tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84033051086945548632024-03-05T17:58:54.289-08:00Growing With GraceAmber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.comBlogger138125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-29856566682530951132012-04-04T09:10:00.000-07:002012-04-04T09:10:35.998-07:00I promise we haven't fallen off the face of the earth.You are probably aware that we have been BUSY. <br />
Almost daily I think of things I want/need to blog and try to figure out when I will get a chance to do so. Time Management and I are still getting acquainted. <br />
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Having four children isn't necessarily that difficult. It's not hard to care for four children (sometimes seven if the neices and nephew are here), physically. Other than taking a few minutes to feed, dress, bathe, squeeze each of them, it's not that hard.<br />
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However... my brain is MAXED OUT on all the other stuff: TEIS (and cleaning the house for TEIS), Vanderbilt for AG<em> and</em> Cale, IEP meetings, painting cabinets, re-listing the house, egg hunts, church functions, and Easter baskets, Easter clothes, dance, recital, baseball sign-ups, cooking club, clothes swap, gym, birthday dinners, Thank You notes, work, taking photos, editing photos, Girl Scouts, major autism tantrums, recovering from major autism tantrums ... and that's our two weeks. <br />
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In the middle of all that, we have managed to squeeze in some really sweet moments :)<br />
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Anna Gray felt grass for the very first time. EVER.<br />
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I thought it would be sensory over-load, but she loved it!<br />
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She has learned to reach- usually for us (she even wraps her little chubby arms around our neck and gives kisses!). She hasn't quite developed her pincer grasp- she's using more of a sweep-n-scoop movement, but it often results in something sticking to her hand. She doesn't always know what to do with it when she has it, but she'll get there!<br />
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For extra practice, I gave her a spoon covered in brownie batter. If anything was going to inspire <em>me</em> to practice picking something up and taking it to my mouth, it would be a spoon covered in brownie batter!<br />
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I'm not sure she really put two-and-two together, but we sure had fun trying!<br />
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Almost every night, Cale asks for "Anna Gray time". I'm not sure which of them enjoys it more. <br />
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Here we all are (Layla took the picture) in our blue and yellow for World Down Syndrome Day on 3/21. I saw Anna Gray's picture on probably 100 FB profiles- you guys were spreading awareness all.over.the.world. How cool is that?!<br />
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Saturday, AG had her first Easter egg hunt. And by "hunt", I of course mean Olivia carried her around for a few minutes while AG screamed for a bottle and then we gave up, but not before sitting her on the ground with an egg in front of her for an obligatory picture... but more on that later ;)<br />
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She was grumpy the whole time we were at my grandmother's. <br />
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She was super tired from all the running around without a proper nap and I have just about decided she is not a fan of the whole pass-the-baby-around-to-a-bunch-of-people-she-doesn't-know-game. Who would be, right? But the second we got home, she was sweet as can be! Even though she was still hungry and tired, she was all smiles!<br />
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Her favorite way to sit (is it bad that I want to stunt her so she stays just like this forever and ever?):<br />
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She should be starting physical therapy in the next week or two, still not exactly sure what that's going to look like. She has appointments with the opthamologist and audiologist coming up as well. Pretty sure her vision is great and fairly confident in her hearing, but we will double check to be sure. She is starting to either recognize her name or our voices- I'm not sure which, but she looks up!<br />
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Again, thank you all so much for reading our story (or at least the very beginning of our story!). We have been home six weeks tomorrow and we have literally not gone ANYWHERE in public that we have not been recognized. Even several towns over in the most random places. I can't believe our little AG reached so many people! We learned so much from this experience, and I'm so glad we decided to share it. That being said, I think it's about time that I swap back over to the family blog. There are still things I have been wanting to put over there, but I felt like I needed to update here first. I will continue to blog the ups and downs and all the fun of being us! We would love for you to continue to follow our story at <a href="http://www.growingwests.blogspot.com/">Growing Wests</a> :)<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">THANKS FOR READING!! </div><div style="text-align: center;">ANNA GRAY LOVES YOU ALL!</div><div style="text-align: center;">(Her daddy loves a girl in overalls!)</div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-56237235220653518932012-03-17T20:48:00.000-07:002012-03-17T20:48:08.306-07:00Quick update!Things have been a *little* hectic this week between the last minute doctor visits and Spring break. I suppose this is my new life :)<br />
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Wanted to take just a sec to update you on all Anna Gray's appointments this week...<br />
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Thursday was a long day, as expected. We saw six different doctors, but it did go rather smoothly. I was preparing to be overwhelmed with the process an all the info thrown my way, but it really wasn't that bad! I think maybe because I had been thru basically the exact same thing with Cale. Actually, we even saw some of the same doctors that we see with him, which was nice. <br />
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Thursday mostly involved questions and a few "let's see what she can do" moments. She seems to be developmentally similar to a 5-6 month old; which, according to them, is typical for a 12 month old with DS. If so, that means she isn't any more delayed because she spent the first 364 days of her life in an orphanage. Either way, she's doing really well. She's made a lot of progress since coming home already and even more in the last few days :)<br />
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Together, we've decided right now to focus on building core strength, signing, and lots of oral goals (like drinking water from a cup- which she did last night for the first time!).<br />
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I missed a call (cough, or two, cough) from TEIS while we were in other appointments. They will send someone out soon to assess her and see what therapies they can offer her. We'll go from there...<br />
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Friday was cardiology. I really didn't know what to expect- they just said "consult". Within minutes, they had her stripped down and were sticking electrodes all over my screaming baby. From there into a dark room, where they mentioned they needed her to go to sleep. She had slept the whole hour drive out there, so that wasn't happening. She laid pretty still though and soon Dr.D came in to tell us both the EKG and echo were perfect! No more visits needed :)<br />
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She was a trooper thru it all! I was SO proud of her!!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-36898317242313406162012-03-14T22:12:00.000-07:002012-03-14T22:12:07.429-07:00Bits and pieces.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There is still a lot going on. Too much to determine what our new normal is going to look like. I keep waiting for the honeymoon to end. I am not intentionally trying to paint a rosey picture of what post-adoption life looks like. I'm grateful that it's been relatively painless for us, but I don't want you to think that either 1) it's always this easy or 2) I'm not being truly honest. I am. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I think a LOT has to do with the fact that AG is so young. Babies are so much more flexible. I'm sure a whole new life is confusing to her, but she isn't going to show that in the same way some of the older kids are. Also, again, her orphanage was so good to her. Having someone show her positive attention and LOVE, isn't that strange for her. I do think that's playing a huge role here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here are a few bits and pieces of her new life:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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Sorry for the craptastic picture, but it was such a sweet moment! She started out sitting up, facing him. She was crying and crying and squirming and squirming (so tired!) and he would NOT let us take her. He just kept patting her back until she fell asleep and then held her for another 20 mins after that :)<br />
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Anna Gray went to the park for the first time! We're park people. It was a beautiful day and there was no way we were staying indoors! We had a picnic and played forever. I <em>think</em> she liked the swing? No strong reaction - again, SO tired- and then she fell asleep in the sling (that's SLING, not swing).<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_eZaVekiCmpctdw5RTJQovWO6aiLoQPiJf1xsCalhGRCCbyNddi1FU9VhiKbPJLzguwtlohyyzC74oIXi1OOeyvZAMkBf96yTG2vfMLlpnoP531PrDaD3cMEKcWie8A7qSjDd2LhNvs/s1600/2012-03-13+08.13.03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ_eZaVekiCmpctdw5RTJQovWO6aiLoQPiJf1xsCalhGRCCbyNddi1FU9VhiKbPJLzguwtlohyyzC74oIXi1OOeyvZAMkBf96yTG2vfMLlpnoP531PrDaD3cMEKcWie8A7qSjDd2LhNvs/s320/2012-03-13+08.13.03.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Apparently, she was fussing while I was in the shower so the kids brought her every stuffed animal they could find and then Layla recorded herself singing an "opera lullaby" on her DS and left it for her. It was very... um, pretty... and it played over and over and over until I got out lol :) It really was sweet of them though.<br />
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When we got home yesterday, there was a package on the backdoor from our sweet friends with a note that said "time to teach little sister who to root for!"<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LtMrQtB11wbonkFj12trxMM9k44uuJSE-vlBrdbwHDN33LfrtWF_cTJvHOm-opQvXKQsp6Bpy_ZPNK0lXS9v-UJc2R6ly98jDs5buBwx9iO-mCRq1S0_cp8Xnrhyphenhyphenw-cnSUVhMCs6sOA/s1600/DSC_0085f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5LtMrQtB11wbonkFj12trxMM9k44uuJSE-vlBrdbwHDN33LfrtWF_cTJvHOm-opQvXKQsp6Bpy_ZPNK0lXS9v-UJc2R6ly98jDs5buBwx9iO-mCRq1S0_cp8Xnrhyphenhyphenw-cnSUVhMCs6sOA/s320/DSC_0085f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div> Shirts for all four! GO VOLS!<br />
Thank you D family, they love them!<br />
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One more thing: <br />
I don't know what the grace period is on Thank You notes. Whatever it is, please double it ;)Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-14617316692867044882012-03-14T20:17:00.001-07:002012-03-14T20:24:10.381-07:00Q & AWe have been asked a LOT of questions over these last few weeks. I tried to make a list, but I may have missed a few. These are a little all over the place, but I wanted to answer them the best I could. <br />
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<strong><em>What did you like most/least about Ukraine?</em></strong><br />
