Almost Home

This is not Deb it is me Jeremy the other half. Just to let you all know here flight will land it Toronto on Saturday Sept. 4 at 1:20 pm Transareo Moscow to Toronto Terminal 3. Just to let you all know I get her first. Then you can have her. I can not wait to see them both I came home way to early. See you all there

Paka Paka!

Gee mom I wanna go, back to Ontario, Gee mom I wanna go hooommmeee...

Paka paka means 'bye-bye' in Russian... yes, that's right, we're coming home! So, bye-bye Karaganda, bye-bye Kazakhstan, bye-bye Tsum and internet cafe, bye-bye City Mall, bye-bye Green Bazaar (by the way, that place is huge - much bigger than I had realized), bye-bye apartment... bye-bye - Ontario here I come! I've had the time of my life, but now it's time to go home!

My flight details:

Transaero Flight UN517, Moscow to Toronto, arriving Pearson Terminal 3, 1:15 PM Toronto. Just so everyone knows, anyone and everyone is invited to greet us... but remember, we will have just been travelling for 14 hours in the air, with a 2.5 hour lay over in Moscow, and up at 2:30, 3:00 IN THE MORNING Karaganda time to meet our ride at 3:30... so don't except either of us to be in an overly socialable mood. There will be lots of time for that later!

There is one plus about the new apartment... well, there are lots of pluses, with the only minus being the extra stairs... but it actually has air-conditionally, and it has gotten HOT the last couple of days, with the hottest day being today. Boy, am I looking forward to being back at the apartment, where it is cool... But first, I have to manage my way on a very HOT bus...

Anyways, this will most likely be my last post before heading home, so here's the world traveller signing off... see you all on the flip side!!

Moving Day...

Yes, it seems after two months of being in the second-best apartment, we are finally being moved into the one upstairs. I’m not too happy, and I’d just as soon stay where we are (at least it has less stairs to climb), but since the one we’re in is not owned by our co-ordinator, and the one that is was vacated last night, move we must. We’ll see how it goes...

The good news is, the paperwork is in Moscow this morning to be processed. Normally, it’s a one day process, but we won’t know for sure until today or tomorrow. Hopefully, all goes well and we are on the plane on Saturday.

We have another tooth! It popped through the gums the other day, and now I can see the tiniest bit of white pushing it way up! And, I sure can feel them when his sticks my finger is his mouth... good thing the gums cushion it on top. Then again, since I can see the shape of the top ones in the gums, I’m sure it won’t be long for those ones too.

Happy Birthday Gramma!!

Yes, today is my mother's birthday - Happy Birthday! (and I hope you enjoy the picture!)

What can I say except I am getting really bored - and definitely ready to come home! I can say that I have enjoyed my time here - at least for the most part - and I am enjoying the time with my son. But, damn it - I want my own home, my own house! The best it looks like is Saturday, Sept 4th - which isn't so bad, I suppose, barely a week away, but that's assuming everything goes wuickly in Moscow! If it doesn't, I could be stuck here for a few more days even yet!

Last night, we went to the park about a ten minute walk from the apartment, with a fountain and a path to walk. I just let him crawl around the centre, surrounding the fountain - and he had a great time! When I went to put him back in the stroller, he cried. He wanted to keep going. At least he's happy...

The Fires of Moscow...

Yes, if you have been following world news, you may have heard about the fires in Moscow. As a result, some of the staff in the Canadian Embassy there - the people I need to process his VISA application - were sent home. To Canada. I have been told they should hopefully be returning this week, and that they will process the application, "...as quickly as possible". What should normally be a same day service - and then back to me - well, let's just say we have to wait and see how long it takes. Hopefully, not too long...

The weather here is the craziest weather I have ever known! It is hot, hot, hot - like 30,40 degrees - for a few days, then it's cold, cold, cold - I mean fall cold, wear a jacket cold - and wet. It rains for five minutes, but the water on the ground hangs around. It is so crazy. (As you can imagine, it was hot over the weekend, and now today I had to pull out pants and a jacket).

It is funny, how now I am meeting lots of new people. On Saturday, I approached a couple of young girls who were speaking english, and ended up going out for lunch yesterday with a couple ladies from the states. It was a good lunch, and nice to get out with new people. Also, it doesn't hurt since Marie-Dominique will be leaving for Almaty and then to France in two days. Anyways, just now, I was approahed by a couple because I was speaking english to Lucas, inviting me to their cultural and language studies school. Very cool! It almost makes me not want to go home... but not quite.

And, so people out there know, I am still having problems sending from my yahoo account. I had to use Jer's gmail account to e-mail about the VISA stuff - I may have to set up my own gmail account...

An Evening In The Park...

