Happy Halloween!

Major events of the day: Waiting Period day 7 of 15 (only 8 more to go!), Happy Halloween!, a quick visit, and DVD formats

Morning weather report: 30, feels like 25. Projected high: a whopping 41 and “fair” (although the noon temperature is projected to be only 37)… Good thing they don’t trick-or-Treat here ‘cause they would have to buy extra large costumes to fit over their coats!
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 47, heading back to 71 (Great trick-or-Treat weather!)

Hello again from dreary Kazakhstan! The weather these past two days has been colder and a little foggy. There’s a definite feel of snow in the air. It won’t be long before I get to see how they handle snow removal around here…

Pretty quiet day overall. With Cathe back home and now 11 hours out of sync, we only have a short time to chat. It is nice to know that everyone back home is right here with us during the looooong process.

Many e-mails have been flying back and forth, keeping us informed on everything going on back home. You really have to love the modern marvel of instantaneous, world-wide communication, even at dial-up speed. Being able to stay in almost-real-time touch with friends and family has really helped the time go by quickly. Kate and David have also enjoyed receiving questions from the other students too. They’re just as excited about meeting all of you as you are to meet them.

It’s odd to think that Cathe’s getting ready to start her first official day back at school while I’m just returning from another daily visit with the kids. Despite the distance and the time difference, it’s nice to know that we can stay connected. For everyone who has been asking, AOL Instant Messenger works flawlessly. We have even been able to use the audio connect feature to actually talk back and forth ($3/hr internet versus the cost of a phone call). It’s not quite telephone quality and there is about a half second delay, but it sure nice to hear a voice on the other end of the wire.

In addition to missing out on the most excellent Shashlik prepared by Sasha the Kabob Guy, she’s also missing her favorite Russian Sitcom, “Счастливый Вмѐсте” (“Happy Together”) and Al Bumpkin’s version of the “He Man Woman Haters Club,” on TNT.

Happy Halloween to all of our friends back home! It’s not celebrated in Kazakhstan, so we had to resort to our own scary picture (Sorry George, those aren’t masks!). Be sure to save us a piece or two of candy when we come knocking a little late...

Cathe didn’t mention it before, but “pre-kids” we have been taking Bob around the neighborhood. All of his doggie friends give out nice puppy treats. Be sure to bring your pet if you’re in the neighborhood! Next year Cowboy Bob will be joined by Princess Kate and Pirate David. (Bob says that he can hardly wait for his kids to come home)

On to the days events: I began the afternoon by going to lunch with Elizabeth at the Slovenian Inn. It’s a really great place to eat and has an English menu to help us out a bit instead of taking the Wheel of Fortune approach and just picking something that looks good in Cyrillic. Elizabeth is adopting twin girls from the RBS and received word last night that her court date is next Wednesday. (Please keep her in your prayers too)

Today was an “off-day” for visitation, so the kids were surprised when I arrived (compliments to Elizabeth’s driver). David was REALLY disappointed that the computer was not in my bag and Kate cringed when she saw the flash cards coming out. They’re both doing very well with their English studies, but don’t want more school right after the school day (normal kids!). They searched my bag better than any TSA rep ever would, perhaps hoping I had hidden the big computer in a small pocket. Then the hidden treats were discovered (it is Halloween after all) and their attention quickly re-focused when I told them that treats would be delivered AFTER studies. Flashcard drills complete, the kids went into momentary bliss while quickly consuming their treasures.

Yesterday the kids wanted me to bring Ночь в Музее (Night at the Museum) so their whole Family Group could watch it. Tomorrow they want me to bring Гаппи Поттер (Harry Potter). They saw our bring-along stash as well as the ones we purchased while here. They must think we’re Blockbuster or Netflix! (Yet another franchise opportunity!)

Thanks to a question from Apryl who adopted from Petropavlovsk last summer, I discovered that DVDs here have a special “Region Coding” embedded on the disk (Copyright police in action!). I was already aware that the TV format here is PAL instead of NTSC (US TV format). However, I didn’t know that the region coding further restricts viewing. By making a quick change to the computer setting it’s no problem to watch the movies on the computer. However, there is a finite number of format changes allowed, four to be exact. Heads up for folks planning to take movies home in Russian format (World Region 5): if you want to switch back to watch US movies, that counts as another change. After your four total changes your system locks on the last selected format. We did buy two DVDs which play without having to change the code, but the rest of the multi-lingual DVDs won’t. There are some multi-format, no-code players available for those who really want them, but in the mean time, we’ll just change the computer in our family room but leave dad’s laptop on US format.

One exciting piece of news is that the kids have a semester Nov 4th – 12th, so they will get to move to the apartment as soon as our 15 day wait is over and not miss any school here. Saturday will be their last day of school in Kazakhstan. They’re ready for a break, but they are excited about coming to their new school and making new friends soon.