There wasn't really anything I didn't like about Ukraine specifically. It's just different! It is not an easy country to adopt from and there were definitely some frustrations throughout the process, but the country and the people were very interesting and I loved the experience over-all. Living in a foreign country and being there alone was tough. Really tough. But that would be true anywhere that I didn't speak the language and wasn't familiar with the customs, foods, etc. I will (do?) miss it. Ukraine is such a huge part of our life now. It's my daughter's country, so I hold it dear to my heart and feel sort of protective of it in a way. <br />
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<strong><em>What do you wish you had taken with you?</em></strong><br />
More food. More entertainment. Really. You need to pack as light as possible, you WILL be carrying *everything* you bring up and down a bajillion flights of stairs, every time you move (five times for me), on planes, on trains, in cars. You want to have a little as possible for those reasons. I took books and tons of movies, but still... there is SO much down time. And we went thru our snacks rather quickly. Lots of eat and run moments or sometimes you need something to hold you over for a while. Other than sweets and fruit, you can't buy many snacky items in the stores, in my experience. Granola bars, trail mix, etc really came in handy a few times and I wish we'd had more of it. <br />
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<strong><em>What did you take that you didn't need?</em></strong><br />
We took towels, linens, and a blanket- none of which we needed. There were plenty provided for us. I sent some of my clothes home with Nathan. It's not fun to wear the same 2-3 things over and over again, but it's worth it to have more room in your bag for all the "extras". We also took converters, extension cords, power strips, duct tape, zip ties, ziplock bags and other odds and ends and used EVERY one of them. Also, we only packed travel size toiletries to get us there, bought what we needed in country and then left it there. Toiletries take up too much space! I left a huge bag of stuff (mostly clothes) behind that I didn't need/have room for on the trip home. At that point, as long as AG and I got home, I didn't care about anything else. Even our coats stayed behind!<br />
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<strong><em>Are you involved in any kind of support group?</em></strong><br />
In a word, yes. I participate in several online forums for adoptive parents, parents who adopted from Ukraine, and parents who adopted thru Reece's Rainbow. We were also welcomed with open arms into a support group for parents of children with DS in middle TN. We have already met several of the other families in person (from one group or another) and have plans to meet many more in the near future. Already, these groups have been invaluable when it comes to asking our own questions and learning others' experiences.<br />
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<em><strong>What therapies does/will Anna Gray receive?</strong></em><br />
We have just started getting the ball rolling to figure out what specifically she would benefit from. Actually, there was a cancellation at the Down Syndrome Clinic at Vandy and we will be spending tomorrow there starting bright and early. While we are there, she will be seen by a geneticist, a physical therapist, an occupational therapist, nutritionist, speech therapist, and behaviorist all in one day. It's gonna be a long one! And overwhelming, I'm sure. We will see how each initial assesment goes and go from there. Friday, she has her cardio consult. We are still waiting to hear back from TEIS (early intervention). <br />
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<strong><em>What were your total fees and were you fully-funded?</em></strong><br />
Our total fees ended up being about $22-23K and no, we were not fully funded.<br />
We spent $7K of our own money up front. We fundraised our butts off , picked up extra shifts, and re-organized our budget to raise another $5K. We ended up getting a loan for the remaining $10K. THEN, while in country when we needed help getting home (and in gifts since then), you guys stepped up in a crazy loving way and provided another $4K+. We now only have a little more than $5K left to pay on our adoption loan. And let me just go on the record and say SHE'S WORTH IT!<br />
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<em><strong>How long did it take?</strong></em><br />
You can see the details on bottom right of the blog, but basically it was 7 months almost to the day from the day we officially committed to her to our appointment at the DAP. We were home exactly six weeks later :)<br />
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I know there are more and I plan to do a part 2. I need to get in bed so I can survive tomorrow, but please continue to send your questions. We don't mind answering them at all :)<br />
Also, some fun posts coming soon :) I promise I'm trying to catch up! It turns out, having four kids doesn't leave a whole lot of extra time for blogging! Hang in there, friends!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-16424198276339252202012-03-09T14:58:00.001-08:002012-03-09T15:00:08.217-08:00First doctor appointment...<em>Shew</em>. Gotta start somewhere, right?!<br />
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I took our favorite little buddy with me for extra hands.<br />
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He was a dream, but his hands were busy taking 38 pictures of Dr.K (I counted.) and 12 that all look like this:<br />
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He got a few others too :)<br />
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<em>Basically</em>, she's healthy.<br />
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18 lb 14 oz (not as much as we thought!) and 29" long.<br />
That puts her in the 15th percentile on the typical chart but <strong>90th</strong> percentile on the DS chart!<br />
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<br />
He gave us something to clear up her eyes and something for the reflux (we barely discussed it, but since she puked all over his room, he caught on pretty quickly). We are going to keep her on the Similac Sensitive for now- with a thickener- and then transition her to stage 2 formulas when her stomach stabilizes and she is able to get some vitamins and nutrients from more table foods. <br />
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The stressful part always comes in having ZERO medical history. The only thing we have is a shot record in cyrillic and we don't know for sure how accurate it is (The same doctor that told me she was walking and talking and eating vegetables, told me she was up-to-date on her vaccinations. She may be, we just don't know). <br />
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We were also given conflicting information about her heart. The orphanage doctor said no concern, her records say cardio myopathy (which could be anything, really). So... we are going to the cardiologist and an echo has been ordered so we can be sure. <br />
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We also have a referral for Tennessee Early Intervention Services (TEIS) and the Down Syndrome Clinic at Vanderbilt. The two combined will eventually provide the other services she needs: physical therapy, occupational therapy, and feeding/speech therapy as of right now. <br />
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Because she is so big (and a few other reasons), Dr.K felt we needed to check her for Hypothyroidism (common in people with DS). He is also checking her blood count since leukemia is also prevelent in children with DS. Add those into the other lab work we needed to have a better picture of her health and previous treatment PLUS vaccinations that she most likely did not get in Ukraine PLUS what would normally be given at 12 mos. Poor baby was poked all over the place :(<br />
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Even worse, her tiny little veins and big chubby arms made it VERY difficult to draw blood. Over 20 minutes of digging with a needle in both arms. Even the nurses were getting upset having to torture this poor baby. It was just awful!<br />
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But they finally got out just enough to run the tests. Hopefully, we start getting all the phone calls necessary soon and get the ball rolling to make her the very best Anna Gray she can be :)Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-88783613774797587072012-03-07T14:25:00.001-08:002012-03-07T14:28:47.641-08:00Brynn<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMAEtQ7vxGjyOERMo8YNPF5k1AFPcq9cWnjkvLKU5mJgM156bjryKzRA-glpKZKWxSRL8Dq31xuff97nDIj29bpoirwqgJuvM3HhkmPRGsvR_NVQfH9YKH20MQoAlDgH07gttEck6cOE/s1600/DSC_0051f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjMAEtQ7vxGjyOERMo8YNPF5k1AFPcq9cWnjkvLKU5mJgM156bjryKzRA-glpKZKWxSRL8Dq31xuff97nDIj29bpoirwqgJuvM3HhkmPRGsvR_NVQfH9YKH20MQoAlDgH07gttEck6cOE/s320/DSC_0051f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
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Brynn (age 5) has been <em>amazing</em> with Anna Gray. She is very sweet and loving, there hasn't been any jealousy or anything negative. But it's very clear that Anna Gray's adoption has brought up a lot of feelings about her own. <br />
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We have always spoken very openly and casually to the twins about their adoption. Brynn has asked several questions over the last couple of years and we have answered honestly and age-appropriately. (Cale- who falls somewhere on the higher functioning end of the autism spectrum- rarely acknowledges that he is adopted and either doesn't know how he feels about it or hasn't shared.) It's not something we talk about ALL the time. Our family may be made differently than some, but we are still just a family. It isn't a big part of our every day life.<br />
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Until Anna Gray got home. <br />
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Brynn has had a lot to say. I asked her specifically about AG's adoption and she said she loves having her baby sister home, even though she is kind of angry I was gone so long to get her. Understandable. She seems to understand where Anna Gray came from, about the orphanage, and why we adopted her. She wants her in <em>our</em> family. She says only good things about the baby being adopted, but nearly every day Brynn says something about wanting to be with her own birth family. She wants her whole family together (including us). She tells me she misses her birthmommy because she hasn't seen her since she was born. At first, she said she wanted to go live with her but now she says she just wants to see her for a minute or see her picture. She wants to tell her that she loves her. She gets jealous when we are out and see families, especially black families, where everyone looks the same. She wants more brown skin, more hair like hers, someone else who has to be oiled and can wear beads.<br />
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Every time she talks to me about it, I tell her it's okay to feel that way. I would be sad too. I've never been adopted so I can't even pretend to imagine what she feels. But I can listen. I can hug her tight. I can allow her to feel whatever <em>she</em> wants to feel about it, good bad or ugly. We make sure she know's it's okay for her to ask the questions she needs to and whatever else she needs to express.<br />
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I am more and more grateful that she has built-in support in Cale. Having a twin means that not only is she not alone as an adoptee, but she is not alone in being a black child raised by white parents. In addition to her brother, we hang out with a lot of adoptive families and several of them are transracial. We use to have contact with two of her biological siblings who were adopted by the same family. Now that we are home and getting settled, we plan on reaching out to them again. Hopefully, all four kids will have the chance for a relationship. None of that replaces being with her biological family permanently, but hopefully in time, it will provide an extra place for her to share her feelings and gain a different perspective. <br />