The past few nights, Marie-Dominique and I having been taking the kids to the park, where we enjoy the music and sights of the park, as well as a walk around the mini-lake. Well, last night, we took the kids again – but this time, we let them play around on the ground. Not the cleanest thing, and I was a little hesitant at first – but then I said, what the heck, a dirty kid is a happy kid! (plus, I made sure to wash his hands before he started sticking them in his mouth again.) And boy, did they have a great time! I think they just enjoyed being out the confines of the strollers and able to explore more freely. Anyways, enjoy the pictures! And, if you notice, there was a nice long bench – which I am very happy to say Lucas was walking up and down, on his own! I wasn’t ever very far, but still. He was actually strolling up and down the bench – it was great to watch.

Not sure when I will be home - still working on figuring out if the office in Moscow is actually open, with everything going on over there. Sent an e-mail today - should know soon.

Good News/Bad News...

Well, the VERY GOOD news is that the passport is in. Hurray! The very bad news is that apparently before it can be sent to Moscow, it has to go to Astana (capital city about 2 hours by car) with some more paperwork, for some stamp, so it won't be sent to Moscow until Monday. Which means it looks like I will not make my flight on the 28th. Boo hoo! But, as my husband said - I have my little boy, and that's what really matters. The other good thing about this is that we are bonding, and he is doing so well. I am keeping my fingers crossed about adjusting at home, but I think he'll be okay. It's actualy adjusting him to the new time zone I am more concerned about, and getting him back into some sort of routine like we have here - feeding, sleeping, formula, naps. But, oh how I look forward to showing him the park and river by our house! It will be so nice to be able to just walk out my front door, without having to take a 25-minute bus ride to the park!

I still can't believe how unbeliveably well he is doing! He's doing better than me! Well, not quite - but I sure do enjoy my morning naps! ;)

And, we have tooth! There is no doubt this time! I was rubbing oral gel on his gums the other night, and I very distinctly felt the rough edge of the top of his bottom front tooth popping through the gums. It's not quite there yet - I can't actually see white - but I can see a difference in his gums there, it is cutting through the gums from underneeth. No wonder they start to whine when they're teething - those new teeth are sharp!

Hope to see you all soon!

A Day In The Life Of...

Okay, so I have hot water back - hurray! And the passport information has been sent and is on its way! I just hope its back in time to get it on the train for Thursday, Friday this week - or I will not make my Aug 28th flight! And that would suck...

Things are going good, though we have had a few moments - including an hour and half the other night at midnight. It was not fun! But I am apparently still getting off easy, as the other mom who just took her baby last week is having a bit of a rough time. All I can say is thank goodness for Baby Einstien! At 1:00 in the morning, it was the only thing that would calm him down.

Last night, we had some difficulties getting to sleep. I let him cry for a few minutes, then he fell alseep - then woke up twice within the next half hour. So I finally took him and rocked him - and he loved it! He's not that much of a cuddler - he was at first, but now he wants to being moving more and has no time for that. But last night, he practically fell asleep in my arms. So I put him back in his bed and he fell asleep - for good this time. I just wish I had a rocker so I could have rocked him more. I think there might be some teething issues happening - but they still refuse to pop out! Ah well, they will in time!

Diane, that reminds me of our wedding - our minister used the same line (and song) to describe the new adventure we were beginning together. And, I have been trying to respond to your e-mail, but for some reason yahoo won't let me "send". I have it in my drafts and will send as soon as it lets me.

Hot water anyone?

Okay, as if I wasn't getting homesick enough, now there's no hot water in the apartment! The apartment leaves a lot to be desired (we are in the second floor apartment, next to Marina's husband) - needs a little bit of remodelling and new tiles in the bathroom floor (there currently are none directly around the toilet), but at least there was hot water - which is more than can be said about the other apartment apparently. But no, this morning was the second day without hot water. It's been out a couple times before - an hour here, a morning there, but this morning I had to take a less-than-warm shower. And, if it doesn't come back on soon, poor Lucas is in for a shock when I have to give him a bath. Ah well - with any luck, two weeks and two days and we'll be on our way home!

Yes, he seems to be a content little boy - except when mommy is out of sight. No, I don't just leave him - but I can wash my hands in the washroom and still see him playing in the living room, and he doesn't like that! He's taken to following me across the apartment, all the while whining. Of course, we always seem to get stopped by the stroller - we much check everything new and different along the way...

My Little Angel

Okay, so now that he is with me, and the orphanage has the paperwork, I can tell you what a little angel he is! All those horror stories about bringing home kids from the orphanage - well, I pretty much have the complete opposite. He is so good - he sleeps when he's supposed to sleep, eating like a little piggy (I think he's going to eat us out of house and home, and he's barely a year old...) and just overall doing well. In fact, right now, he is here with me, in a high chair, and he is quite contented, just looking around. After years of feeling like the most unluckiest person in the world, I can't help but ask myself how I got so lucky wiht my little angel!s!

And, just in case there is any doubt, he knows who mommy is - and he knows how to get what he wants! I said he's an angel, but he can be rather impatient - when he wakes up, he must have food, and when it's time for bottle (formula), he lets me know - and whines until he gets it. Then, when his tummy is full and he's had a good nap, he is all smiles, laughing and giggling away at me. It is too cute!

