromat and how many clothes I take at one time...Our other washer has a problem now...easier to just take it anyway with the amount I have. Not cheaper that's for sure...

Marco will start school this week with his twin sisters. They will show him around and take the bus in with him..He will have a teacher that will stay with him most of the day until his English is good. He will go in the 6 th grade which is where he was in Ukraine. He seems about at that level. The structure will be good for him and to see that America is not just about internet, eating and xbox! LOL

Praying for a smooth transition and for him to learn English quickly so we can have better communication. School will be the fastest way to get that accomplished. He also needs some new interests like sports. Doesn't seem to have much interest in soccer, more of a bent towards basketball. During the summer I will send the kids to adventure camp at Stony Acres and I am looking for some other day camp ideas that are local.

Pictures from Party for Marco...

2011-03-06T15:25:00.000-08:00

We are having a great time molding & weaving Marco into our family...He is doing great and we are so grateful to be home together to make memories.

Moving right Along....

2011-03-04T02:45:00.000-08:00

Marco is doing great..he is moving right along into his school work. I found a great website that has worksheets in Russian & English. The worksheets cover the basics, food groups, body parts, rooms & their contents, plants etc...One column is Russian, the other is in English to translate and the next column is blank for him to write the word in English. He writes very good...He can knock 5 pages in a less then 10 minutes, so he's doing well. Ruben is the Math teacher here...he has been doing fractions with him. Also doing great, doesn't even need the scratch paper on most problems and does them in his head....He is learning about the United Sates, today they will make a topical map from dough and then paint it & label it.. He is learning everyday about our family routines and the children. Yesterday we had a talk about Down Syndrome and being a little more understanding & gentle when playing with them. He asked me which children had Down Syndrome..so I liked that! He didn't know for sure which ones. So the one I was referring to was Amelia..she is high functioning and doesn't take any poop from anyone. She is a great judge of character too...if she doesn't care for someone, it's usually because there's something about them that is undesirable or crooked LOL Maybe they can use her down at SARPD.

All in all we're having a great time with Marco and can't wait until his party on Saturday. He knows about it, but not the details. He will be very surprised because of where it is and all the people & music.

Marco in Kiev

2011-03-01T05:47:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture our translator sent us from her camera It was taken at the Water Museum in Kiev.

2011-02-28T06:34:00.000-08:00

This is it!

2011-02-28T06:10:00.002-08:00

So here we are! This is reality...So far not bad...He is adusting ok..we are getting caught up on our sleep..The language barrier is there but we can communicate for the most part..Haven't had to use google translate too much yet... He likes Ben's toys...They are also playing some computer games and TV games..Play station 2 etc...

He loves the dogs & trampoline is the favorite so far I think out of everything he's doing..He & Benjamin followed me up into the attic today..so that was interesting to him..They found some Hess trucks and took them down...He still likes action figures so we have some of that...

Marco has a pretty good appetite and eats what we have here. So easy that way...I tried to explain we will do some school work today..learn English and do some math to start..I can show him geography type videos for now and we'll wait on history..Think we will start with Pennsylvania! That way we can visit some of the things he learns. Ruben is showing him multiplication cards and he knows them..just the English is hard, but he can write it too.

All is good and not many complaints...Still needs to put the toilet seat down. That's about it right now!! LOL

We're Finally Home!

2011-02-26T01:52:00.000-08:00

Glad to be on the ground is more like it! What a landing...Very very windy yesterday in Newark...I am petrified to fly and even more so now...So will only travel on the ground..maybe ocean..but not in the area where I read about the pirates in USA today..they are out of control too like the wind..LOL

I am already up & showered in case Marco is on the Ukraine time schedule as well...but he slept on the plane some and was up playing games with Benjamin for a few more hours after I passed out. I need sleep to remain sweet..LOL So I am ready for him if he gets up..it's 4:56 am.

When we arrived last night I think he had culture shock..I tried to keep it all calm... but that is kind of hard with 11 kids, and 5 dogs..they were all so happy to see us and it was something else!...I think he is a little unsure of everything.

..He is also not used to seeing kids with Down Syndrome..They were never in schools with him and were taken away after a few days old.. They are known as afflicted children in Eastern Europe as some of you already know, and have many labels that are negative. Some even believe they are cursed..So we will be undoing and detoxing his thinking from many false teachings around here. Once he sees the love the children give us he will get it.

He is young enough to melt right in with lots of love and patience which I will need prayer for, so all you prayer warriors out there get busy and thank you. Simple things like, don't forget to wash your hands after the bathroom, and use soap & shampoo when you shower.. I have heard these things from American mothers , so I think there's hope! LOL

I'll be back later..Going to start making food for everyone...because I know the bed is going to be appealing to me in the next few days for naps. The jet lag and time difference usually take a good week to get back to normal.

I'm coming home I've done my time....

2011-02-24T09:04:00.001-08:00

Will fly out of here 5:35 am....Be in New Jersey by 3:40 pm. Very happy about that!
Had a marathon day again getting the Visa...but we did it! Just had dinner with Mary & Blake...I will really miss them...We had a lot of fun and laughs...I feel bad leaving them but they have contacts & friends here in Ukraine...I will pray their process goes as quick as ours did...
Please visit the Eli Project and donate to their ministry...
I will blog when I get home! Well...maybe the next day! For now I will be packing...
Dosvedanya!

One for the Road!

2011-02-24T01:17:00.000-08:00

We had enough time to do some hair! Gave Shelley a color & some hilights before she left to board the plane!

Saying Good-Bye...

2011-02-24T00:57:00.000-08:00

Been busy over here, no time to blog yesterday...Had some visitors, The Burman's..it was nice to meet another American family adopting. They will have 5 special needs kids when they are finished. Their children are adorable. It was funny here while all of us including Marco were on electronic devices talking at the same time or making noise..All contacting family or playing computer games..

Yesterday while the Burman's rested in our apartment, Marco & I were out with Natasha taking care of passport stuff/ pictures needed to be enlarged so we made 2 trips to the US Embassy and then met with the Man who took care of Marco for 3 yrs while he was younger. What a sweet man. You could see he really loved Marco and it was a little emotional when we parted our separate ways. I am so glad we had the difficulty with the paper for the passport so we could meet this man..He gave us a foundation to work with and also provided some kind of roots fro Marco from his Homeland. His father is probably alive here some where and so if he ever asks we have his name and picture. We promised Aleksander that we would write to him and send pictures especially the ones above..He really responds well with men. He will have lots of time with his brother & Father once home..I think we will be putting in a basketball hoop and slab of black top! This is his favorite sport and Benjamin too...Also Dad is a good teacher because he grew up in Manhattan and one of the favorite game of the kids there too.I guess "football" is not on the top of his list anymore! Although he can run down the players name quickly.

Went for lunch in Kiev and flea market in Svet Ochin today..

2011-02-22T07:23:00.000-08:00

We found this guy very interesting with his skin head hair mohawk and cork screw beard..and strange earring on the other side..not sure what he represents at his age...

This morning we went to apply for the passport & get Marco's photo done..So we are hoping for the passport by Thursday earlier enough to get a 3:00 appointment at the US Embassy...No longer can you have your appointment & get the visa in the same day. This we can then get Friday and take Marco to see the Doctor and be able to fly home Saturday 5:35 am~!! Here is also a picture of the metro.

