Alive and Kickin'

December 4, 2007

Sorry to be so long without a post. This is going to be a long one. Much to tell you. We have safely arrived in our region - I'll go ahead and call it Zap. We arrived early Sunday morning by train. Those of you who are familiar with that train ride will be happy to know that the toilets have been renovated and now include both seats and paper. The ride was uneventful other than the lack of sleep. KB did great and I think really enjoyed the ride. We were greeted by friends including our local facilitator D. It was so good to see familiar, english speaking faces. We loaded our bags quickly and sped away to our flat here in the city. I'm again ashamed to say that we slept away half the remainder of the morning.

We got the word through the grapevine that a party was happening Sunday afternoon at McDonald's and that we were invited to join in. We met the Kemp's at the bus stop along with D and headed up to McD's. We knew that another family was bringing their new daughter's class for a meal. This was the purpose of the party. As I was standing in line, I saw her - our D! She was allowed to come along with the other class. This was a huge surprise for us. I was overcome with emotion - big surprise. But wait, she doesn't see me. I'm waiving, but she doesn't see me. She's excited she's heading upstairs. She's going to see mama. D had spotted mama from outside and knew where to find her. She came back and it was a joyous, impromptu reunion there in the crowded line. What a great moment.

We ordered and made our way upstairs and wedged ourselves into a table and enjoyed our first meal together (minus A). It was so wonderful to be able to spend time together with friends. We were beginning to feel at home. Unfortunately, D had to return to the orphanage. We made our way to the Kemp's flat for some fellowship and a cake! (The first meeting of the UA supper club)

We stayed there for a couple of hours and gawked at the Kemp's flat. Very spacious indeed. Afterwards, we made our way home via bus. We're still a bit confused by the bus routes. More on that later.

On Monday we hit the ground running. We made our way to the local administration and officially received our referral. The people there were so helpful - wink, wink - your prayers are being heard. We were at the orphanage by 10:30 and went straight to the director's office. She asked us why we were there - "well duh," I said, " we're here to adopt our daughter." She told us that this would be up to the judge not her but that she would go to get the girl to ask her consent. (This is apparently required for older children). We were expecting this, but I've gotta confess. I was a little nervous about what her response would be. She came in radiant and beautiful as always, and took her seat. It is always funny to see how the kids react to the director. They have much respect for her in person.

The director began here speech about what was happening and what it would mean and what D should consider in making this decision. I thought all of this was appropriate, but a bit dramatic. She spoke of the opportunities that she would have here in her country and of the potential opportunities that may await in the states. A great show indeed. I'm sure the inspector was impressed. After it was over she solicited us for comments about whether or not any pressure had been applied. All we were waiting for was our D to say "yes, I want them to adopt me!" But she could not fit in a word. Her countenance was hard to read. What had she been told overnight? Had she changed her mind? What would be her answer? Finally, a pause. The question was offered. And the response.......



.......She said YES!!! Yes to us! Yes to our life. The Regis, I mean the director , asked, "is that your final answer?" Can you believe that? No, don't make her second guess! Is it hot in here or is it just me? Is my face red? Does anyone have tissue? I think I might hurl. D shut that down quickly and affirmed her answer.

Then she was asked to make a written statement in the presence of the inspector that she did indeed want be adopted by us. After a couple of typo's and corrections, she got it right. We spent most of the rest of the afternoon with her all around the orphanage. It was another good day. She and KB really hit it off. I think they are both a little excited about getting a sister. Continue to pray that this transition is smooth. We anticipate some difficulties - just because it will be strange at first for them both.

We left around 3:30 and headed back to town to the notary's office for some other business along with the Kemp family. We were out of there by about 5:15 and to the Zap parade of flats. We had just mentioned some logistical issues and so we met with our landlord to view some of his other properties. Now this guy - this guys is like the Ty of Zap. He buys these old apartments and upgrades them. He took us to three properties - Gully Place, and two VIP flats. One of the VIP's had only been completed a couple of weeks. He had designed it himself and was very proud of it. All were nice, but I think we are just going to stay where we are. The two VIP's were more costly than where we are and so it doesn't really help out that much. Plus moving is a pain.

After this we went to the pizza place - where the still hold a special table for the Brennan and Gully families. It was a good dinner and then on to out little flat. We decided that our place needed a little cleaning. The place if fairly modern, but just was not clean. There is some stuff on the dishes and around the range that absolutely won't wash off with soap and water. We spent several hours tidying up. We feel cozy now.

The days can become a little boring if you're not careful. KB has become an expert with the video tools on our laptop. I'll try to post a video - too precious not to share.

You guys continue to pray that things move along quickly. Also, pray for all of our families here - the Zap branch of the Body that normally meets at M-17. God is blessing us, but pray that he continues to encourage our spirits and strengthen us to carry out this task. Sometimes when it is still, you wonder if you really are crazy.

Tonight is Borsht night with the Kemp's and Hartsock's. We are all becoming a part of this culture!

Papa