Yes, I miss home, but I am definitely feeling better, and able to do more. It is a little constricting, to have to adhere to nap times and feeding schedules, but alas, that is motherhood, and I love every minute of it.

And yes, the paperwork did come in yesterday. It was a little touch and go there for a minute, since there was an inspection at the orphanage, but in the end, the paperwork got there and all is well.

Hope to see you all soon!

Best wishes from home...

I am going to cry, with all the best wishes! I know that I am not so good at responding to everyone individually, but please know that it gives me strength to feel everyone's love and support. It gets me through what can otherwise be a very boring - and sometimes lonely - time. I know that I have the baby, and as good as he is - he is amazing, my little angel! - he can't carry a conversation. But know that I am finally feeling better! The 6 am wake up calls are still a little rough - but nap time helps, that's for sure.

As for Wasaga... I've been thinking I would love to bring him to the annual end-of-year bash, but I am not so sure. I am not worried about him adjusting to Canada - he'll be fine - and believe me when I say he is well-adjusted and bonded to me now, but I am concerned about switching that internal clock over to Toronto time. We'll just have to wait and see how it goes. Can't wait to being him home to everyone!

Tommorrow, tommorrow, tommorrow... I get that little piece of paper that says he's ours! Believe me when I say, I can not wait! Everyday our bond grows stronger, and I know that he is mine, but it will be nice to make it "official" with that piece of paper!

What God has brought together, let no Man tear apart.

The Point of No Return...

So, it is here - today is The Point of No Return. If anyone wants to claim my baby, they must do so by 6 pm Karaganda time (8 am Toronto time) - otherwise he is ours! Since it is the weekend, I will get the paperwork saying just that on Monday - then begins yet another process of paperwork to bring him home. Who said we live in a paperless society??? I think we have single handely killed more trees through this process than I have in my entire life!! (of course, it was all using recycled paper...)

Sorry I have been a little too busy - and yet again sick - to write. I swear I have been sick five out of the seven weeks I've been here - if not more! Anyone coming behind me, DO NOT hesitate to bring antibiotics with you - beg your doctor if you have to, because you are going to need them. Don't be like me, and think - oh, it's okay, I'll load up on vitamins and my body can handle it. WRONG! The bugs here are probably only microscopically different, but that's enough to give your body a beating! And you don't want to be sick when you're trying to look after a baby that wakes you up at 6 am every morning. Besides, trust me when I say it's better to have the right medication from home, rather then having to trust the quality here. Not saying there's anything wrong with it here - but we are right next door to China...

Since I am not legally allowed to have custody until I recieve the adoption paperwork on Monday, there is no way that I have him with me in the apartment. Nope, no way. And yet, for some reason, I have a 6 am wake up call every morning...

The good news/bad news is that my co-ordinator said, we get the adoption paperwork on Monday, apply for the passport, get that in ten business days, send the immigration paperwork to Moscow and back to us... back to us on August 29th. For those paying attention, my flight is currently booked for August 28th. Huummm.... So now I am asking all of you out there to please say a prayer for us, and hope that we get that paperwork back just that little bit sooner... like the 27th, because mommy really needs to get her butt back home! I'm actually doing a lot better than I have been, but still, it will be nice to be home again.

See you all then!

Happy Birthday to Lucas!!

Okay, so I'm a day late... but still! And when a certain little mister passes his illness on to his mother, she's not up for much internet time...

The celebration was quiet and subdued - and slightly diminished by the fact that some of the families headed for home on Friday night and will be back in a month for their baby. I suppose I am lucky I have the option to be able to stay - even if I have to send my hubby home.

It was rather cute today, because the little guy who's parents headed home to Texas was crawling around the floor and started crying about something, so I picked him up to consoul him (daddy had Lucas) - and boy, did I get a look from Mr. Lucas! It was like, hey - what's he doing in your arms? So then I had to put him down and grab my little munchkin. It was just too funny! I guess he really does know who mommy is!

Attached are some pictures from his birthday yesterday, and our celebration toast the other night - enjoy!

A mommy without a baby...

Don't worry, nothing happened - and that's the problem. He is still in the orphanage, and I had to come home to the apartment to see an empty crib, waiting for my baby. Don't know when he will be "ours" for real...

This morning, he was very lethargic, and sucky - the doctor said he had a fever, and he was obviously not well. At 2:00, when we came back, he was much better - playing and all. But, then, at about 3:30, he suddenly felt very hot again and he had a fever, so the doctor is keeping an eye on him tonight, and we'll see how he is then.

And... Celebration! Five of the six families went out last night for a little celebration dinner - and had a shot of cherry juice and vodka in honour of the occasion - and I liked it! It was a good time.

Pictures...

BEST DAY EVER!!!

Yes, the court agreed to allow us, "...to adopt the child, Ruslan Yrchevsky, to register us as his parents, to give him the family name of Slater, and the first name of Luscas Ruslan." (Ruslan will be his middle name)

So... intorducing, Lucas Slater! Born July 24, 2009... which means, we have been made his parents just in time for his first birthday! We still have to wait through the appeal period before the adoption decree will be finialized, but will be dated today. So, excepting the reappearance of the disappearing mother, he is our son!