Then we met with Mary & Blake for lunch and took the metro to Svet Ochin to hit the flea market..It was so so cold..we bought some scarves...We managed to have some laughs though despite the cold..Here is a picture of the people I drove crazy for the tights for my girls..They have very thick tights here like in Russia when we were there back in 2005. The man from Afghanistan translated for me a few times with the lady who had the tights..He is so nice & funny..He is here with his wife && son..He so much wants to go to America..I guess it's hard to get a visa to go...At least he is out of his own country...I am sure he is thankful. I find it amazing how people are the same all over the world..We also met a nice couple at Marco's orphanage adopting a little girl..Marco speaks Italian so they had a very good conversation & he tried to communicate with me & for me...this was funny..Then my translator came over & translated for Marco to me...a train of languages..They were so nice & very much like us...trying to get the info on this little girl and how her personality was..I love to meet people and talk to different people from all over the world..

Biological Mom & Dad

2011-02-22T07:16:00.000-08:00

Here is one photo I tried to take a picture of to show you Marco's bio parents...The flash was causing a glare, it made a ray of sunshine from heaven on his mother..

Brown Bread Bun at McDonalds here...Very tasty & healthy!

2011-02-21T07:09:00.000-08:00

Official Gotcha Day!

2011-02-21T06:50:00.000-08:00

Today was our official Gotcha Day! The pictures are in the wrong order..We ate at McDonalds to celebrate..this was Marco's choice. We brought candy , chocolates, cake, fruit and beverages for the farewell party but the kids were in school yet...So we left it for them to have afterwards...Marco was anxious to leave, so off we went to Kiev to pick up the country tax code which was ready already! So tomorrow we go to the passport office to have Marco's picture scanned and they will tell us when we can pick it up! We may be flying home Saturday if we can get it by Friday morning and then have our US Embassy appointment. The Doctor's clearance for Marco might also be done Firday...Will update on this tomorrow...Meantime I got him off the computer. and on the TV checking out sports & now snakes! I call him Computer Hog and he laughs! He looked up the translation and it is Computer Swine...Funny to him..

Aleksander...

2011-02-21T06:37:00.004-08:00

This is the wonderful man who took care of Marco for 3 years after his Mother died....He is a very nice man. He also gave me pictures of Marco's mother & father and of his wife with Marco when he was a few years younger. Also more information about them..I am so grateful we needed this paper from him so I got my questions answered..We will see him this week in Kiev for him to say good-bye to Marco...what a happy ending....

Care Takers at Baby House in Vorzel...

2011-02-21T06:31:00.000-08:00

I am finished with Baby House #1 hair doos...here are some of the ladies I did while there...I will go to Baby House #5 on Wednesday with Pastor Sasha...Looking forward to seeing the ladies from where my Milena & Lilli Luda are from...

Sunday....

2011-02-20T10:35:00.000-08:00

Hello from Kiev...got a cab this morning and went to Almaz church...you can visit their one website in English..almazgo.com
It was nice to be amongst other believers and I enjoy their service very much..Today the other Pastor preached and I had a translator again but this time through a mic in my ear...State of the art! Afterwards I hung out for a while and met a few people who came over wanting to speak English and meet me. They had heard of me through pastor Sasha and because we adopted from Vorzel region three children with Down Syndrome..These people work during the summer with the mission teams translating and helping. They have an English group that meets every Saturday night, so they want me to join them and speak English and eat! So we may go to this...I will have Marco with me starting tomorrow for good! So he has called me from his cell phone I got him..and I can tell he is very excited..He is going over the schedule and the family members and pets in English..What ever we can't figure out in English..we try it in a little Russian or Italian..A dozen or so words from each language and you can put together a paragraph! So we have some laughs over these silly conversations we are having.

This Saturday Almaz Church is having another large Conference...so I may be going if we are still here! There is a possibility we could travel home Saturday, but with the new twist on the passport issue I think it will be Tuesday March 1 st or 2 nd for sure..Looking forward to landing in America..We will bring Marco's sealed envelope from the US Embassy to Immigration and they will process him as a US citizen at that time...Once he hits US soil he is automatically a citizen..Soon after they process his papers..we will receive his certificate of citizenship in the mail with a letter from the president welcoming him to our Country. He will hold dual citizenship until he is 18 years of age and then can choose which one he wants. I have a feeling it will be America.

Marco's room at the orphanage and having Lunch today in the kitchen on his floor..

2011-02-19T11:37:00.001-08:00

Friday...

2011-02-19T10:19:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was picked up by my adoption team and headed to region....What a full schedule we had...we were able to get there early and drop off Marcos original birth certificate to get replaced, but they wanted a few things notarized and we had to come back...so we ever so carefully walked on the ice to find a cafe...finally found one to kill some time..had some great ideas and discussed them for vacation tours, adoption and Euro Nannys... when I get back I have some advertising to do..LOL
We ate and laughed and then made our way over the ice hanging on tight to each other not to fall...picked up our documents and birth certificate and headed back to the city and applied for our tax code and stopped at the passport office to get the latest info there...So today Natasha & I traveled back up to region today and started the passport process which has a new paper needed before we are okayed for the passport...SO when we got there Natasha fought her way into the office...wow..while I waited I met a man I saw at the flea market 1/2 way back towards the city..What a nice man..Not sure what country he is from..maybe India...He was very helpful while I shopped for tights with the lady next to him...He speaks pretty good English.. So I promised I would buy something from him for helping.. I bought this little collapsible chair..tiny thing...he was this office for something to do with his passport too. He said it is hard to get his family out of the country..

I feel bad for the people trying to make a living here..I really don't know how some of them survive ..They make $100-500 per month for most average careers..$3-500 is with an education...and the costs of things are the same as home for the most part...very hard on the people here..Many die young from the stress and no insurance and not able to get health care they need.

Which brings me to today...we thought we were going to have trouble with the passport because Marco was not registered anywhere as far as an address..the office told us we would have to try to go back to the house he lived for some time after his mother's death..This was a scary thought..what if the person was not the same and moved..what if they would not cooperate....our nice cab driver took us there and waited...we found it! A little house with a fence in the village where Marco was born...I took a quick picture before we got to the door..which then opened quickly..we were nervous..we heard a dog bark..we were afraid he would be mean...
Out stepped a tall thin weathered man about 60 years old...Natasha went on to explain why we were there with her brief case in hand,,I know this looked intimidating, but we were more intimidated then he was...He was a gentle man and was willing to help us..what a relief...it was so cold waiting outside his door while he looked for his papers..He then came back and told us they were down the street at a friends house...
So off we went in the taxi and picked up his folder....He was leary at first he said but he was fine once I started to cry...The questions I was hoping to get answered came from this man... I needed to know how Marco's mother died and when and why...These answers could help me mother him and nurture him from what I figured was a painful past. Sure enough I heard the words I really didn't want to...His mother died at 32 years old of TB....He was with her when she died and was crying and crying saying what will I do now....I lost it at that point...I was broken thinking of a 7 year old boy crying over his mother's dead body so discouraged... I now know what he needs from me and his new Papa...He seems to be pretty well adjusted despite his past, but we at least have some information to work with while we love him and help him develop into a stable young man... He is a doll..He not only is a gorgeous child, but he is a loving child and a respectful, helpful boy. We are looking forward to get him home with the kids while we all start nurturing his spirit that he so long deserves and needs. His mother was also homeless..so they lived with her friend when she died . This is when this man Aleksander and his wife took Marco in. His mother's friend ran to his house to call the ambulance and then they went over to console Marco... Marco lived with them for the next 3 years..Later on Aleksander's wife took ill and could not care for Marco and they put him into the orphanage. Soon after, his wife died. He didn't want to invite us in he told us later because he said there has been no woman cleaning here since she died..We assured him that was ok and we understood..