That was the day in a nutshell. Check back tomorrow for new updates!

Passport Photos and Meeting the Kids

Major events of the day: Waiting Period day 6 of 15 (only 9 more to go!), Pictures, Passport Photos and Dinner

Morning weather report: 32, feels like 32. Projected high: a whopping 42 and sunny
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 51, heading back to 73 (we haven’t seen those temps in Petro for several weeks. Welcome home Cathe!)

We’re finally into the single digits of remaining waiting period! Back to that Kazakh quote about Chasing and Waiting: Visits fly by but this waiting seems like it will never end!

After trekking through Almaty and Amsterdam and doing battle with Customs in Memphis, Cathe finally arrived at home shortly after 7 pm (local) last night (Tuesday morning in Kazakhstan), following a very looooog two day adventure.

At first I didn’t think there would be much to write since the day started off so quietly. Then I reviewed today’s pictures and though back over the events of the last 24 hours and realized there really was a LOT going on today.

Last night was not a good sleeping night since there was so much on my mind and I was wondering how Cathe was doing along the way. No frantic phone calls or e-mails, so I had to assume all was well. Gotta love being in the Information Age though! Waking up several times through the night, I just had to do a quick update on FlightView to see where the plane was and get an update on the latest ETA in Memphis. Cathe’s friend Erica was all lined up to meet her at the airport, so that was not a worry (Thanks again Erica, and everyone else who volunteered to meet Cathe!). Finally, unable to stay in bed any longer, I logged back on a little after 6 am but there was still no word.

Around 7 am Scott, our great house sitter, sent an IM saying that Cathe had arrived home just after 7 pm. Relief from worries! We had a quick chat during which Cathe announced she could only stay on a minute because they were heading to Macaroni Grill to celebrate her return. I’m actually surprised she didn’t just go for something like McDonald’s, which is NOT in Petropavlovsk (anyone looking for a great franchise location???).

I have to insert a special thanks to Scott. He has been taking care of Bob (our over-exuberent and relentless ball-chasing golden retriever), and our home while we have been off on our adventure. Wednesday he will be heading home for a short vacation before deploying to Iraq for a year. Please keep him in your prayers. Thank you Scott!

Next order of business was to sort through the hundreds of photos taken during our farewell party at the RBS. The staff and Family Group were kind enough to line that up early so Cathe could be there too. Both of our digital cameras were nearly filled and both batteries were pretty close to red line! If the party had gone just a little longer, we wouldn’t have been able to capture the moment! The kids had asked for prints to share with their friends, so I felt obligated to comply with their request. Finally, 75 pictures were selected and it was time to head to the Iceberg store to get them printed.









There’s a new store being built adjacent to the Iceberg, but no telling exactly what it will be. Despite being under construction, there is an enclosed market area on the first floor which is up and operating. Lights, but no heat! By the way, fruit prices have really gone up in the last week due to colder weather. Hopefully the Fresh Market will stay open for a few more weeks or maybe move inside the under-construction building. Even at the higher prices, fresh produce is still a pretty good value and has a lot more flavor and aroma than what we get back home. (Cathe: Dinara says, “Hi”)

Before I knew it, 2:30 arrived and it was time to go get the kids. Today was Passport Photo day and they needed a quick shower and wardrobe swap to look their best (we also had to go mini-portraits which will go in their file with the Ministry of Education). Kate nearly went into meltdown when I sent her back upstairs to get her new jacket and the clothes we bought for her which needed to be washed. She swapped beds and lockers the other day and had to sort through her locker to dig out the clothes we bought for her. Not a happy camper for a few minutes, then all was well again. She thought her “cute pout” routine would convince dad that we should skip that part and GO! Both were excited about showers at the apartment since mom left some really good smelling shampoo and Kate loves the big fluffy robes and using the blow dryer (not sure which she loves more!).

First we went to the Dept of Vital Statistics for passport photos (that’s also where their new birth certificates will be issued). I was amazed at how close it is to the apartment, Iceberg, and even the Baby House. Next we went to a small photo studio close to the Donner Café. Masha had a laugh when I misunderstood how much the pictures were. When she whispered the price, I figured we were paying portrait studio prices and would be getting something substantial (could have sworn she said 5,000 Tenge which is about $45). The photographer thanked me for my generosity, but only needed 500 Tenge for the two pictures (glad there are a lot of honest people here!).

We were back at the apartment before 4 pm, so we got to spend a little time with Suzanne and Hilton who are adopting a baby. They wanted to meet the kids, so we got together and had a little fun. On court day, they brought us flowers which came in a crepe paper cone. The flowers have now withered away, but we kept the cone and had fun with it today.