That was the saddest part of the whole thing - the number of times I heard, `the child was abandoned and has been at the orphanage since September, 2009.`I was like - no, his mother did not abandon him, his mother is right here! And I suppose now that is true!! Yippee!

And there are some pictures to satisfy the masses...

Stand by me... again!

Yes, he sure does love to stand! He's not quite ready for walking or even taking steps, but he wants to stand! The other day, he figured out how to get his one leg out from under him to get half-standing on his own - but today, he pulled himself all the way up! Of course, mommy (or daddy) is never far away, because he is not too steady on those legs - yet. I know it won't be long...

And... we do have teeth! Okay, so they haven't broke through yet, but I know they are there, and that hand seems to have permanently found his mouth... and this morning, he was Mr. Cranky Pants - I think because his teeth were bothering him. At lunchtime, I took our translater to get some baby oralgel - and bought a second one to leave in the room for the other babies.

I am not even sure how to describe it, but he definitely knows we are his parents now. The past few days, he has just been a completely different baby - he is more vocal, more responsive, more excited to see us, and when he bumped his head, he was definitely milking us for attention, even after the pain was obviously gone. Mostly, he has been very quiet, almost subdued - but very observant and aware of what's going on around him - but not so much anymore. He wants to be moving and exploring more now - with a few hugs and kisses from mommy and daddy to recharge his energy. Even the care giver yesterday said, he knows you are the parents. What a feeling!

Stand By Me...

Well, maybe I was jumping the gun a little bit on the whole crusin' thing... but he sure does love to stand! That's all he wants to do - and today, he spent almost twenty minutes standing up against the high chair, just watching it. Of course, once he saw the other baby being adopted at the stool, he wanted over there too - but he stood there for another five minutes or so before he got cranky. He's definitely starting to understand there's more to explore than he realized - and is wanting to explore more. It's... I don't know how to explain it, but he's just not interested in moving around yet - at least not standing. I know I said he seemed to be interested yesterday, but today - no interest whatsoever, and when I tried to make him do steps over to the stool, he got grumpy with me, he just wanted to be at the stool, forget the work to get over there! It will come in time though, I know. He is still very much Mr. Observant - especially around new and different people and places, but he gets over it remarkably quickly. Can't wait to get him home to meet all you guys!

Jer is sick again, with some sort of stomach bug going around (I had it a couple weeks ago, and it's being going around the parents, older siblings and even some of the caregivers ever since - knock on wood, I've had my bout...). Anyways, since he's at home regaining his strength (he's getting better, but feeling a little weak since there is nothing left in his tummy), I am staggin' it again. But it looks like I am going to have to get used to it, since Jer is going to have to go home early afterall. Should be fun though - me and two other mothers will be sticking around, so it looks like more parties and get togethers in the park! At least at some point we will be able to take the babies with us.

Uh oh, I think we're in trouble!

Not in a bad way - in that, now he's starting to want to move kind-of-way! The past few days, he has really been enjoying just standing and leaning up against one of the walkers. Well, today, he was trying to like move around and got frustrated when I had to move him because he was going to fall in between the two walkers. And he was quite upset when he was put on the floor instead of standing. I've never quite seen him like that - he wanted to be standing! I think he's going to be cruisin' soon!

The good news is, I think that I way have found a solution to the flight home - or at least for part of the time. Jer has been putting on music from the computer on for the babies - and the other day, we put on Baby Einstein for a few minutes - and he was mesmorized! It might just keep him occupied - if only for a few minutes...

Party at Tony & Cindy's!

Okay, so besides us and another woman from France working with our co-ordinator here, there are three American couples who are also in the process of adopting. Well, yesterday, we went to the park in the afternoon (wish I could have taken our little one with us, but alas, just a little more patience...) and we saw two of the other couples in the park, and we all ended up back at the apartment of one of the couples for a few drinks and dinner! It felt just like home... almost. We miss everyone! But are glad to have made a few friends along the way.

We have teeth! We were getting a little concerned that he doesn't yet have teeth, though we knew it would come. The past couple of days, we have noticed that he seems to be sticking stuff in his mouth all the time, whereas he used to just hold onto it in his hand. Well, we decided to see if we could feel something coming... and we found what we believe to be the begginnings of his first tooth! Hooray for small miracles! It's amazing how small steps can mean so much!

Yesterday, I decided to try out his carrier for the first time - and he seemed to be okay in it - but don't stop moving! The other day, he wasn't too fond of his stroller - but today he did alright. He even cried the other day, but today he actually started to look around - but again, must be in motion to make baby happy!

Music lessons!

This afternoon, daddy brought out the computer and put on some tunes. Mr. B quite enjoyed just chilling in our arms and listening to the music - and it calmed down the rest of the babies in the room too. Even the caregivers were bopping to Bon Jovi (yes, after a little G&R, Jeremy actually put on some of my music)! Daddy says tommorrow we will have to try some Ozzy...

