We woke up Friday morning knowing that we had 2 new Lawrys in the house! It was really exciting for dad and I, but I did not want to be overly excited because of the many losses associated with their name changes. Both of them were a bit reserved, but a change was obvious - especially their desire for affection....no problem there!
Viktor, Natasha, and I left at 7am to get the court decree and to start on the numerous parts of paperwork that need to happen post-adoption. We traveled all over rural countryside -- beautiful. We even got to find the children’s childhood home. Viktor had not been there in 8 years, but could find his house and places he used to play.
We picked up Tanya (who had been giving Grampie a tour of the Hortista Island -- a Cossack stronghold at one time) in mid afternoon to complete the paperwork. We did not finish until nearly 7pm. It was a LONG, LONG day, that included some heartache, trials, and joys. Come to think of it, most days are like that!
We enjoyed a celebration dinner with Grampie (he treated!) at a nice restaurant with authentic Ukrainian food. He loved the Borsch and the various things he sampled. We had to hurry back to get him off to Kiev (all night Taxi).
Dad was only here for a few days, but I think his coming helped the bonding process quite a bit - especially with Viktor. Having him come was a blessing to all of us. Especially me -- it was really hard with Rachel and Anna leaving. Moral support was needed. Sleeping next to him is not as good as next to my wife, but it was good to have him here. The kids love him!
Hopefully we can leave for Kiev early / mid next week!
Viktor, Natasha, and I left at 7am to get the court decree and to start on the numerous parts of paperwork that need to happen post-adoption. We traveled all over rural countryside -- beautiful. We even got to find the children’s childhood home. Viktor had not been there in 8 years, but could find his house and places he used to play.
We picked up Tanya (who had been giving Grampie a tour of the Hortista Island -- a Cossack stronghold at one time) in mid afternoon to complete the paperwork. We did not finish until nearly 7pm. It was a LONG, LONG day, that included some heartache, trials, and joys. Come to think of it, most days are like that!
We enjoyed a celebration dinner with Grampie (he treated!) at a nice restaurant with authentic Ukrainian food. He loved the Borsch and the various things he sampled. We had to hurry back to get him off to Kiev (all night Taxi).
Dad was only here for a few days, but I think his coming helped the bonding process quite a bit - especially with Viktor. Having him come was a blessing to all of us. Especially me -- it was really hard with Rachel and Anna leaving. Moral support was needed. Sleeping next to him is not as good as next to my wife, but it was good to have him here. The kids love him!
Hopefully we can leave for Kiev early / mid next week!