Kate tried it on for size (much too large!) then David changed things up a bit and ended up looking like something out of Dr. Seuss.


Before long, 5 pm arrived and we had to take the kids back before they turned into pumpkins.

Dinner was a gastronomical delight. Suzanne, Hilton and I walked over to see if Sasha the Kabob Guy was still open for business. Although he was wrapping up for the day and his fire was dying out, he gladly fanned it back to life and tossed on three kabobs for us (he had to send one of his buddies back to his truck for more, but was glad to do so since we’re regulars). Those, some fresh bread, and a bottle of Pepsi Light completed the feast. (And Cathe thought I would be jealous about her trip to Macaroni Grill! Who’s jealous now? 8-D )

Another day down, and one day closer to coming home!


P.S. The trees along Constitution Avenue are now pretty bare, but the Leaf Sweepers are still in action. They sure could use Leaf Blowers here! (Another franchise opportunity?)

Travels and Lessons

Major events of the day: Waiting Period day 5 of 15, Back to Memphis (Cathe), Doubling up on Russian Lessons (Bill)

Morning weather report: 38, feels like 32. Projected high: a whopping 43 with chance of rain
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 46, heading back to 68 (save some of that weather for us!)

Days are getting shorter. Sunrise this morning is 8:19, sunset is 5:54, 9 hrs, 35 minutes of daylight. When we arrived, days were still over 12 hours long. According to “Weather Underground,” tomorrow will be another 4 minutes shorter. That happens when you’re at the same latitude as Hudson Bay. Walking around outside this afternoon was also noticeable cooler than any other days and the air had a damp feeling.

Not much to report today. Due to the weather I stayed in except for a short trip to the market this morning. I didn’t want to be far from the phone in case Cathe needed to call from Almaty. It was a day to double up on Russian lessons (Rosetta Stone) and catch up on e-mail.

When we arrived at the RBS, David was at the gate waiting. Although I didn’t visit yesterday, he wanted to tell me that he knew what I was doing instead. One of his teachers had seen me taking pictures on Constitution Avenue and told the kids this morning.

Kate was upstairs when we arrived. The girl’s room in her Family Group had been rearranged and she was puting away all her things. She decided to take the bed closest to the door since she will be leaving soon. (They would have come today if we had let them!)

Two Big questions of the day was: “Is Mom home yet?????” and “How long until we go??????” Masha helped me explain that we have to complete the waiting period then there are a few days in Petro to get new birth certificates and passports (tomorrow is Passport Picture Day!). They were a little disappointed, but happy at the same time. All of their friends are excited as well.

Our visit today was mostly a review of basic English words and some dictionary drills. David was making fun of my reading glasses and tried them on for size. Kate was a handful! She wasn’t excited about the flashcard drills and REALLY wanted for us to go upstairs to use the Karaoke DVD (their Family Group has been giving it a real workout these past couple days!). Thankfully, Masha was patient and helped explain that we would do the word drills THEN go upstairs. We finally got through the drills toward the end of our visit.










Kate showed off a couple pictures she had drawn which were on display in Ludmilla’s classroom (where we spend most of our time together). We also gave Ludmilla a small gift of appreciation for her letting us use that room. Then we trotted upstairs so they could show me all of the changes in the girl’s room and then to their family room where a couple boys were watching one of the movies we bought for them. It’s nice to see that they really appreciate the gifts.

Sadly, our two hours had run out and it was time to go. (two hours really flies by when we’re having fun). Soon there won’t be any more comings and goings.

Time to get this post on the wire and track the final leg of Cathe’s trek home. More tomorrow!

Update: According to http://www.flightview.com/, Cathe’s flight is now on its way to Memphis.

A Day in Almaty (Cathe), Sightseeing in Petro (Bill)

Major events of the day: Waiting Period day 4 of 15, A Day in Almaty (Cathe), Sightseeing in Petro (Bill), and Not Quite Daylight Saving Time (Moscow - Yes, US - Not Yet)

Morning weather report: 39, feels like 33. Projected high: 45 with light rain throughout the day (so much for sight-seeing!)
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 49, heading back to 68 and sunny (can you send some of that weather back this way?!?!?)

No visit with the kids today. 8-( Masha and Sasha had to go to a town 30 miles away to have a Judge make some corrections to a document we will need to finalize the adoption. Since Thursday was a holiday, banks, post office, government, courts, etc. were closed. However, to make up for the closure, government was in session today despite it being Sunday. Suzanne and Hilton also had court today and are now proud adoptive parents. Congratulations!