All is well, though every day I am getting more anxious to move on from the orphanage - but it could be along wait yet, as our court date has been scheduled for July 22nd - another 12 sleeps until then!

Okay, this may sound a little rude, but I have to say - can that baby make some gas! I feel rumbles in his bottom - even get a good whif - but it's only gas! Except for once, I haven't seen a dirty diaper - he must be leaving it for the caregivers - but man can he give gas! It's actually quite hilarious, as sometimes it's two or three good ones in a row - but no dirty diaper! I think I'm more shocked about that than anything!

Hope all is well at home - hopefully we will all join you soon!

Musical Cribs!

Yesterday, while we were on our way outside, one of the babies in our room was taken to the next group in line - and when we came back, the pirate was gone too, and there were five new babies in the room! The new babies are babies - not more than 8 months old, I would say. It is sad to think about how much of an assembly line they have going, with new babies coming and going all the time. It is sad - but it is better than no care at all. And now, along with the other baby being adopted out of our room (the couple from Texas started their bonding the same day as us), our little man is now the oldest one in the room - and one of two that is actually mobile! I think if we weren't here, it would have been his turn to be "moved up" a room as well!

Yes, we are having the time of our lives - but I am most definitely ready to bring my baby home! Patience, yes - I am taking it one day at a time - but looking forward to having him all to myself!

The meeting with the lawyer went fine, and I have already prepared our speech for court - now all we ave to do is memorize it! Oh joy! But all will be okay!

Birthday hugs to miss Molly - I hope those horses didn't leave too much of a mess behind...

Couple of sardines in a moving can...

Call Guiness - I think we have the record of the most people on a bus! Don't know what Mexico is like, but just when you think you can't get any more on the bus, they manage to squeeze a few more on... just glad we were one of the lucky ones with a seat! Not sure what the problem is, but I think it was a combination of being a holiday, so less buses, with more people out and about shopping, and a little bit of rain. There are two kinds of buses - "big" buses, which is your standard North American size; and "small" buses, which are a little bit more than a mini van - but not by much. We were on one of those - with about 40-50 others! Maybe not that much, but the standers were definitely getting up close and personal with their neighbours!

Our meeting with the lawyer got cancelled for today - will be tommorrow, but in true Kazakh style, we might get details at 8:30 tonight...

Okay, okay, I will say it - I had a moment of missing the dog today. We had chicken for dinner, and, as I was disposing of the bones, I had to stop myself as I thought, "Got to make sure the dog doesn't get into the garbage with these in it...". Funny the things you miss...

Mr Banana Head? Mr Giggles? He loves to laugh at daddy making faces at him! He has the cutest laugh and the sweetest smile!

More of the same... can't wait to break Mr. Banana Head out! I want to take him for walks along the river at home and through the park with the dog... but I can wait. For those who know me well, you know that I am not known for my patience, but surprisingly, I am taking it all in stride. All good things come to those who wait... and my turn has finally come!

Craziness on the bus!

It happens everywhere... there was a little bit of entertainment on our bus ride here, as there was an older gentlemen who had had perhaps one too many adult beverages and we making some young girls very uncomfortable. And of course, he had no many left for bus fare - and although it was in Russian, I could easily understand the message from the ticket taker - give me 30 tenge (Kaz currency) or get off the bus. Well, needless to say, he got off at the next bus stop. It was quite comical, actually.

Okay, so I have to say it - I AM GETTING BORED GOING TO THE ORPHANAGE! I of course love every minute with my Banana Head, but enough already! I am done the bonding, let me take him home already! But alas, I respect the process and know that it is only a matter of time before he is ours for real.

Yes, we are in Stepnoy - but of course, the smaller apartment, which is not as nice. But at least we have hot water - which is more than can be said about the apartment by the orphanage. And yes, having a cook is quite a delight! Unfortunately, I think that I could get very used to it... (But with all due respect, I have to say we all agree the cook at the other apartment is much better - we go there for lunch. I guess it depends on your taste buds...)

As for some tantalizing hints... we have been told by several of the parents adopting here that he will quite nicely pass as our biological child... It's kind of ironic that way, because with the five or so families that are here right now, we can pretty much say the same thing about all of us. It seems as though the children are finding the perfect match in terms of parents - and so too are the parents!

Crazy couple of days...

Let's start at the end - this afternoon, the baby was seen by the Canadian immigration doctor, for his medical clearance. It was fine, no big deal really - however, he absolutely screamed when the doctor took him! But, then he was given back to daddy and he stopped crying almost immediately! And then, he smiled and laughed at mommy - amazing what 14 days of bonding does! We have no clue what he will be like outside of the orphanage, but if this is any indication, he will NOT be fond of strangers - so all of you out there eager to make friends with him will have to give him some time.

And, speaking of bonding, three cheers to the last day of bonding! Yes, today was day 14 of 14 of bonding. Now we can apply to the court and make it official! Hip, hip, hooray!