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Please pray for our sweet girl. I don't want to wish away her feelings, she deserves to have them. I don't need it to be easier for me. I just need her heart to be comforted when she is sad or angry or confused. We need God to provide the right words to answer her questions. She is happy! She has made it very clear that she loves being in this family, but there are a lot of emotions that come with that... and that's okay :)Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-86014842538687521202012-03-07T09:42:00.000-08:002012-03-07T09:42:22.927-08:00Meet Anna Gray Day!What a day! And it already feels like a million years ago.<br />
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The morning started out with some real drama.... what the heck was little girl going to wear for her big day?!<br />
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I ordered an outift that didn't arrive in time. I had another made that I <em>thought</em> was too big. I went on a wild goose chase to find something <strike> appropriate</strike> flawless, but we ended up putting her in a smocked outfit we already had. It was sweet on her, but the outfit I had made ended up fitting her great and would have been perfect. Kicking myself!<br />
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All of that to explain why we were so late to our own party :)<br />
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Not the Big Party... but before the Big Party, we were having a small birthday celebration with just our family. Partly because her birthday didn't get celebrated in the traditional sense while in Ukraine, but partly so that they could each have a little time to meet her before the masses arrived. <br />
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We sang 'Happy Birthday' to Anna Gray and she had her first cupcake! She was SO tired, so we didn't know if she'd be up for trying...<br />
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One taste of pink lemonade icing and she was hooked!!<br />
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<em>After the cupcake pics, I set my camera down to greet some friends. I didn't move for two hours. Literally. Thus... no pics of her meeting all of you :( If you took some, please share!</em><br />
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We finished up just as the next batch of guests started arriving and just as Anna Gray fell asleep. <br />
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She slept thru most of it, but around 130 people came to see her over a three hour period :)<br />
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It was obviously a long, exhausting day for her (and us), but it was nice to get it all done in one time and place. We were so proud to introduce her to everyone who helped bring her home! And I was thrilled to see all my people again!<br />
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Thank you all for coming to see Anna Gray, for your welcome home hugs, and for making me bring less than 100 of my cupcakes back home with me! Thank you to Deda, Ba, and Sasha for putting together a lovely party in honor of our sweet girl!<br />
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We traded around a couple kids for the night and got everyone home in one piece. Nathan, Leslie, and I waited until all the littles were fast asleep and then opened (and oohed and aahed!) over each gift with a glass of wine :)<br />
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It was SUCH a good day and we are so happy to be home to celebrate it!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-29102896053025625582012-03-04T18:30:00.000-08:002012-03-04T18:30:48.259-08:00We're still here :)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBN10hfVNzbVhYQ7dbt1n2oXRr-2u0rggNoAYYfKc6Brz_jiN-dpS-mFHYbQzm-q3FhSZUs1RbZFLaJ9k0wU-VCjF-XHAkcgAL_kOLLjoXSGnm-wjNuC6_qq7ZWTvejF5BG7chjHkk2c/s1600/DSC_0035f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitBN10hfVNzbVhYQ7dbt1n2oXRr-2u0rggNoAYYfKc6Brz_jiN-dpS-mFHYbQzm-q3FhSZUs1RbZFLaJ9k0wU-VCjF-XHAkcgAL_kOLLjoXSGnm-wjNuC6_qq7ZWTvejF5BG7chjHkk2c/s320/DSC_0035f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
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I am being chastized (kidding) for disappearing so abruptly! It was not intentional, I assure you. Who knew we would be so busy when we got home!? Oh, right... everyone but me. <br />
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I have started this post three different times now and never get around to finishing it! I think a lazy (mom of four who needs to cook dinner and has a ton of clothes to put away kind of lazy) Sunday evening may actually allow it. <br />
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Things are going great :) She is *slightly* adored by everyone in this house.<br />
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I think Anna Gray and I are finally functioning on the same time zone as everyone else. Yesterday was Meet Anna Gray Day and we are all pooped (separate post on that coming at some point). (I mean the party, not poop). <br />
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We've had LOTS of firsts in the last week!<br />
I had to get everyone dressed and out the door on time by myself for the first time.... CHAOS, but we were only 5 min late. Anna Gray had her first trip to Walmart ( should I be embarrassed that I just documented that?).<br />
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Either Grocery-Grabber (Brynn) or Cart-Driver (Cale) actually got a pic while playing on my phone (it was also the first time I used her new cute diaper bag). <br />
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Welcome to Tennessee, little girl.<br />
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She had her first pancake (loved it). I went back to work for the first (and second) time. My first time to leave her, which means it was Nathan's first time with all four kids by himself. I <em>may</em> have gotten a "How do you do this?!" text. Or two. <br />
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AG met Oakley for the first time. Neither of them were too impressed.<br />
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She had her first (second, third, and fourth) walks around the neighborhood in the stroller, also a new favorite.<br />
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For Meet Anna Gray Day she had her first birthday party with her first cupcake and met most of her family/friends for the first time!<br />
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She also went to church for the first time today! We purposefully showed up late to miss some of the music. We were afraid it would be too loud for her. It wasn't, she danced the whole time. She babbled and raspberried her way thru the service with lots of snuggles from her church family afterward.<br />
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The plan is to post here until the newness has worn off and we are pretty well adjusted. Then I will start posting exclusively on<a href="http://www.growingwests.blogspot.com/"> our family blog</a>. Feel free to continue following us! I will leave this blog up so that it is available for those with interest or questions about adoption. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdf0VOR552u0zBdmd7tHDSdAtzZxoVM8va8NgzZfh4QpKrx-8bhOtnxqPkOG0WnAnAcjEaC4HCfrvLvNsgqdoq7YKbkC2o36KI_RLS3xCL2tFGWb9xL9dqKUfTrQjVOqoTITvuvVwbUrg/s1600/DSC_0102f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdf0VOR552u0zBdmd7tHDSdAtzZxoVM8va8NgzZfh4QpKrx-8bhOtnxqPkOG0WnAnAcjEaC4HCfrvLvNsgqdoq7YKbkC2o36KI_RLS3xCL2tFGWb9xL9dqKUfTrQjVOqoTITvuvVwbUrg/s320/DSC_0102f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
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Speaking of... I have gotten lots of questions about all kinds of stuff! I am working on Q&A post now to answer them. If you have any questions about adoption, Ukraine, Down Syndrome, Anna Gray, our family, Reece's Rainbow - anything!- comment here, FB, or email me in the next few days and I will do my best to answer them in the upcoming post :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosTR8VLatECuQ63YX1Dcn4QrhTrBM-y6Jmi9TcLGUh4bBfxD10BIrbL-I-bpqDQ-bhBaqyUupzU_fQwnj8UXNbGp212UWRsy44QLoIqNm4OiH8MTouzucGXAVkR4XskQDGipjNpkoXWw/s1600/DSC_0107f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjosTR8VLatECuQ63YX1Dcn4QrhTrBM-y6Jmi9TcLGUh4bBfxD10BIrbL-I-bpqDQ-bhBaqyUupzU_fQwnj8UXNbGp212UWRsy44QLoIqNm4OiH8MTouzucGXAVkR4XskQDGipjNpkoXWw/s320/DSC_0107f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-53752300671850028032012-02-27T17:09:00.000-08:002012-02-27T17:09:43.871-08:00What day is it?Thank you all for the sweet congratulations! You continuously make me blush :)<br />
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And THANK YOU for understanding our need to hunker down for a while and establish attachment. It's <em>such</em> an important part of this process.<br />
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I remember a few days into our orphanage visits seeing the way she looked at me, thinking "She loves me! She knows I'm her mama!". And then I saw her look at every other person who held her the same way. She's sweet as pie, but this little girl has no idea what a Mama and Daddy are. We have to teach her, to show her. In order to do that, we have start with the basics including holding her, feeding her, changing her, bathing her and minimizing confusion.<br />
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We're still baby-mooning!<br />
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I keep thinking the excitement will wear off or it will get harder at some point. <br />
It's only been four days, but I'm still waiting....<br />
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Don't get me wrong, we are All-American sitcom over here. Tripping over a toy while trying to make dinner and answer the phone while answering homework questions over a screaming baby. Just the way it's supposed to be! <br />
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<em>So far</em>, the hardest part has been adjusting to the time difference. AG and I have woken up between 3-4am every day, ready to party. The first couple of days, she mostly slept to get caught up. I didn't have that luxury of course, so I'm struggling to keep my eyes open by dinner time. <br />
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The last couple of days she's had MUCH longer periods of wakefulness and we sort of started easing our way into a schedule (maybe?). <br />
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She's eating <em>great</em>. She transitioned from Ukrainian formula to American Similac quite easily and hasn't had a problem with any of the bottles we're using (Still spitting up though...). She's eating mostly baby food, with a few other soft options (yogurt, applesauce, oatmeal) thrown in. She even had her first taste of ice cream last night! That's been the only thing that she didn't mind being cold (EVERYTHING else has to be warm or she is not happy!).<br />
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<em>Update: She actually ate some bananas at room temperature this afternoon! That's a first :)</em><br />
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Layla is holding on tight to her "Best Big Sister Ever" title. She has to because Brynn is giving her a run for her money. Their roles have actually surprised me! When Layla is into it, she's all over Anna Gray. She coos and sings and kisses. But the rest of the time, she's doing her own thing. If AG starts crying when Layla is holding her, she'll typically offer to give her up. <br />
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Not Brynn. No matter who has her, Brynn constantly says, "Just give her to me." Screaming or not. She wants to do everything for her! Brynn is our wild child, so I've been a little surprised by her desire to just sit and hold her. She has been so, so precious with her though. She asked me why AG doesn't look like "us". I wasn't sure which "us" she meant, but she said none of us. A little bit like Sissy, but not. Before I could answer she said, "We are all different and God put us all together in a family! That's cool. I like that." She also told me she wants to teach Annie to "feak Fanish like Dora" haha<br />
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<br />
We knew Cale would have the hardest time. He has a lot of anxiety about change. But really, he's been awesome. The first full day, he barely left my side. He had a meltdown or two about being away from me (even chose to go run some :"boring" errands ALL day just to be with me). He got very upset about going to bed because he didn't want to leave me. But since then, he's been fine! He loves to make Anna Gray laugh and he is so gentle and tender with her. He just stares at her. <br />