It’s funny how you get out of touch with little things back home like when Daylight Saving Time adjusts. Especially when you’re somewhere that’s on a little different schedule. Last night, Moscow time changed in observance of the end of Daylight Saving Time. Since the train and airline schedules follow Moscow time and Russia does observe Daylight Saving Time (we were two hours ahead of Moscow and are now three hours ahead), we didn’t think about it. Soooo, after several friendly reminders from everyone back home who let us know that the “adjustment” doesn’t occur in the US until NEXT weekend, we won’t change our dual time zone watches until then.

This will be a topic for later research… We wonder how long it took for other countries to start doing Daylight Saving (no “s” on the end) Time and whether or not they will also shift their “adjustment” dates. Masha tells us that Kazakhstan used to observe Daylight Saving Time, but stopped last year… Maybe it just got too complicated?

Now that it has been mentioned, we recall all the fuss over the change this past spring when the adjustment was moved up two weeks and the “fall back” date was moved back a week. Newer computers/operating systems got an update to make the change, but older systems didn’t. Since our laptop has Vista, which takes all that into consideration, we didn’t see a pop-up notice telling us that our time was adjusted. So, as Cathe would say, “Bob’s your uncle.” (Google the phrase to read all about that)

It’s a small world and things seem to work for a reason. With Cathe’s flight being moved up, she got a direct flight to Almaty on a “newer” AN-24 instead of the decrepit YAK-40 we flew up in (comfort was spared in favor of utilitarianism) which makes one scheduled stop in Kokshetau along the way (although our flight up did make an unscheduled stop in Karaganda. That was fun!). According to Cathe, the AN-24 was a little more comfortable (the YAK-40 seating didn’t make that standard too difficult to exceed!) and the total flight was almost two hours shorter.

Oleg was there to greet her, right on schedule. Fortunately she was there because the two little girls who were on the same flight would have been waiting with Oleg for the day. Instead, they spent the day with Cathe, giving her some “young child refresher training.” They wanted to show every one of their treasures, press every button and look in every drawer/behind every door in the hotel room. Since their English is very limited, Cathe also got a little Russian workout too.

Meanwhile back in Petro, Bill did a LOT of walking today, taking pictures of many interesting sights listed on Jim’s map (Thanks again Jim and Jen!). There are many statues and memorials scattered throughout the city, mostly WW II. There are also a few remnants of the former Soviet society, with the remnants of the Hammer & Sickle logos. He also found the New Car dealer which specialized in Chevrolet, Lada, and Skoda. For 2.5 million Tenge (about $21,000) you can get a brand new Skoda sub-compact. The price tags for the nicer vehicles were not visible through the window for some reason…

For dinner, Bill, Suzanne & Hilton, and Anne from Belgium (also adopting) got together at the Italian restaurant to celebrate the new parents. Tomorrow Bill will be back in the visit routine. After three consecutive weekends of off-campus adventures, we bet they’re raring to go!

Seen around town:








Russian and Kazakh WWII monuments.











WWII monument and Opera House








A prominent H&S and a mosiac over the car dealer signifying the friendship between Russia and Kazakhstan and their membership in the USSR








The "Famous" Doner Cafe. (Don't tell Hannah-Barbarra about copyright infringement of Tom & Jerry!)








The Old Water Tower and some ever-present steam pipes. This time they're covered in spray-on foam instead of asbestos!

Off to Almaty & Hangin’ out in Petro

Major events of the day: Waiting Period day 3 of 15, Off to Almaty, Hangin’ out in Petro, and Daylight Saving Time

Morning weather report: 38, feels like 30. Projected high: 44 and overcast (a veritable heat wave!)
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 49, heading back to 67 and sunny (wishing we were there!)

What a busy day! Lots of paperwork to finish as well as final packing to do. We had given the kids a heads-up that we wouldn’t visit today since we had to be at the airport. They were simultaneously sad and happy: Sad because mom is heading home, but happy because mom is going to make all the final homecoming arrangements for them.

We also found out that Julia and Olivia, en-route to Salt Lake City (Congrats Guy, Deb and Family!) would be on the same flight. Guy, Deb and their three boys received their LOI just a few days before we did and were in Petro just before we arrived. It’s amazing how God works things out! They had met our children before leaving and we had the opportunity to send periodic updates and sighting reports for their new daughters. (Read about their Kaz and Petro adventures at www.guyperryfamily.blogspot.com)

We had hoped that Cathe could return home a couple days early but were frustrated with the unexpected delay between Bonding Period and Court. We had expected 2-3 business days instead of 5-8 that seems to be standard practice now. For those planning to adopt in Petropavlovsk, be sure to plan that change into your schedule! We have to go back to our previously referenced movie “Evan Almighty” and the one line in the movie which stands out for us: “When you ask God for patience, He doesn’t give patience. He gives you opportunities to become patient.” We also have to reference the Kazakh proverb which Suzanne shared with us, “The two worst things in life are Chasing and Waiting.” Those who have been following the details of our Adoption Adventure know both apply equally well in our case.

