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Welcome to our journal! This is the random thoughts of Emily and her attempt to keep everyone up to date. The latest journal entry is on top. If you want to start at the begining scroll all the way down to the bottom of the page. Enojy.
If you have questions....
Contact Emily - lovedilworth@gmail.com
or
Contact David - david@lovedilworth.com
Celebrating our first Gotcha Day
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5/6/2009 8:40:07 PM |
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| Picture taken 5/6/2008 | Picture taken 5/2/2009 |
This past year has brought us more joy than we ever thought possible! Zach has brought so much joy and love in to our lives.
He has grown - boy has he grown - into a happy ball of energy. He continues to grown in all the important areas - emotionally and
physically.
This past week has been very emotional thinking back on how far we have come and all the growth that our family has experienced together.
I cannot put into words all the thoughts and emotions... I also cannot stop to type it all out - Zach will not allow it! He wants to go go go!
So when little man is finally down for sleep - we crash too. So forgive the brevity of this post.
We celebrated our Gotcha Day with swinging, blowing bubbles, and laughing at the word "alligator". What beautiful moments we have every
day - we honestly celebrate these moments and try not to take any for granted. But today these little moments were even sweeter.
A few pictures from a year ago and a few recent ones.....
Picture taken 4/20/2008
Picture taken 4/8/2009
Picture taken 4/12/2009
Picture taken 5/2/2009
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One Year Ago Today
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2/18/2009 8:22:36 PM |
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| Picture taken 2/18/2008 | Picture taken 2/7/2009 |
There are defining moments in life when you take a deep breath and know that your life has changed forever. Luckily, I was able to take a deep breath grab the hand of the man I love and take in the moment of meeting our son for the first time, a year ago today. When I go back and read the post from a year ago and I just remember sitting in a small apartment trying to come up with "proper" words to share with friends, loved ones, and supporters that we had never even meet, who read our journal so diligently. I remember just sitting there in awe and amazement, trying to replay the wonderful day we had just spent with our son. It had taken us such a long and hard journey to get to that amazing day - now a year later I am still in awe and amazement of this little man.
Over the past year we have truly learned what love is and the depth of the human heart. I remember telling Dave and a close friend that my heart should not hurt this much between trips. We were so connected to this wonderful child and after we were home and settled, it was clear that we were a family and we were going to make it.
I remember the fear of "are we going to have a child?" – Yes. And I am the luckiest Mommy in the world.
I remember the fear of "are we doing the right thing?" – YES. No matter what anyone said – and yes some people questioned it.
I remember the fear of " can I do this?" – Yes with love and help we are doing it.
I remember the fear of "am I going to love this child?" – Oh yes, and so much more. Deeply.
I remember the fear of "will he love me?" – Yes. I can see it in his eyes every time he calls for his "MAMA"
A year ago we walked up the stairs at the baby home and saw a naked little boy standing on a table being held up by one arm curiously peering out the door before it was closed quickly by staff. Our wonderful translator turned to us and said, "That is him. He is gorgeous, no?" Now we walk into his room and we still see those beautiful brown eyes looking back at us smiling with his "blue bear" - still gorgeous and curious.
Zach has gained over 12 pounds since being home. He has grown… I don't even know how many inches! I cannot tell you how many outfits we have out grown. Several skint knees, boo boo's on fingers, scary falls that made my heart stop just to see him pop back up with a grin on his face ready to do it again. We could also talk about the transformation of a clean backseat to the mess you see today – I digress. Whenever people ask me how Zach is doing, I always say "Wide open". This truly sums up Zach. He is wide open! He loves to walk and walk some more. He points to outside, grabs his hat, and is ready to go. Unless, he wants to watch the Wiggles… Don't get me started on the Wiggles. But, I will say this; Zach loves to watch the Wiggles. He will go to the TV point and does the wiggle dance. Very, very cute I might add.
I cannot begin to tell you everything that we have made it though over the last year. The overwhelming outpouring of love and support from people you did not expect it from. And of course, the horrible ignorant questions and lack of support when you thought you would have it, still hurts even today. This past year of becoming a family has been the best year of my life. Seeing the pure joy on my dad's face when he sees his grandson just makes my heart burst with so much pride and love. The transition from being a couple, to becoming a family has been a wonderful awakening of the person I strive to be every day. Zach inspires me to be a better mommy, wife, and person.
Ok so the real reason you are here…. Pictures…. Here are a few of my favorite pictures from the past year since we came home. Just a few! I really love taking pictures of my little guy!
Picture taken 5/31/2008
Picture taken 6/4/2008
Picture taken 6/13/2008
Picture taken 7/1/2008
Picture taken 8/6/2008
Picture taken 8/21/2008
Picture taken 9/28/2008
Picture taken 10/26/2008
Picture taken 11/27/2008
Picture taken 12/8/2008
Picture taken 12/25/2008
Picture taken 1/31/2009
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18 Months Old
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10/9/2008 8:59:06 PM |
Yesterday, Zach turned 1 and a half years old! He is growing and changing every moment. His curiosity grows each day as well.
We went to see his pediatrician yesterday for his 18 month check up. He weighed in at 30 pounds even (90th percentile). He is 33 1/2 inches tall (75th percentile). And her official diagnosis was SOLID. Just kidding. She did say he was a solid built boy. We have been saying that all along!
After dinner we had cupcakes to celebrate his 1 and 1/2 birthday since we were not there physically for his birthday. We put 1 and 1/2 candles on the cupcake and let him have it. We believe he enjoyed himself.
Here are a few pictures from yesterday.
 
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One year ago today...
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10/7/2008 9:32:09 PM |
One year ago today David and I made the one of the most important and best decisions ever. We decided to officially start the adoption process. I look at Zach and I cannot believe it was a year ago today that we started to fill in the blanks on the first of many papers. This precious little life that has been entrusted to us is simply a miracle and we are so blessed to be here a year later with our child as a family.
Today was also our first post placement home visit with our social worker. I will not even go into how long it took me to pick 8 pictures out of the oodles that we have taken of Zachary! All in all, it went well and we do not have another visit till next March.
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4 months with us & Beach Trip Day 7
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9/6/2008 7:56:25 PM |
It is amazing that we have had Zach with us for 4 months now! I cannot believe it. The amount of change all three of us have been though, yet we feel like we have always been together. Everyday we spend with little man we feel more and more blessed.
We made it through Tropical Storm Hanna. We lost power for a little while last night, but it came back on relatively quickly. We did not see too much - just a lot of wind (of course), rain, and the surf was almost up to the parking lot. Zach slept through the whole thing, bless his heart. The beach was great this morning. Zach was all over the place playing and trying to get away from the surf coming in.
We did the normal nap time - then pool time - then nap time again - and then out for dinner. We went down to Murrells Inlet and found a restaurant called "Drunken Jack's". Our table sat at the window looking over the inlet onto "goat island". Yes, there were goats on the island and Zach would "moo" when we asked him what a goat says. We need to practice our animal sounds. After dinner, we walked around Murrells Inlet's walk way and looked at the boats coming and going.
We drove back to the hotel and we were greeted with tons of fire trucks. Great - just what we needed. We have a cranky little crab, who is sneezing and needs to be changed. Finally, we got the all clear to "safely" enter the building. (We heard someone say that that it was an electrical issue.) At least Zach was entertained by the fire trucks and cool fire fighters. Bless Dave he climbed the 7 flights of stairs with Zach and a smelly surprise!
We are now back in our room and Zach is asleep. I am praying his little sneezes will pass soon and not turn into a full blown cold.
We head for home tomorrow!
 
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Beach Trip Day 4, 5 and 6
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9/5/2008 8:33:08 PM |
We have had typical days at the beach - so nothing really to report. Beach time is a lot of fun with Zach. He particularly liked it one morning because there were big tractor things on the beach. He waved and "fussed" at them. We think he thought his Grandpa was driving them and not picking him up. He seems to like the sand more and more each day. Often if the surf comes up he will turning into us to pick him up, then laugh when it hits our feet. There have also been a lot of puppies on the beach. Zach would say "uoff," translation "woof," and wave to all the puppies.
Pool time continues to be great. Zach was happy walking around and playing on the steps into the pools. There are two large slides in the indoor water park that Dave takes him down. He loves those! He sucks his thumb at the top of the slide then as they start he pulls it out and smiles so big with a little hand clap for good measure.
Dave loves seafood and he LOVES the all you can eat sea food bars. We went one night to his favorite. Why is it his favorite? Because there are mermaids swimming in there little indoor pool. Anyway.... So Zach was loving his pasta and broccoli, when Dave came back to the table. Dave said, "I have a new friend for Zach." Then he pulled up a crawfish. I said, "Ewww." Dave then said, "I wonder what he would do if I offer it to him?" I said, "Most likely point at it or grab it." So Dave holds it up to him.... He opens his mouth like a little bird. I thought to my self.... Seriously? So we laughed. I grabbed my camera thinking - oh the moment passed he will not do that again. So, Dave held it up again and AGAIN Zach opened his mouth and tried to eat it. I guess I have two boys who love sea food!
Nothing really big to report over the last few days. Just playing in the pools and watching the weather channel to see what "Hanna" is doing. Right now Zach is asleep and we are sitting on the balcony with winds coming off the ocean at a decent clip. This tropical storm is supposed to come to hit around here so everyone is under a tropical storm warning and tornado watch. FUN FUN FUN!
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Beach Trip Day 3
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9/2/2008 9:08:48 PM |
Today was full of pool time. We went out on the beach after the sunrise (Zach has to learn that we sleep in on vacation!) for a little while. Then we made our way back to the pool. We spent a lot of time in the "lazy river" and in the big pool. When you wake up as early as Zach every morning you get to "open" the pools. We were the first people in. It was so nice to have a huge pool all to yourself!
Morning naps and lunch were followed by more pool time and another nap. Then we went to Nakato's for dinner. We love Japanese steak houses. Zach enjoyed himself and was amazed at all the smoke.
We went back to Broadway on the Beach and let Zach ride a few of the kiddie rides. When we left poor little man was asleep soon after we got in the car. When I took him out of the car and back up to our room, he snuggled down in my arms with his precious little head on my shoulder. Perfect end to any day.
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Beach Trip Day 2
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9/1/2008 8:48:10 PM |
Today was Zach's first day on the beach. Last evening we went out on to the
beach, but he could not really see what was going on around him. Our little man loves water and he has only a little hesitation. You would think that when the surf knocks you down that a little one would be afraid to go back toward the surf - well not our little guy. He was apprehensive, but he loved the water. SOOO different than the little man who could not stand water when we first took custody. This morning we started out on the beach early after watching the sun rise on our balcony. We took a few pictures of Zach walking around on the beach, then we hit the surf. Or should I say then the surf hit us? The water is very "rough" and we did not go in to the surf but up to our ankles, but there was one particular wave that came in that was a little stronger than Dave and I expected. Needless to say it was not pretty and well... my camera doesn’t work anymore.
After spending some time on the beach playing in the surf and digging in the sand with our shovels we headed back to the pool areas. We love this hotel. I am so glad that Dave's sister recommended this place. Zach loves the lazy river and loves the kid areas. This little water bug likes to be in the water and points to where he wants to go. He is starting to kick more in the water and putting his face in to the water. Just precious!
Zach (along with Daddy and Mommy) took a morning nap. At this point our camera is still not working! My fear is realized - my camera is dead! I cannot be with out a camera! I mean Zach needs to have his picture taken every 5 minutes. So we looked at camera reviews and decided what we wanted and headed out after lunch in to look for my new camera!
We found a great camera and then headed over to Broadway On the Beach for dinner and a walk. Zach devoured Mac and Cheese and loved watching the "quacks" on the water. He did a lot of two finger pointing at the fish and ducks.
We decided to go back to the pool area for an evening swim. As we went back up to our room little man yawed and was snuggling in to Daddy's arms. He was wiped out!
So Zach is asleep in his pack and play, Dave is watching TV and I'm trying to figure out my new camera! (Thanks Dave!)
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Beach Trip Day 1
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8/31/2008 9:16:53 PM |
So today we left for our first family vacation. As all good southern families must do… we headed out to Myrtle Beach. As we packed the car this morning, Dave and I looked at each other and said at the same time “we did not take this much for a month in Russia.” Go figure right? So we packed everything… Dave was not that happy as he loaded bag after bag. And I watched the weather channel looking at the projected path of Tropical Storm Hanna. We know that “Hanna” will be the silent but very active storm if she is anything like the silent but busy Hanna that we have in our family. Of course I love being on the coast when hurricanes are coming in! Living in Wilmington for four years will do that to a girl.
We set out on our way hoping that morning nap would take over and we would get a good 2 hour ride with little man asleep. We ended up with about an hour then he was WIDE awake and making sure we knew it. We decided to stop at McDonalds for lunch. This was Zach’s first real McDonalds visit. His father and I avoid McDonalds like the plague since we have been back from Moscow (McD was a staple of my diet there). Zach loved it! Well he loved the play area outside. He was like a little tunnel rat crawling all around. He also liked feeding Daddy chicken nuggets.
We made it to Myrtle Beach safe and sound. We are staying at the Dunes Village Resort. We had a little time to kill before our room was ready so we walked around and eventually Zach made it in to the children’s area and grew the courage to walk under a few waterfalls and just splashing in the puddles. We finally got settled in, had dinner, and went out to get “provisions”. By this time the sun was down and we did not get to spend good time on the beach. We are excited to take Zach on the beach in the morning!!