Sasha and Ola go home - it is funny how during your two weeks in the room, you get to know the other kids in the room too. There's "Pirate", a little guy who is only happy when he's got toys in hand - and will crawl or roll his way across the room to take it from someone else if he has to! Then, there's these two screamers, who have their cribs next to our little guy - who scream as soon as they are in the crib and when we go in the room to grab our little guy. There's also the three littlest ones - who include the smallest of all in the room, the cutest little girl - that don't get out of the oversized playpen much because of their size. There was also a set of twins - Sasha and Ola - who we were told were just waiting for their new Belgian parents to come back after the appeal period to pick them up. Well, they left yesterday! It breaks my heart to think of the babies being left in the orphanage without homes, so I am glad to know they at least have a new home - I want all the babies to find good homes!

And I love Kazakhstan! We moved into our apartment on Friday night, which includes prepared meals. Well, after eating, I started throwing up as soon as I ate - well the cook must have got wind of my beign sick, because the next day for lunch, the cook brought me some rice - for my tummy! How cool is that? Awesome!

Finally, yesterday, we had to visit the social worker here. Not that it was not a big deal - because it was - but after the 12 hours we spent with our social worker, it was a piece of cake! Then again, I am sure they had a (Russian) copy of the report she did, so all is good.

PS Uncle Bryan - happy belated birthday! Hope it was good!

Let the paperwork begin...

Okay, lots to say...

First, sorry about yesterday - yesterday was pay day and I was having technical difficulty getting into our on-line banking, so the blog took a back seat. But, we got it sorted out in the end.

Second: NOTE: We will be moving into our apartment either tommorrow afternoon or Saturday morning, and we may not be on-line as often, so bare with us while we sort things out.

Third: I say, "Let the paperwork begin..." because we spent at least an hour signing our lives away at the notary's office, giving authority to our co-ordinator, her assistant and our lawyer to take care of everything for us. Our last official day of bonding is Sunday, then we can apply to the court to actually go ahead with the adoption. We meet with the lawyer on Tuesday to discuss details - don't know when court will be.

I also want to say thank you again for all the comments - even if we are unable to take the time to respond to each one individually, we are making sure to read every one and appreciate the support.

I said the other day that he didn't like his carrots - well, yesterday, he literally gagged and threw them back up on daddy! So, no more carrots - at least for now... maybe once he's with us in the apartment and can try real mushed carrots, instead of the jarred stuff.

Today, he was a little out of sorts. It is hot and muggy - sticky and stuffy in the room, and a few of the kids were a little over heated. He got what we called "baby gateraide" - some kind of salt water mix, and that seemed to help. He wasn't the only one, but he seemed to be doing much better.

Hope everyone is enjoying all the Canada Day celebrations - watch a few fireworks for us! I should have brought a Canada flag!

PS - Miss Molly, congrats - and make sure your very special birthday guests eat all our grass for us... it will save daddy from having to mow it!

Oh yah, Jeremy says now that he has found coffee, he is jonesin' for a North American vehicle - enough of this European crap! (sorry mate!)

Feeling better??

The antibiotics - whatever they are - seem to be clearing up whatever is affecting us, though Jer is still trying to get back to normal. But Jer is very happy, since he found some Necafe instant coffee - he has been having withdrawl symptoms...

Not too much to report today - pretty much the same routine. But I did give him some carrots this afternoon - and, well... let's just say that was an x-nay on the carrots. I told him him all about Cessna (the beagle at home, for those who might not know...) and explained to him while she may steal his food, he is not allowed to feed her carrots while mommy's not looking! Unfortunately, since she likes carrots and the baby doesn't, I think this might be a problem...

After taking him outside this afternoon, he started falling asleep in my lap. But he won't let himself - he's just not there yet. And I can't rock him long enough right now because it's too hard on my back without a glider. But, he did get himself quite comfortable. Maybe just a little more time...

But the best part of my day today was going shopping for some clothes! (Don't worry - I didn't buy too much, just some shorts and a couple pairs of pants to last us until we get home. As for size - I can't really say because I'm still guessing myself, plus the fact that he still has two months of growing before we bring him home. And, also, he's still not "ours" yet, so let's not jump the gun - OKAY NANA?)

As for name (and pictures), he is not ours so we are not allowed to give out that information, so "Mr Banana Head" will have to do for now. Patience please - all in good time!

Technical Difficulties

Due to technical difficulties (ie the power being out at the internet cafe), I was unable to post yesterday. But I'm back!

Yesterday, daddy was feeling not so well, and this morning, I had to go to the orphanage on my own because he was so sick. Another mother in the room with us (a couple adopting a little boy in his group, who are from Texas) had streph on Saturday, so I assuming he has the same thing. So, at lunchtime today, I brought our translator with me to the pharmacy to get some antibiotics. Normally, I would NEVER think of taking antibiotics without seeing a doctor, but since we are talking about streph - and even if he's not that serious, it's got to be the same bug, it's too much of a coincidence - there was little choice. I have no idea what they gave me - here's hoping it works! The worst part is, now I'm not feeling so hot. Good thing I got an extra pack of medicine for me! I actually got it in my system before him, and I think it is working - but man, am I wiped! It was a chore to drag myself to the internet cafe this evening.