Aleksander came with us to the passport office to try to settle this problem and walked into the building and could not see...it was very dim..common for offices here to save electric. He later told us he has glaucoma and needs cateract surgery. They do not have medical insurance and to get this surgery will cost $800. I thought that was pretty reasonable considering the prices in the US..Not a lot for us but for them it is out of their income range and he probably won't get the surgery anytime soon...I can't imagine not being able to see well and he operates some equipment for one of is jobs and parking cars for another..Sounds like a Tricky Tray fund raising event for Aleksanders eye surgery in my future...

On our way back from our busy cold day we stopped off to see Marco and bring him lunch and a cheap cell phone so he could call me and play games. He called me earlier..This was comical..I know about as much Russian as he knows English...we managed to talk a little and then he had something to do...so he will come here for good to be with me on Monday! Gotcha Day.... We will pick him up after we meet with Aleksander again trying to get to the bottom of the address problem. This problem is a first for our team, but all will work our fine they said.

I am exhausted and so I will be going to bed early and sleep in tomorrow. Be back then for more details...

Been running...

2011-02-19T09:50:00.000-08:00

Well I am back finally I can rest..I have been so busy and that is good..Last I blogged was Thursday.. I went to Pastor's house for dinner..I had a great time..Also had Nadya there form their church..She translated for me at the orphanage during the summer while I did hair..
She is a doll..Had great lasagna Olya made with turkey... and a very interesting desert pastry that was also very good.
Helped Pastor set up an American blog...www.almazchurchorphanoutreach.blogspot.com
So please check it out..I also set up a chip in for a huge need they have.. This need is for a vehicle to fit their whole family...They now have 4 children and not enough room in the car for them...and while he started to drive me home..the back door was not secure..so this is not safe. They are trying to have a work van converted from Germany which is the cheapest way to go. They will add the windows & the seats to it. This van will also be used with their church and picking up missionaries form the airport.

Fun Filled Day Today!

2011-02-17T08:35:00.001-08:00

Well I thought I would not be doing much today..it turns out it was a great full day...My landlord came and showed me a fews things about the apartment and brought me a knife..I only had a butter knife...

After this I made my way up to the metro platform to meet Mary & Blake Malone...
We took the blue line and went to Dominoes Pizza where I was treated to lunch..yes Dominoes..Just like home! Well then we walked around looking for the street to St. Andrew's Church and the SDA so Blake could pick up some souvenirs...I think we missed it so we took that monorail thingy that goes almost straight up! And I survived..LOL Was pretty short and we were at the top close to where we needed to be..

I met up with the salesman from the booth of many bargains! Picture attached for those coming soon..buy from this guy....Funny guy and speaks English...We tried on some Fox hats as you can see in the pictures also..Don't Mary & I look smashing?!

I bought my usual key chain and passed on the $100 hats...we proceeded to walk up the street and stopped at a few more places to check out their items and ended up in a quaint coffee shop for some cheese cake and tea...We really needed to warm up too...It got really cold when the sun went down...

We got a nice walk in today, like everyday...and we then went our separate ways until Saturday...we will head to the orphanage and see if the inspections are over...
Then we will stop off at Marco's orphanage and visit him...and head back to Kiev..

Enjoy the pictures from today...I am headed out now to dinner at Pastor Sasha's house and will blog some more later...

2011-02-17T07:49:00.000-08:00

Cornish Family

2011-02-17T07:41:00.000-08:00

This is a post from a friend I met in country, she did a great write up and compiled a lot of info..I just had to share..

2011-02-17T00:21:00.000-08:00

Whispers in your ear
Have you, as a parent or adoptive parent of a disabled child ever had one of these things said to you?

God gave you that child because He knew you could handle it. I never could do what you do.
You chose the road you're walking, so it's your own fault if everything's not what you thought it would be.
I told you it would be hard and here you are coming crying back to me when you didn't have to have/adopt the child in the first place.
You adopted them, you take care of them. It's not up to your community to help you to raise those kids.
If you knew life was going to be this hard for you wouldn't you have turned around before you adopted that child?
Your friends don't like you anymore because they think it's too loud at your house when you're on the phone.
Don't complain about your situation, you got there on your own.
Whatever problems you're dealing with- just remember that someone else has it worse.
Why would you ever encourage anyone else to intentionally do what you do and adopt those kids when looking at your family it's obviously hard?
Did they tell you your kids would be like they are before you adopted them or did they lie just to get you to take them off their hands?
Sorry, I can't help you because quite frankly your son scares me.
I don't see how your husband hasn't left you yet after you got all those kids. Isn't he tired of it all?
God might want us to take care of orphans, but He didn't say to invite them all back to your house. He only meant to make sure the ones closeby don't starve.
Why would you go adopt a kid over seas when there are so many waiting kids in Foster care in the USA that need families? Other countries should take care of their own kids too.
Are you ever going to stop???
Are they all yours???
And the most profoundly STUPID comment that I have ever heard (and yes, was directed at me though some of the above are ones friends shared with me)...
Why didn't she stop having kids after the first one was born retarded?

First, let me say very clearly and very STRONGLY...

Those words are not from God, and are NOT a 'message' from God. Those words are meant to kill, steal, and destroy and those things come from only one place (John 10:10).

Next, let me share this:
God intends for everyone. EVERYONE. EVERYONE. to take care of the orphans. James 1:27 says that pure and faultless religion is that which cares for the widows and orphans. It isn't a "take this, leave that" type of salad bar. It's something everyone is told to do.

Just because you listened when God called you and someone else hasn't been called in the same way doesn't mean that it is any less his responsibility to care for orphans than yours. It doesn't mean everyone should adopt. It doesn't mean no one should. It doesn't say take care of the orphans next to you. It says to care for those in their distress.

So here's what I'm claiming. When it comes to your disabled or adopted children, if it is not edifying and does not build up the Kingdom of God and His people, then let the words of others roll off of your back like oil on water because their words are not spoken in the Truth according to God's Word.

And. Right, I'm not done. :)

And, if you need help, even if you've "chosen" this road. Even though you're the one that didn't terminate your pregnancy, didn't walk away from the disabled child. Even though you're the one that chose to adopt a special needs child-- or five. Even if your own choices somewhere are mixed up into the family that you have (or if they aren't!) remember... always remember... that asking for help is not admitting defeat. In fact, it's very different.

Asking for help means admitting you cannot do it alone.

If I remember correctly, God doesn't intend for man to be alone and therefore He created woman. God doesn't intend for us to raise our families alone. He doesn't intend for us to wear ourselves down until there's nothing left to give because we won't ask for help or won't accept help if it's offered. He doesn't intend for us to put ourselves into the darkness because we've not had any sleep and we feel like we can't ask anyone to help us out since this "is our problem". God doesn't intend for us to end up in dark places because we're caring for a child with a disability or because we're caring for an orphan. He says to DO. And He knows we need help.