I am going to try to update the journal everyday that we are on vacation. It just seems easier to update when we are away from home doing things that are not the everyday things of life. Which might I add, I love. Zach truly is amazing. That has been my mantra since we got home. He is growing every day, and I mean growing in every way. Physically he continues to grow and looks more and more like a little man. Developmentally he is still right on target. He is talking more. He says bye bye, all gone, gone gone, jo don (our dog), mama, dada, hullo (hello), yes, no, love you (wuv ya), thank you (tank ya) and he LOVES to fuss. He fussed at Grandpa Love the other day because he was out mowing the grass without him! I would love to be able to understand his “fussing,” its just a jumble of sounds and lip action. It’s so cute. After he is done “fussing” he turns and smiles.
He is just our little ray of sunshine. He continues to snuggle into us when we hold him, great eye contact, turns to us when he is scared or happy. He loves to show us new things he can do. Like – climb up on the couch stand up and bend his knees like he is jumping. Yeah, that did not go over to well. But, you have to love that he is exploring his world.
He is still sleeping through the night and wakes up jibber jabbing to himself. When we go into get him in the morning or after his naps. He makes a production of getting out of the crib. He has to hand out everything that is in the crib with him. One at a time he hands his pillow, his bear blanket, and his other blue blanket. After he hands each item individually he walks back and forth from one side to the other. After everything is out, he decides to stand in the middle then raises his hands ready to get out and snuggle up. Have I mentioned teething lately? We are still teething. I say we because it just looks painful to me. But, honestly he is so “good” you wouldn’t know that there was so much action going on in his mouth.
He continues to just be a happy toddler exploring EVERYTHING! One of my favorite things he does when he is exploring something is to point with two fingers. They are either together or crossed. (He may turn out to be an air line steward – he has his two finger point down pat!) It’s sweet to watch him with hesitation and anticipation touches everything. His eyes light up when it’s a new texture or something interesting.
Ok; I am talking way too much. Anyway, check back in hopefully we will be updating everyday while we are down here.
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3 Months In our Arms
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8/6/2008 9:18:37 PM |
We took custody of Zachary three months ago today. It is amazing to think that this little whirl wind of energy is ours! He is so smart and pays such close attention to detail! He is just a blessing and has just rolled into our family because he was always meant to be here with us.
I wish I could go back and capture all the details in this post of what our family has done since my last post, but that would be impossible. (By the way, sorry about the delay in posting!) We have just sat back and enjoyed the wonderful ride of being a family of three.
Zach is just amazing! I just keep saying that to everyone who asks about him and our transition
home. Some of the things he is doing now... He calls our dog "Jo Don" and our cousin's dog "CoCo" all the time. He goes in search of the lawn mower and when he finds it he points and smiles (then turns on the charm for Grandpa Love to take him for a ride)! He can spend hours just going up and down stairs. He loves the phone and giggles and moves to find the phone when it rings. He says "buh buh" and waves his little hand in a stiff karate type wave and just smiles.
Talking about his smile... teething has hit us in a big way the last week. Our pediatrician said that he is cutting all his teeth at one time! And she is not kidding. I am amazed that he is not crying 24 hours a day with how swollen and red his gums are. He has gained 6 pounds since being home and has grown! MY how he has grown. He is a big boy! A big beautiful boy!
Zach has been sleeping the whole night, with very few expectations. He continues to eat very well. He is transitioning well to table food and we still have found nothing that he will not eat.
We really have a water bug on our hands. He loves his little pool, sprinklers, and the bath tub. He also loved the lake! We went down to Dave's parents and spent time on Lake Cooley. He liked his little life jacket and playing with sunglasses! Zach and daddy also played in the water and Zach practiced floating on his back. He also went fishing with Papa Dilworth and Daddy - we think he will like that more as he gets older.
I cannot say it enough - we are so blessed to have this wonderful child. He is just amazing.
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Wow! Home A Month
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6/16/2008 10:12:55 PM |
We cannot believe we have been home a whole month! It was a month today that we landed in Atlanta and Zach became an official citizen. On Friday we received Zach's official citizenship certificate. It was such a surprise to see it in our mailbox. I really thought it would be a few more weeks. I was also surprised to see Zach's visa picture on it. I did not know that was going to be on there, it was a sweet surprise!
I cannot believe how good getting a piece of paper can make you feel. We first learned this "good feeling" when we received our referral paper at the Ministry of Education in Moscow to go to the baby home to meet Zach, back in February. I just sat in the van on the way to Podolsk looking at it! Then today, all the way up the driveway, about 1/2 a mile, I just sat there looking at the sweet little picture taken in February and am just amazed at how much Zach has grown and changed!
Since we received this certificate, Zach and I were able to go to the Social Security office and applied for his Social Security Card! One more thing checked off the list!
Last Friday we went to see our pediatrician again for a "well follow up". He has gained 2 pounds and grown an inch!! Its just amazing! He is up and walking around. He still toddles, but its getting to be a much better "walk". He is growing up! His hair is growing and is thickening up.
We love seeing his personality coming out. And his laugh is so contagious! He now has an all out excited laugh that is so sweet. He really is just a sweet and happy boy! He loves playing in the dirt and walking in the grass. He also LOVES to go up and down steps! Zach has also started to clap sporadically and appropriately. He has also started to wave hello - not really waving good bye.
Zach is still eating good - obviously he has gained 2 pounds. He has started eating table food and seems to like everything we put in front of him. He had a little bit of ice cream and he made a horrible face and shook like he was eating a lemon! It was cute. Of course yogurt is the highlight of his day!
He is still sleeping though the night in his crib with a bed time of around 8pm and up at 6:30am. With two naps during the day.
He loves to go! He loves steering the golf cart and pushing the steering wheel trying to make it go. He also got to ride on the lawnmower (no blades turning). He pushes the handle bars and just smiles. Its so sweet Dave has waited so long to do this with his son and it just warms my heart to see the two of them together. Dave's first father day was a good one. The boys played and rode around the house. They were just precious!
There is so much I could comment on. I still stand in awe each day of the new things he has learned and how this sweet little boy calls me "mama".
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In our arms for one month....
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6/6/2008 10:15:53 PM |
Let me start off with saying, I am sorry its taken me so long to post. We have been very busy! I looked at Dave today and realized we have had custody of Zach for a whole month. We cannot imagine life without him. I look at this little child so full of life and think back to our Gotcha Day and how much he has changed and just blossomed.
So, what have we been doing? Lets see our first golf cart ride, first Bubble Bath, first time in a hammock, first skint nose, first time climbing up on the recliner by himself, and many more first. We have also been busy still figuring out home life. Zach is such a little joy as he is figuring things out. For example, which cabinets have locks and which ones don't. Why do we keep our shoes in the closet - Zach continues to be obsessed with shoes, his own and others! How hard to pat Jo Don to have him run the other way. Magnets! He has figured out how to do his Leap Frog letters, so now Dave and I go around singing.... "...every letter makes a sound, P says "PAH"...". Of course he laughs when we sing the song. Zach is so curious and wants to explore everything! The light that comes to his eyes when he looks back to make sure we have seen his discovery is truly amazing and a blessing.
David went back to work. Its so sweet when Dave comes home Zach waits at the back door and as soon as he sees Dave he smacks the door while he smiles and laughs.
We also got good news from our pediatrician. All of Zach's lab work came back all good! This was something I had been worried about because, you just never know. Also, since I used to work with a pediatric infectious disease clinic, I may be a little hyper sensitive. (Me a little hyper sensitive? Seriously?) So it was a huge weight off our shoulders!!
I guess the biggest news and the news that just is amazing is Zach is walking. Yes that's right - walking. Crawling is still the choice mode of transportation (just barely), but he is walking. He actually will walk while holding something in his hand (or both hands now) - usually the choice object is a shoe from Daddy or Mommy. Zach will even will stop in his tracks and turn around and walk in the other direction. It has been an exciting time to see this little guy excel and do so well!
We are still limiting our outings and the number of people who meet him. We still get the scared little look when strangers come around, like a lot of kids. But, those who know or who have children through adoption know what I mean when I refer to this look. Zach is warming up a little bit quicker now. After he has been around a person and one of us is there with him after a little bit he will give them a smile and maybe give hand pat.
We continue to just love every minute and continued to be amazed by how well Zach is doing.
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One Week Home
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5/25/2008 9:18:03 PM |
I cannot believe that we have been home one week. It has been an amazing week and a week that seems surreal!
As I have posted earlier in the week things continue to go well with bathing, sleeping, eating, playing, and being a family. We are amazed everyday at the things little man does and we keep thinking we cannot love him anymore, then he goes and smiles or even just a little look and we are completely won over again! Everyday we see little or big mile stones and we can't wait to see what is around the corner.
We also had a few first toward the end of the week. On Friday Zach meet Memaw and Papa Dilworth. It was a lot of fun, they brought Zach a little tiger webkins and he loves drooling on it. He also showed off his winning smile and fun "nose" noises.
On Saturday we attended the CSS annual international adoption families picnic at Dan Nicholas Park. Zach was so cute in his seersucker shorts and matching hat. Dave said, "Zach is dressed better than me" and I replied, "Get used to it!" There were lots of families there sharing their experience and playing around. It is so sweet to see Zach look at all the kids and watch them so closely. We knew going that it maybe too many people too fast, but Zach seemed to handle it well. We held him 95% of the time and he sat on our laps in the shade. He also has another new girlfriend "K" from the CSS office. They played across a table with their hands and he loved it! "K" said he made great eye contact - well of course his big brown eyes always catch the ladies. We were pleased to see him interact with other people but still hold on to us and make sure we never left him. He even flashed a few smiles for the CSS ladies. Zach took a good nap on the way home and he was ready to play and go wide open around the house. His crawling speed has increased by at least 100 miles this week. His standing balance continues to improve as well.
Today was a great day. We did not see any tell tell signs of over doing it yesterday. We took a walk and played outside a little. It was a nice quiet day at home!
The following is a slide show from our first week home. Its long... Sorry, but I take a lot of pictures and it was hard to cut out pictures.
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Mini Update
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5/22/2008 9:50:05 PM |
Wednesday was a big day for little man. He had went in for his blood work and might I say it was a large amount of blood that was needed. Or maybe any amount of blood from Zach is too much! He was such a trooper! And he also got his first sticker! I was amazed that a sticker still makes everything better!
Zach also got his "Little Tyke" swing up and working Wednesday. He is still not too sure about it yet! But he likes being outside and seeing the cows come by!
Today I actually left the house - alone. Dave and Zach stayed home and bonded over diapers. Zach had his first go at apple-prune puree this morning. I know that was cruel of me to do. But both lived and Zach is happy!
Dave made a slide show of pictures from our time in Moscow with Zach. He is also working on a slide show with the pictures from our first week home - so stay tuned!
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Wow!
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5/20/2008 10:12:47 PM |
That's all I can really say. I sit back and look at this little miracle and just think WOW!
Lets hit the high points:
Sleep:
We are sleeping very well. Zach is sleeping in his own crib with little to no crying before sleep. We take two naps and go to bed by 8:30 and still wake early between 6-6:30.
Eating:
We are still eating our cereal with formula mixed with puree fruit. Gerber stage 2 and 3 food. We ate a real banana today. Loved that. And this boy loves his yogurt! Zach is taking his spoon and getting some food in his mouth. Precious. He is also taking a sippy cup pretty well.
Bath: Going great! Loves toys and cups in the bath.
Plumbing: All working well.
Play:
We still love our stacking cups. Our ball and cars. Always loves to flip through his books. Zach just loves playing with our faces. He is mimicking and sticking his tongue out so cutely. Zach has a push toy that he likes to push around the house with his cute baby walk. He is really cute with it because he is self correcting after he runs in to walls and furniture. He turns around to laugh and make sure we saw the crash and just keeps going. Lots of finger walking! Tonight Zach found the Tupperware cabinet and decided to pull out his "new toys". It was very cute watching him pull one out and look back at me to make sure it was ok. Then he decided he had free range and just made himself at home. Banging bowls and lids together.
Bonding/Attachment:
Great eye contact. Little fingers curl in on hugs. Kisses and hands on face with sweet little smiles. He doesn't pull away or arch back - always comfortable in our arms or when we reach for him. Zach looks to us when new people come around and always turn in to us and then to the new person. Seeks us out when we leave the room. The list goes on. We are blessed.
Farm Life:
Loves to feed the goats and watch the cows. He was entranced by a mama bird (kill dear) today that was protecting her nest in our driveway. He just watched with curiosity as she chirped very lively and flapped winds around. Zach just looked back and forth to us and the bird.
First Pediatrician visit:
We went to see Dr. Walker today. She was very impressed with our little guy. Dr. Walker feels that he is well on his way to being 6'-1". He still weighed in at 23.5lbs. Zach is right on target for head circumference, height and weight. Dr. Walker was very impressed with the bonding that she saw and commented on how well we are doing as a family. She stated that he is looking good and will see him again in 3 weeks to review all our lab work and recheck where we stand.
Shoes:
We got our first pair of "real" shoes. Shoes that are ALL HIS and that fit!! His wide foot came in at a 5.5 and adorable.
Home:
Dave and I are so lucky to be home together with Zach right now. I feel like I am reaping the benefit more to be honest. Thus far Dave has washed windows, added a floor outlet (with two great assistants - Granddaddy Love and Zach), gone to the grocery store, child proofing the kitchen, and moved furniture around. Not to mention the most important thing – being a DADDY. How lucky am I! It is so sweet to see my boys rolling around on the floor or playing in the bath tub.
Each night we are so thankful for the good day we have had as a family. We anticipate the problems that can arise and pray that they don't come. We are just so happy to be home and to look in to Zach's huge brown eyes and see his little spark!
We promise to post pictures soon!
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HOME!!
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5/18/2008 9:33:24 PM |
We are safely home and loving it!