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<br />
They all do, really. If I'm feeding her, they all just stand around and watch. If she's playing on her mat, they all just stand around and watch. If she's getting dressed... they watch. They are in awe! <br />
<br />
Nathan thinks she hung the moon. I mean it, he may actually believe that. He's worked all but one day since we got home and he wants to know every single thing she's doing :) I've gotten "send more pics!" every day lol. He's a GOOD daddy.<br />
<br />
She's a perfect fit. <br />
<br />
She just wiggled into our little family so easily. It doesn't feel overwhelming or any more busy. She's just here. Finally. Maybe God is giving us a little break after everything we just went thru! <br />
<br />
I get a lot of messages about what we're doing/did. I guess from the outside it looks like this huge thing, but for us it's very simple: God showed us our daughter and told us to go get her. That's it. She happened to be on the other side of the world and happened to have DS. It happened to take a lot of work and money to get there. But really... all WE did was bring our daughter home :) Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-62980349458867967152012-02-25T03:30:00.001-08:002012-02-25T03:56:05.034-08:00Homecoming pics!My friend, Jordan, surprised me by asking her friend, Brittany, to photograph our homecoming :) <br />
It was SO thoughtful of Jordan to do that for us and Brittany is <em>insanely</em> talented. <br />
<br />
<strong>The pictures are absolutely beautiful.</strong> <br />
I love every detail. <br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://bburkeyphotography.com/2012/02/25/forever-home-l-nashville-adoption-photographer/">http://bburkeyphotography.com/2012/02/25/forever-home-l-nashville-adoption-photographer/</a>#<br />
<br />
<br />
THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU to B.Burkey Photography!<br />
I showed the kids and thought they would all like the pictures of themselves... nope, their favorite is the one of Annie smiling :) Such sweet babies.<br />
<br />
One of my best friends (also an incredible talent) also took pictures for us at the airport, so hopefully I will have more to share soon :)Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-89430553601881113922012-02-24T08:51:00.001-08:002012-02-24T09:13:57.773-08:00All's well that ends well!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/siZstYtRUrU?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
"<em>You're my baby sister! Yes, you are!"</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Yesterday got off to a rough start and never got much better... until the end.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;">I can't remember the last time I didn't partake in Lent. Those 40 days are usually tough, but effective for my spiritual growth. I couldn't really get my head around it this year and was going to write it off. This morning I realized that my time IN country, not counting travel days, was exactly 40 days. Consider me tested. And grown. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I didn't sleep at all the night before. Niko was supposed to come at 2:45am. At 3:30am, I still hadn't heard from him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Finally, my friend Kate called to say they would be there in 10 minutes. She had called and woken him up. We made it to the airport just an hour before our flight. He helped us getting our boarding passes and bags checked, put us on an elevator and wished us luck. We had no idea where to go. Figured it out, but I'm so glad we were together!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Security was fine. The lady at passport control tried to make things harder than they had to be, but we got through. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We had a 2 1/2 (?) hour flight to Frankfurt. I cried the <em>entire</em> time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We were in Frankfurt for a couple of hours, giving the kids (and moms) some time to stretch out and burn some energy before the long flight ahead.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When we got on the plane, we were all separated (Kate had a friend there to help). Kind of by chance, they ended up moving the friend <strong>and</strong> Kate and her kids, and we all ended up together in one row with bulkhead seating (the greatest thing ever). Annie spent most of the flight in her bunk. I really wanted to get her out and hold her a few times, but she was happy so I left her.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">When we started to take off and the screen showed the map of the plane and the little red dots leading to the U.S., I started sobbing. The flight attendant (who was AMAZING for us) looked at me so pitifully. I mouthed to her that I was excited! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Again, SO SO glad Kate and I were together. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The flight itself wasn't <u>that</u> bad. It's just that we had three kids who were exhausted and confused. They didn't know where they were, where they were going, or when it would be over. It was hard on us, of course it was hard on them. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">We both cried off and on the whole flight. Or rather, I should say we ALL cried off and on the whole flight. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Not as much as we did when we landed in Chicago though!! By the end of this flight, I was covered in tears. And formula, orange juice, water, snot, spit up, and some Indian food from an aluminum tray. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I held my breath thru customs and immigration (while carrying the extraordinary packet that made EVERYTHING official). It was a breeze and suddenly, I was holding the cutest little American citizen!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"> Chicago got a little complicated after that. Kate and I had to split ways quickly when she nearly missed her flight. I was still arguing with two different airlines over where my bags were being sent. I cried (again), just asked that they eventually send them to Nashville, gave up and headed to my gate. We waited two hours before finding out our flight was delayed and possibly cancelled. Guess what I did? </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Initially, all the people standing around me thought I was nuts. Then they realized I was desperate and were trying to help in any way they could. At this point, we had been traveling for 24 hours. I hadn't slept in more than two days. Anna Gray was screaming. I was out of formula. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>I just wanted to go home.</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">There were four flights and enough people to fill four flights standing around the gate. When they *finally* said they were boarding for Nashville, the crowd parted like the red sea to get me on that plane. Not exaggerating even a little bit. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Once on the plane, they moved me three times for various reasons. Annie and I were both in tears. DONE. Absolutely done. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Once we took off, AG passed out. Hard. It was 2am in Ukraine. Her eye looked TERRIBLE and was clearly bothering her. She was sleepy, hungry, probably sore. Poor baby :(</div><div style="text-align: center;">I was an absolute zombie. I didn't move. I didn't speak. I didn't cry. I just stared.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">The flight attendant put a bottle of wine in my backpack. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I thought I would sob when we started our descent. I didn't. I was numb.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But when that plane hit the ground "I did it! We did it!!" just sort of erupted out of me.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Again, the other passengers got me off the plane and brought my bags to me. I loaded up... baby on the front. Backpack on the back. Carry-on rolling behind. Blanket dripping off the side. I couldn't even see where I was going. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Next thing I know, there's a beautiful brown blur coming at me screaming "Annie! Annie!". </div><div style="text-align: center;">I think I collapsed. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I thought I was all dried up by now, but I cried. HARD.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">I really don't remember much after that. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Thankfully, there were cameras everywhere to catch it so I can see it later. We were surrounded by family and friends, all of whom felt every emotion we did throughout the entire process. I touched all of them, I think. I even hugged a stranger. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">My father in law tracked down my suitcase, which made it to Nashville afterall. We eventually trickled out of the airport covered in flowers and gifts and happy tears. </div><div style="text-align: center;">I know it sounds dramatic, but I could barely get myself out of the car when we got home. I hadn't slept in 2 1/2 days and every bit of me ached. It really felt like I had just run a marathon. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We got in bed around 11pm. We <em>crashed</em>. All SIX of us.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I was in the shower by 4am for no particular reason. Anna Gray got up around 5:30. Her eye looks much better this morning after some rest and a warm washcloth. God bless my sweet husband who drove to Starbucks to get me a coffee and a breakfast sandwich. Not long after he left for work, my big kids starting making their way out. I'd love it if he hadn't had to work today, but I'm really glad to get some alone time with them :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">They were <em>so</em> excited. Everything was so chaotic when we arrived last night, they hadn't really gotten a chance to just sit and take her in (or her, them). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Layla held her for a <em>long</em> time. She told me she would like to read the Bible to Anna Gray every night, starting with Genesis. "I want her to know where she really came from." </div><div style="text-align: center;">She can't wait to get to Luke, because it's her favorite. </div><div style="text-align: center;">When did my first baby get so big?!!?</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Brynn was up next. As expected, she had AG (and me) laughing in no time! She is just "so way way way happy" to have her sister here. She thinks she's perfect and wants to teach her "everything I know... which is everything." </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Cale got up and went strait to her. He rubbed her back and kissed her hand. I asked what he thought about having a baby here and he said, "It's kind of weird and kind of great." Not long after, it was "This is a rotten baby, put her in the bath!" So we did! A 5 minute bath took 20 minutes with all the extra hands. Everyone wanted a turn brushing her hair and they all worked together to decide what comfy outfit she would like to wear. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">She's asleep now. Cale has checked on her four times so far. He just touches her gently and comes back out. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Anna Gray seems to be adjusting well in these first hours. Eating, sleeping, playing, smiling. </div><div style="text-align: center;">My big kids have so much to tell me and I am soaking up every bit of it! I can't believe they changed so much in (the) six (longest) weeks (ever). </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>My heart is so full.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Four amazing children. The husband God made for me. Family and friends I couldn't live without. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Nothing else really matters.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