God won't give you any more than you can handle.

God DOES give us more than we can handle. ALONE.

He always gives us more than we can do by ourselves because without that dependency on Him we might not know to call out to Him.

God never gives us more than we can handle WITH HIS HELP.

And if someone that you've asked for help is feeding you those lines at the top of this post, remember that they are not speaking out of God's Word. They're speaking out of their own selfish hearts. Forgive them, and look to another source that has a close walk with God and will help you or find the help you need.

You don't have to be alone, and you don't have to hide. You're answering a calling that God's placed on your life and He doesn't intend for it to ruin you, but for it to bless you in the direction that He wants to direct your life.
Posted by Meredith at 2/16/2011 08:15:00 PM Email ThisBlogThis!Share to TwitterShare to Facebook

Love this one too Jo..

2011-02-16T23:08:00.000-08:00

‎~ A SUCCESSFUL MARRIAGE REQUIRES FALLING IN LOVE MANY TIMES, ALWAYS WITH THE SAME PERSON ~

2011-02-16T22:56:00.001-08:00

Borrowed this from an Old & dear friend who shares my name too!

2011-02-16T22:53:00.000-08:00

~ A LOVING PERSON LIVES IN A LOVING WORLD..A HOSTILE PERSON LIVES IN A HOSTILE WORLD; EVERYONE YOU MEET IS YOUR MIRROR ~ Keep Sharing Your Love Even Though Valentines' Day Has Passed....

Visit with Marco...

2011-02-16T22:19:00.000-08:00

Visited with Marco yesterday...I was driven to the orphanage by our facilitator & translator..so this was a nice break from walking in the cold & busy train & bus...It is very cold here about 7-20 degrees, so waiting 30 minutes for the bus can hurt after a while! I am wearing cuddle duds and gortex boots and gloves & all that..but the thighs were starting to tingle after that amount of time waiting for the bus...I did miss the one also by not realizing there are some blue now that go where I am heading..so I watched it go and tried to motion to stop...but not happening LOL

So Marco is a typical 13 year old wanting either my cell phone from home..or the Ukrainian dinosaur phone that I am using while here..He likes the games on them and looked a little sad or bored yesterday..so I said what is it? Internet??? LOL He cheered right up!! He has had a dose of internet at my apartment so this cell phone game must have been boring! He will stay in the orphanage this weekend because he will come out Monday for good with me..So this is ok with me too...I want him to be excited and have something to look forward to...I can go visit him there. While he played the cell phone game I was taking pictures, silly pictures of us..once in a while he'd look up..

The picture of the woman is named Vera...She lives in the basment of the orphanage..She was an orphan at this same place and so they let her work there and live there as well..She is so sweet..She has some special needs and she loves the stuffed animals I brought her. I will give her some more of my things so no tot have to carry a lot home. Yesterday there was perfume sales lady there and she bought me some! It smells very nice too..So SO Sweet she is..When I get home I will continue to send her letter and things just for her..I would take her home with me too if I could I think she'd need a visa ..she could help me with the kids..She would be missed at the orphanage though because she is so kind to the kids. She helps them too besides cleaning. I will adopt her from a far and sponsor her on my own and send her things from America. She could be my Nanny !..I will check this out!! I just love her..

A good friend here...

2011-02-15T23:26:00.001-08:00

I had dinner with good friends the other night and here is a picture they took and just emailed of me with Katya.....We look somewhat alike..and when I was younger I looked like her daughter Ana..Hard to believe but yes...I was once young and gorgeous! I wouldn't trade my life for anything though...It's all worth the wear are tear..LOL I feel so blessed to be able to be doing what we do and have all of our beautiful children and Wonderful husband!

Marco on Valentines Day....

2011-02-15T23:05:00.000-08:00

I only was able to have a short visit on Valentines Day with Marco...Had a long day doing hair and left late...so by the time I left Marco's orphanage it was starting to get dark..So this was different for me traveling at night..having to find the bus stop to get off in the dark by yourself..But I did it..I even tried a new one for me being alone..which I did get off with my translator once.. It is the last stop on the metro, so I get into the city faster not having to take the bus longer and wait with it's stops..so It was a success thankfully because I was also trying to meet with friends in my neighborhood..I made it down the famous Kreshatik street to meet the other families at TGI Fridays and was 30 minutes late, but the one family came in after..They hit the traffic by car..so we all had a nice dinner and I posted the picture previously.. I wanted to bring something to Marco for Valentines Day and the Ladies at the orphanage had given me a huge box of chocolates...so I passed it on to him...They saved the day..They are so sweet feeding me & bring me tea all day...Ready to go back when the inspection is over there and finish the many ladies still waiting..

A few ladies posing after their hair doos...They were so happy..

2011-02-15T22:59:00.000-08:00

Break from Hair doos..

2011-02-15T04:40:00.000-08:00

Right now in the orphanage there are inspections going on..so I will on hold until about Thursday or so...Gives me a break from walking and the cold..It was about 5 degrees earlier, and now just walking back from lunch was about 17.

As I stood waiting for my friends, In noticed all the beautiful coats. This must be the coat capitol of the world..All different colors and fabrics, textures and designs and patterns. Dyed real fur collars are just beautiful..Lots of fur coats and faux fur. I see why, it is very cold here...Most people walk everywhere too..So the animal fur is the warmest. The hats to match are exotic and everyone looks well dressed.

Years ago only black or grey coats were worn..now some of the coats were multi-colored like art with a teal fur collar to match..

Dinner at TGI Fridays with The Malones & The Lanes

2011-02-15T04:26:00.001-08:00

Dinner at TGI Fridays with The Malones & The Lanes

2011-02-15T04:26:00.000-08:00

Colder in Kiev..

2011-02-15T01:33:00.000-08:00

Colder today then yesterday..I wrote a whole post and it went into cyber space...so I will have to blog up another...Right now waiting for the Lane family to stop by with some food they can't take with them to their next region..then I will walk with them to where they are having lunch and have beverage, and then move on to meet with Mary Malone for the Ukrainian buffet lunch..They have it all there and atmosphere too! I will take pictures and post later today..

Cold in Kiev...

2011-02-13T12:29:00.000-08:00

Hoping I don't get sick...it is very cold here tonight & tomorrow even colder..13 degrees and tomorrow night it will be 1 degree..Woo Hoo..My face was hurting this morning when we headed out to the store..

Tomorrow will be brisk walking to the metro. Then waiting for the bus...Going to try to finish up Baby House #1 hair doos so I can move down to # 5 for 2 days and then finish off in #2..It will be nice to see the Head doctor there..we have been in contact over the winter.

Right down the street from me is a church up on a hill...I see the red Cross nuns walking to it and I see a vacant lot in front if it...There is at least one man living there in this cold...This morning I saw him and once before when my husband was here, standing up sleeping..There is also a dog house/wooden box with a chained dog there..I think maybe another person or two are living in the other corner..I don't know how they can survive this cold..each time I go to the store I check, I will leave them our clothes...Ruben went back with nothing. He can have whatever grivnas I have left..I think I heard there is some kind on controversy about this lot and wanting to buid on it and people are staying there to picket..