Zach did great on the trip home. There were so many cute moments on take off from Moscow that we wish we could have had our "electronic equipment" out. We were so impressed how good our little man was and how well he took everything! We had very little tears during this whole 24 hours of travel time.
We are all still trying to get on NC time. Saturday was very difficult to adjust our internal clocks. Little man really tried to go to sleep at 2pm but we took a "walk" outside. Today was a good day we were more on track with NC time. We also had a wonderful bath time tonight!
Zach has been adjusting well with being here - well we feel like he is. He is sleeping in his crib and last night only woke up once and went back to sleep after a quick change. Zach has already warmed up to our dog, Jo Don. I think Jo Don is just waiting till the stage when Zach will drop food and he will start to reap the benefits of this new little one. We are bringing in our other dog daily to do a visit to have her warm up to Zach. She is a little high strung and we are trying to make a smooth transition.
We are so thankful to be back home! Thank you for all your thoughts and prayers! We felt it with all our safe travels!
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Trip 2 – Day 27 – Champagne Toast
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5/15/2008 1:51:15 PM |
At 2:30 am the jackhammer began. I know this because I was not asleep. The "Russian DOT" decided to repave part of the main road in front of our apartment last night. One big issue I have is that the non Russian DOT people who are driving out at this time of the day like to blow their horns at the crew working. I do not mean “beep beep” I mean blare your horn the whole way past them. Now I am not sure why this is. There is not a traffic hold up or issue that I can see from my 9th floor supervisory position. A jackhammer you have got to be kidding me! The boys are fast asleep in their own little world as I was left to listen to jackhammers and cars all night.
So as you can imagine the morning was a very slow start for us – I mean for me. Zach was up bright eyes and bushytailed at 6am. We spent the morning playing and napping. Dave went to the grocery store to pick up a few more diapers and a few jars of food for little man. We don’t want to get caught short handed on the plane.
Today was a very slow day in the apartment. It was a very chilly and cold day. So we decided not to brave the elements too much with all the dark clouds looming. Plus Zach is not as congested as he was a week ago. (Wow I just said a week ago) And until we hit the good NC air I would just assume stay inside, thank you very much!
Tonight was a great night! Bath time was a huge success. Little man went in all by himself and played with his little rubber duckies.
I swear I am not comparing him to our wonderful pups but it was cute tonight with us packing and having all the bags out. He so knew something was up and that we were changing! Just like our little pups at home do. He was crawling on the bags, trying to open the bags, trying to pull things out, and so on. He knows something is up!
Bed time was uneventful as well. Zach went down nicely –we pray this continues at home. Who are we kidding we know what’s in store!
We will be picked up by K&A tomorrow morning at 8:30! Everyone pray that our luggage and us will fit in “A’s” car. Our next post will be done back in North Carolina!! How excited are all three of us – well maybe just two right now!!! We have been blessed with a good trip and tons of wonderful memories. I warn you that it may not be till Sunday or later. If Dave has his way I will post something Saturday.
Also, as we venture home tomorrow we want to make sure we tell our family and friends how much we appreciate all their love and continued support. We also remind our loved ones that we will need time to bond as three in our own home. We just want to remind people that it’s not to hurt feelings or to be rude –we are just trying to do what is best for Zach and at this time we feel very strongly that we have very limited visitors and give us all a chance to enjoy being home. Thank you to everyone for respecting this very important issue for our family.
Dave and I celebrated tonight with a Russian champagne toast. Well not really a toast we only have one glass, but it was a mutual toast. We are so happy and excited. So completely in awe of the wonderful gifts we have been given and this family that has been created. I just stuck my head into check on the little angel. He is fast asleep with his head on his green blanket with his thumb in his mouth. It’s hard to believe that he is all ours – but thankfully he is.
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Happy Birthday Day Dylan!
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5/15/2008 11:59:33 AM |
Happy 1st Birthday Dylan! Sorry we are not there to play in the cake! Zach will be there next year to play with you.
Love, Uncle Dave and Aunt Emily
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Trip 2 – Day 26 – Exit Interview and Friends
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5/14/2008 2:43:03 PM |
Today was an early morning for us. We think we have a child that will be an early riser. This is good because he can just walk on over to Grandpa Love’s and drink a cup of milk with him while he has his coffee. So there we were at 5:30am trying to pretend that we were not awake in hopes and prayers that he would go back to sleep. No luck. He was up and ready to go!
This morning was pretty laid back. I realized how much stuff I still need to do to pack so I started that huge ordeal during Zach’s 2 hour AM nap. (How nice is that – a 2 hour AM nap!) I was smiling sooo much the whole time I was packing! I just cannot wait to get back home!!
K&A picked us up for our 2pm appointment at the US Embassy at 1:45. We arrived at the embassy at 2pm. After several security check points – no cameras, no cell phones, no electronic devices… We were able to by pass HUGE LONG lines or Russians who were in line for their interview to obtain their visa to come to the US for holiday/school/work and so on. We went to this closed window marked #4. As we waited maybe 2 minutes I thought I heard my name being called I looked around and saw no one. Then I was really thinking I was going to be visiting a hospital because I heard it again. Then I saw this man talking into a microphone smiling at me saying yes Mrs. Dilworth this way you are the only family today, in a heavy Russian accent. So all three of us headed over to this very nice lady who spoke sweetly to Zach and commented on how cute he is. It was so nice to speak to an American. I digress.
We went over all the paper work and we held up our right hand and swore that the information was correct and we would abide by these documents or something like that. Anyway, we received Zach’s Russian passport with his American visa sticker! Precious! We also got the blessed sealed envelope that cannot be opened till we get to Atlanta and had it over to the immigration officer. We were warned not to open it! Breaking the tape on it could mean trouble in Atlanta – and who really wants trouble in Atlanta? We cannot wait till they stamp his little passport and he officially becomes an American Citizen. Kind of makes you want to carry your i-pod and sing "Proud To Be An American" or something else patriotic.
Also, in the office of windows in the Embassy, where the adoption “interviews” are held. There are billboards up with pictures of families who have come through. We of course being the proud parents that we are stuck a picture of Zach up on the wall with all the other precious children that had been there before. (Yeah that’s right I carry extra pictures in my bag, don’t you want one?)
After placing the picture of sweet Zach, we were out of there. We got back to the car and I told K&A that they have a super quick line if your child is cute and that’s why we were able to get in and out in 30 minutes. WOOHOO! Quick time! Ok, so there is no fast pass for being cute – but if there was Zach would have one. We were lucky enough to be the only family today. So we were in and out in a flash! Other families are not so lucky, we have heard of some families having to wait for hours.
Then all three of us went to the CSS office. Zach met "I" for the first time. He was not impressed with all the attention. And made Dave and I look like we were lying about his smile and giggles. But he did flash the huge brown eyes and win everyone with them. We completed a little bit of paper work and received the extra copies of Zach’s passport photo. I am so glad we have extra copies of these! It was a bitter sweet moment in the CSS office. I really wanted to cry and I am surprised I didn’t. I think its just to much for even me to take in. There is so much work these ladies have put in to us brining our son home and now we have him and we are leaving to go home! There are just no words to describe how wonderful and sensational these women are. They take such good care of us.
After this Zach and I were dropped off at the apartment and Dave went to the notary office. He had to have our request to remove Zach’s name and information from the Russian Database of Orphans now that the court decision and necessary paperwork has been completed. Normally families go with “S” from our Moscow office to the Ministry of Education (MOE) to hand deliver this letter with 3 flowers (Russian tradition to give odd number of flowers, also symbolic of the Holy Trinity) and candy. Unfortunately or fortunately depending on how you want to look at this we will not be able to go with "S" to do this. Two other CSS families have court tomorrow (GOOD LUCK!!) and we fly out on Friday! (WOOHOO!!) So there is no time for us to go and deliver these gifts and official request, but sweet “S” will do this for us.
Did I mention that while Dave was at the notary office that Zach did the official fountain initiation right? Yeah that’s right all over clothes and blankets. So the washing machine was used again today!
After our afternoon nap and Dave returned from the notary office we made plans to meet Kevin, Lisa, and little Carter at TGI-Fridays for an early dinner. I have never been so excited to go out to eat. Even to TGIF. This was our first meal out of the apartment. Carter was precious – just wide open boy!! Zach was enamored by him and wanted to play with him, but luckily the high chair was a good restraint. By the way, this was the first for a highchair. I thought there would be issues, but thankfully there were none! We stayed long enough to meet three other CSS families. Karyn and Norm, Dana and Aaron, and Denise and Mike with their son Joshua. It was nice to meet people that we have been following for months now on their blog. It’s funny to meet someone that you have been cheering on and sharing similar journeys with in a “virtual” but very real world.
Zach had reached his limit and we needed to ensure enough lead time into our quiet time before bedtime so we left early. We walked back to our apartment which as luck would have it is right beside Kevin and Lisa’s apartment. They also had a precious little outfit for Zach and a pair of cute tennis shoes! They are so thoughtful! We are so happy that we could start this crazy adventure with this wonderful family in February go though so many similar thoughts, fears, excitement, exhaustion, and end the same week being back together in Moscow! We hope to go to the park tomorrow morning together. I hope to get a good picture of the boys together.
Did I mention that on the way home it started to rain? Yeah. WE LOVE OUR STROLLER! It has a rain guard on it so Zach looked like a little pod baby coming down the road. Dave will have to post a picture of it! He was of course scared but good natured about it. His only compliant was that his hat kept falling down into his eye and he could not get a good clear look to see what Carter was doing.
We had a very successful bedtime. I of course worried that the trip out to dinner would have been set up for an over stimulation episode and problematic bedtime. But little guy just needed his normal "wind down" time and we made it to bed without me banging my head against a wall.
Tomorrow will be our last full day in Moscow. I am not sure the real emotion I have saying that. It is bittersweet. DO NOT GET ME WRONG – I have been ready to leave. Actually, I was ready to drive straight to the airport the night we received Zach. But, I know this place is so very special. Because of this place and this time here we have created a family. With the sweet kisses and the “la la la” song that helps us go to sleep at night and each day leading up has been so worth it and we would do it again in a heart beat for Zach.
Its time to pack before I crash into bed and hopefully sleep!
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Trip 2 – Day 25 – One Week Down
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5/13/2008 2:15:21 PM |
It has been a full week since we took custody of Zach and all three of us are still standing!! WOOHOO!! Way to go Dilworth Family!!
This morning Dave went to the American Embassy to file our paperwork and received an “invitation” for all three of us to come back tomorrow at 2pm for our exit interview. YEAH!! While Dave was gone Zach and I dressed and played a little. The morning nap was considerably shorter. Zach should have been waking up as Dave got home – but instead he was waking as Dave left.
After Dave was done at the Embassy he came back to the apartment and we finished getting ready. We went and meet K&A and drove to Red Square for a few family photos. Of course – it starts to rain. But, but we got a few cute pictures. Zach is showing the signs of not enough AM nap in most of them!
Then K took us to a book store. HELLO! It was a very nice bookstore right on Arbat that Dave and I have walked by I swear 1,000 and did not notice it was a bookstore. To be honest I thought it was a run down set of shops and did not want to go in and get lost in a maze of little stores that were of no interest to us. Anyway – We got a great map of Moscow – yeah, we needed that 25 days ago. We also found a map of the Moscow Region. We were able to map out where Zach’s baby home was and where we have been to court. Since we were there we had to look at the children’s section. We got a CD of Russian lullabies and fairytales. We also got a children’s DVD.
Did I mention it was still raining at this point? It is. We had to go and find our driver A. He was told by the police to keep moving so he cold not park where he had left us. Can I just say again how much respect I have for our drivers? They just rock and are so good to us!
Back home in the apartment we had our afternoon nap, which went much better than our morning nap. During Zach’s nap it started to poor rain and we even had pea size hail. Thank goodness we were not out in that! So the sun came back out and Zach awoke. We had our yogurt and cookies and then we ventured out.
We meet up with Brad and his precious little girl Karina. Maureen was sick and unable to come. We had a very quick visit and quick walk around the zoo. Zach was not very comfortable in the stroller or in the carrier. I personally think its because he has a crush on Karina. The zoo I am sure has more to offer than what we saw in our very quick look, but right now I am just glad to be back in the apartment.
After we got back from the zoo, Zach was extremely sweet and affectionate. We played clapping and hand games. When I would turn my head to get something or look at something he would put his little hand on my face and turn me back toward him and smile. We kissed, sang and told little stories. Then praise God we had a very good bedtime tonight! How happy is Mommy!! (and Daddy)
We are so happy to be drawing a close to our Moscow time. Apprehensive about the flight home, but very glad that we are so close!
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Trip 2 – Day 24 Sunny Skies and Dr. B
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5/12/2008 2:38:38 PM |
Trip 2 – Day 1,001
Just kidding...
So today Zach decided to be cute and wear this sweet little dinosaur shirt with matching sweatshirt jacket. We went out to meet K&A to pick us up for Zach’s physical. The first thing out of K’s mouth was “Oh he is so cute in orange!” Thanks K! So Dave of course just beamed! Truly a proud moment for Dave. Then we were off to see Dr. B.
Dr. B is a very interesting man. Zach did not seem to see any humor in the examination. He showed his lung capacity the whole time! At first he was excited because he was only in his diaper then – Dr. B came in to the room. It was a quick and painless examination. Good look at Zach’s throat. He weighted in at 23.5 pounds. I just want to point out that the whole time Zach was on the table crying that I was in my chair listening to Dr. B call out “his findings” and Dave was up holding his arms trying not to reach for Zach to try to comfort him. It was very sweet.