**Separate post coming with homecoming pics!**Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-74244967241134268752012-02-22T11:35:00.000-08:002012-02-22T11:38:38.642-08:00Day 41Done. <br />
<br />
Done with the paperwork. Done with the medical exam. Done with visa and passport. Done wearing three layers of clothes. Done with carbonated water. Done boiling water everytime I need to make a bottle. Done converting money and weight and distance. Done guessing what I'm eating. Done slipping on ice and dodging falling icicles. Done washing every dish by hand. Done hanging my clothes to dry. Done sitting in the shower bathing with one hand. Done with FB/blog being my only form of communication. Done squishing my baby into her snowsuit. Done wearing the same clothes over and over and over and over. Done watching Russian television. Done with converters. Done with no seatbelt. Done with a ton of stairs. Done entering a code to get into my courtyard, a security key to get in my building, and another key to unlock both of my doors. Done with wet boots. Done with hard mattresses. Done waiting. <br />
<br />
Done.<br />
<br />
It's DONE! We are free to leave the country :)<br />
<br />
Obviously, it's been hard. SO hard. But I <em>am</em> going to miss it. <br />
I'm going to miss these amazing buildings. I'm going to miss walking. I'm going to miss the underground. I'm going to miss the chocolate and the promodoro pizza. I'm going to miss the simplicity. I'm going to miss learning a new language. I'm going to miss my new friends. <br />
<br />
I NEED to leave... so that I can miss it later. <br />
<br />
I kind of can't believe it. I don't think I will until I am in the States (and thru customs/immigration... do NOT let anyone open the packet, do NOT let anyone open the packet). I want to be home more than anything, but it's almost like I don't know how to <em>not</em> be here. I don't feel like a mom of four. I feel like a mom of three AND a mom of one. I do think it will be an easy transition, but I can't picture it at this point. It feels like a dream. <br />
<br />
<br />
I think we are pretty well prepared for the trip home. I don't think it will be much different than the six hour train ride (except not miserably hot) or the eight hour day we had today and AG did great on both. I'm not entirely sure what I'm going to feed her, since hauling around loads of baby food just isn't practical for us like this. She did try several new foods today (yogurt, cabbage rolls, olives, tomatoes) and did great with them so I think we'll be okay. I'm very excited that three families will be on the first flight together and even more excited that two of us will be on the second/long flight together! <br />
<br />
We had one last celebratory dinner tonight. <br />
Our last night.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaS0nwX5u3PrzASAYNNhw4ethubMPgOmuO1m5l3UHYeeXXAfEUIdiDcb2TinWEY0qLPpy41hgck5wLrktoLWcfJVfj7gzj41ln0q159Zra6651E7kkpzceGunsA4-pCLcrRN8KKTp_A1c/s1600/DSC_0061f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaS0nwX5u3PrzASAYNNhw4ethubMPgOmuO1m5l3UHYeeXXAfEUIdiDcb2TinWEY0qLPpy41hgck5wLrktoLWcfJVfj7gzj41ln0q159Zra6651E7kkpzceGunsA4-pCLcrRN8KKTp_A1c/s320/DSC_0061f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>Betrothed: Anna Gray and Cooper</em></div><br />
Right now, I am purging our suitcases (they weren't kidding when they said you won't want to bring a lot of it back- coats, clothes, toiletries...trash! So not worth lugging around the world). Anna Gray is rolling around on the bed, stretching her legs and telling me stories of her grand adventures. She's pretty pumped for tomorrow. It's 9:30pm now and our ride to the airport is coming at 2:45am. We will arrive home 24 hours later. If you are coming to the airport to see us arrive, know in advance that we will not be fresh :)<br />
<br />
We will not be fresh but we will be HOME!!<br />
<br />
I am bringing home gray hair I didn't have when we started, some pretty substantial bags under my eyes, eyebrows that could pass for bangs and MY DAUGHTER.<br />
<br />
We are praying for safe travel, smooth flights, and "no adventures", as the orphanage doctor wished us. We are also praying the pediatrician comes thru on eyes drops for little missy's eye infections sooner rather than later.<br />
<br />
I want to say again...<br />
Thank you. Each and every one of you. You have given your time, your talents, your prayers, your cares, your worries, your love, your money.... you are bringing us home. You are bringing HER home. <br />
<br />
I'm going to steal something another RR friend wrote because she said it better than I could:<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #cccccc;">God is awesome. I love his people and what we look like when we follow him. Friends, this God-thing we are doing, well, it's not just for crazy people, or really nice people, or gifted people. We are none of those things. Not even crazy, though people do tell me that all the time. It's for GOD'S people. We are all called to follow him. That means he will totally change you, your plans, your family, your comfort, your wallet, your everything. And it's good. It's worth it- the only thing actually worth doing. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: #cccccc;">Don't waste your lives. Spend them totally and completely and you will not be sorry.</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="background-color: #cccccc;">I have no illusions that the next time in our lives will be easy. We left easy when we said "I do". But, God will be there. Suffering is not to be feared, and is the place to find the purest joy. Because He is there.</span><br />
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I can't wait. I can't wait to see my kids. I'm CRAVING them. I need to feel them in my arms, I need to see their faces and hear their voices. I can't wait to see Anna Gray and her Daddy together again. I can't wait for her to learn her name. I can't wait to see new siblings bond. I can't wait to show her the world that she gets to be a part of now. I can't wait to see her live a LIFE. An unrestricted, promising, hopeful, celebrated LIFE. <br />
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LAYLA, BRYNN, AND CALE:<br />
Your mommy and your sister are coming!!!!!!!!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-17542631818986136352012-02-21T10:10:00.000-08:002012-02-21T10:10:22.820-08:00Day 40 on Day 40.Sorry the last post was a little grim, but that's where I was when I wrote it last night!<br />
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Today was better. A little hurried this a.m. with a few gaps in communication, but our embassy appointment was a breeze. Their staff was so helpful and kind. We go back in the morning for her medical exam and then our visa appointment in the afternoon. <br />
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I almost cried when Tatiana handed me her passport yesterday. Her <em>passport</em>. To go <em>home</em>. <br />
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I almost cried again when she told me she had been baptized in the orthodox church and gave me her baptism certificate with a small silver crucifix. This is the ONE thing that belonged <strong><u>to her</u></strong> that she is bringing home from Ukraine. <br />
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We had a nice day after the embassy this morning. We rode back to our apartment with another RR family. I fed AG and put her down for an overdue nap before we headed back out.<br />
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Just incase I can't remember who this slice of perfection is laying next to me:<br />
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I was watching a movie to pass the time and kept hearing banging outside on our porch. I went out and what seemed like BUCKETS of water was rolling off the roof from the melting snow and ice. I don't know why, but it made me smile. <br />
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View from the 8th floor (at least I'll be coming home with trim thighs) : <br />
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I'm <em>done</em> cooking in Ukraine and really didn't want to buy any food since we are leaving, which means....<br />
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She had her own order of fries. I hadn't eaten in 27 hours and had no desire to share mine. I just broke off little pieces and she did fine! She probably only ate the equivalent of two fries while waiting for her bottle to cool.<br />
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Three trips out today and I never did find diapers. I have ONE left. Anna Gray is going to bed now wearing tights and a dish towel so I can save the one for tomorrow. I can't believe tomorrow is our LAST DAY IN UKRAINE!!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-89518018360986189732012-02-21T08:40:00.000-08:002012-02-21T08:40:47.192-08:00Day 39... on Day 40<em>{As you might have guessed, we didn't have internet when we arrived late last night and had to wait until today to get it fixed. Today meant 6:30 tonight, unfortunately. Sorry for the worry!</em><br />
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<em>This is the blog I typed last night that I couldn't post. I will do today's next.}</em><br />
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We are in my fifth and final apartment. {God willing.}<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The train sucked. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Sorry, but it did.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">We were next to the heater. And by ‘next to’, I mean it burned my leg through my jeans. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">My chapstick melted, my chocolate melted, my baby melted.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Anna Gray was AMAZING, especially considering the circumstances. She slept almost the entire six hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t know how though. She was <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">so</i> hot. I did everything I could to cool her off. I stripped her down to just a onesie, I blew on her, I wiped cold condensation of the window on her neck. She was soaked in sweat. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">She slept on me. I was wearing fleece, with my coat around my back, her snowsuit on my legs, her clothes in my lap, her blanket on my chest, and the backpack between my legs. I was dripping sweat onto her. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">That last hour… that last 15 minutes… Oh my.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were entering “All work and no play make Jack a dull boy” territory. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">But it’s over. We’re here. And we are one step closer to being done. Woot.<o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">It’s midnight and our first embassy appointment is at 9:30am. <o:p></o:p></span></div><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">T minus 74 hours until HOME. <o:p></o:p></span></div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-70726340629725980822012-02-19T11:20:00.000-08:002012-02-19T11:20:51.841-08:00Day 38I told you the sea fish would work ;)<br />
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It was really sweet, actually (hang on, I'm going somewhere with this...). She slept from 9p-1a when I started hearing the raspberries and then realized she needed to be changed (yay!). So I changed her, gave her a bottle, and we laid back down. She was on her stomach on her side of the bed just looking at me. Next thing I know, she flips to her back then flips again to her stomach and she's right beside me! She laid her little face next to mine and put her arm on my arm and went back to sleep :) PRECIOUS. <br />
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<em>I love her so much</em>. So stinking much. <br />
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If only she were a little more expressive...<br />
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How cute is she in her "girl pirate" pjs her big brother picked for her?<br />