Picking up some items tomorrow on my way home for The Folio family Tricky Tray coming up..That is if I am home !! You never know with adoption what will happen...I sure plan on being home by then...Hi Lariss!

My 3 Ukraine girls waiting back home for Mommy!

2011-02-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

Some pictures from Botanical Gardens in Kiev...

2011-02-13T10:46:00.000-08:00

Won't be very clear, I took a picture of the picture on my camera for now so you had something to view until I get home..Need to download Pantech driver once home..

ALMAZ CHURCH

2011-02-13T05:05:00.000-08:00

Home Alone...

2011-02-13T04:38:00.000-08:00

Just got back from Almaz Church 4 stops on the metro..We took a cab early this morning with a friend/translator Nadya..It was nice to see her again. This is the church our Pastor friend preaches at & what a great sermon today..I had a young man translate the whole service for me..It was very nice. It was great to fellowship and expose Marco to the gospel in his own language..It was the first thing on my list of things to do back in the USA, but he got the blessing of hearing it in his own language..I am sure it sounded strange to him coming from a religion who does not solely trust in Christ and live by faith and not by your works.

I will attempt to download & post a picture from a new camera I bought here yesterday...The rest of this day is for me to figure out how to download the Samsung driver I need to download my phone pictures..I have some beauties that I took & also Marco took at the Botanical Gardens here. Giant cactus plants I haven't see anywhere else like this..

I will also be just resting up today..Many muscles have been used lately that haven't been in a while..Walking walking walking...it is great..I am breathing in lots of fresh air into the lungs too! I can hear my Old Polish grandmother though saying...no ice in your drink and put your kerchief on...Most people here do not take ice in their drinks..even at McDonalds...so I recall this from my grandmother that this is one of the reasons I cough...It may be true if you are not used to it..but not sure if that's the case for sure.I had one man trying to ask me if my doctor knows I drink Coca cola? I was buying it a store in Vorzel...and it came out of the fridge...so not sure why, but I told him I never told my doctor..and he and the other lady looked at each other like I was drinking poison...Well I have heard from our old homeopathic doctor that it is very bad and so I exchanged the coke for a water...they seemed happy that I was prolonging my life...I figured they must know something I don't..

I am off to Vorzel by train tomorrow morning bright & early...I hope to meet the Malones again..Had a nice day with them yesterday and like spending time& talking with them. We have a lot in common with our large families.

I am also enjoying the alone time..I miss my husband & family back home very much and look forward to the day I book our flights home..but the trip is also a respite and I can regroup and go back with a fresh & appreciative outlook on my family..Marco is back at the orphanage for school..I will see him on my way back to Kiev everyday this week...Then the farewell party on Saturday and he will come with me for the duration of the trip.

Snowing in Ukraine...

2011-02-12T09:56:00.000-08:00

The weather was colder today and we had snow showers almost all day...sometimes heavy and sometimes light..we went venturing out today anyway...We met Natasha and the Malones at the Metro station and then walked to the Water Museum...And what a walk...up hill and up many stairs...but it was worth it... the water museum was fun and Marco seemed to be their most interested spectator..

I have a picture of him standing in a giant bowl and a huge bubble was brought over and around him..I did it too...was really neat. Not able to down load pictures off of my phone...but I did get a digital camera..so I will post other pictures tomorrow night..I will post all the pictures I can't get at now once I get home..

Marco is adjusting well with me...I think he is already very comfortable. He is like a typical 13 year old and wants to be on my lap top or phone playing a game...He loves American Sun Flower seeds.. He is very helpful and looks to make sure I am ok..He eats almost anything and things I wouldn't expect but then again I am in his territory and what may be strange foods to me is not to him...I call it a mature diet or taste for food.

Tomorrow morning we will be picked up by our friends and spend the day with them and have lunch... Later in the day Marco will return back to the orphanage with the clothes he came in.. Those clothes will be left behind and I have a bag there already for his real gotcha day outfit and outerwear.

MARCO IS HERE!

2011-02-11T10:58:00.000-08:00

Picked up Marco today from his orphanage..He is having a good time..skyping with the kids at home and playing with the cell phone...playing on the lap top..He took a nice hot bubble bath ..something he hasn't done in a few years. He is chewing up our American sunflower seeds like mad..He fits right in with the family..When we skyped the first time..Olivia was chewing and so was Marco when they looked at each and laughed..They each held up their bag from across the globe..Would make a great commercial for Davids sunflower seeds..The sunflower seeds that they eat here are black and no salt...they are ok..but nothing like ours..What a mess of seeds & shells we have over here..they are even in the lap top keys..LOL..I don't even think he took a breath between seeds..

Had a nice visit today with Olya...we caught up on the past few months and I got to see their beautiful new baby and had some laughs & brunch..I will see them on Sunday and Tuesday of next week..They are coming to United States and invited us to come see them and meet their other friends there who also have a few children with Downs... we hope to see them in Virginia mid-late March if possible...We are putting together a fund raiser and will add it to others who are doing the same to help with their new needs and ministry.

I really enjoyed having her here today all to myself..it was good fellowship and are looking forward to have them meet Marco and share the gospel with him..

Tomorrow we are headed to the museums and I think we 'll take a cab..it's going to be cold and some snow... Going to go to bed early because I didn't get much sleep last night due to drinking iced tea for dinner and the prowler from across the hall! He ended up being a "foreigner" like myself accidentally trying to open the wrong door and it was an accident..so ok then...life is good and I plan on sleeping well...Marco is used to going to bed early anyway..
It feels very comfortable having him around and the kids are bonding via skype by sending each other little icons and eating seeds...like cave men...so cute. Every now and then one will grunt or smile and another will speak a word in their native tongue...
Marco had his first dinner at McDonalds...He ordered a Big Mac and fries and Fanta as they say here...I ordered him chicken nuggets to taste and here they also have fried cheese..yummy with cranberry sauce...I had the Ukrainian dark bread quarter pounder...That was great and I will have it again a few more times...The bread is heavy and dark almost the same color as the burger...Very good..I bet we'll not see that for a few years in the USA. They also have potato wedges..but I didn't try them yet...and I think crepes for breakfast..might want to go there early since we are meeting Natasha right by the metro there...
That's it for tonight...We will skype home one more time before bed...This is the best part so far..seeing the kids loving each other already from afar!

Skipping Hair at Vorzel today...

2011-02-11T00:23:00.000-08:00

I made contact with our Pastor friend and his wife..so we are meeting today here at my apartment..Just finished straightening up and getting some food ready..I am a little tired though from not sleeping well...I finally decided I have 3 locks..they really can't get it because one is a bolt from inside...So I went to bed with my scissors and hair spray ...Hair spray makes great mace! Always felt pretty safe at the beauty shops with our hair sprays and Hot curling irons...LOL

I will be getting together with Sasha & Olya this month a few times..they will be taking me to Vorzel on Wednesday so I won't have to take the metro and bus that day...a nice break from walking too...You do a lot of walking here in the city...I don't realize how much I don't walk until I get here...out of shape ! After about a week or two it is amazing how my stamina improves...also my breathing..Must have something to do with my activity induced asthma...second hand smoke and hair increased my allergies since I was young.

I may try to buy a cheap camera today since I can't down load my pictures from my phone until I am home, so I will post those pictures later on.