As soon as the examination was over Dr. B handed Zach back to me and the tears dried up immediately. Dr. B pointed out that I knew where the off button was and that I should have shared that earlier and laughed. Zach did not. We got the same sweet lines that most families get… Good boy. Warn all the girls this boy is going to break hearts. He is just lovely. Do not hold him so much or you will be holding him till he is 25. And so on…
We were picked up form the apartment, saw Dr. B, and were back to our apartment in just 1 hour. Seriously, the fastest day ever!
K came back to our apartment to size up our luggage situation and to work on some paperwork. She believes that we will be ok in A’s car (me, I am not so sure) with all our STUFF! Of course I am ready to just leave it all here and jump on a plane. I digress. Dave and K finished their paperwork then they left us at the apartment to go to the agency office.
Dave returned shortly with a stack of paperwork from one of our agency’s angel’s “I”. “I” told Dave not to disrupt the order of the paperwork, Do not let Zach see the paper work, Do not play with the paperwork, Do not drop the paperwork, Do not breath on the paperwork. So what is the first thing that I do – I look though the paperwork. I did not mess it up! Dave will not be in trouble. Dave has to take this stack of paperwork to the American Embassy tomorrow. Dave (and only Dave) is going tomorrow! Me and little man just wait for him to be done. It should not take long at all knowing we are next door to the embassy. I digress. Dave’s pick up time is 9:30am.
After our afternoon nap (yeah afternoon nap!!) all three of us went to the park. Zach started off happy in the stroller then not so happy, but we made it back in the stroller. It was a beautiful day and little man just soaked up the sun in his little orange jacket.
We came home had a lovely dinner and play time. Playtime was great because we did a lot of walking. Holding fingers and furniture. Then Zach walked about 5 feet on his own. It was precious – he didn’t understand what he had done or why we were clapping but he just smiled. Then another miracle happened. I think we have a water baby finally. I am not getting my hopes up, but we are sooo close! He really enjoyed the bath and even a little water in the face.
We are so happy that Brad, Maureen, and Karina celebrated their Gotcha Day!! We pray that they continue to have good days ahead!!
Random thoughts: 1- The cost of the physician physical was 2800 roubles or $117.79 per blackberry Dave. 2- I miss Five Guys and Duke’s Grill 3- I don’t want to eat spaghetti again for a very long time. 4- We have got to get a swing set built for little man ASAP! 5- I have the best husband in the world because he just started rubbing my foot. I have to go to sleep now.
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Trip 2 – Day 23 – Mother’s Day in Moscow
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5/11/2008 1:09:22 PM |
Happy Mother’s Day!
It was a beautiful day here in Moscow. We had a beautiful day full of sun!
Zach greeted us with his glorious smile and it did not fade all day – par the time right before nap and bed time! (Don’t ask!) We ummm didn’t get our afternoon nap. Little man didn’t seem to mind, but mommy missed it.
We had a good bath – that was my Mother’s Day gift! After he got out we sat on the couch and I just smelled my clean baby! He kept giving me kisses in hopes of getting down and running around in all his clean glory.
We are doing some serious stepping now. Breaking away from Daddy or Mommy to go to the other. Maybe three-four steps – steps being the funny wide leg sweet giggle steps. He did stand up on his own a couple of times today. He was really ready to take off at one point then collapsed right into Mommy’s arms.
This morning I was surprised by an email from Zach. Yes, that’s right my son who is 13 months old has an email address. But, is any one else really surprised? At first I thought it was junk mail and I was mad. I was so mad I opened it to see who was using his name. Then it was a “real” email. In this email he told me he had a beautiful bracelet coming to me by way of a personal courier. How precious is he and his daddy! I will be getting it soon, but other VERY important pick ups must be made!
We had a very nice day and a very special first mother’s day! We are also very excited about all our friends who are arriving safely and having their special gotcha days soon!!
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Trip 2 – Day 22 – Good Day
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5/10/2008 12:42:27 PM |
Today was a good day. Everyone was feeling better and up and moving. We mainly hung out in the apartment all day playing and laughing.
Later in the day we went for a walk. We put Zach in the baby carrier and went outside. It was a nice day not too chilly. We found a park behind the “White House” that was very nice. There were lots of children and nice park equipment to play on. There were also statues or models of Russian fairy tails. We hope to go back in the week when the days are a little warmer and get a few good pictures. We of course did not get out and play we just sat quietly on a bench and watched and listed to the birds.
We did a lot of finger walking today and more standing on our own. At one point he stood up and was just about to take a step then back down he went! Oh well, its coming soon!
We had a better bath time tonight. It was still not great. But we were able to make bum contact to the tub! Woohoo! Zach also notices that Dave was having a good time and actually considered going back in.
This time next week we will finally be home! We are so excited about the upcoming week getting everything done and ready!
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Trip 2 – Day 21 – Sick!
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5/9/2008 2:47:26 PM |
Today was a hard day. Not because of Zach, but because of me! I became very sick today. As soon as I woke up this morning I knew it was going to be a loooong day. I started to feel a little bit better and even sent Dave on up to watch the military parade. I so wish I would not have done that! I ended up getting very sick and I just know I scared Zach to death. Up until now we have been able to “fake” the “oh yeah we are in control we know what to do attitude” even if we were a little unsure. Zach was wide awake and playing away when I became very sick and had to go visit the WC. Poor guy just sat there in the hall with the door open not knowing what to do. After I could talk again he guessed he could crawl around and all is well. Then another violent attack came and I had to go get him before he got a hold of our “free wire” that is hanging in the kitchen. We usually stay in the TV room with the door closed, so I did not have the kitchen door closed. Anyway – it was an ugly few moments. Poor little guy! Me being sick down the small hall way and he playing chase. Oh so not pretty!
We collected ourselves and Zach finally took a nap. Just as I was free to “clean up” the housekeeper came in. Yeah, I know. She thinks I’m crazy and a bad mother. Zach fell asleep on the floor and that’s where he stayed! I was too afraid I would drop him or be sick. Anyway, I sent Dave a text message to get back ASAP. He did. He found me in the WC and Zach waking up. I kept thinking she is going to call Russia’s version of Child Protective Services.
Anyway, I think this stomach bug has passed. I have not eaten anything and I am finally keeping down water. I don’t know if it was something I ate or not. Or just fun luck! Of course now my fear is Zach and Dave. I hope it was not a virus that passes, and that is was something I ate!
With all that about me said let me tell you about the best two guys, Dave and Zach. Dave came back to the apartment and took over little man. I was absolutely no use to my boys. I tried doing little things, but I just seemed to get in the way and be moving in slow speed. I was so proud of Dave! I mean he has been hands on this whole time, but he really just shined with Zach. Truly I believe God gave me this fun “stomach rot” (learned that phrase here) so that Dave and Zach would have some serious bonding time. Of course the DVD player was introduced to Zach, and a little Baby Einstein was played. And I think he said “dada” to him a million times trying to get him to say “dada” and mean it as Daddy not yes yes. (Bless them both.) They even took a stroller ride outside. Because of the holiday they have closed or limited the amount of cars on the “garden circle” which our apartment is on so the traffic has been fairly light today here. Right now the streets are completely closed and it’s peaceful! Love it!
Despite the sickness today overall it was a good day. I pray that this bug is gone and that tomorrow we will back to full strength. I am going to go crash now!!
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Trip 2 – Day 20 – 13 Months Old Today
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5/8/2008 1:50:22 PM |
Important “Stuff” – We picked up Zach’s passport today at the police station. He is just so sweet in his little black and white photo. Zach is such a world traveler. It is stamped for residence abroad and is just waiting for the residency visa we will get at the American Embassy next week! Even his little birth certificate that we got Tuesday with “Zachary” and us as his parents was stamped and states foreign residency. We reviewed the passport to make sure that there were no mistakes. I found it funny that all the spelling of names in Russian passports are spelled out in French. I, of course, hate that because it spells Zachary with a “K” not an “H” and there is no “Y”. Yeah, I know I am funny about how we spell his name. In the grand scheme of things it’s no big deal, but it’s ZACH! Sorry, for the rant. I digress.
We were picked up around 12:30 and got back around 3:30, not to bad for an outing. We made another quick stop to the large grocery store behind the police department where the prices are much cheaper. Again no money was spent for the passport – but money was spent at the grocery store!
Mundane stuff of parenting life. OK, so none of this is mundane to Dave and I. We are just constantly amazed at how quickly Zach picks up on things and how he just smiles and is so attentive! For example, since he is making so many babbling sounds now we play with his bottom lip to change the sounds. Now he is playing with his bottom lip to make the sounds change – and he just laughs at himself! Precious!
Overall we had a wonderful day! Zach loves standing on his own, till he realizes he is standing on his own. He will be walking by the end of the weekend! He is so close to taking off! Of course this means we are prepared for all the bumps and bruises that are sure to come.
Naps today went well. He slept on the way to the police department. He really likes riding and watching cars and buildings, then its thumb in the mouth and off to sleep.
Also, today we used the stroller for the “first time”. Since we have been blessed to have Zach the stroller has been used as our “high chair”. Zach did wonderful! Dave pushed him around the grocery store and at the police department. They were soooo cute! Zach just took in all that was around him. We were really worried about too much too soon – but he did really well. No crying or fussing. No shaking of the head. Just sweet little smiles and babble noise. We of course did not stay long at all. We did not want to press our luck or over do it for him.
Bath time was maybe a slightly bit better. Dave started in the bathtub and Zach stayed in a little bit longer. The duckies kept his attention for maybe 25 seconds as he still cried, but at least it was not 25 seconds of the “fear-of-God-get-me-out-of-here-grabbing-for-Mommy” that started and ended bath time.
We are “free” from any adoption related “business” till Monday when we have our physician appointment for Zach to be checked out. This appoint is in the morning and after we are done with this we will fill out paperwork with our translator that will be needed for the American Embassy which we will go to our first of two meetings on Tuesday.
We are enjoying every second of our time with our son. We see new changes and growth each day. We are so blessed to be here with and for him. It is not easy, being a parent isn’t easy. We knew that when we started trying to become parents years ago. But even the challenging moments with Zach makes every moment waiting for him worth it. I look back on the years waiting and longing and every moment lead us to this point and we are so blessed to have him. I think back to every set back, every loss, every fear, every prayer, and know that it was God who lead us to this point and we could not be more thankful for God and what he has given us. This was the time and place for us and we know that our son is a gift from God.
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Trip 2 – Day 19 – Inauguration Day
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5/7/2008 3:50:19 PM |
Today was our first full day as parents and Russia’s new president’s first day.
Zach did very well last night – his first night with us. He awoke only once and did a half cry. I checked on him and he was wet. So Dave (the trooper) and I changed him and his little onsie. He feel back to sleep in my arms very quickly. I laid him back into his crib and he returned to sucking his thumb and sleeping like an angel. Me on the other hand tossed and turned – just waiting for him to wake up, hearing each breath, each thumb suck, and each roll over.
This morning Zach woke around 7am. We ate breakfast, a yummy breakfast of banana flavored “porridge” and a little apple juice. All three of us played on the floor for a little while. Dave and Zach read books and played with his bear. Dave did a good job keeping Zach entertained and awake. He was trying to take his morning nap a little early. In the end he did go to sleep a little bit early, but not too bad.
As he slept, I took a nap and Dave ventured out to the street. He was able to see the motorcade for Dimity Medvedev as it flew by on New Arbat. As he walked back to the apartment – it began with heavy snow flurries! (That’s right our wonderful friends who are coming back here soon! Snow flurries!!)
Later in the day, we had several firsts. Like our first real dirty diaper. We made it through it! Yeah us! We also tried to get a bath. Let’s just say that did not go so well. He was very frightened and cried. Dave even tried getting in to the bath with his swim trunks. Zach was still not having any of the bath! We did do a quick wash. We hope this gets easier. He also showed preferences for some activated and even food with a definite shake of his head – Nyet! That being said, he was a very good eater today. We had several fun yummy things that I just don’t understand how kids eat. Its so hard for me to keep a straight face and make yummy sounds when I’m turning my nose up to the food! Zach is so sweet when we try to wipe of his mouth even a little while he eats. He starts to cry, because he thinks that meal time is over and he doesn’t want it to be.
He is asleep now just a little off of his normal time. Soon I will be asleep too!
Tomorrow we MAY go to pick up Zach’s passport. If not it will be another fun filled day in the apartment.
Make sure you see the pictures from yesterday of Zach that Dave has posted on the home page.
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Trip 2 - Day 18 - Gotcha Day
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5/6/2008 4:01:42 PM |
*Note this may be tedious to some who are not adopting. I wanted to make sure I gave an over view of the whole day to those who are adopting. Also to those adopting we did not have to pay for any of today’s activities. We did have Rubles in case we had to pay for copies.
Today was a beautiful day. Ok so the weather report did not say that, but it was the best day! Of course today had to be overcast, chilly, and scattered showers. Despite the rain and the wind – today was gorgeous.
We did it!!! We picked up Zachary and his is now in our care. We are so excited and we cannot even begin to express the joy and love we have at this moment. Just to go into the bedroom right now and just to look at this amazing little angel who is now really ours. We just cannot put into words the emotions and feelings we are sharing. So let me tell you about our day.
Today started when our new translator "K" and driver "A" picked us up at 9:30. I swear it looked like we were moving out of the apartment we had so many bags with us. Several gift bags, clothes bag, diaper bag, our lunch bag, and I am sure we had a few other bags. Anyway, we threw them into the trunk and we were off. We really enjoyed K and A. They are very nice and I feel like we had a good day understanding each other.