We have settled into a bit of a routine with the baby - we (well, just me today) feed him, play with him for a little bit and get him moving, then take him outside and play and cuddle for a bit back inside before it's time to go. He was the same today. And I have no idea if he noticed daddy was missing - but he sure was saying "da da da da" this afternoon! Considering it's the only audible noise he makes, it's hard to say what that means.

Mr. Smiles

Yes, "Mr. Serious" has slowly become Mr. Smiles! This morning, when I went and got him from his crib, he was full of smiles for me - and even more as I changed his diaper! Though admittedly, the serious face returned as soon as we took him outside - but not quite as serious. I just can't believe how far he's come along - in only a matter of days! I am really pleased with how well he is doing.

And what a difference even a day makes - this morning, when I put him down on the floor to crawl around, before I knew it, he had taken off and was half way across the room! I think we're in trouble...

He loves to stand, too. He doesn't want to sit - he just wants to stand! He loves to stand tall and look around. And, once he's had enough, he just likes to chill in our lap and look around.

Tommorrow is going to suck! On Sundays, we only get to go into the baby house in the morning, instead of morning and afternoon. It will give us a chance to do things like laundry - but I'd rather be with the baby!

Mr. Cuddles

Today was a much better day. He has thing where he doesn't want to work - crawl, sit, stand - and he gets easily overwhelmed. This morning, mostly he just wanted to be held. Which is fine with me, because I, of course, love every minute of it. But my back can't take it! He loves to rock, but I can only do it for so long because I have to either walk around or rock him in a chair with no back. I think my first investment when we get back home is in a glider - not a rocker, but a glider. I am already picturing many nights, rocking him to sleep...

He does this thing where he will crawl one or two steps and then start rocking himself back and forth. This is a sign of... well, I'm not entirely sure, but I know it's a sign of some sort of stress, and he has taught himself self-soothing by rocking himself. He also tends to do this as soon as we put him in the crib - but since we have been cuddling him, the self-soothing seems to be slowing down a little. And, this afternoon, when he started rocking when he was supposed to be crawling, I was on the floor next to him and started rubbing his back. This seemed to help - and the next thing I knew, he was half way across the room! He seems to be a lot more adventuress and more confident since we have been working with him.

He's still not sure of being outside, since he's been outside more in the past few days than his entire life before that, but we kept him in our arms and he seemed a lot more comfortable being outside than he was even yesterday. Small strides, but huge gains.

As for the "name game", his name has already been decided and given to the appropriate people - and no, we are not saying what it is yet. Again, we are only on day 5 of our bonding, which is only the first step in a long line of paperwork and process.

Glad everyone is okay

Hey all - just heard about the earthquake. I am hoping everyone is okay. Thinking of you all - but if the worst thing is Jer losing a couple planes, it's all good - though I don't think he'll feel that way when we get home...

This morning, when we went into the room with all the crips to get him, there was most definitely a gleam of recognition - and his face actually seemed to brighten! And when daddy played with him while changing his diaper, he was full of smiles! He is definitely getting used to us.

This afternoon didn't go as well. We took him outside - and since he's been outside more times in the past few days than he has in his entire life, he is still unsure about being in a strange environment. Also, we have been making him work (crawling, standing - which, by the way, he loves, sitting) and I think he was feeling a little overwhelmed. All he wanted to do was roll around in the walker, like he used to. I didn't let him stay in there for long - he needs to get used to us.

That being said, I can already see a difference in him. He is crawling a lot further and exploring more, instead of just studying us. We even managed to get him to sit on his own - instead of leaning back on us like he would in the walker, even if it was only for a short time.

This "saying good-bye" at the end of the day is even harder then I ever imagined! I was in tears when we got back to the apartment - I just want my baby! But, all good things come to those who wait. I've waited this long, I can wait a few more weeks...

I should also say, as hard as it is, I know that he is getting excellent care and being well taken care of - just not as well as I would like, and he certainly isn't getting the one-on-one he needs. But, soon!

Sad Mommy & Mr. Banana Head

First, I would like to say that I am having the time of my life! I miss home, but I am enjoying every minute of this expereince of a lifetime while it lasts. But, the worst part of my day right now is 4:00, when I have to say good-bye and I am reminded that he is not yet officially ours. But the best part is going to bed, knowing that I will wake up and get to see my baby again - and I am one day closer to bringing him home!

Mr. Banana Head is 11 months old, so he will be celebrating his first birthday before we bring him home. I am hoping we will be able to bring him back with us to the apartment before then, but we'll see. It's hard to say how long all the paperwork will take.

And I say Mr. Banana Head because, upon the recomendation of the doctor yesterday, we brought him some baby food bananas - and he loved them! At first, he was unsure of what it was - but he was quickly opening his mouth as wide as he could, looking for more. I think tomorrow we must bring the video camera to get his reaction on tape!