Have a pretty busy schedule ...Today is GOTCHA DAY! for the weekend! Natasha & I will bring Marco here, but not before McDonalds! So I'd like to have a picture of this day having McDonald's for the first time...He is a good eater...by this I mean healthy eater.. The whole country is that way because they don't use preservatives in the foods and make everything from scratch.. so it is a pleasure eating here...May have something to do with my food allergies getting better while here too. Cutting out some junky additives and white flour. Even the McDonald's here has a dark bread bun for one of the hamburgers..so I will be trying that one today...It is for a limited time only..LOL Had to just add that!

When we get back to the apartment..Marco can take a hot bath and then I will cut his hair!! Long time over due.....The just realx make dinner he can watch the TV and go on the computer..we will be skyping home for a long time this weekend..

Tomorrow we will head out to the Water Museum here in Kiev...then the Botanical Gardens...Not sure about Sunday...but 1 plan is to see Pastor Sasha & his family sometime in that day and then return Marco to the orphanage for school the next day.

Monday is back to Vorzel!!! Lots of hairdoos to do...Then to visit Marco on my way back to the city..
Tuesday Back to Vorzel...back to Marco....then my friends for dinner...
Wednesday Vorzel again with my friends..back to Marco...back to the city!
Thursday Vorzel andd back to Marco....This will make his 10 th day of the waiting period...so The next day is the REAL GOTCHA DAY!!
Saturday we will have a farewell party for Marco with his class mates. There are 17 of them...I will buy a cake & some juice...and we carried over lots of candy that I 've been collecting for the orphanage since Christmas...Great bargains I got..10 cents and 25 cents...

Had a scare!

2011-02-10T12:28:00.000-08:00

Someone tried opening my door about 45 minutes ago....I yelled HEY! and they stopped trying..so I went to the peep hole and they were closing the door across the hall very quietly...I called my translator & she called the landlord here to find out about this apartment across the hall...SHe then called the other land lord and they are not answering the phone over there..so maybe they are drunk...hopefully..I was caught off guard and I am alone...so now I am ready for them! LOL I'd like to put the fridge in front of the door though..but it's a little heavy! Just hoping I will get some sleep..I'll make some kind of Booby trap! LOL

Another great Full Day!!

2011-02-10T09:11:00.000-08:00

Just got back to my apartment about 6 pm. Started off meeting the Malone Family in front of the Metro on Kreshatik St. I love this family...they are so down to earth and just great...We have a lot of parallels in our lives, and it just feels good knowing there are families that share the same labor of love...

I huffed & puffed with my bag of hair supplies..& asthma! Most of my hair supplies were in Vorzel thanks to Meredith & the Lutz's who took them on the train before I left last trip..Thanks again for that...they had them under lock & key!
What a nice welcome I had and Mary M & I got to cruise around a little while the ladies were looking at clothes from a sales woman..I love those people..There was also one at Marco's orphanage yesterday...They have nice stuff. This afternoon there was a curtain sales man there and the ladies hair I did today chipped in and bought me one I was looking at!! That was so so nice of them...It is a beautiful curtain..with a valence too...They have beautiful curtains and table clothes here & in Russia.

Well Mary & I took some new pictures of 2 of the boys available and a few kids that are not..1 new one since I was there last..a little girl not available...
I did get to play a little with Misha who looked better than the last trip...He was in the playroom with no casts and walking around...and we got some new photos...Poor guy needs a Mommy quick..I will post his picture & email it to Reeces Rainbow for updates..He is so sweet.
The other sweetie was Andre,..he is also waiting for his Mommy too..It was really good to see all the ladies in the baby house...I will be able to spend a week in Vorzel doing hair and seeing all the ladies from our adoption. I should be able to get a lot of ladies done since I have the time. It was so much easier this time stopping at about the 10 th lady so I could finish up and get out by 2:30. Wasn't so hard on my feet this way too...last time it was overkill...On my feet in one place for about 10 hours with little to no breaks. Tomorrow I will return to the same Baby house by 8:30 or so with the Malones. Got to hand deliver a letter and pictures from Danielle ...They were so happy to see that! He looked so good with his glasses on...they really liked this..

Talked to our old translator from our 2009 adoption and will be meeting her next week sometime for dinner. I am keeping busy so I don't miss my family as much back home...Kind of hard..I think of them non-stop...

When I get back to the apartment at night I feel the emptiness from my husband not with me here anymore and get a little weepy...but I try then to do things I need to do like laundry, sort through mega candy, cookies & chocolates for Marco's farewell party next Thursday.. I have an official crying towel when the need happens..Better out then in! LOL Just skyped with the kids so the towel came in handy again after I hung up.
Marco is coming here tomorrow..so I will straighten up and have his bed ready, which is one of those couches that folds open I think originated in Poland. I bought some dried sausage and kielbasa and ham and bread & cheese...& juice so far...I want to get some of their Presidents Yogurt..WOW is that good stuff..I had the strawberry one today...Need to get a dozen of those...yummy!
The food is very good here..some of the things I can pass on like the raw fish..and a few of their dairy products are much different. The milk is very different and thick...They have Keefer..which I can only drink flavored..and some other soft cheeses, sauerkraut and sour cream are different.

Had a Wonderful Full Day...

2011-02-09T12:38:00.000-08:00

Started off in the orphanage waiting for Marco..but we were early...The social worker wants him to finish out his classes everyday...but he cannot even focus..He is ready to get out of there and I can't wait myself..It is a nice place, but he wants his new family. He is so excited asking questions about his brothers & sisters and dogs & cats...
He will be coming here for the weekend but must be back Sunday afternoon sometime. He will get to soak in the bath tub which he probably can't remember the last time he had that and he will get his haircut he has been holding out for Mama to do..

We will go to the grocery store for fruit & veggies & food. He is used to just bread & butter & tea for breakfast...I can top that!
We had lunch today at the Potato House in his town with Natasha. We walked there & back and it was a nice day...little cooler today though. Now we are having snow..I am glad Ruben left today when it was sunny & clear skies. He had a good flight to Germany...and he is now on the home stretch!

I came home from the orphanage by way of the metro and stopped to pick up another pair of shoes...My feet are too hot in my furry boots..I will need them this weekend though because the temps will drop below freezing.
Just had time to freshen up and was picked up to have dinner at Ivanna's parents home and see my "sister" Katya! So funny when I look at her pictures and see myself..
We laughed that we were separated at birth...It is nice to be in contact with them all year but to see them again in person is much better..We really have a good time and a lot of laughs. We did a little shopping near their house before dinner and we looked at more shoes..Instead I got a purse..I will be giving my present bag to Natasha because it is so Euro...so I picked up another more casual one.

We ate a wonderful dinner and then skyped Darlena & Ivanna in Mississippi! That was great..Ivanna is doing so well and has many signs..I was very impressed! She is so happy in her new home..

we will begetting together again when Marco comes and go all around Kiev..
Saturday we will be going to a Water Museum here in Kiev..and Sunday Botanical Gardens to see the indoor plants, trees, and flowers. Then it's back to the orphanage where Marco will be sporting his new haircut!

I will be going to bed soon because I will be meeting the Malone Family at the Metro/Bus Stop to head to the orphanage of my 3 littles and doing hair until about 2 pm. Then I will go back to visit Marco a couple hours...