As always, Masha arrived right on schedule with additional papers to sign before Cathe’s departure. If Masha says she will be at the apartment at 10 am, the doorbell rings within seconds of the appointed time! We also made sure Cathe signed our I-600 forms (7/30/07 revision, one for EACH child!). To further complicate matters, Cathe’s planned departure just happened to coincide with Air Astana’s shift to their winter schedule, which began today. Several calls, a few text messages, and several emails zinged back and forth to make arrangements for Cathe’s hotel stay and move her flight out of Almaty up a couple days. Everything seems to be working out fine, despite our heightened stress levels. The coordinators have quite an impressive network of people to help take care of us during our stay!

When we learned that Cathe would be leaving a little sooner than we thought, Cathe had asked Masha to translate some complicated sentences from English into Russian. We have made several friends in the small market by the Iceberg store, and Cathe could not leave without personally thanking several people who helped make our brief stay in Petro much more welcoming. Two in particular are Dinara “The Fruit Lady,” and Sasha, “The Kabob Guy.” Masha not only helped with the translations, but also accompanied us on our typical rounds this afternoon. First stop was to see Dinara. After Masha’s translated farewell, Cathe gave her a dollar bill as a small token of appreciation. Dinara wished us Good Luck and presented us with some of our favorite apples and a few bananas as a farewell gift in return. The next stop was to say good-bye to Sasha. He has been great with our improvised hand gestures and broken Russian! We also presented him with a dollar bill. Cathe shared that Bill will be staying behind and each reassured her that they will keep him well fed and help him pick out the best fruit. Not to worry!

After presentations, we ducked into the small indoor market in search of some more gifts for Cathe to take home, specifically some more of the Kazakhstan and “For Men” chocolate bars. As passed by his kabob stand, Sasha waved and gave us a great big smile, then asked us to autograph the dollar bill for him.



We wouldn’t be surprised to see it framed over his stand on some future visit! Dinara and the adjacent Fruit Ladies all called out in English, “Good Bye and Good Luck!” Cathe returned their farewell, by replying Dasvadanya, “until next time.” We were both touched by that moment and how each one touched our lives and each reciprocated a friendship even with language barriers!

Our final souvenir stop was at the Birch Store to purchase some nesting dolls. With everything in hand, we headed back to the apartment to finish packing Cathe’s suitcases. Since we had learned about the strict luggage weight limits on the way in, Bill took a few moments to pick up both bags and guess how close we were to the 25 kg weight limit (~55 lbs combined checked AND carry-on). He did a great job! When we placed the bags on the scale at the airport, they totaled 24.5 kg. (Extra thanks to Suzanne and Hilton for the info about the small nesting dolls in a box under the counter! You’ve made a lot of folks back home happy with those!)

En-route to the Northern Kazakhstan-Petropavlovsk Regional Airport (name is much more impressive than the facility), we passed by a wedding party stopped by the side of the road.





There is a tree in which newly married couples tie a ribbon to signify safe travels on the road of marriage. It’s a very colorful and touching tradition!

The airport was COLD! Yesterday we had asked Masha and Sasha if it would be ok for the children to come to see mom off. Both told us that it would be better not to since there are no places to sit and there’s no heat in the facility. Besides, we would be waiting a long time. They were right! Although the plane was on time (amazing!) there was still a fair bit of milling about. Masha helped Cathe through security then we waited until we heard the planes engines start and it pulled away from the terminal. Cathe’s on her way to Almaty and home. Bill will be checking off the days until the kids can go home too.

Tonight our friends and family back in the states will be “Falling Back” while we stay on Central Asia +6 time (Kazakhstan stopped observing daylight saving time last year). For everyone in the Central time zone, we will be exactly 12 hours “out of sync.”

Parties and Gifts

Major events of the day: Waiting Period day 2 of 15, Travel Arrangements, Farewell Party & Gifts

Morning weather report: 35, feels like 27. Projected high: 38 with scattered drizzle (Sounds too much like winter in Seattle!)
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 48, heading back to 59 with light rain.

First thing this morning we headed over to the Air Astana office to buy Cathe’s ticket to Almaty. Their web site listed available flights tomorrow and 1 Nov (a day late for her KLM flight). Since they closed at 4 on Court Day and were closed yesterday, we had to wait to check in person. We purchased a ticket for tomorrow’s flight since all the others before Wednesday are booked. Hopefully we won’t have any trouble moving her KLM flight back to Memphis! Otherwise we’ll get back in scramble mode.