First stop Moscow Regional Court to pick up the court decree. We went to the 5th floor just as we did for court. Thank God we did not have the same stress and fear as we did on April 21st. K went to the secretary and picked up our paperwork. We sat in the waiting room and reviewed to makes sure all was spelled correctly. After we read and confirmed the decree we left to go to the registration office that is located in the same city as our court house. We went to the office of the register and waited behind another translator from our CSS group who was working on another family that we are close to so it was very good to see that their paperwork is very moving right along! At the registration office K filled out a lot of paperwork for us. This paperwork was reviewed by the register and we were given the Adoption Decree and the new Russian Birth Certificate with David and I as his parents - along with his name - Zachary Robert Dilworth.
After this we went back to the CSS office in Moscow and K made copies of everything. Including our passport and registration information. After the CSS office we went to the MOE (Ministry of Education) for an approval stamp on some part of all this paperwork that we have picked up. Only K went in so we did not have to use the worlds smallest elevator.
After the MOE we went to the Police Department to apply for Zach's passport. We arrived at the Police Department around 2:30. We went and stood in a long hall way with other people waiting on getting their passport. Evidently Russians have two types of passports as I understand it 1 domestic passport and the other is a passport for international travel. So, we waited and K gave a lady our paperwork. We waited longer.... K then said that they were very busy and we should go get our two cakes to take to the baby home.
Side note: To those who do not know. Most adoptive families take cakes to the baby home when they go to take custody of their child. The cake is then shared by the caregivers and staff to celebrate the sweet life the child has left their home for.
We went to the large "Wal-Mart" type store behind the Police Department and bought our two cakes. I should say that we did get three cakes because Dave was very impressed with this one particular cake. We walked back to the Police Department and saw the lady who was working on our paperwork. She again stated that she was very busy and that she hoped to have his passport ready for pick up on Thursday. K is to call her Thursday morning to confirm. So at 4:30 we finally left and headed out for our baby home.
At 5:30 we arrived at Podolsk. The doctor and administrator had already left for the day. Sweet little Zach was in the middle of playing after his afternoon snack and was busy when we came in. The caregivers called the doctor and she returned a little while latter. As we were waiting for her to return Zach was given to us in a diaper and we were told we could dress him. So as we were dressing him, he was smiling and touching my face the whole time. One of the caregivers gave a horrified look and asked (as translated) do you not have any tights for him? I said Nyet. NO MORE TIGHTS! She shook her head and finally agreed to the socks and shoes and long pants.
How precious is our little guy - no matter what he has on! Just precious. Anyway, the doctor came back and said that the papers were OK and she wished us good luck. We gave the two cakes and the small gifts to the doctor and the caregivers. As most people say there was no magical moment that happened as you leave with the staff. Just this overwhelming feeling of awe and disbelief - finally we are here at this wonderful point. The two caregivers did wish us luck and thanks be to God - we did not have to put him in a snow suit. I thought for sure they were going to make me after I had said Nyet to the tights. We bundled him up in his jacket and cap and we were out of the building!
We left Podolsk around 6:30pm and headed back into Moscow. Zach did great on the car ride “home”. We did not have a car seat, he just sat in our laps and played while he watched cars go by. We did a little apple juice and took a serious nap at the very end. He did so good on the way home. We had towels, paper towels, plastic bags, and you name it in fear that he was going to throw up and get sick. But, knock on wood, so far Zach seems to like cars and driving fast.
We got back to the apartment around 7:30. Zach haven been woken up from his nap and ready to go!! We spread out some blankets on the floor and played a few minutes. Then we fed him his final meal of the day, which was a little late. We are going to try to stay on his baby home schedule as much as possible. David went out to the grocery to pick up a few things and to get some dinner for us. (Might I add what a good job he did at the grocery store! He even found things that we could not find before.) When he got home we changed his diaper and he was ready for bed. Well we hoped to be ready for bed. We darkened the room and I held him a little while then we put him down with thumb in mouth. He never made a sound just went on sucking his thumb and is sleeping now.
What a wonderful and beautiful day. Zach is such a little ray of sunshine. His laughter is infectious and he is so curious about everything! We have our hands full and we are so happy that we do. We know that crib #5 is empty tonight and we pray for the little ones that are still there.
Here is a pictures from today, more to come tomorrow. Also below, Dave made a slideshow from our first trip when we first meet our son.
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support.
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Trip 2 – Day 17 – Cinco de Mayo in Moscow
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5/5/2008 3:39:10 PM |
Today was a glorious sunny day. We started out with a daylight version of the "tank" parade that we have had very late at night several times. It was very cool to see it in day light. We went down to New Arbat street and watched. We took tons of pictures and video of course. The best part, in my opinion, were the planes that flew over. They did not do a direct fly over, but they flew over Red Square which is pretty close to us. We got a good look at the flags some were carrying and the fireworks that they shot off - a little scary but very cool.
We took today very easy and walked around enjoying the beautiful blue skies. We also used the ATM to get Rubles - we learned from our NY friends that this transaction gives a pretty good exchange rate and we learned from our MD friends how to watch the private exchange "holes" and how they try to cheat tourist. We did two loads of laundary!! No issues – knock on wood. Then we took late afternoon naps! Saving up energy for the big day tomorrow!
We meet Jeff and Maria for a WONDERFUL dinner at this Mexican Restaurant on Tverskaya to celebrate their SUCCESS IN COURT (YEAH!!) and cinco de mayo. We had great fajitas! I am very mad at myself for not getting a group picture of us four or a picture of the place we ate. I am not really sure if this Mexican Restaurant knew it was cinco de mayo - they were playing British music pretty loudly (loved it!!!) with Welsh and British flags hanging down. But - EXCELLENT Mexican food. Dave and Jeff particularly enjoyed the girl who walked around with shorts (I guess you call them shorts) with a "gun holster" with shot glasses and a bottle of Tequila trying to sale shots. Maria and I said Nyet! A big thank you to Jeff and Maria who left with us their barely used grape jelly and peanut butter. I am so excited to have a peanut butter and grape jelly sandwich. (I cannot find grape jelly here!) THANK YOU!
We are so excited about tomorrow. We are also nervous and apprehensive. Meeting a new translator and driver is tough and getting a rhythm together, in my opinion, takes a little time. Tomorrow is so important that I just want to make sure I get all my questions asked and feel comfortable. I am sure we will - there is another family that used them before and they were very happy with them.
Tomorrow we go to pick up Zach! We are so excited.
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Trip 2 – Day 16 – “IS BAD!”
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5/4/2008 1:39:08 PM |
Let me first start of with how thankful we are here. We are thankful that we are this far along in the process and we are thankful for such a wonderful trip so far. With that being said let me tell you about our day. Get comfortable; maybe grab a drink and a cookie… This is a long post.
We went to sleep to the sounds of tanks going in front of our apartment again last night. Another practice run for the May 9th parade. Then we awoke at 6am to the sound of a dog barking. For a split second I thought it was Flo Jo (my sweet girl puppy that I miss so much). Then I remembered no you are in Moscow. Then I was like we have a dog on this floor? Ever since we have gotten here we have seen no one on our floor! Every now and then you may hear a door close, but we never see anyone! Anyway, we tried to go back to sleep.
I got up first and being such a good helper I decided to plug in the laptop so it could charge as I fixed some breakfast. Well then I hear Mr. Dilworth – UNPLUG IT! UNPLUG IT! Oops! Our snap crackle and pop outlet was going crazy! So I unplugged it. Then the fan died, we just looked at each other. We came into the “TV room” and there were no lights on the router and the TV would not turn on. Just great! But we had over head lights.
So we called our apartment manager, again. She said someone would be here after 10:00.
At 10:00 we got the call from our new translator “K” that we will not pick up our son till Tuesday. Our agency is afraid that our paperwork will not be “stamped” and ready for pick up after this long holiday weekend. So K and I went over everything to bring and made plans to meet Tuesday morning at 9:30! We know of at least one other couple that thought they were going to pick up their child just to be told that they had to wait another day. So we are happy to know this ahead of time. It would have been a lot harder to be in the car with all our “stuff” ready to get Zach and then be told we could not bring him “home” (the apartment that is). So we appreciate this bad news. Did I just say that?
So as soon as I hang up the phone with “K” our “door bell sounds”…. Have I mentioned our “door bell”?? The first time it scared me to death. It sounds like a possessed squeaky toy. It’s so weird and scary! I digress… At the door is who we are hoping to be the MASTER! Of course it’s not him. He is just here to “look”. Look at what I am not sure. Because he said he too tried to open the washing machine and could not. He puts down his black bag – I thinking tools. But it did not make a sound when it hit the floor. He has a pair of pliers in his hands and another type of tool. Dave shows him the “new” issue of all but one outlet being out in the apartment. He walks around, seriously he doesn’t do anything. No volt check no… anyway he was done looking. He looked at Dave and me and said “IS BAD!” I wanted to laugh and cry at the same time. Yeah, ya’ think? Anyway. He said, well we interpreted, that he was going to call the MASTER and they would come back and we could go for “THE WALK” if we wanted to because they did not know when they could come back.
So we went for “THE WALK”. We decided to just be casual no real plan. After all Emily knows the Metro stops we want to try out today – they are on her Metro Map that she loves so much. Well needless to say we left our wonderful book on Moscow in the apartment and set out just with my Metro Map. Well the book as a few extra names – Americanized names. I had remembered those not the ones I should have remembered! Anyway. So Dave and I just rode the Metro today. It’s not the smartest thing to do. But we did see a few cool parks, a demonstration (don’t ask), the tops of some amazing cathedrals, and more very cool Metro Stations. I would not recommend doing this to most families – but we made it safe and sound back to our apartment. And we saw parts of Moscow that we would not have seen other wise. Again, not the smartest thing we have done. You should always have a plan here!
We got back to the apartment. Still no power in any electrical outlets except on in the hall. Dave rigs it up with extension cords and power strips in attempts to get the router up and running. It works… But all I could see was the only outlet that works blowing!
Soon after we get back and rigged up, close to 2pm the possessed squeaky toy doorbell rang and three men came into the apartment. These men included the gentleman from this morning that told us “is bad” and two other fellows. They all started to work on our electrical issues. (I am still standing on my head thinking work on the washing machine) At first I thought we were in big trouble because he handed us an extension cord. I was like this is supposed to fix our problem? But luckily they continued to work going from room to room. Then smoke break – outside of the apartment. About 15 minutes after the smoke break “is bad” guy came back in and said “you come”. We followed him to the bathroom where the top of the washing machine was off and the door open. Sitting on the edge of the bath tub was the MASTER… I was in awe. He had a hat on with magnifying goggles that flip down. He had to do some serious looking I guess. Anyway… WOOOHOOO!! The door was open. I took the soaking wet things out threw them in the bath tub and then I started to worry. What now? The top is off of the machine and it doesn’t look like it will be starting anytime soon. So I went back to the pink couch to wait and see what happens next. I could not sit there and watch the MASTER work.
Note I tried to get Dave to take a picture of the workmen – he wouldn’t do it. Believe me it was not one of those Diet Coke commercial moments, where everyone stops to watch the workmen. But, I wanted a picture to remember them by.
Dave on the other hand stayed and watched the MASTER at work. He was entranced by the man’s glasses. Dave came scurrying back in… They took the cover off and the button to open the washer is broke in half. Then he says (like he is a genius) I told the MASTER to move the broken button over to the spin cycle and replace the broken button with the good button. The MASTER took this advice evidently and tried to glue the broken one in the spin cycle. (I would have paid to see this conversation) So now that the MASTER took Dave’s advice he too wants to be called the MASTER. We will see about that.
Random notes on the MASTER and his servant’s visit: I think there were a total of 3 or 4 smoke breaks. Note to my dad – They use Red electrical tape here as their choice color. Dave swears if I just had a small wrench I could get into the washing machine if we have any more problems. They left us with more extension cords – umm this maybe the problem to start with.
We now have working outlets. But, the outlet in the bedroom, the one we have been plugging the fan into at night so that we can sleep in this hot apartment is now out and they attempted to cover the missing outlet with cardboard and tape – but it falls off so its is just an open source of danger.
So as the MASTER prepared to leave he left us with these instructions. After the load of laundry is finished push the power button. Then wait 3-5 minutes then push the open door button. I added and pray. I don’t think he understood that comment. So I went with Thank you in Russian.
Not even 5 minutes after they left I put clothes in the washing machine. Said a prayer and crossed myself (figured it couldn’t hurt). Two hours later we have clean clothes!! Thanks be to God and the MASTER!! Let it be dully noted that this washing machine was broken before I got here. When this first glorious load was finished and I pressed ever so gingerly on the release door button it just popped right out. I did not have to pull on the door or anything. It just popped right out and open. Even when the lady that checked us in told me that I would have to press the button and pull at the same time! HA! It was not me!!!
Dinner tonight with Jeff and Maria on Tverskaya. They are preparing for court tomorrow!! (Good luck – even though you don’t need it!!)
We ate at this wonderful for lack of a better description an Italian restaurant. We had wonderful pizza very thin not the fluffy stuff we have grown to love here. Dave got the seafood pizza. Oh my was it seafood. There was a whole tentacle on it with little things on it still. Anyway – of course he ate it then finished off my chicken pizza which was very good. We walked back up Tverskaya went to the “palace” grocery store and picked up some cereal, bread, and milk. (COW MILK) This milk was recommended by Jeff and Maria. We said our good byes and headed back to the Metro.
We arrived back at the apartment and the milk has Dave’s stamp of approval! After of being here for weeks we finally have good COW MILK!! WOOHOO!!
Now we are curled up on the pink couch drinking good milk and watching Russia play hockey. I am not sure if it’s the “classic sports” channel or not but we don’t care we have clean clothes now!
So the SAGA of Emily Versus the Washing Machine is over. Well we pray that it is over. We pray for clean clothes, beautiful weather, and most of all for GOTACHA day on Tuesday!