I will stroll through the metro flea market to see if I can find the cutest tights I saw back in November...They were chaneele like a fluffy sweater..They were so cute & looked warm..I did pick up a few pairs of other very thick tights that you can't get in America.
Well off to bed...I will be getting a 3:30 am text from Ruben when he lands in Newark NJ!! YAY! Home to the kids..I will rest better then..Good Night!

The Golden Goof! ......

2011-02-08T22:13:00.000-08:00

Ok...so back to the airport...Our first mishap with them was the agent was sending my husband to a different airport where the car was not going to be parked! So I had him fix it...The second was when we got to the airport...and we had no tickets! I thought it was all confirmed with my credit card & exp.. which I emailed him and okayed the change to the right airport, to me this is a confirmation when I give out my credit card...he never booked the tickets! So we sat at the airport after all we had been through with Interpol thinking this just takes the cake! So the guy must have been in a frenzy while booking since we had no tickets....and charges an old friends credit card that traveled with us in 2009 that was in our file since then to boot! What the heck is going on..Most of us adopting use this same travel agent...so please check all your info when booking..this is 3 mistakes in one booking and we are not happy! He erroneously charged the wrong credit card.... NO ONE can authorize use of someone else's card! While he assures us all errors will be fixed and has now charged our correct credit card it is still aggravating.. Another day in the life of adoption...there is always something!

Marco with some friends...who by the way are available and very sweet quiet brothers..

2011-02-08T12:56:00.000-08:00

They have a third brother in another place.

Busy Day today..

2011-02-08T12:40:00.000-08:00

We started off nice & early and headed out to the notaries and US Embassy. Ruben had to do his part of the paper work and I did part of mine too! Our officer there was from America and very nice..We met another family who adopted a 14 year old girl and they were from State College PA...
We were in and out of there pretty quick...so we then got the bus to the metro to head out of the city to see Marco. He was just about getting out of his classes. If he has 6 classes in a day he is done by 1 :45. So he asked if I would please come earlier tomorrow so he can get out of German class! Children are the same all over the world..amazes me..so I will be there about 11 am...He is going to fit right in...it just feels so comfortable having him around. He looks like my biological children all mixed together.
We met a lot of kids from his school today. Some with families and some without. I met a little girl sucking her thumb peaking at me and smiling..Oh was she cute and so sweet I just wanted to hug her and mother her. There were some more girls in the craft class. We were on our way out so I will find out more tomorrow which ones were orphans and which ones have families. Some children live in this orphanage and have families that can't take care of them. Some children also now come just to go to school. I also got to see a woman who lives in the basement of the orphanage. She was also an orphan in this same place. So since she is not able to work or be alone they allow her to live in the basement and she cleans all around the orphanage and school. I gave her a stuffed dog yesterday and she was so so happy and hugging it. I will get her picture tomorrow.

A slouch on the couch! LOL Marco

2011-02-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

Heading Out!

2011-02-07T22:30:00.001-08:00

We are heading out now to meet Natasha and have Ruben do his part of the U>S> Embassy paper work. This paperwork is to clasify Marco as an immediate relative...

Then we are off to pick up Marco! I have his new clothes and he already had his new sneakers on yesterday. Everything should fit..Last trip I brought size 12 and it was a little small..So I have 14/16 and his coat is even one size bigger so it can fit with his (hoodie)sweatshirt. It is so amazing to me how different the children are in the orphanage. They really have nothing...and have not seen much either. Very wholesome and sweet. Looking forward to coming back to Kiev and taking him to McDonalds at 4 pm to meet with the Malone Family.

Just got back...

2011-02-07T10:56:00.000-08:00

Went to TGI FRidays..met with Courtney & Mark & had a nice time...hopefully will meet again somewhere through our journey...

Here is a picture of the Court house we went to today in region. This was also the court for our 3 littles...Masha, Milena & Lilli Luda.

IT'S OFFICIAL!

2011-02-07T06:25:00.000-08:00

We are officially the proud parents of a big baby boy named Marco Yura Torres!
We will be picking him up tomorrow afternoon and he will come to the apartment to stay with us and run around with me every where I have to go yet...One of the first things we will do is go to McDonalds..he has never had it..so I will start corrupting his diet there!! Be back later..we are off to TGI Fridays to meet other adopting families!

Guess Who?

2011-02-06T14:50:00.000-08:00

My $8 bottle of coke from Munich! Ouch

2011-02-06T14:47:00.000-08:00

Mushy Masha ready to fence!

2011-02-06T14:42:00.000-08:00

Some bathers in the back round coming out of the tub!

My Big Best Helper with Milena...

2011-02-06T14:40:00.000-08:00

3 silly girls saying hello!

2011-02-06T14:39:00.000-08:00

Our sweet Milena waiting to meet her new brother...

2011-02-06T14:36:00.000-08:00

Talked to Amelia today..and she said..Just come home NOW!

2011-02-06T14:33:00.000-08:00

She is a pip! And it's all about her!

The airline we took here..

2011-02-06T14:25:00.000-08:00

Settling in our new apartment..

2011-02-06T04:35:00.000-08:00

It is a very cute apartment..3 rd floor with a closed in balcony and big windows facing the street..I have stayed in this building twice so far so I am accustomed to this place and it has an elevator...so great for my asthma! Once I get walking around the city though..it seems to get better..maybe I get in shape after 2 weeks so this helps with the asthma.

We have cable and English channels..Right now we are watching the discovery channel...It's about airplanes and the A380 Airbus...largest plane ever made..so this is helping my fears..LOL Explaining how it all works. Very interesting..but also will not fly in the winter if I can help it..

Starting to get hungry ...so I will be going to the store for some groceries soon. It's 2 :40 pm..We ate late this morning..so it's now about lunch time...
Hello Danielle! I read your comment...I will take your pictures and letters for the ladies in Baby House #1...They will be surprised and happy to hear from you..I will be in touch with Ivanna's parents to pick up the razor/buzzer that belongs there and plan to have me over for dinner next week.

Waiting for our translator..

2011-02-06T00:58:00.000-08:00

We're back from breakfast/brunch and just waiting for our call from Natasha..I think she said she would come around 11, ,we were so tired so not positive.. It is very quiet in the city today and during the summer they close down the huge street here and sometimes have singers or violinists in the street. Some of the people are grown orphans and are trying to make a few dollars serenading you...

The weather is a little better today...dreary but warmer. Our apartment is located uphill but not far and I am already pooped. Our bodies are aching from sitting so long.
Plus mu asthma doesn't help matters..

We are not sure when we will take Marco from the orphanage..The director said it's ok to get him after court but our team feels maybe wait a couple of days so I can go to Vorzel and do hair and have to entertain him less...but I am looking forward to entertaining him...so I think when Ruben goes home on Tuesday I may go and get him...I remember that very empty loney feeling when he left to go back to USA without me...sheesh....we have never been apart like that and it was hard. OK..natsah is here..Be back later to also fix my typos...

Feeling human again!

2011-02-05T23:37:00.000-08:00

We are feeling better this morning but still need some more rest. We will be moving to our next apartment shortly and thought I 'd better blog because there may be no internet until Monday. Tonight we will be meeting some other couples for dinner so we can blog at TGI Fridays with their free wifi if I remember the lap top.