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I had been reminded that she won't be used to being held all the time so she could tire of it really quickly... she doesn't get tired of it. In fact, at this point, she doesn't really want me to put her down much at all. Which is good for now, since she's about to spend HOURS at a time in my arms for travel. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76BEui8SuYaCIwJOOHSwcUeCh4BkA3G4w3HGeHdk_hTTCkfSUq8GE7KA8YvUcy5XNy6Vsnj3QvVdisEp4lfctWdCgU3zPnpR3yFLaY0NjK2sStkiBnwo_Dv6R_UmPjfy5CDnOGiGGMQM/s1600/DSC_0008f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi76BEui8SuYaCIwJOOHSwcUeCh4BkA3G4w3HGeHdk_hTTCkfSUq8GE7KA8YvUcy5XNy6Vsnj3QvVdisEp4lfctWdCgU3zPnpR3yFLaY0NjK2sStkiBnwo_Dv6R_UmPjfy5CDnOGiGGMQM/s320/DSC_0008f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><em>If it looks like I'm still wearing yesterday's clothes, it's because I am. If it looks like there's oatmeal with pears on my shirt, it's because there is.</em><br />
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I'm so proud of her. When we first started visiting her, she was not even close to sitting up yet. She has gotten much stronger and now sits pretty well! Still a little unbalanced and can't quite get there on her own, but MUCH better. <br />
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She can also pick things up and put them down on purpose now :)<br />
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Five weeks is a long time in infant years, but she's even made some huge strides just in the last three days. I can't WAIT to see what this little girl decides she's going to do next!<br />
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I made a version of fried rice today. It was actually pretty good, I just made a<em> little</em> too much. Ha!<br />
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Anna Gray even had a little bit. She loved the veggies I smashed up and even had a few bites of egg. She wasn't crazy about the texture of the rice.<br />
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She had her first visitors tonight :)<br />
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Diana, Nate, and Max came by to meet her/tell us goodbye. They also brought yummy treats! <br />
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I was going to give her a little taste, but she fell asleep. You snooze, you lose!<br />
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Kiev tomorrow!!!!! Annie's first train ride :) Pray for smooth travel!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-26726093366382035112012-02-18T08:56:00.001-08:002012-02-18T08:57:46.456-08:00Day 37Anna Gray was so well-rested yesterday that she didn't even <em>need</em> to sleep last night ;)<br />
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It's pretty common for children who come from orphanages to be experts in self-soothing and self-stimulation. When she's tired, she shakes her head back and forth while she sucks her tongue. She did that from 1-2am. When she wakes up, she doesn't cry. She blows raspberries. Raspberries were coming like rapid fire from 2-2:30am. I finally decided to just get her up and play until she exhausted herself. After several rounds of Pat-a-cake, the macarena, and Baby Beluga (please tell me I'm not the only one who remembers that episode of Full House?)- she passed back out around 4:30. For a little while. <br />
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She's been tired and grumpy all day today, but only took one good nap. She's fought it so hard.<br />
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Poor baby. Her whole world just turned upside down. She doesn't know where she is or who I am, her food is different, her bed is different... I <strike>was</strike> would be grumpy too. We're working through it. All you need is love :)<br />
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We tried out the Baby K'tan today that my friend, Rachel, let us borrow. We were just taking the garbage out, but it was good practice. She seemed indifferent. It's a little snug, but not uncomfortable.<br />
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We watched some of the top 20 Whitney videos on MTV Europe and she danced herself to sleep in my lap :)<br />
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Our first embassy appointment is Tuesday morning, so we will take the train back to Kiev Monday night. I started on my paperwork today, blech. I am <u>thrilled</u> to be at this point of the process, but it <em>stresses me out</em>. It's okay because the countdown is ON! I am starting to actually <strong>dream</strong> about everything I want to eat and drink when I get home. I can't wait for <em>good</em> coffee and I want a Dr.Pepper with cherry from Sonic! I want to eat at every resturant there is. It's going to be a LONG time before I eat pasta, rice, eggs, or porkchops again! Not counting tonight. Anna Gray, however, enjoyed her "Noodles with creamed sea fish and broccoli sauce". Ew. If that doesn't make her poop, I don't know what will!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-40521040965435658342012-02-17T10:39:00.000-08:002012-02-17T10:39:05.217-08:00Day 36Weellll.... I have a baby! <br />
Of course, I've had three other babies before and she's already one year old... so how come I feel like a new mom?!<br />
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For five weeks I have had everything in it's place. This is where my clothes go, this is where her clothes go, the groceries, the dishes, the electronics... that lasted for about 30 minutes after she got here. Suddenly, there are blankets and toys and diapers and bottles and pacis and bibs EVERYWHERE. Ha! Just drop and go, I'll get to it later! When I ate, I ate like I was about to lose a race and I didn't get a shower until 5pm. Yep... NEW MOM. <br />
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She slept for 12 hours last night! She woke up once around 5am and I was fully prepared to get up and feed her after a few minutes of cuddling... nope, back to sleep. Until 10am!<br />
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The rest of our day went like this:<br />
Eat for 20 minutes. Play for 20 minutes. Scream for 20 minutes. Sleep two hours.<br />
Repeat X4<br />
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She had a bath :)<br />
She didn't love it, didn't hate it. I fully expected her to yell at me so that's good.<br />
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Of course, that came about 10 minutes later.<br />
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Poor cold naked baby!<br />
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That's better. Sweet girl.<br />
And 10 minutes after that:<br />
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Happy again!<br />
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This is my other creative/UA parenting invention:<br />
A suitcase bassinet.<br />
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There are times when she wants to be upright, but not held. Plus, when I do shower or need to leave the room or whatever, this is the only way I can safely keep her in one place :)<br />
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We had better success with the other bottle today. The first one just chokes her :/ They look the same, but for some reason she can only use the pink one. Other than that, she's eating baby cereal, with some fruits and veggies mixed in. They told me she eats soups, eggs, yogurt... but I'm sticking with the safe stuff to avoid any tummy troubles or potential allergies until we get home, just incase.<br />
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One minor concern is her diapers. She has barely been wet and hasn't been dirty yet. I expect it's a combination of the change in her routine plus the bottle issue. I kept clean water in her bottle today and offered it regularly, just incase she's a little dehydrated. Hopefully, I'll see a change soon. <br />
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It was kind of a wild day, but I'm loving it. I'm SO glad I went ahead and took her out so we can work all this stuff out now instead of on a 6-hour train ride. <br />
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I'm looking forward to getting even more acquainted tomorrow :)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUgSj92k9f1RwSgtGcgoj1jeIZ1hi-TyfWMVjlXcjw9R72aLkvT9_1U0jgdZ8ufD1JxI4h8rfv3pt9FaVjxo_f0H-MZ4lG05KUn2UvRBes40mL1RNBwlQ8ayFnMYamgLSVCnY4XDC4UM/s1600/DSC_0084f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVUgSj92k9f1RwSgtGcgoj1jeIZ1hi-TyfWMVjlXcjw9R72aLkvT9_1U0jgdZ8ufD1JxI4h8rfv3pt9FaVjxo_f0H-MZ4lG05KUn2UvRBes40mL1RNBwlQ8ayFnMYamgLSVCnY4XDC4UM/s320/DSC_0084f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-63949696185359879192012-02-16T10:25:00.000-08:002012-02-16T10:25:04.736-08:00Day 35<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><strong>It's ANNA GRAY DAY!!</strong></span></div><br />
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<div align="center"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>She does not love snowsuits.</em></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Oyq515hbZU1ss5ICodD0fz0_jX_L1Y_h7qEcndV7kxXlOnRcYrbuoqMChcom0WcvyMB02959gcpi4rgHn8Pu4VMp8FrN3-W85xcWB7WmiL_msgDVydhlZDMdNngKXjMDZerqS946jTY/s1600/DSC_0022f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Oyq515hbZU1ss5ICodD0fz0_jX_L1Y_h7qEcndV7kxXlOnRcYrbuoqMChcom0WcvyMB02959gcpi4rgHn8Pu4VMp8FrN3-W85xcWB7WmiL_msgDVydhlZDMdNngKXjMDZerqS946jTY/s320/DSC_0022f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div align="center"></div>It's my baby girl's very<em> first</em> birthday and today she left the orphanage for the very <em>last</em> time!!<br />
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From the orphanage doctor:<br />
"I can't believe it, but she kisses you! You love each other very much." (translated). <br />
I'm sure you understand just how grateful we are that this is the orphanage she has called home for the last year. They've been wonderful and clearly adore her.<br />
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A few quick errands and we were home in no time! <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">Beautiful birthday girl!!</div><br />
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</div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">This baby is kind of internet sensation today! Whoa! Mad birthday wishes, little girl!</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">I wish I could print off all 400 (and counting...), but we'll just hope Facebook is still around when you learn to read and utilize that handy new timeline feature.</span></em></div><br />
<br />
We got in a few Skype calls- including her brother and sisters!! <br />
I think things just got real for the big kids. Ha. They <strike>yelled out</strike> sang Happy Birthday to their baby sister. They're so sweet!<br />
<br />
She had a nice nap in the middle of the floor (on a palet). Eat, sleep, or play...her only options are the floor or my arms, this could get interesting! I did figure out rather quickly that she<em> can</em>, in fact, roll from back to front :)<br />
<br />
I was quickly ushered back into the world of babyhood.<br />
Feeding her the first time... ehhh... didn't go so great. I had no idea when she had eaten last or what time she normally eats, so I just waited until she starting fussing. I fixed her a bottle, which she attacked- but she was having a <em>really</em> hard time actually swallowing any of it. Maybe it was coming out too fast for her? The spoon was a different story...<br />
<br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Like a CHAMP.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;">How do you like my makeshift highchair? Just call me Mama McGyver. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">A full belly and a dry diaper, this kid is HAPPY.</div><div style="text-align: center;">She loves the kissing bunnies Tatiana and Valentine got her for her birthday! (How sweet is that?!)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmvLoFQ5fK5f5IMThUB0WA4dXNNBtUpuFTT7PYhan0eu5DAKrdA2Xw5bpfky6QVVwHN1bJlrT-vGekiIOHh57PHYO7FnjgA3s8qdiz61TXLXxxAJIxiunsFiPDPgLDSL1UltAI627ac4/s1600/DSC_0030f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdmvLoFQ5fK5f5IMThUB0WA4dXNNBtUpuFTT7PYhan0eu5DAKrdA2Xw5bpfky6QVVwHN1bJlrT-vGekiIOHh57PHYO7FnjgA3s8qdiz61TXLXxxAJIxiunsFiPDPgLDSL1UltAI627ac4/s320/DSC_0030f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><br />
When she was done, she was DONE. I think I walked more in this apartment tonight that I have any other day, ha. I<strike> not-so-secretly</strike> missed this. I had to walk and bounce and sing and soothe until she quit crying and I loved every second of it. Once I put her down, she was OUT in about 90 seconds. Again, no idea of when she typically sleeps so I'm not sure if she is down for the night or not. I may be joining her soon just incase.<br />