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Trip 2 - Day 15 - Blue Skies and Markets
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5/3/2008 1:47:10 PM |
Today we ventured out via the Metro to Izmaylovo Market in Izmaylovo Park. We took the metro out - from our apartment to the start of the market it took about 45 minutes. Izmaylovo Market is a large outdoor market with lots of fun booths to look at. We picked up a few little things - like most of our weeks here we just walked around and looked. There were many American's there and of course other tourist, but there were still a lot of natives there. We really enjoyed looking and walking around. I know that Dave was in heaven because he loves "flea market" type set ups. I on the other hand hate haggling for prices, just tell me and move on. I don't like walking away thinking - did I pay to much for that?
Dinner tonight on Old Arbat with Jeff and Maria at My-My's. After dinner we decided to go to Victory Park. It was just as impressive the second time as the first. It was the first time that Jeff and Maria had been and I am so glad they went! There were a lot of people there with a stage set up with "singers," kids flying kites, skate boarders, and people watchers. The blue sky was a beautiful backdrop for the fountains, tulips, and monuments.
We had such a wonderful day, just being together and enjoying this beautiful day!
Not tooooo much longer!!!!!
Side story: Emily Versus the Washing machine SAGA
I think the Master came in today before 3. We were told he would come after 3. I neglected to tell you that yesterday morning I made a very crude attempt at Russian notes to explain to the housekeeper to assist with the washing machine if she could.(Roughly stated: Help! Open! Thank you! - I am a wordsmith, I know.) Anyway, today when we came back from the market on my CRUDE attempt note on top was written: Sorry, tomorrow maybe. Tomorrow maybe?? Do you know how badly I need to have a washing machine? Poor Zach he will smell like sweet Dreft and baby shampoo and we will smell like... well lets just not think about it. So tonight I have sweet talked it and even talked via email to the family that was here last week. STILL NOTHING! This washing machine hates me. Now all I do is wait for this "master" to come again tomorrow.
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Trip 2 - Day 14 - New Friends
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5/2/2008 4:05:01 PM |
Today was a cloudy day - and only a small shower of rain late in the day. So the weather was good to us again today. I say this because I am still amazed at how lucky we have been.
Today was a day of making new friends! I finally made friends, at least I think I did, with the precious little older man that sits at the desk of our apartment several days a week. We have attempted at a few words in passing. Today he got up and was determined to make a connection. We walked in from purchasing a stroller - more on that later. After a few smiles and laughs and horrible attempts to a few Russian words, he said "American Girl". DA! So we smiled and laughed he asked by pointing to the stroller saying baby in Russian about why we were here. We had a very sweet and awkward conversation of smiles and gestures. Dave just looked on shaking his head at us.
We also met Jeff and Maria!! How lucky are we to have met on this trip two fabulous couples! Jeff and Maria are from Maryland, this is actually their second adoption in the Moscow Region. Beyond all luck - it has to be divine intervention - they are adopting a little girl from Podolsk. Not just from Podolsk - but their daughter is actually in Zach's group! How crazy is that. We touched based yesterday and figured out that we were adopting from the same baby home. So today they took a little video and we were blessed to see Zach! He is just as cute on someone else's camera as he is on ours! They are going back to see their daughter tomorrow, court on Monday and fly home Tuesday.
We had a nice dinner at TGI-Friday on Tverskaya with Jeff and Maria. Then they took us around the Tverskaya area. We went to the oldest grocery store in Moscow - it was beautiful!! Not like going to Harris Teeter. Then we walked down towards Red Square looking at all the wonderful shops and restaurants. Then we convinced them to go on the Metro with us. I am sure they wanted to turn around and run!! But they were real troopers and made the short hop back up toward where we started. I was so nervous - because I can screw up with Dave and he will just laugh at me. I really did not want to mess up with people we hope to keep in contact with since Zach and their daughter have a special bond. Anyway, we made it back and we saw them off the Metro, because I would have died if we took them to the completely wrong area!! But we were good! Just where we wanted to be!! We hope they were not too scared and will venture out with us tomorrow. Did I mention that they are staying in the Marriott Grand. I am just a LITTLE jealous. We still have apartment issues. But I am so thankful to be here! The best part of them staying at the Marriott they have a concierge desk - with wonderful maps!! So I now have a pocket size metro map that is up to date and is not as noticeable as the book I have been flipping out oh so tourist like. WOOHOO! THANKS YOU TWO!!
The other outing today was getting our stroller. This of course has been a week long process - multiple stores and checks on the Internet. Let me just start out with this was supposed to be easy. But, in the end we are both happy with it and I am sure it will make it home with us. (and for those who know about our stroller at home - This one is not orange!!) Also, the house keeper made up Zach's crib. So I think we have everything! Well until we get him in this apartment and I am sure there will be 10 things that we have to run out and get!
SIDE STORY: Emily Versus The Washing machine
As everyone one knows we are here for 29 days. This means we have to do laundry. We have a very very small washing machine in our bathroom (I will post pictures of this soon). So far I have completed two loads of laundry in a "normal" about of time. (First trip the washer ran for 12 hours!) The clothes were clean and the world was good. Well yesterday I put in load #3. And it still has not come out. I cannot get the door open! I push the button. I have hit it. I have kicked it. I have put my foot on it as I push the button. I have taken the button off and used other things to try to push the latch. I have broken finger nails trying to pry it open. I have prayed and cursed over this machine. (Oh and Dave has tried too) And still it sits...Teasing me...Knowing that in just a few days Zach will be here...Knowing that we will start smelling soon...Knowing that I just want to throw it out of the window for a 9 story fall to make it pop open. So as I finish this post I am going back into the bathroom to sit Indian style in front of it and pray. I would appreciate any prayers that I may have this silly machine back under my control before the "Master" comes tomorrow to look at our "electrical issues" and to see how the "silly American" broke the washing machine.
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Trip 2 - Day 13 - Holiday?
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5/1/2008 1:56:43 PM |
Today is May 1st - this is a holiday here in Russia. We have heard that there were to be parades and interesting things to do today. But with the language barrier and all, we had no idea where these events were to take place. So we went down to Red Square. First clue we had no idea where to go - the Metro we took was very lightly traveled. There were not that many people using it. We got out at Red Square, well outside of it, right in front of the Bolshi Theater next to Trinity Gate. Anyway - we were "welcomed" by MANY MANY Russian police and army. Every where we looked you would see at least 30. I am not kidding. Where we came out we were more or less corralled into a small area and it was difficult to maneuver when you don't understand the officer with the bull horn. Tons of people waving the old communist flag. There was a stage with someone singing and lots of loud talking. Did I mention that there were a lot of police there?
Long story short we could not get on to Red Square from where we were and well I was extremely uncomfortable (thanks to the little run in with the Russian police the 2nd day we were here). So we left. We went back to the beloved Arbat area and walked around there.
This morning after another fun night of watching and praying over one of the electrical outlets I called our apartment "manager". She said that they would send someone Saturday. I mentioned the word fire and that changed to someone coming out today after 7pm. So sweet "U" came and her wise words of wisdom. "Don't use that one." Pointing to the problem outlet. Then she said that they would "send the master to come on Saturday". All I could think about was how I wish my dad was here with some electrical tape. He always makes things better with electrical tape. Anyway, of course it did not spark, crackle, or pop while "U" was here. But, I am very appreciating that she came here on a holiday. Now at least we can have the laptop plugged up in the kitchen and watch satellite TV in the living room – yes, that's right we could not do that before today. One or the other - not both. I had no idea that the battery of a laptop could die so quickly!
No rain today. Maybe tomorrow? We hope not. We do not have any major plans tomorrow. Technically it is a holiday too. Did I mention that Dave has found his "tech fix" here? Yeah, and its right beside the grocery store so I get food and he gets his geek fix - so its not Best Buy, but has things that plug in.
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Trip 2 - Day 12 - A Walk in the Park(s)
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4/30/2008 3:02:59 PM |
Today we ventured out again with two main objectives: Victory Park and Gorky Park. We succeeded in finding both and having a great walk about day.
First off Victory Park - this park is beautiful! It has 1,418 fountains, to remember the 1,418 days during the Great Patriotic War (1941-1945). There were extremely interesting statues and even more fountains. The first Orthodox Cathedral built after the fall of Communism was here. I also counted over 10 brides there getting their pictures taken. Also, there was a lot of maintenance prep going on here, just like all over the city. This park will become the center for the May 9th holiday - Victory Day. Evidently, veterans will pin their old medals on and come to the park to celebrate. I saw one older gentleman there today with his medals. Each day we see at least one or more men placing their medals on their jackets just walking down the street. I also saw an old lady wearing old medals, I assume from a husband who has passed.
Then on to Gorky Park. It was one of those things we just felt like we were supposed to do and see - because so many people have heard about it. Anyway, we went, we saw, we walked, and we left. There is not that much there to really enjoy or report on. The rides are older and not much going on. There was a nice fountain in the center that was cool - it shot water up really high and had smaller fountains around it as well. We walked along the banks of the Moscow River and I had ice cream while Dave ate his large soft chocolate covered pretzel. After we were finished walking around there we walked across a rather large and busy bridge to get to another Metro station - then back "home".
We used the Metro a lot today. Making line changes and we did a good job if I do say so myself. Dave may not agree about the last stop - he didn't think I knew where I was going. I tried to point out that I had successfully navigated all day and I could get us home. And in fact I did get us home - to a Metro station that is a little bit closer than the actual one I thought we were going to.... I mean I totally meant to end up where we ended up.
The other accomplishment today, besides finding Victory and Gorky Parks, was getting film developed. The first day we went to see Zach at the baby home on this 2nd trip the caregivers gave us the disposable camera back that we left on our first trip. I have been very weary as to what to do with this film. Take it home with us or get it developed here... I finally caved and took it to a photo store here. Its on Novy Arbat - a Fugi Film store. We picked it up today! Yeah we got it back! I was so afraid that I would not do it correctly and get my pictures. I know I know... I should have more faith. Anyway, we wish we would have explained the flash concept on the disposal camera, but all in all the pictures came out great. Any parent who has the opportunity to leave a camera at the baby home should do so. We have several cute pictures of Zach "in action", even some with his peers and a couple of his caregivers. The best picture is of him sleeping in his crib. Precious. These photos mean a lot to us and hopefully to him as well one day.
The day started out with blue skies and wispy clouds, now as I finish this post and look out the window the sky is back to the gray and heavy skies we know and love here in Moscow. I have been spoiled with blue skies here, hopefully they will come back. The weather predictions here say there is a chance of rain tomorrow. When we hear this we think of V, our translator, who when we told her the prediction of snow/rain one day early this trip said - "THEY LIE". Very heart felt... "THEY LIE". And sure enough the next day it was beautiful with a deep blue sky no clouds in sight. So we hope.... THEY LIE.
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Trip 2 - Day 11 Another Beautiful Day and Tanks
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4/29/2008 3:20:55 PM |
We rode the metro today and walked around. We had to break down and buy sunglasses. The sun was killing my eyes!! Granted this is a problem that I have enjoyed having. I would much rather have the sun in my eyes than worried about falling down on ice! (Now that I have completely jinxed myself!) I am glad that I got a pair because these are glasses that I would never have gotten at home. I feel like I look like a big bug with huge round eyes. OK! So they are not as round or as big as a lot of people wear (both here and at home) but they are round and much bigger than my beloved sunglasses that are sitting on my dresser at home!
We enjoyed a take out lunch in a park and people/bird watched. It was just a nice day of walking around and enjoying the day.
A nice relaxed day of course meant that we would have apartment issues. Basically - I now have a new fear. Sparking from receptacles. There is one receptacle that starts sparking if the lap top is plugged in almost anywhere in the apartment and/or anything else that "pulls" a lot of electricity. One thing that pulls a lot of electricity is the fan that has saved us during these hot mornings. The sun pours in to the windows and the whole apartment is roasting in the morning. Anyway... The satellite was also out. So I have been watching the Russian news, Dubbed over episodes of Scrubs, CSI, and Murder She Wrote, and I also watched the Russian version of Law & Order. Needless to say I should have brought another book.
Anyway, we are doing well and continue to be so thankful for a wonderful trip.
Just when you think you are done for the day. (Its 11:00 PM here now.) I was just about to post this entry when I hear this crazy loud rumbling outside. Dave had left the room so I called out - Dave, that doesn't sound right. He came back into the room and jumped up on the couch and said "ummm, Emily you need to see this." He opens the window to this deafening rumble. We both just stand at the window with our mouths open. Tank after Tank after Tank... Then weapons maybe? Or Weapon launchers at the least. Then tons of police. It was wild! They are preparing for a parade or they are moving these items for placement for public display. I don't know which one, but I am glad its over. This gave me great time to pause and to thank God that we didn't know what tanks sound like when they go down a road or what weapons of war really look like up close.
Do I even need to ask for continued prayers?
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Trip 2 – Day 10 Moscow Metro
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4/28/2008 2:27:11 PM |
Today we went on the Moscow Metro. I am so glad that Brad and Maureen had given us a heads up on the STEEP escalator down to the platform. It just went straight down! Evidently many Metro stations also were built as bomb shelters here in Moscow. I digress. We walked in and staked the area out. Dave said ok lets just go. (kind of like an intervention he takes a few steps closer each day). I said no lets go do it. I got two tickets and we were off. Then as we were sitting in the "train" and it felt like we were going 100 miles an hour and the lights were flickering I was saying a prayer that we would see the sun again and I would never complain about my feet hurting again. Of course Dave now loves the Metro and I am sure it will be a daily occurrence.