I will be buying some Ukrainian IBuprofin today for my aches from sitting so long on the plane..
Speaking of planes....When we arrived at Newark airport..I presented our printed out flight schedule...well come to find out this was not our actual booking...We never confirmed it!! Never assume that after have this email & gave your credit card number that you have tickets! We had been working with Golden Rule travel agency and they are wonderful..but I guess I never completely confirmed the dates were good and so our guy never put it through! WOW...Tickets from the aiport would be about $3000...Thankfully it was all straightened out and we had an hour to spare...

We boarded a lovely new plane with a lower level...Never saw anything like this before..the bathrooms and some area for the stewards were down stairs..It was like a Cadillac taking off too.. We were very impressed since neither one of us are really fond of being in the air, especially in the winter. So we watched a movie which mind you was on the back of the seat in front of you and we had many choices...I watched tv shows. After dinner the staff gave out as many drinks as possible to the people..I understood why when I saw the one steward coming with a hanger and closing all the shades to put us all to bed..And by golly it worked..they had that whole plane sleepy teepy bye bye!
I can never sleep anywhere but in a bed...I may have dosed a couple of times..but I can never do it as much as I want to. So today I feel like I was hit by a truck.
Our apartment is cute that we are in right now...close to everything but we will be moving shortly to a great place for only $35 per night for the monthly rate since I may be here until February 28 th.
Our second plane into Kiev I have to say was not as nice..but more like a shuttle. The ride started out well but then the weather changed as we got nearer to Kiev. We experienced some turbulance and the landing was quite scary...we are happy to be here is all I will say after that landing. Happy also the temps were above freezing. I will never fly again in the winter..except to get home!
We have court tomorrow at noon..so we will be picked up by 9:30 am because we have to stop at the orphanage where Marco is and pick up the staff that attends court. We are very excited to see him and have him ours finally. It was an interesting delay and we laughed about it yesterday with our team and how it didn't make any sense..but that's adoption.
As I am typing the church bells are going off..what a beautiful sound..our window is open because the heat is working well. It is Sunday almost 10 am. A day of rest for us. I am looking forward to unpacking and bagging up all the goodies for the orphanages. I have some things for our friends Pastor Sasha & Olya and will see them this coming week when we go to Vorzel Orphanage to do hair for the ladies and maybe some children. I will go there for a few days because there are many ladies who work there and some volunteer. I will get some pictures for 2 mommies that will coming for their children soon...
We are headed out to breakfast/brunch and will be meeting Natasha to move our things and settle in to our new place and call our friends here in Ukraine to make some plans with them as well....more later

We're Here!

2011-02-05T07:33:00.000-08:00

We just got to our apartment and will grab a bite to eat and then be back...stay tuned for our adventure stories! Thanks Danielle for the Ukrainian money we will go to dinner on you! Good thing..the money exchanges are closed now...and I am ready to eat at the Ukrainian buffet! We are very close to this place for tonight and then we'll be moving just down the street at 19 Bassienya St. for the rest of our stay...

Orphanage visits..

2011-02-02T17:16:00.000-08:00

We will be visiting 3 orphanages while in country...Bringing donations and loving up the children. I plan to do many hair doos in the Baby House starting next week...spoke with one of the Doctors there and they are waiting! I borrowed their razor for another orphanage and had left it with friends in country and I guess they forgot return it LOL..so I will pick this up too so the orphanage can trim the boys hair..They haven't had their razor since June! The kids may need some fixing up too!...Looking forward to this part of the trip..The ladies are very receptive and happy when working on their doos..I find them to be just like my clients at home..People are people no matter where you are.. They understand my hand motions for ways to cut their hair and laugh at the same things we do back home.

There are at least 2 other families adopting and one more coming this weekend also..so we hope to meet with them Monday for dinner.
Suitcases are packed..we will weigh them tomorrow to make sure they aren't over 50 pounds each! I picked up so much candy/cookies/stuffed animals & chocolates I bought during the last 2 months for the kids...There were great sales after Christmas so glad I was still here to get a lot for the kids...
Many items for 10 and 25 cents! Christmas in Eastern Europe is later than ours..so they are still in Christmas mode a little...

Ukraine Orphan Trip 2004

2011-02-01T23:32:00.000-08:00

Once your eyes are opened..you can not forget....this explains how you feel once you visit the orphanages...

TO NEW YORK!

2011-01-31T16:47:00.000-08:00

Just got back from New York....Dropped off my 2 kids and will return to pick them up + the niece who is baby sitting for our kids.. On the way back...there was some traffic..not too much..Thank God it was the tail end of a situation that the traffic started to move...A small plane that had mechanical problems had to land on route 80! Near Teterboro NJ. Apparently this plane couldn't make it to the airport in Teterboro!
We saw it being towed on a flat bed tow truck with many state troopers there blocking the road off on both ends of this home made runway.....That was pretty neat..Thankfully no one got hurt & all was fine...We did see about 4 other cars in wrecks though..Very scary out there today! Tomorrow is ice & snow starting about midnight...

Leaving Friday....

2011-01-31T05:17:00.000-08:00

Well needless to say we are rushing to get a lot done before we leave on Friday,,
I just spoke to our translator and booked the apartment and gave her the flight numbers so she can meet us at the airport Sat Feb 5 th due to the time change it is a day ahead.. We fly through Munich going and Frankfurt coming home. I will stay until the end of February and Ruben will be home Feb 9 th.

We were told we could get Marco right after court! So this is an exciting change..we still have the 10 day wait I guess...just that he can be with us during this time...SO we can go around Kiev and see the cathedrals and what ever he may want to do. Not sure the zoo is open in the winter but will check into that. It would be nice to have Benjamin along too since we'll have him so quickly. I guess a little late now to get the passport...

Less than 1 week!

2011-01-29T09:05:00.000-08:00

Getting as much done in the house as possible...Have our suitcases packed..but I will be repacking again I am sure..Have to weight them to make sure they are not too heavy! 50 pounds each is allowed..then one carry on each and one purse or computer bag...
I have so much candy/cookies/ stuffed animals etc to take for the orphanages...I wish I could take more..but I just may buy some while there..

I have a few things to pick up yet...but for the most part we are ready!

I really want to write a book on all of our experiences and what we have seen and want to bring more awareness to this problem of orphans in & around Eastern Europe.. I have spoken to a few people who are missionaries there and I am sure be would be more than willing to contribute what they have done to help the orphanages & institutions.

FINALLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-01-26T11:38:00.000-08:00

Our court date is February 7 th...so we will leave Feb 4 th or 5th...
My husband will come back 5 days later and I will stay on to wait out the 10 day requirement and then get Marco Yura Torres out of the orphanage! He will be so happy to hear the news today that we finally have the date...Life as he knows it will change forever..

I will stay in country about 20 days..Leaving to come home with our 11 th child around February 26 th! During the10 day wait I will be doing hair at the orphanage where we adopted our 3 little Ukrainian beauties...and whatever we can do to expedite necessary items needed for Marco to leave Ukraine..country code/passport/visa..etc

We all have waited so long it seems..but in the scheme of things it isn't very long once it's all over...it's like labor...you forget ! And to think you have a child for all the hair paperwork & waiting & raising the money...amazing.