After leaving Air Astana, the next order of business was to buy supplies for Kate and David’s RBS Family Group farewell party. Masha (Activities Coordinator Extraordinaire) helped shuffle our schedule so that Cathe could be there for the party. Relying on her extensive knowledge of area shopping venues (how to find good quality at very reasonable prices), we headed to the big indoor Fresh Market for fruit, cakes (“without crème”) and to check out the adjoining meat market. It reminded Cathe of Detroit’s Farmers Market. Since we were buying quantities sufficient to entertain 25 ravenous kids, Masha negotiated with vendors to get the best prices for our bananas, oranges, and apples. She also made some great suggestions for cookies and cakes to have with the tea. It was entertaining to watch the transaction take place. “The cookie lady” wouldn’t sell us some particular cookies because there were some better ones which also happened to be “fresher and less expensive.” It was quite obvious that “The cookie lady” had her own favorites.

After depositing our finds in Sasha’s trunk, we headed back in to check out the other baked goods and meat and cheese selections. There were several vendors, but one in particular must have the “most booming business” since he had a huge section of floor space. There were tables arranged around a raised section of floor on which a big tree stump served as a chopping block. The butcher was more than happy to chop off some steaks or a huge roast. Although less sanitary in appearance to what we’re used to in the States, the cuts of meat looked fantastic. Passing on the fresh meats, we did end up with a great smoked Kielbasa. We’ll have to cook some for Cathe’s farewell lunch… While heading back to the apartment, we spotted a small car with a whole living room set on the roof. It was an interesting change from the more common array of similar cars with many 50 lb sacks of onions on their roofs.

Back at the apartment, we quickly washed fruit and prepared gifts for the Family Group. Sasha had helped pick out a DVD player that doubles as a Karaoke machine (we’ll have to watch for these in the states!) We also picked up a microphone and a few suitable movies. (It plays both NTSC and PAL format DVDs so we can send a few from the states as well). Just as we finished, Sasha and Masha were at the door to cart us back to the RBS along with our many treasures.

The party was superb! The staff music teacher was playing traditional Russian folk songs on his accordion as well as some very well done renditions of pop songs. Several of the older kids took the goodies to the kitchen area while we were treated to another quick tour of the facilities and dropped off gifts for several of the staff members. Soon we were back in the family room area which had been transformed for the event. We were treated to a series of poems, some in English, songs, and dances as well as a super Dombra (Kazakh guitar) and accordion serenade. Then we had an opportunity to say a few words to the group before presenting the gifts. It was a very bittersweet moment as everyone wished us safe travels and a good future. There are so many good kids there.

The oldest, a 17 year old boy, accepted our gifts on behalf of the entire group. First the DVD Player, which got many oooohs and ahhhhs! Then eyes widened when the microphone was presented. Then gasps as the Karaoke DVD and movies were presented.

We could see the anguish the children were going through, knowing they would have to wait until after the treats (which they wanted very badly!) were consumed before hooking up the DVD and giving it a go. The treats won the contest.

Kids are kids everywhere! You gotta love "Mr Orange Mouth!)






We were further amazed at how quickly the area was cleaned up and chairs and tables were returned to their proper places, transforming the party room back into the family room. The boys wasted not time in attaching the DVD and getting the Karaoke disk spinning. There were a few humorous attempts at singing as the kids bounced through available selections. Then they found one in English and passed the mike to Cathe, who responded in a sing-song voice, “I don’t know the words to this song, but hope you all have fun with it!” then passed the mike back. Everyone got a good laugh as Masha and several of the older children translated.

During the two hour party, both of our digital cameras were getting a workout. Between the two, we shot 1.5 Gig of movies and pictures, with a final tally of 355 snapshots. Thank goodness we don’t have to print all of them to enjoy the festivities! Everyone wanted to get into the action, helping give Kate and David a super day to remember! (No idea whose eyes these are, but it was one of the intersting shots awaiting us when we uploaded today's pictures)

To celebrate Cathe’s last night in Petropavlovsk, we went back to our favorite local Italian restaurant, The Venezia, with Suzanne and Hilton. Despite the cooler weather, there were many people strolling down Constitution Avenue. We wonder whether they do that once the snow starts falling… (Bill will have to take notes and let us know!) A quick stop at the Black Jack Café for coffee topped off another super day.

Happy Republic Day!

Major events of the day: Republic Day, Waiting Period day 1 of 15

Morning weather report: 33, feels like 29. Projected high: 49 Cloudy with scattered drizzle (that won’t be helping temperatures much!)
Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 48, heading to just 51 with light rain. Watering those fall flowerbeds!

Yesterday evening was spent reading all of the wonderful congratulatory e-mails from friends and family. In a very short time both of our electronic in-boxes were brimming with notes welcoming Kate and David to the family and circle of friends. We just wish that we had broadband instead of dial-up so we could quickly answer all of your notes! We just want to let all of you know how much we appreciate reading them.