We were test running the Metro today to make sure ONE that we could and TWO because next Saturday we want to take the Metro to an outside market area. Anyway, we did not go far. We started at Old Arbat and went down to the Kremlin - two stops down. It cost about $.80 for one way. We did not make any line changes, we may tackle that one later. Since Dave is so keen on it now - I am sure we will! Pray that I don't have motion sickness! Since we had a good day today - it looks like Saturday we will be set for venturing out and going to this market.
The two underground metro stations we visited were very interesting. Dave would not let me take a lot of pictures - I guess today I was the one sticking out like a sore thumb. The tile mosaics, marble statues and columns were very beautiful. Did I mention that there were a lot of people? We read that the Moscow Metro is busier than London's and New York's Metro combined on a normal day. That is a lot for a North Carolina girl to take in, let me tell you.
Today we had lunch at Mama Pasta's. Who knew we had a high end mall just past the US Embassy which is right next door to us. Thanks to Susan who pointed us in the right direction we were able to find it. Maybe next time we go back we will actually get pasta! But it was good and different than what we had been doing. For dinner on our walk back from the Metro excursion we picked up a rotisserie chicken and had that for dinner. Again, thanks to Susan who gave us the courage to try the small vendors. We may just get a chicken every night - cheap, easy, and VERY good!
Its hard to believe this time LAST week we were still in shell shock over court and that this time NEXT week we will be in the apartment with ZACH!!
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Trip 2 – Day 9 Orthodox Easter in Moscow
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4/27/2008 11:55:10 PM |
Today most people celebrated Easter here in Moscow. There were tons of people out and about walking around and enjoying this beautiful weather.
We walked around our "block" today trying to scope out the area. We looked at a couple of small parks that are almost "hidden" in between buildings. We walked up toward another huge "cross road" area. Just looking around. We went by the old and new entrances of the Moscow Zoo. I of course loved the old entrance with its beautiful iron fence. The new one reminded me of something we would see at home. We then walked back down by the Russian White House and back to Old Arbat where we grabbed some dinner.
Not much today just enjoying this bright Moscow sun. I really wish we would have packed our sunglasses!! I may have to break down and get a pair. Of course as soon as we do the clouds will roll back in!
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Trip 2 - Day 8 - Walking Around
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4/26/2008 4:24:49 PM |
Today we celebrated Dave's birthday in Moscow. We slept in a little then headed out. We walked from the apartment down to the Kremlin. We read that they were doing a "demonstration of the ceremonial equestrian and pedestrian procession of the President regiment" in the Red Square. It was quite lovely to watch with the horses and the military band playing. We were standing in red square with St. Basil's Cathedral in front of us watching this pageantry. Its like something you see in a travel video or movie. Dave said it was in honor of his birthday. Bless him.
We walked all around the Kremlin and in the parks. We stopped and ate an ice cream cone in front of the Bolshoi Theater and watched skateboarders and looked at a statue of Karl Marx.
We walked and we walked some more. We sat in several parks and just enjoyed the beautiful weather. There were several brides out today. Having their pictures taken with the tulips and blue sky.
We stopped at the grocery store and got Dave a birthday cake. It appears at first glance to be a cheese cake - cream cheese cake... Its not, its a flaky cake. Its not like our traditional birthday cakes, but Dave is enjoying it and that is all that matters.
If you want to see our nephew sing happy birthday to Uncle David click here. Thanks Cody!
Here is a video if you are interested in seeing the demonstration that we saw this afternoon in Red Square.
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Trip 2- Day 7 - Our beautiful SON in the SUN
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4/25/2008 1:32:13 PM |
Today we went to see Zach. Our last visit before we take custody on May 5th. We got the chance to go play outside in the beautiful Russian sun. Zach truly was fearful to go outside. There are a lot of reasons that I will not go into. But he did start to enjoy it and we had a good time.
The bad part was it took us almost two and half hours to get to the baby home. The traffic on the major "road" (interstate) to get there was almost stopped. It moved sooooo slowly. I counted three ambulances and lost track on the number of police we saw MAKE a lane of traffic. Moscow traffic is very scary and overwhelming. Today was absolutely horrible! V&V told us it was because a lot of people are going out of town for the holidays. Speaking of holidays, our translator is going to Yugoslavia to visit family and our driver is going to London to visit family. Don't worry we have other people we can call if we need help! We are well taken care of.
V&V gave Dave and I Russian Champaign today. In order to celebrate Dave's birthday tomorrow. How thoughtful are they! We may have to drink it out of a Dixie cup.
We gave a gift to the baby home today. We asked to do this since the holiday is coming up and technically we are taking custody during the holiday season and we wanted to be able to give it before the regular caregivers are away on holiday. I did not expect it to be so emotional. I of course did not expect the reaction we got. I kept saying to Dave last night and this morning - "... Its not enough... On the 5th we can do something else... " We never were told anything particular that the baby home needed so we went out on a limb. Anyway we choose well and had a very emotional time with Zach's head nurse. Of course when we got back in the car Dave said as I sat in tears, "I told you that was enough". We laughed, because all a long we have both been trying to figure out what gesture could we make to show how truly thankful we are. We think we may have conveyed part of it but we can never truly tell them.
The women who care for him daily are ANGELS! I cannot speak highly enough of these ladies. We are so blessed to know that Zach is being cared for by such caring ladies for the first year of his life and for the next 10 days!
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Trip 2 - Day 6 - Day out in Moscow
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4/24/2008 3:02:56 PM |
Today we started out around 10:30, it was nice to sleep in a little. Again - a beautiful day! We are so lucky to be having such wonderful weather and we are trying to take advantage of it while we can. With our luck I am sure it will not be like this for long!
We went to the large children's store today. It was four floors of stores - most of them related to children. On the ground floor there was a carousel and tons of plush animals. It was a lot of fun to wander around and just look. We did not find the wooden blocks that I wanted, but we did get several toys for Zach that are "Russian" and that hopefully will become keepsakes.
Then we went to Red Square. We spent a lot of time walking around and looking. We went to the GUM. It was beautiful inside. There are tons of high end stores and boutiques. I tried to get David to buy me a souvenir from De Beers, but for some reason he just rolled his eyes. We tried to go into Lenin's Tomb - but we were 10 minutes late. We will try again another day. The city of Moscow is very busy "fixing up" Red Square. There is a large parade and activities coming up soon with all the holiday's so they were painting, fixing paving stones, and "cleaning". We took pictures and enjoyed the sun.
After Red Square we went to the Pushkin Museum. We spent several hours there just looking around and me poking Dave to keep him awake. I am sure he enjoyed it more than he let on.
We came back to the apartment and fixed our first meal "in" of many. We went for the easy - spaghetti. And it was delicious if I do say so myself. We also are making an attempt at using the washing machine. Cross your fingers for us.
Tomorrow we go to see Zach. It will be our last trip to see him before our "gotcha day".
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Trip 2 - Day 5 - Another Beautiful Day with Zach
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4/23/2008 3:11:26 PM |
Another glorious day. We got to see Zach and the sun was shining! We had a great day with Zach we had lots of kisses and hugs today. We also continued to get really good eye contact. And we even had more babbling! It was a good day all around. He is not walking - but it will come very soon. Of course all he wanted to do today was sit in our laps - and we did not complain! Today was a very good day - not that they all haven't been, but today was very sweet and special. Maybe it was because we knew that we were his official parents - at least in the eyes of the court. Although it was a beautiful day it was still a little too chilly for us to take little man outside. When we go back to see him Friday we hope to take him outside - weather permitting.
The other big thing we did today was go to IKEA. Yeah Yeah... I know.... We don't have an IKEA in Charlotte - yet! I really wanted to look for a certain toy that Zach loves at the baby home. Of course they did not have it. But, Dave and I had a good time walking around and looking.
We came back to the apartment for a short rest and then went and meet Brad and Maureen for dinner at Mi-Mi's and then coffee at Starbucks. Mi-Mi is a restaurant that serves cafeteria style - the menu is in Russian and English - but I just pointed. Brad and Maureen fly out tomorrow, then come back for their gottcha day in a few weeks.
While we were out we bought Dave and Zach matching Hockey jerseys. How precious will my boys be!
It was a great day - seeing Zach, IKEA, and dinner with great company. Lets hope the good weather holds out... I just knocked on wood!
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Trip 2 Day 4 Beautiful Russian Sun
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4/22/2008 2:17:17 PM |
Today was a beautiful day. The weather forecast we saw yesterday called for snow showers. But luckily the sun was shining and a very cool breeze was blowing. Just perfect.
We started off today going to the our agency's office again. We had to pick up paperwork to take to the Notary's office to get redone. We also needed to clarify the rest of the trip and the days we will need our new driver/translator team. Then it was off to the Notary's office to correct the paperwork done yesterday. Which was kinda neat because the building the Notary is in is very old and I just love the stair case and ceiling in this odd conglomeration of offices, stores, restaurants, and well other things I assume. After this we went to the Delta Airline office. I am a worrier and I just wanted to make sure I had Zach's lap ticket correct before we went to the airport.
Then we spent almost four hours at the Kremlin. It was an amazing day to walk in Alexandria Park and see the city workers getting the streets ready for all the festivities to come. They were cleaning, painting, and planting flowers like pansies all over the planes. We went to the Armory Museum and saw Russia's most precious items. Beautiful Faberge Eggs, clothing, sliver and gold works, weaponry, and other very cool things. Dave and I just keep looking at each other going - that carriage is older than our country. Then we walked around the interior of the Kremlin. I was amazed as soon as we walked up the bridge and under trinity tower right in front of the Arsenal were huge gorgeous red tulips. We walked around looking at the huge Tsar Cannon (1586) and The Tsar Bell (1733-35) just amazing. The best parts of course was the very old cathedrals. One was built in 1475 - that blew Dave's mind. He took a ton of pictures of it. Of course there was another one that was built in 1484, again very old. Then we had a leisurely walk back through Alexandria's Park.
On the way home we stopped for a "fluffy pizza" and water. And just like the first trip the pizza was great. Back at the apartment we waited for our tourist group to bring us our registration for our passports which came around 6pm. Then we headed back out to meet up with Brad and Maureen, our new friends from NY, who had a successful day in court today (YEAH!). We walked up and down Old Arbat Street and compared prices and people watched.
It has been a very long and beautiful day. We go back to see Zach tomorrow!! We are so excited to see him again now that we have the official title of "parent". Keep up the prayers for all of us and for such beautiful weather. This day really spoiled us - we saw all the beauty we have been missing!!
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Trip 2 - Day 3 Its Official!!
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4/21/2008 2:38:59 PM |
This morning the judge officially decreed that David and I are Zach's parents! We were so happy to hear those words. Court in a foreign country even for "good" is still stressful - the desire to say the right words and to show the right respect with out being patronizing, is all very stressful. But we made it thanks to "V".
There were no smiles in the court room and everything was very intense. We were very very lucky - our proceedings took about 30-45 minutes. The judge reviewed all of our documents and we were asked questions by the prosecutor. When the judge left the room to deliberate the social worker from the baby home and the prosecutor all smiled and cooed over the photos we took for the court to review. Which was good because I was really worried when we got no emotions at all over the pictures.
I could write a book just on court today. SOOOO long story short we are Zach's parents and we are just over whelmed with joy and happiness. We confirmed today that offical physical custody will be May 5th.
After we finished with court we went to the adoption agency office and then we went to the notary's office and did some paperwork. So that was one more thing done!
We ended today with a celebatory dinner at TGI-Friday with the couple from NY and a trip to the grocery store. Fun times had by all.
It was a great day and a long day. Dave is supposed to be working on putting some pictures up. Hopefully he will do that soon! Please keep us in your prayers.
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Day 2 Trip 2 - What a Wonderful Day
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4/20/2008 1:48:14 PM |
We had a wonderful day with Zach today. He was so sweet looking at us when we first got there thinking - I should know you two. We quickly reunited and reconnected. He is just so precious and sweet. He is feeling so much better than he was last time and just a sweet little ball of energy. We played with stacking cups, rings, a little duck with teething plastic on it, and other fun stuff. Did I mention that he is sweet?
His caregiver brought out his bear and his blanket that we left for him last time. He really loves his bear!! We spent about 3 hours with Zach today. It was very quite in the baby home today - very little activity on a rainy Sunday evidently.
Traffic was a bear as usual. I am just constantly amazed at the traffic around here!
We had dinner tonight at Hard Rock Cafe with a great couple from New York that is adopting a precious little girl here in Moscow. We had an interesting walk up Old Arbat Street and we learned that we need to know more about hockey in the States. Or maybe we don't need to learn about hockey - I am still trying to decide. We had planned to go to the grocery store for a few things. But we decided just to come back to the apartment and get ready for our big day tomorrow.
We are thankful for so many things today - somethings that I cannot even go into here! Most of all we are thankful for precious Zach!
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Trip 2 Day 1 - We made it back!
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4/19/2008 10:37:14 AM |
Finally we are back in Russia! We arrived a little early around 10:30AM Moscow time. We had a nice uneventful flight. I guess we got about 3-4 hours of sleep. The plane was more or less full so there was no room to stretch out. Dave was very happy because we had the individual screens in the headrest in front of us and we could choose what movie we wanted to watch. (Last time he was stuck watching an Elizabeth movie) We arrived safely and went through passport control and customs with no glitches or hold ups.
As we exited customs we saw our V! I was so happy to see her!! We loved working with her last time and are so excited that we get our "V & V team" again. We went out to the van to load up our TON of luggage. I am sure V made some comment about the amount of luggage we brought but the other V was kind enough not to translate that part. At least he smiled the whole time.
Today is a little chilly not really cold. V told us that it had rained and snowed a little this morning, but the sun was peaking out a little as we drove in to the city. First things first we exchanged a little money and went to our agency's office. Traffic was little heavy today and there was a lot of road construction, which surprised me on a Saturday.