<br />
Things I learned from day one:<br />
I did NOT bring enough bibs and burpcloths. I will be doing laundry every day. I should have bought more cookies.<br />
<br />
<br />
You'll be glad to hear... our flights home are BOOKED! It is the absolute best case scenario, I couldn't be any happier about the flight plan. Thank you to my dear sweet husband who worked his tail off to fix it after my meltdown yesterday!! And obviously, it would NOT be possible if it weren't for you and your support- prayerful, financial, or otherwise. THANK YOU. <br />
<br />
LAYLA, BRYNN, AND CALE (and Nathan):<br />
Anna Gray loved seeing you today! I can't wait until we get home and she sees that you are real! ha! Your great big smiles warmed my heart! Almost home guys! I love you and cannot wait to see the real you too!<br />
<br />
ANNA GRAY:<br />
Sweet girl... I don't even know how to tell you how much I love you. And now I'm crying just trying! You make the world a better place. You are sunshine at it's brightest. I don't know why God chose me to be your mommy, but I feel like the luckiest gal in the world. For the next few days, it's just me and you kid. We won't ever get this time back. I can't wait to see what you have to teach me. I apologize in advance if your cheeks get chapped from all the kissing. I can't help myself. Happy birthday, Annie.Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-66066710110096895502012-02-15T12:52:00.000-08:002012-02-15T12:52:06.454-08:00OH. MY. WORD.It would just be impossible to go to bed tonight without a second post. <br />
<br />
"Ask and ye shall receive"...<br />
<br />
I feel like my heart is literally going to pound itself out of my chest with gratitude. I'm serious. <br />
<br />
I wish I was smart enough or graceful enough or poetic enough to write an appropriate 'Thank you'. I will bake cupcakes every day for the rest of my life if I can do it from HOME! I'm so overwhelmed right now, I... I have no words.<br />
<br />
I am so unworthy of everything God has blessed me with. You all write the most amazing, uplifting, encouraging things to me and I think... "Who is this person they are talking about?! She sounds kinda neat!" :) I'm really just a plain ole' sheep in His herd. <br />
<br />
This morning I was crying for all the wrong reasons. I feel like I've held it together pretty darn well, but I just hit a wall. Then God said... <em>Oh, that wall? That little thing? That's what you need me to get out of your way?!.... Done.</em> Now I'm crying all over again because... well, you heard it too.<br />
<br />
You have lovingly given us <em>more</em> than enough to get home. And I'm not just talking money here.<br />
<br />
If I could, I would gather up all the thank yous in the world and shout them out right here!<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><span style="font-size: large;">THANK YOU!</span></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
We still owe about $10,000 in adoption fees, so<strong><u> IF</u></strong> it's okay with you, we will take whatever is leftover (after purchasing the plane tickets) and apply it to that. If anyone who gave isn't comfortable with that, <em>please</em> let me know. <br />
<br />
Again- I am more grateful than you could ever imagine! I'm seriously in love with you. All of you. <br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Incredible.</div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-60914256985580415612012-02-15T09:17:00.000-08:002012-02-15T09:17:00.120-08:00Day 34Tough day. <br />
<br />
Long, <em>long</em> tough day.<br />
<br />
In all honesty, I don't think I can re-live it on this keyboard right now. And as Eugene would say, "At the end of the day..." <br />
We have her birth certificate and adoption decree, we have applied for her ID number and passport, and have everything notarized. <br />
<br />
<br />
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<br />
There are just a few more things to do in the morning and then the greatest thing that could possibly happen... I'm bustin' little girl out. <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">TOMORROW is Gotcha Day!!</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">*********************************</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Friends, this is the hardest thing I've ever had to do. I'm about to tuck my tail between my legs and possibly throw up, but I don't have a choice...</div><div style="text-align: left;">If you've been reading for a while, you know that "Mr.Generous" donated his frequent flyer miles to cover our trip. It was more than enough to get us here and back and we just cannot say 'thank you' enough. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Unfortunately, the first Delta flight outta here (after our embassy appt) is not until Saturday the 25th. I <em>cannot</em> stay that long. I just can't. It might not seem like a few days makes that much difference... it does. I know by putting this out there, I have to brace myself for more of the "you signed up for this" comments, but unless you've been here and done this on your own, you just won't get it. I have tried<em> very</em> hard to stay positive and be strong, but <u>I need to come home</u>. As soon as possible. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">In order to do that, we are going to have to book a flight on another airline. And we need your help. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The day we met Annie and the day we passed court, making her our's, we had well OVER 200 people indicate that they were celebrating with us. If <strong>only 60</strong> of you gave<strong> $10</strong> each, we could pay for a ticket home. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">You KNOW I wouldn't ask if I didn't have to. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I'm sick over it. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I NEED TO COME HOME. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Please, if you feel led to respond, please use the chip-in on the top right of the blog. </div><div style="text-align: left;">I promise I will make you the best cupcakes you've ever had when I get back. I am not even kidding. </div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-57308709026346665632012-02-14T10:24:00.002-08:002012-02-14T10:33:41.719-08:00Day 33<div style="text-align: center;"><span class="reftext"><b><em>"</em></b></span><em>Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It</em> <em>always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres."</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>1 Corinthians 13: 4-7</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">My funny Valentine</span></strong><br />
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</div></div><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Tomorrow: paper chase!!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-81711721817333202372012-02-13T09:43:00.000-08:002012-02-13T09:44:10.512-08:00Day 32Let me start on a good note:<br />
The wait is over, the court decree is final, and there is a new <br />
Anna Gray West in the world.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIC1cyNhAbXdyu77tM3y9Pn8x_xle2IIod1l227GalqE8Y-B_TacsDCDO5XBoIxDbgpSi0rIA4zHfn1Vcblzfb4fliKBekZT0AkJ5X8DPGwun4RVqO6p3oUYvEi4Vyk-kLMGKYRiKEtK0/s1600/DSC_0041f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIC1cyNhAbXdyu77tM3y9Pn8x_xle2IIod1l227GalqE8Y-B_TacsDCDO5XBoIxDbgpSi0rIA4zHfn1Vcblzfb4fliKBekZT0AkJ5X8DPGwun4RVqO6p3oUYvEi4Vyk-kLMGKYRiKEtK0/s320/DSC_0041f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
Now...<br />
Today did not go as planned.<br />
The<em> plan</em> was to visit AG, grab a bite at home, go shop for everything I need to have her with me (diapers, wipes, formula, food, etc), and go to women's Bible study (for the last time, so I could say 'goodbye' to my new friends). Then paperchase tomorrow.<br />
<br />
First of all, I had a migraine. <br />
You'd think I'd be used to it by now. It hit on the way to the orphanage and I of course had nothing with me. I fought through our visit, but it wasn't pretty. Yuck :/<br />
<br />
I apparently worded my question about medicine wrong, because Edward kind of panicked. I had tried to explain to him that I had a headache that made me sick (I didn't know if 'migraine' would translate).<br />
"You're sick?! Hang on." Edward calls Tatiana. Tatiana calls me (while I'm sitting right next to Edward in the car). <br />
"You are sick?"<br />
"I just have a bad headache and was wondering if Edward could take me to get some medicine."<br />
"Yes, I see. Okay, you have infection and favor."<br />
"Favor?"<br />
"Yes, you have favor."<br />
"Fever?"<br />
"Yes."<br />
"No, no fever. No infection."<br />
"Ah, yes. You need to go to doctor. Edward will take you."<br />
"No, no doctor. Pharmacy."<br />
"Oh, pharmacy. I'll call Edward."(Who is sitting right next to me in the car.)<br />
<br />
Tatiana calls Edward. Edwards tells me he will take me to the pharmacy... to get Theraflu.<br />
"Not Theraflu, Aspirin."<br />
"Oh... yes."<br />
"Just take me home please."<br />
<br />
Edward calls Tatiana. Tatiana calls me. Still sitting in the car next to each other.<br />
<br />
I came home and ripped all four layers off, gave myself an Imitrex shot, and went to bed. I feel much better, but not great. This is one of those nights I really wish food would just appear in front of me. I don't know if it's Ukraine or just the way I grocery shop in Ukraine or what, but there is no quick food. It takes work to eat. Which is good if you want to limit snacking, but not if you are physically ill and need to eat something, anything, fast. <br />
<br />
Tatiana has been sick, and now she thinks I'm sick, so I was worried this was going to delay us. I went to email her as requested and instead had an email from her stating that the vital statistics office is closed due to a scheduled power outtage. We can't get the birth certificate tomorrow and we can't do anything else without the birth certificate. She says it will all be fine on Wednesday. <br />
<br />
For the love of pete, please pray that it is and we get ALL of our paperwork done on Wednesday. I want to go home. <br />
<br />
Obviously, I can't ignore the one big bright shining spot in my day...<br />
<br />
<div align="center"><span style="font-size: large;">Annie West</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimvnXqUUKPcQYL_h7TiwIKSKe2PFOn_hxaTL91G3LGR9YZV-JzfhCnaMRNA2FnlCoBpoI9v0qTQhTQsBQ458MSNWNReLxalxm5kwLSUPrdhviGSGP_QU2c_skue2g3TPWyN-UaHL0ePvo/s320/DSC_0003f.jpg" width="212" /></div><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">She was <em>very</em>, very excited.</div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">She also would like to go HOME. She told me.</div><br />
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<div align="center"><em>Thanks to Vika for the new bows :)</em></div><div align="center"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdphS4S9cTIMc7ZTUbPVEDrkk9BSKlaHU25TrUsWIRG2imDTZmIsbPm6XeYXjpyTH079Hzrgi7qUumZKD4wMKBYyuQFYqQz6LoDYycnBQIrO8dkfyWvZ7pi4JlCJJmex6cukJddmTRYs/s1600/DSC_0020f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxdphS4S9cTIMc7ZTUbPVEDrkk9BSKlaHU25TrUsWIRG2imDTZmIsbPm6XeYXjpyTH079Hzrgi7qUumZKD4wMKBYyuQFYqQz6LoDYycnBQIrO8dkfyWvZ7pi4JlCJJmex6cukJddmTRYs/s320/DSC_0020f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div align="center"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">All that excitement just plum wears a girl out. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6Nen5sp4w95uuoYMfJHefi_5BYuHxAgtEsKWxsoZL-82N_QxYkc0sSEzCCWoQ8SWcd1Yvj-fECst7vxSUfGjxYWL5Vsdqjw3m4Uj6dbA881sViY8bRg66_K3NjKJlGq73zN7i-JX8ck/s1600/DSC_0033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjn6Nen5sp4w95uuoYMfJHefi_5BYuHxAgtEsKWxsoZL-82N_QxYkc0sSEzCCWoQ8SWcd1Yvj-fECst7vxSUfGjxYWL5Vsdqjw3m4Uj6dbA881sViY8bRg66_K3NjKJlGq73zN7i-JX8ck/s320/DSC_0033.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I feel ya, Sister.Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-45701874267307173822012-02-12T11:19:00.000-08:002012-02-12T11:19:13.252-08:00Day 31If you had asked me ten years ago where I thought I'd be spending my 30th birthday, I highly doubt I would have answered, "Ukraine!". <br />
<br />
Life's funny, isn't it?<br />
