We got some good news on Friday; the director gave us permission to take Elona out of the orphanage as long as we did not leave Sevastopol. So today was our first day. We picked her up at 2:00 and took the bus back to our city center. Before going back to the apartment, we went to the market; there were a few things that we needed like an onion, eggs and toilet paper. We also needed to pick up some slippers for her to wear at the apartment. The floors are tile and very cold. At first she did not understand, but soon she was trying on the sizes and choosing the color she liked.
Then it was back to the apartment. She was a little timid, like anyone when they enter someone else’s home. We showed her around; she happily noted that we had displayed the Valentine’s Card and the pipe cleaner ‘Elona’ that she had made us. I showed her the gym shoes and boots that I had bought her to wear to America (they fit fine by the way). When we mentioned the shoes for America, she wanted the Russian-English Dictionary and asked me ‘Soon’??? We got out the calendar and explained that the court date was the 10th, then the 10 days and no more orphanage on the 20th. A few more days, then Kiev, three more days and America. I think this really made it real to her, she was all smiles, and she kept repeating “10 and 20”.
We played a computer reading game and put together a wooden seahorse puzzle. Then we snacked on Aunt Cathy’s trail mix and played a couple games of UNO before it was time to take the bus back to the orphanage. As the three of us walked up that trash riddled street to the orphanage, she started repeating again…..”10 and 20”. It is such a great feeling to know that she is as sure about this decision as we are.
Tomorrow we will pick her up again for another visit at the apartment. We are planning to Skype Aunt Robbin and Ben in the morning. It will be exciting to see her reaction to talking live to someone over the computer. And Ben will meet his new sister for the first time.
Now I know what you are thinking, not another photo of the market, (in 10 days I will be able to put in photos of Elona). But these are jars of honey; some are beautifully fill
ed with layers of nuts and honey. I thought it would nice to try some, so I bought the smallest jar layers with almonds and pecans. After we go it home, Roger happens to think that honey is a raw food and maybe we shouldn’t eat it. So I would appreciate thoughts on that subject if anyone has any insight.
Also, we would again like to express our appreciation for all you followers; the emails, your comments and support really makes a difference. Thanks again.
Kelley and Roger
Then it was back to the apartment. She was a little timid, like anyone when they enter someone else’s home. We showed her around; she happily noted that we had displayed the Valentine’s Card and the pipe cleaner ‘Elona’ that she had made us. I showed her the gym shoes and boots that I had bought her to wear to America (they fit fine by the way). When we mentioned the shoes for America, she wanted the Russian-English Dictionary and asked me ‘Soon’??? We got out the calendar and explained that the court date was the 10th, then the 10 days and no more orphanage on the 20th. A few more days, then Kiev, three more days and America. I think this really made it real to her, she was all smiles, and she kept repeating “10 and 20”.
We played a computer reading game and put together a wooden seahorse puzzle. Then we snacked on Aunt Cathy’s trail mix and played a couple games of UNO before it was time to take the bus back to the orphanage. As the three of us walked up that trash riddled street to the orphanage, she started repeating again…..”10 and 20”. It is such a great feeling to know that she is as sure about this decision as we are.
Tomorrow we will pick her up again for another visit at the apartment. We are planning to Skype Aunt Robbin and Ben in the morning. It will be exciting to see her reaction to talking live to someone over the computer. And Ben will meet his new sister for the first time.
Now I know what you are thinking, not another photo of the market, (in 10 days I will be able to put in photos of Elona). But these are jars of honey; some are beautifully fill
ed with layers of nuts and honey. I thought it would nice to try some, so I bought the smallest jar layers with almonds and pecans. After we go it home, Roger happens to think that honey is a raw food and maybe we shouldn’t eat it. So I would appreciate thoughts on that subject if anyone has any insight.Also, we would again like to express our appreciation for all you followers; the emails, your comments and support really makes a difference. Thanks again.
Kelley and Roger
This all sounds great ..... "10 and 20" are just around the corner, and will go faster now that you can take day trips with Elona ..... we are off skiing next week, we will say high to all of Roger's friends at Pepi's for him ... Hurry back - Robbin is beginning to like sleeping with Alice better then me !
ReplyDeleteYes, Eat the honey it is the grestest. We actaully packed some and brought it home. If you would not mind packing some more and sending it our way I would be so greatful. :D
ReplyDeleteWE really miss the food in Ukraine. I am so excited that she is understanding that soon she will be with you guys forever in America. This is great news. Wait till she sees Angella.
I am glad that Lybov finally said yes. That is great. Tell her the Nealey's say hello. She will probably crap her pants if she knows that you know of us. Small world. I wish she would let you guys meet the others. Sad for them. Sounds like all new girls.
Enjoy your weekend. I know you are.
Blessings,
Gail