After court the kids had to go back to school and we had a LOT of paperwork to sign. Cathe’s observed that the paperwork signing was almost like a house closing! We were signing Powers of Attorney, Birth Certificate Applications, Passport Applications, Visa Applications, certifying copies of our passports, and a few other things.

Since Svetlana’s train back to Pavlodar wasn’t until 8 pm, we headed over to the Black Jack Café for the best coffee we have had since leaving the states. Both Cathe’s Café Mocha and Bill’s Latte were primo. There is a pretty extensive list of different coffees to try, so we’ll just have to go back and work our way through the menu! We just hadn’t noticed how much we missed just stopping for a quick cup of coffee and thought of a comment from Cathe’s sister-in-law made after taking a trip from the Seattle area to visit Nashville… “They just don’t have enough coffee shops there!” Debbie, if you’re reading this and we suspect you are, you would have a VERY hard time finding a coffee house in Kazaskhstan! We also saw a brand new Hummer H3 parked in front of the Black Jack.

Then we went to a place right next door to the Black Jack, called the CMAK (Smack) store… Masha told us we could buy “prepared” foods there, so we immediately equated it to a place in the Memphis area called “Super Suppers.” You can go into Super Suppers and prepare a whole week’s worth the meals so all you have to do is pop them into the oven. CMAK is similar except that everything is already cooked, then placed in a refrigerated display case. We picked up a roasted chicken, some potatoes, some Golubtsy (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice), and some of the carrot and garlic salad we have come to like. We even bought a small pot pie that was recommended by Masha. Enough food for two feasts!

Suzanne and Hilton got our message about yesterday’s favorable court outcome and brought us flowers to celebrate. What great friends we have made through the Yahoo Groups and since arriving in Petropavlovsk! We only wish we could have rented a huge banquet hall so we could celebrate with all of our friends around the world who have been following our adoption quest.

The children were excited to see us today too. Since they did not have school, we arrived at the RBS a little before noon. Not one child was out at the gate or in the courtyard. (It was pretty chilly) But the second the car stopped, Kate came running out to greet us (she had been looking into the courtyard and had seen our car pull in). Once in side RBS Cathe leaned over to Kate and asked her “What is my name? Kate looked over at her and said “Mama?” Bill and Cathe looked over and said “Da!” Kate looked over and rapidly said to Masha “The court will allow Mama and Papa to be our parents?” and Masha smiled and said “Da!” Kate scurried to go find David which only took a couple minutes to round him up, who was playing soccer in the back 40 behind the orphanage. It was obvious by David’s expression Kate told him the good news. After a cold weather gear check we were on our way back to the apartment.

Kate, Cathe and Masha stayed at the apartment to answer a recent e-mail from her new friend Kate in Memphis while Bill and David went shopping for fresh bread and salad items to complete our family celebration lunch. David was very impressed that Bill quickly navigated his way around the Iceberg store then stopped in to see Sasha the Kabob Guy then over to see The Fruit Lady (we need to ask her name next time so we can add it to the list). David wanted to carry all the bags, but soon tired. He was amazed at what we accomplished in just a few minutes and all so close to the apartment. Too bad the great stores are all so far away in the states. It’s really nice to cover all the basic needs in such a short walking distance.

After lunch we walked over to Constitution Avenue to see if there were any special programs to honor the day. Nope. But there were some pretty banners and the tulip flags were back. Then we spied the Park through the now almost bare trees: the rides were running! Although we had just planned to walk the length of Constitution Avenue then go back to the apartment for a while to watch TV or a movie, we couldn’t resist the siren’s song and soon were standing in line to buy tickets for the motorbike ride for David and the “Roller Scooter” ride for Kate. We also had to try out the bumper cars again.



On the way back to the apartment we passed several small stands selling sunflower seeds. Each time, the kids tried, in their most pitiful voices, “Пожалуйста!” (pleeeeeese!). We resisted the pleas, knowing that there was cake awaiting our return to the apartment. It sure was hard turning down Kate, especially in a cute pose, but we resisted their pleas and our urge to give in!

We can see how much the children have opened up to us in such a short time. They are slowly letting their personalities and feelings out. We still have a long way to go, as the Judge reminded us yesterday, but we are definitely on the right road. Communication will be a little tough at first, but both are trying very hard and are picking up several words. As soon as they start meeting new friends, language will come quickly. They’re also letting us get to know little bits and pieces of their past, which will help us grow as a family.

Although we had a long visit today, the time was too short and went by quickly. The ride back to the RBS was mostly quiet. We could sense the children’s sadness at having to return, but know the days are numbered and soon they will not have to go back at the end of the day.

P.S. While dropping off the kids we saw Olivia and Julia who will be leaving for Almaty this weekend, en-route to their new forever family in Salt Lake City. Congratulations Guy and Deb and Family!