At our agency's office we delivered paperwork and said hello to everyone. Saturday is not a normal day for S & I to be in the office but our American director is in town so they were working today. So it was good to see "C" again and the executive director as well. We received a few extra documents we need for court on Monday and talked about our long stay here in Moscow. It was so nice to see everyone again.
After that we went to our apartment to check in. BIG thanks to the CSS family that had this apartment last, "S & C", for the apartment tips. The apartment is just as you said it was and we do have the same crib that you had! Also - thanks for the sweet note! We unpacked a little and decided to head out. We went to McDonald's for a small quick lunch and then to the grocery store for the necessities.
We are back in the apartment now. Unpacking and just trying to stay awake! I have already "broken" the TV and Internet. Dave has his hands full - poor guy.
Tomorrow V & V will come around 10:45AM to pick us up to go see Zach. We are so excited about going to see our little man and see how much he has grown. Plus we have court on Monday at 10:30AM Moscow time. So please keep us all in your thoughts and prayers.
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WOW...We fly out tomorrow!
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4/17/2008 9:07:25 PM |
So we fly out tomorrow! We have stopped the newspaper and our "house and doggie sitters" have their strict instructions (ha!).
Poor "K" at our agency had to drive to Charlotte today to give Dave paperwork for us to carry over. So that is packed and ready in our carry on. I had to go get a new pair of black pants - don't ask I am still reelling mad about this - for court. So, today was eventful.
One really great thing that has been happening this week is that the we have been in contact with the couple that is staying in the same apartment that we will stay in. They leave Saturday morning and we arrive Saturday afternoon. This wonderful family has given us great tips and ideas that have helped in the "should I take this or should I not take this" moments. So HUGE thanks to this wonderful CSS family!!!
My sweet aunt came by the house tonight. She dropped off a Toddler Survival Handbook. She said for us to read it on the plane. Maybe, I will give Dave a pop quiz when we arrive.
We keep looking at each other saying - we are really leaving!! It has been almost 2 months since we have seen Zach and each day has been like a little piece of our heart has broken off. We are looking forward to holding Zach and our hearts being whole again. Gottcha day - May 5th - cannot come soon enough!
Please continue your prayers for us and our new family! Next post - Moscow.
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Last weekend home... Leaving in 5 days
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4/13/2008 9:19:29 PM |
This was our official last weekend as "David and Emily with no one else to worry about" except our two dogs. So we tried to take full advantage of this. Friday night we meet after work and did the "dinner and a movie" date night. Dave picked the movie - Leatherhead. I know, shocking - a football movie. I should have known I was in trouble because in the first few scenes "Tiger Rag" was playing in the background. OK, so it was the Princeton version, but it is still Tiger Rag. Toward the end of the movie when they played it AGAIN you could totally spell out C-L-E-M-S-OOOO-N! I think Dave knew he married the right woman when I actually raised my right arm and spelled it out.
Saturday was a good day. My mom and I got a pedicure. Heaven! Finished packing - OK, how many times have I said that. But we did. Just a few last minute things to put in - like shampoo. Saturday night we went to Zane's home and had a wonderful dinner with family. At the very end we decided since we don't have to rush home for bed time, we would go out to see a movie with Chris and Melissa (my cousin and his girlfriend - who might I add, he is lucky to have) - a scary movie to top it off. Anyone who knows me, knows - I don't do scary movies. To top it all off we did not get home till close to midnight. (Living on the wild side I tell ya!) And those of you who know me, know this is way past my bedtime!
Today, we went to church, mowed the grass, and Dave is outside helping a cow give birth with my dad. I am not sure if he is watching or helping - but he always comes back with good stories.
Yes, life was good this weekend. Next weekend will by far be better - we get to see our little man before our court hearing on the 21st. Our last weekend at home as a couple was great - but our next weekend that we are home will be the best, because we will be a family of three (plus two dogs).
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Major Events
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4/9/2008 9:18:58 PM |
Since our last post two major events have occurred. We celebrated Zach's first birthday yesterday. I thought that I would not be able to function - but I made it. Monday night I could not sleep and the drive to work was hard. One of the sweetest ladies at my work gave me a card on Monday, on it was written "Master Zachary" with specific instruction not to open till Tuesday. I had to open it that morning. It was a birthday card for Zach. How sweet for someone else to remember. I digress. Anyway - Dave and I had a little birthday cake. I gave Dave a birthday present for Zach to open. Orange overalls with a tiger paw on the bib. Dave loved them. He wants his own pair now. Don't worry there are other colors in Zach's wardrobe. Yesterday was a good day - its the day our son was born!!! Its overwhelming and bitter sweet not to share it with him. I know our sweet little guy is in good hands, I just can't wait till we get him in ours!
We are soooooo ready to go!! Our visas are here and are correct. We have most of the packing done...I say most. Its so hard to judge the temperature. We hoping for warmish days and beautiful weather. Since we are there for so long I am sure that we are going to see temperature fluctuations and maybe even a little sun!
So as you can see we are so ready to get back to Moscow! Not too much longer.
Oh yeah, the other major event... I had a birthday. A big one... I now have a "0" in my age.
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13 Days - But who’s counting?
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4/5/2008 8:12:47 PM |
We have been making trip preparations the last week and this rainy weekend. I find it amazing just how packing for the second trip feels so different. We have our bags laid out and "stuff" migrating back to the suit cases. I of course cannot decide what to take and what not to take. Packing for three is so much fun! (Only a little stressful – ok more stressful than I thought it would be!) Now that we know we will have Zach an extra week - I feel like I need to take more stuff! I keep telling myself – you will have a washing machine in the apartment you don’t need this much! But I still feel the need to over pack for Zach! (Don't worry, a Clemson and UNC shirt will be packed!)
We are so happy that our apartment is close to where we stayed before. We feel comfortable in this general area and our ablity to get to a grocery store! At least I don't feel like I have to pack the whole kitchen. We are so thankful for this! And how happy am I that we have a full size refrigerator and not a dorm size fridge!
As we are planning our trip and telling people about our dates. Most people have to recover from their shock that we will be there a month. They all ask - why so long? The only thing I can tell them is that the beginning of May is a huge holiday in Russia. As it is explained to us May 1st, May Day, is labor/spring day. There is a lot of history behind this holiday and we hope to see maybe a parade or other events during this time. To our understanding many (if not all) government offices close and do not reopen till May 12th. What is also rather interesting is that we will be there when they inaugurate their new president on May 7th! Since we have all this extra time during an eventful couple of weeks we hope to will learn more about Russian culture. It is so nice to have this time to learn more about our son's heritage.
Well, we have sent our visa applications off. So we are waiting on getting them back. Other wise not too much going on.
Less than two weeks left till we fly out!!
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No Fooln' – Today Was A Good Day
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4/1/2008 8:36:00 PM |
Today started out a little rough. I got an hour of sleep last night. I was up and down, watching TV, on the Internet, and trying not to wake the dogs! I was thinking too much last night. I know - shocking!
But the day turned around when C from our agency gave us the news that we would be able to do one last trip as we had originally planned! That was great. The best part followed. We found out that we will be able to take "physical custody," or what many adoptive families call "gotcha day," on May 5th! Not on the 12th! This means we will have extra days with Zach in our apartment as we wait for all the government offices to reopen after the holiday.
Here are our dates:
- Fly out April 18th
- Arrive in Moscow April 19th
- See Zach April 19th or 20th
- Court on April 21st
- "Gotcha Day" May 5th
- Fly home May 16th
Its so nice to have concrete dates! We are very happy to have extra time with Zach before we fly home. We really hope this time will be good for bonding and time for adjustment! We are just excited to know when we will have him!!
Other travel details - we confirmed our apartment today. There is definitely a pink theme going on. You can check out the apartment by going here.
Thank you to all who have been thinking of us and praying. I know I felt a wave of peace come to me when we got the confirmed dates and our "gotcha day". Soon Zach will be home!!
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We have a date!
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3/31/2008 8:21:30 PM |
Court will be April 21st. Yeah we got a date!! I cannot lie, there is some disappointment - but at least we know! Sooooooo now we are getting travel arrangements made and confirmed.
I will post a longer explanatory post later. So much to tell! There will have to be an indepth discussion on Russian holidays and how they will affect us! Prayers still needed as we plan and get ready to go back and get Zach!
The disappointment is fading and the excitement is rising. Its really happening!
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Wonderful Distraction
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3/30/2008 9:44:43 PM |
Today my friends and family gave us a wonderful shower! It was so nice. My friends had it at my mom's home - since we live so far out in the country it made it easier for my family to attend. It was so sweet! The lady that made our wedding cake made a beautiful shower cake (my personal favorite - white cake with Bavarian cream center and butter cream icing...Mmmm...). My teacher's aide when I was in kindergarten who is 83(!) made beautiful mints bottles, booties, and safety pins - my personal favorites are the blue booties. She makes them by hand and has little bows on each one. Not to mention chocolate dipped strawberries, a cheese board, spinach dip, another personal fav - deviled eggs, and the list could go on and on.
We had beautiful sweetheart roses, a precious flower arrangement of blue and yellow flowers in an "old school" flower holder, balloons, and of course pictures of Zach! My friend also folded the napkins into the shape of baby shirts. And they also had little goodie bags - they had little Russian doll key chains! All sooo perfect!
Zach is one lucky kid! We have such wonderful family and friends. We received so many NICE gifts. For example we got our car seat!! Yeah! Beautiful outfits! His first little Bible. Temporal artery thermometer. Pack-N-Play. An adorable "Zach Pack" - its a little back pack with his name embroidered on it and it has a precious little dog on there as well - not to mention there was a Clemson t-shirt, a peanut butter jelly sandwich cutter "thingy" (can't wait to use that), and other fun stuff to take to "Aunt Kelly's house". Not to mention the gift cards - always wonderful! We were just overwhelmed by the love and out pouring of good wishes.
There were a lot of really good moments but the funniest was when we were playing the game "guess the poopy" - basically my friends took 4 diapers and melted different candy bars in them. The game is to guess what kind of "poop" or candy bar is in the diaper. Let me tell you - it was gross but amusing. My young cousin came around the corner and did not know we were playing a game. She stopped dead in her tracks and was dumbfounded! It was very cute. She really thought we were holding dirty diapers up into our faces and passing them around.
After the wonderful shower we had a cook out and watched the Davidson basketball game and played wii. Zane pulled in the huge cooker and made some outstanding chicken and burnt hot dogs. I mean good hot dogs. (love ya).
Today was great. We really needed this wonderful distraction. Tomorrow we should be hearing from our agency and getting our court date. So today would have been a loooong day, but thankfully it was filled with good friends, family, and good food!
Stay posted we hope to post a court date tomorrow!!
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Showered with love at work
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3/28/2008 9:50:03 PM |
Thursday my work had a wonderful shower to welcome Zach! I was overwhelmed with the outpouring of support and gifts! We received so many wonderful gifts and the sweetest cards. I cannot thank my co-workers enough!
We had a nice spread of food and a beautiful cake. Natalie had precious little confetti that was sprinkled over all the tables and Cindy's daughter made cute little pacifiers out of winter fresh life savers and mike and Ikes. Everyone brought food and snacks and we all had a great time! It was all so beautifully layed out!
We received a lot of cute little outfits and toys. We got keep sakes like a piggy bank and a frame that people at the shower signed for Zach. We also got bath toys and bath essentials!
I am so appreciative of the support and love my co-workers share with me everyday! Not just on the wonderful shower day!
Thursday was a beautiful day - baby boy blue all over the place! Including the Carolina Blue win that night! Oh yeah, Clemson football ticket information was in the mail box as well.
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Happy Easter!
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3/23/2008 8:18:31 PM |
Happy Easter!
Just a march madness update. Dave of course is upset about Clemson's lost. Well he is more upset that they blew a 18 point lead. Ops! I wasn't supposed to mention that part. As always I am proud of my Tar Heels. Roy and the boys look good this year!
We are trying to stay busy around the house and working on a packing list for our next trip. We are starting to collect items that we will take with us and piling them on the guest bed. Monday we have an appointment with Dr. Walker (Zach's pediatrician) to go over the bringing Zach home details. First time we meet with her it was more of the what to look for in our referral. This time we will go over the medical information we have and the independent doctor's written physical exam of Zach. We will also review medications, if any, we will take and food options. This should give me another list to start working on!!
More retail therapy may be needed this next week to get through it. (Don't tell Dave) We are still anxiously awaiting March 31st. We hope and pray that our judge will set our court date ASAP.
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Carolina Blue Day
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3/16/2008 9:22:11 PM |
Yes, today was a good day in CAROLINA. The Tigers played hard, but the Tar Heels prevailed! ACC Champs AGAIN!
I am glad that we have "March Madness" to help us pass the time till we get our court date! Of course we have lots to do before we go back for Zach, but its nice to have another distraction.
Two more weeks till we get our court date!!
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Double entry day!! ACC Tourney
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3/15/2008 5:47:39 PM |
As all of our friends and family know our home during basketball season is very competitive. Today was very heated! Dave the die hard Clemson fan. Emily the die hard North Carolina basketball fan!
Of course Carolina (THE REAL CAROLINA! NOT USC! BAH!)won - at the buzzer! And the Clemson Tigers won a great game against Duke (who is the worst team ever!)!
SOOO tomorrow will be a HUGE day here at home! UNC against Clemson in the ACC Championship! WOOHOO!! The last time they played each other we had to go to neutral ground! That might be a good idea for tomorrow!
Lets go Tar Heels! *clap*clap*-*clap*clap*clap* | | | |