What a difference a day makes! I said he is 11 months - but he is definitely behind where he should be. This is a product of being premature and his environment - but I remember a certain oldest nephew walking at 11 months, and this kid barely crawls! Then again, the only mobility he's really known is in the old-style walkers (think execer-saucer with wheels), and hasn't had the opportunity to learn any different. We've been getting him moving though, and he's definitely coming along already - yesterday we couldn't get him to stand on his feet, but today - just 24 hours later - he was standing, and loving it! I can see it won't take much. Who knows - with any luck, he may just be walking by the time we bring him home!

And, Uncle Dave, Jeremy says that he is not that pathetic of a Gordon fan - but he is rather fond of his birthday...

Mr. Serious

This baby definitely means business! He has such a serious expression all the time - and he is definitely alert and aware of his surroundings. Today, when trying to feed him, he was a typical curious little boy, more interested in what was going on around him than eating his breakfast! He looks around and takes in his surroundings before he does anything - all with a serious face! But daddy did some "airplanes" in the air with him and he finally started smiling.

This afternoon, we met the little girl we were originally supposed to see - and quickly sent her back. We then met with the doctor about our little guy, and all seems well. We thought he was a little small for his age - which the doctor confirmed - but we also found out he was born premature, which would explain it. It also explains why he's not nearly as mobile as we might otherwise expect for his age, but that's also a symptom of being in the orphanage. But once we start working with him, he will be a-okay! And make him work we did! We played the "toy out of reach game" and he fell for it every time!

We fed him and changed his diaper today - diapers we had to provide. Even daddy changed a diaper this afternoon - and yes, I have pictures to prove it! Of course, we'll see what happens when it's a poopy diaper! And, for all you males out there - REAL MEN CHANGE DIAPERS!

I have to say it is heart-breaking watching the other babies, as they are literally tied to their potty after feeding. It's even harder to think of my own baby when mommy's not there! Hopefully, they will have find homes someday soon!

ANd good news on the weather front - the last two days have cooled down considerably and have been comfortable to sleep! Awesome!

Baby House, Day 1

Okay, so here's the deal - before we left, we were told we were going to see a seven-month old little girl. But, we were later told she had a heart condition - so we knew it was a no-go on her.

When we arrived on Friday, we were told we would being seeing the little girl, and a second child - a little boy. So, today, after three hours of waiting outside the Department of Education for our letter of permission to enter the baby house, we met with the little boy. And yes, it looks like we will be accepting him - but we still have to see the little girl tommorrow and go over his medical file (we've been told that he is in the "normal" range, though I can already see that he is a little developmentally behind where we would imagine he should be, though that will change as soon as we can start working with him.)

At this point, we are not going to give any more details, since he he is still a long way from being officially "ours". Give us until the 14-day bonding period is over and the judge puts his stamp of approval on it. I know, I know - you all want pictures - but we haven't even officially said "yes" yet, so patience please.

What I will say is - what an emtional experience! First of all, for whatever reason, I thought the baby I was being handed was the little girl, so I didn't want to get too attached, since I knew we were saying no. Second, he was a little out of sorts about being around these strangers, he scremed as soon as he was in my arms - and had a sourpuss face the whole time, even once he settled down. I think he was tired. But, by the end, I tucked him into his crip for his nap and gave him a kiss goodbye. At one point, he even tucked into daddy's chest.

And, I wanted to let you all know - I apologize if I don't respond to the comments individually. Please believe me when I say, the connection is so painfully slow here, it takes 20 minutes just to get started! But know that we are reading every comment and appreciate all the support.

A walk in the park...

Today, we were taken on a small tour of the city with a student studying english translation. Her english was actually quite good and we went through Karaganda's "Central Park". Unfortunately, we had to cut it a little short because it was so HOT!!! I am talking 30 degrees + (35, 37 the past two days) and it's only June! Supposedly, it will get hotter...

And, small world - as we are sitting here at the internet cafe, there are four American couples who are also adopting sitting behind us... don't know if we are at the same orphanage, but we will find out tomorrow.

Hope everyone is enjoying father's day!

Deb

We have arrived!!

Hello all!

Right now, we are in an internet cafe, in Karagandy, Kazakhstan, enjoying lunch - while you are all sound asleep (or at least I hope so, since it is 4am in Toronto...).

We arrived last night in Karagandy, and for now are in a hotel room. - which is very hot!! The hotel is nice, but there is no AC, and it is hot!

We were told by our co-ordinator that since today is a holiday here, we will not be going to the orphanage until Monday, when there will be two different children we will be seeing. For today, we are being escorted around by Natasha, our co-ordinator's daughter, and we will going downtown with two women who need "language practice" tommorrow. We were taken to a mall across from our hotel which will be perfect to buy food and baby clothes once we choose our child.

Hope all is well back home!!

Welcome!!

Welcome to the Slater blog, Kazakhstan 2010!

Here, we will do our very best to keep everybody updated and informed on our journey to parenthood. Check often - but also keep in mind we will be 10 hours ahead of Toronto time. And who knows how great our internet access will be!

See you on the flip side!!