<br />
The way I see it... I'm in Europe... with my baby girl. Sure can't complain about that. <br />
<br />
I decided to walk to church today. I didn't exacly know how to get there from the new apartment, but I knew which general direction to go, so I just started walking!<br />
<br />
I just kept walking until I saw something I recognized, and then I knew exactly where I was. It was a beautiful day (no wind, thankfully) and it made me happy! It ended up taking right at an hour (maybe 4-5 miles?), but I made it! <br />
I dig an adventure.<br />
I really do, but you know why I walked for an hour in 6* temps for church?<br />
<br />
<br />
Because I can.<br />
<br />
<br />
God gave me a healthy, capable body and it's my job to take care of it. I have had to learn not to take that for granted. It's possible I've learned more about myself in the last 30 days than I have in the last 30 years. I know of a lot of people (and now know of a handful of orphans) that would love to have the chance to walk... anywhere.<br />
<br />
So I walked.<br />
<br />
I even spotted a little taste of home on my way :)<br />
<em>(Country Bar)</em><br />
<span id="goog_1145510495"></span><span id="goog_1145510496"></span><br />
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<br />
I had a <em>great </em>day. Mostly thanks to my new friends. <br />
<em>(Most of these photos can be credited to Max who comandeered my camera today, but I just love the pictures he left me!)</em><br />
<br />
As soon as I arrived at church, Diana greeted me with flowers. <em>So</em> thoughtful. <br />
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Max is too cool to smile ;)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3A0ux7pV-GQTC8F2qpQrAxHgNfCo0A7DIIuSJUoTwbfP4ybeR0AS4uthCqtY2hBzpv3EcAYCftDwih0gOOhkm69seaUYTLOMB1EYQnmYFVT7m-Gy0VIvtLKV6Aruvzip4mZ0hEwzcmYE/s1600/DSC_0036f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3A0ux7pV-GQTC8F2qpQrAxHgNfCo0A7DIIuSJUoTwbfP4ybeR0AS4uthCqtY2hBzpv3EcAYCftDwih0gOOhkm69seaUYTLOMB1EYQnmYFVT7m-Gy0VIvtLKV6Aruvzip4mZ0hEwzcmYE/s320/DSC_0036f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
After church and fellowship, Diana, Nate, and Max took me out .... for <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Americanized Ukrainian )</span>Mexican! Ahhh! <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge50f1nEyfRAnR83bCdXbxBYyrNxOaBgk0oa3hAEGMNtbPlLw4ZMLps1kfEV-NPbveqotf272LJo02dJszqE7n5sDG0ybqGJeQSWJgLwV0qTQxfSSCMTiXMQZQMpLwM9p36OitIDvvd8o/s1600/DSC_0043f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge50f1nEyfRAnR83bCdXbxBYyrNxOaBgk0oa3hAEGMNtbPlLw4ZMLps1kfEV-NPbveqotf272LJo02dJszqE7n5sDG0ybqGJeQSWJgLwV0qTQxfSSCMTiXMQZQMpLwM9p36OitIDvvd8o/s320/DSC_0043f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">Yes, "The Cockroach"... complete with a hispanic cockroach. I promise it was good!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6AO7cz3z1fJ9qPB7Q75Ob9_gMU_4I7Gu4M52BpP46ZL6im-yVeYrD5v6OSagwzY3ggqAxKDh009afwph19PvqtAwSMazKtszz4Qx9WTN_z0cpScbWMbn4TwjxUeOQP22AqtN-Re_426U/s1600/DSC_0047f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6AO7cz3z1fJ9qPB7Q75Ob9_gMU_4I7Gu4M52BpP46ZL6im-yVeYrD5v6OSagwzY3ggqAxKDh009afwph19PvqtAwSMazKtszz4Qx9WTN_z0cpScbWMbn4TwjxUeOQP22AqtN-Re_426U/s320/DSC_0047f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPOQ-A27IVwHpGr0ZcB3b8QzctQ0s7Hu1UyHWUvZ8ci8TUWyv124chzQ0lFr0TSI27mvoGEwLvvi874IqUBLmAL0wPUKYFyvYJVKLjV__goLKXuDZZmmx8SxXVyLtHCKd1pm8Gr3zv3c/s1600/DSC_0048f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiPOQ-A27IVwHpGr0ZcB3b8QzctQ0s7Hu1UyHWUvZ8ci8TUWyv124chzQ0lFr0TSI27mvoGEwLvvi874IqUBLmAL0wPUKYFyvYJVKLjV__goLKXuDZZmmx8SxXVyLtHCKd1pm8Gr3zv3c/s320/DSC_0048f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAtQRnYeSAQeGCkWw704E7WcUSjO53FKVekXEQlAbTWgUIzSbeYq_f6VXldFvthQnm8iiFae5LlOXHjJiwDbcbtyJZoeC60nx_OQ0mR55DLe9nS0DQFy-JNPsWtok2loMx6tjzlEi22UE/s1600/DSC_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAtQRnYeSAQeGCkWw704E7WcUSjO53FKVekXEQlAbTWgUIzSbeYq_f6VXldFvthQnm8iiFae5LlOXHjJiwDbcbtyJZoeC60nx_OQ0mR55DLe9nS0DQFy-JNPsWtok2loMx6tjzlEi22UE/s320/DSC_0044.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<br />
I'm so unbelievable grateful to have met such generous people during my time here. I miss my family and friends, but if I wasn't going to be with them- I couldn't have asked for a better birthday. Can't wait to see my Annie-girl tomorrow!<br />
<br />
<br />
LAYLA, BRYNN, AND CALE (AND NATHAN):<br />
Thank you SO much for the cards you made and for singing to me on Skype!! I loved seeing your beautiful faces as soon as I got home today. I cannot <em>wait </em>to see them in person and have one big giant group hug!! Please put the cards somewhere safe until I get home so I can get a better look. Love you, love you, love you!Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-31823678283983369142012-02-11T08:30:00.000-08:002012-02-11T09:33:32.846-08:00Day 30At this point, Annie and I <em>should</em> be home in less than two weeks :)<br />
Eek!<br />
I'm kind of afraid to say that. I might jinx it. Cross your figers, eyes, and toes!<br />
<br />
A few items of business:<br />
<br />
1) My apologies if you have tried to get in touch with me and I haven't gotten back to you. For one thing, Ukraine/adoption turns your brain to mush. That's a fact. And for two, to be honest... I receive TONS of emails, messages, FB comments, etc every day. I am SO SO grateful for all the encouragement and kind words (seriously, they keep me going), but it's hard to keep up! If I haven't responded, remind me please :)<br />
<br />
2) SO many of you are writing to ask me what we need when we return. Truthfully, I don't know. (Refer to #1 about the mush.) Some friends have already given us some clothes, but I don't really know what we have at this point. There are a few baby items we<em> are</em> going to need and I am working on a <strong>small</strong> registry, just to point those who are asking in the right direction (not because we're asking for it, just to answer your question!). I REALLY hope that doesn't make me sound like a snob...<br />
<br />
3) Some of our family and friends are planning sort of a "Meet Anna Gray" party for March 3rd. Be on the lookout for details :)<br />
<br />
Now, the good stuff:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3_lU4Pkq8bdqbnlQebZ94n3JzAy41paHlaQYc7_V2Jg3AtqnXArAYADFxVvprESCeUBRM893dXyqKks74GA6l6ROcomt2aq4vNxvLUG4hqebScMX_EKweCJGFAb0f5kk-yz6s6KD3o28/s1600/DSC_0003f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3_lU4Pkq8bdqbnlQebZ94n3JzAy41paHlaQYc7_V2Jg3AtqnXArAYADFxVvprESCeUBRM893dXyqKks74GA6l6ROcomt2aq4vNxvLUG4hqebScMX_EKweCJGFAb0f5kk-yz6s6KD3o28/s320/DSC_0003f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<br />
We had kind of a mellow day today. <br />
Who am I kidding? She is always mellow- just more or less wiggly. <br />
Today, it was less.<br />
<br />
<br />
We played in the walker for a while...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbz21-91o6VNCnQkX_F2vJChyqPjhVZFPou6skPsoROTbyTktn7lqLg82BFa_oOetTJbuZngo9M3jfUmoeqmXxaWwMlsjeSQwGPOQnNCgpFzuwyLm4CKwfwZq0IRh4LZGroRRVsQ7bA6Q/s1600/DSC_0007f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbz21-91o6VNCnQkX_F2vJChyqPjhVZFPou6skPsoROTbyTktn7lqLg82BFa_oOetTJbuZngo9M3jfUmoeqmXxaWwMlsjeSQwGPOQnNCgpFzuwyLm4CKwfwZq0IRh4LZGroRRVsQ7bA6Q/s320/DSC_0007f.jpg" width="212" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>(notice Edward watching tv in the background haha)</em></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiO-w9pT4aikIZ-Gdkmrz8vJGtc7NoTN_FhAowmBm58jH-I3xmfgvuMVNSlmh0Jz7SRzrN-0UbBjRiR5Uo23wKvgUeEYPfCeX_dcsAWWWncm5EleheeemUGznHk8iVPnUOqW3B8fmCXHg/s1600/DSC_0010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiO-w9pT4aikIZ-Gdkmrz8vJGtc7NoTN_FhAowmBm58jH-I3xmfgvuMVNSlmh0Jz7SRzrN-0UbBjRiR5Uo23wKvgUeEYPfCeX_dcsAWWWncm5EleheeemUGznHk8iVPnUOqW3B8fmCXHg/s320/DSC_0010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><em>(little toes just a'paddling... and her duck socks had a bill sticking off of them- so cute)</em></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We ended up like this:</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevfaVBTpjTQmhzF9SYf5dE5hH9CErt37LadMyTvCj7c_okQBNuV3KqsCbyg_WtY3Onr46w7LNATIzIrhObf4kwKym1tzeVyHX7gFEmZa1wfBqepEAv_Nd2oKmpySuR05a3OsLRO3z8z4/s1600/DSC_0015f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgevfaVBTpjTQmhzF9SYf5dE5hH9CErt37LadMyTvCj7c_okQBNuV3KqsCbyg_WtY3Onr46w7LNATIzIrhObf4kwKym1tzeVyHX7gFEmZa1wfBqepEAv_Nd2oKmpySuR05a3OsLRO3z8z4/s320/DSC_0015f.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We pretty much stayed like that the rest of the visit. The nannies would have had a fit to see me laying on the floor like that, but that's what I love about Saturday's. It's so much more relaxed- they bring her in, they pick her up. That's it :)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div>I got to experience Ukraine's version of WalMart today.<br />
And it was awesome.<br />
<br />
I would have loved to stay in there and check the whole place out, but Edward is always on the run. No, really- t's hard to keep up with him. (Speaking of run, we saw a man running outside with no shirt today! It was -16*C/3*F out there! Crazy.) But I digress... I got new luggage. The sales lady wanted me to get the D&B one because it was "toughter". Edward wanted me to get the Gucci one. He kept saying, "Are you sure? Are you sure? The other one is Gucci!" Yeah, I don't care if it's covered in diamonds- I want the cheapest one. So that's done. <br />
<br />
Spinach omelet tonight and church tomorrow! I might even take myself out for lunch :)Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8403305108694554863.post-21829384953750050792012-02-10T11:09:00.000-08:002012-02-10T11:09:27.349-08:00Day 29<em>Shew.</em> <br />
Edward must have been in a hurry today!<br />
<br />
I miss basic traffic laws.<br />
<br />
I also miss donuts and McDougals. It's probably been a year since I've had either, but for some reason, I've wanted both the whole time I've been here.<br />
<br />
<br />
Regarding Gotcha Day, I really was asking for perspective yesterday (vs. affirmation) so thank you all for your input. I think we are close to making a decision, but we are going to wait to see what Monday and Tuesday hold before deciding for sure. <br />
<br />
Annie was an active little bug today! <br />
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Active little bugs require some quick camera work!<br />
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She's so funny. For about 30 minutes, it's Go! Go! Go! aaaannnd then stop.<br />
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<em>I will read it by myself today, thankyouverymuch.</em><br />
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She eventually just plopped herself down face first. She enjoyed a nice baby massage for quite some time. She was wide awake but never moved a muscle.<br />
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When it was time to go, her nannie was watching me tell her goodbye and asked if she could take a picture with my camera :)<br />
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Just FYI- I don't have a scarf addiction (and will probably never wear these two again!). I wear a scarf every day to disguise the money/passport carrier around my neck. And I promise I will start wearing makeup again when I get home. Eventually.<br />
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Nanny:<br />
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I've had to get more creative with food, having different cookware and utensils than I did before. <br />
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Tonight, I made the best vareneky I've had yet. They were filled with onion mashed potatoes. I didn't know if they would fill me up, so I poured a soup mix (mushroom, I thought- ended up being more a veggie broth) into a bowl. I opened what I thought were frozen mushrooms... they ended up being mixed vegetables too so I figured that would work well.<br />
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First of all, the vareneky was more than enough to fill me up. Good thing since the soup was AWFUL. A salt block would have been less salty (and I didn't add salt!). I guess it was too concentrated, but the taste was horrible anyway. <br />
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Oh well, I tried. <br />
Chocolate, anyone?Amber Leehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10880091845280465790noreply@blogger.com1