10/06/04

Time is flying by! We are starting to plan our schedule out in minus hours. What can we fit in before we leave? We have appointments all week, albeit brief, but must be considered if planning out the schedule. Today we went to the US embassy, conveniently located across the street from the office. We entered the new building and went through an airport style checkpoint for security. We then waited for our guard to escort us upstairs. When we entered we saw several other adoptive families waiting their turns.

Jeff filled out the information and mom and I sat with the kids over our shoulders in the waiting area. It was much like a nice, clean motor vehicle. Our name was called a few minutes later and we went to the appropriate window, we were sworn to a brief oath and were given a package of information. Tonight we went through the packet, it contained their birth certificates, adoption certificates, passports and documentation from the court. We also received the secret envelopes (visa information) which we are not allowed to open and that are to be presented to the officials when we land in the US. Since all of the paperwork was done here, when the plane touches down in the states our two little ones will be proud Americans. This will be yet another moment for celebration!

Today Mom and Jeff went to the RAM and GROCE store for some last minute shopping. I no longer locked the door and was doing a dual feed for the kids. (one chair, one child propped in each arm, two bottles held by me) when Jeff was at the door again. He had a brand new, fancy stroller. Since one of our Green Market Specials lost a wheel, mom took it upon herself to conspire with Emil to replace it. This one is snazzy, with three reclining positions, a nice overhead awning, longer handles for our pushing pleasure and surround sound. (nahh…no surround sound) Back to shopping, we determined we will need at least 40 diapers to make it home (while in transit), two cans of formula, plus one to help wean them off the Nestle and onto Similac. They picked up some goodies to share with friends and family and some delicious bread and cheese that we had for lunch.

Tonight we went to the American Bar and Grill with the World Partners Adoption-Almaty families as well as a family with another agency from Israel. It was a very pleasant night with so many friendly people. Jaci and Sheldon had Walker with them and BOY is he CUTE!! They looked thrilled and we are so happy for them! Marlee and Lee were there, Chrysten and Ike and the Halls. I know I’m missing three family names, sorry about this!! Needless to say, it was quite a group. It’s been said many times before, but I just can’t stop saying it….ALL of the families we have met over the past year have been extraordinarily nice, helpful and downright good people. It’s really a pleasure to get to meet some of them in person. We have never been “reunion” types, but next year I want to be the first on line for tickets.

We enjoyed dinner and relaxed with the kids for a while until Emil came for us. He joined us for Fajitas and we had dessert. He is very fun to be around and we enjoy his company a lot. Tomorrow he has promised to take us to a traditional Kazakhstan restaurant; I think this may be the night we get up close and personal with Mr. Ed. Mom and I are going to shop during the day for the last minute items we have decided we cannot live without. We are hoping to have a very calm day on Friday, perhaps have a brief evening meal with some of our friends here with some sad good byes.


Special Notes:
We are focusing on the trip home, please, please, please don’t over do it!! Remember Mom B., we LIKE dog hair!!
Sue, I know the tree died in the living room, its ok, we will get over it.
Dad B. don’t forget there is chianti in the dining room in the wine box.
Dad A. hope to see you and Mary Sunday!!
Maxie, you comin up or what??
Joe, Al says the grass never got long enough to need to be mowed with you around, thank you!!!!
Flairs, I miss you, can’t wait to see you all.
Malin/wontrobskis We can’t wait to catch up with you all and start meeting your babies coming soon!!
Eug/Ann Marie/Steph/Sam – its ok to bring Brandy this weekend!!! What’s one more?
Aunt Carolyn – Having fun in DE? How is Lynn?
Al, no, you can’t put a sign in front of our house, for sale by neighbor...!!!!!
IL Chicks, Im waiting for news from Jenn and Safe flight to Cat woman!! Julie and April, any words of wisdom for the flight home??