Day 20

Another morning, another day in Ukraine. The sun rises early here and sets late. I think most of the folks outside take a mid day break and stay up late. Old men discussing things, old ladies eyeing us with occasional "Hullos". We got some laundry done and after lunch, we headed over to Gela’s orphanage. We have grown tired of "visiting" our children. There were a chance of showers; thank goodness for our umbrellas. We learned that Gela loves to color. We brought a large Disney coloring book and with the boy’s crayons, she colored on most of the pages. And she actually improved from page to page. Jenn pointed out that she puts her crayons away and likes to keep them organized - I don't get it but then I'm a man. Afterward, we were allowed to go into a sort of play room that had plenty of large motor skills toys: large balls for bouncing and balancing; a balancing beam; pool of plastic balls (like Chuck-E-Cheese); other ride-on bouncing toys; cushioned shapes with the primary colors; and a lot more. She had a blast! Unfortunately, I didn't have the camera as I didn't expect this and with the rain, I didn't want a damaged camera now. We also read a couple of new books. She is remembering the words and is starting to use the boys names.

Since we learned that Vicka’s great-aunt has been seeing her twice a day (although they are not suppose to allow her to), we decided it was best to visit her again when she is in the orphanage. Not only is it closer, but we don't have competition for attention. Besides, the great-aunt won't be able to see her again and these are the last few days she has with her; plus we know that she is actively working with Vicka to transition to our family. Tuesday morning, Vicka will be going to her orphanage so we will see her Tuesday afternoon. We also had to explain to the boys Vicka’s sassiness. Though she speaks Russian, you can tell what she means by her hip movement, foot stomp, arms being crossed, or when she simply takes both of your checks in her hands and looks you eye to eye (that one was mine - it was so cool). The boys weren't sure how to take it but we have been explaining that they really need to watch her body language to understand - she isn't upset or mad; just communicating very vibrantly. I think Grandpa would call her a "spit-fire". Once everything is official, then the girls will meet. Vicka has been told that she has a sister but I don't think it has sunk in yet. She's been shown pictures though. Still, this will make for an interesting meeting.

Monday, Marsha will be requesting an appointment with the high judge and will ask for the 10 day waiting period to be waived. Though it is unlikely that he will waive it; we know that God moves the hearts of men. So please pray. It's much better for the girls if we can have them with us instead of having to "visit" our children.