P.P.S. We have taken over 1400 pictures since arriving. Thank goodness we won’t have to print all of them!

P.P.P.S. That projected high of 49 was a bit over optimistic. We saw a few flurries mixed in with the occasional drizzle, so the actual high temperature was more likely 39 instead of 49…

A Favorable Decision

Major events of the day: Court Day! and a Favorable Decision!

Morning weather report: 35, feels like 27. Projected high: 42 with light rain in the morning. Temperature is predicted to drop a little through the morning so the light rain may instead be light flurries. There was also a very light dusting of snow and we saw ice on a mud puddle. It won’t be long before there’s no more rain, just snow!

Meanwhile back in Memphis: Overnight low of 48, heading to just 56. (Everyone back there must be freezing! 8-D)


News Flash: We just returned from court. The Judge rendered a favorable decision, making us the VERY proud parents of David and Kate. No waiver on the 15 day waiting period though.


We picked up the kids at 9 am. They were dressed up in their court outfits and were very excited! It was only a short trip, so we arrived at the court building a little early and waited in the lobby before being called upstairs to meet with the Judge. Then we waited a few more minutes in the hallway before the adults were all called into the Judge’s chambers. We started right on time with a full house: The Judge, Prosecutor, Recorder, Raisha (Dept of Guardianship Lady), Tatiana (RBS Social Worker), Svetlana (our Attorney), Masha (our Translator) and a pair of very nervous Americans. (David and Kate were probably even more nervous waiting in the secretary’s office)

We stood for a reading of our rights, which is very similar to the US list. Then the Judge asked Bill a LOT of questions about family, marriage stability, income, and then a couple curveballs based on military background as well as preparedness for the challenges of raising older children who come with a lot of background as well as how we will handle the challenges of language. The Judge also asked our opinion on the unfortunate cases of abuse of children adopted from Russia which led to suspension of adoptions from there. We both understand that it is her duty to protect children being adopted from future abuses to the fullest extent possible.

Then it was Cathe’s turn to stand and tell a little about herself as well as answer some of the same questions and some new ones. Cathe had not been asked quite as many. We were both on edge as we ran through her checklist of questions as well as a few from our application. If anyone had grimaced or said something, Cathe would have burst out in tears. Emotions were running high!

Tatiana gave a very passionate speech about the children and their background. She also told about the abuse and neglect they suffered before being placed in protective care. Next, she described their academic performance then finally how she has seen them change since coming to the RBS, and even more in the past three weeks we have been together. Her closing remark was a passionate positive endorsement on our application for adoption and a statement of how the judge would do a disservice to these children if she did not place them with our family.

Then Raisha (The D.o.G. Lady) spoke. She told about the legal process the children had gone through to be removed from their mother, and the process for termination of the mother’s parental rights. She also knew about the mother since they were from the same city. She gave a very strong favorable endorsement to our application.

Next, came the hard part. The children were individually called in to answer the Judge’s questions. Since both are over ten, the Judge wanted to make sure that they really do want to be part of our family, not just wanting to leave the orphanage. David went first. The Judge asked several questions to which he mostly responded “Да,” or “Нет.” Then the first curveball came his way when the Judge followed up one of his “Да” responses with today’s new addition to our Russian vocabulary, “Почему?” (Why?) Then came another curveball when she asked him if he wanted to be adopted into a family, “Да.” Followed up with, “This family? Or should we try to find you another one?” He quickly replied, “I don’t want another family. I want this one.” Everyone in the room could see his visible relief when the Judge told him he could go back to the other room and send in his sister.

Kate, our little talkative, part cherub, part banshee, Paparazzi-in-training timidly entered the room, got very nervous and had a hard time answering the Judge’s questions at first. The Judge asked Kate many of the same questions and threw the same curveballs as David. Kate did a little better with the “Почему?” follow-ups and explained that she wanted us to be her parents and that she wanted a family. The Judge asked if she understood that she will leave Kazakhstan and she probably won’t come back to visit or to live. Kate replied that she understood that she would go to the United States and its ok because that’s where her family lives. She was so nervous that the Judge momentarily paused asking more questions for a few minutes so Cathe could comfort her. After regaining composure, there were only a few more questions. If you look up the definition of “Scurry,” there would be a picture of Kate hustling out of the Judge’s chambers when dismissed.

After some very positive closing remarks we all shuffled out of the room to await the Judge’s decision. We did not have a chance to get a full group photo with the Judge since it was time for the kids to go back to school. We had been in the Judge’s chambers for almost an hour and a half.

Twenty minutes later, we were called back into the Judge’s chamber for the decision: Approved.
We are now their parents and after the fifteen day waiting period, they will be fully placed in our custody.

Greetings from Bill, Cathe, David and Kate!