tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2493894468181842152024-03-21T13:19:23.784-07:00Our Great AdventureTrust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-39821606183280111112014-05-17T06:44:00.001-07:002014-05-17T06:44:51.339-07:00Acceptance...it's good for the soulWhere does the time go? Someday I hope I'll have the time to write every single day...I truly love it that much. But for now, I'll snatch moments when I can and simply enjoy them.<br />
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This week was a rough week. Just getting back from out of town, coming off of prom planning (did y'all see the beautiful pictures of our oldest and his date??), concerns both personal and professional for at least one of us. Gary had to work late on Tuesday night and we all know that's teens night!<br />
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My buddy, Beth, was away this week so I was slated to handle 12-16 middle schoolers all by myself...I got this! But wait, now I have sweet Eddie in tow. And if you don't know our Eddie personally, he LOVES crowds! But he loves them so much he generally gets a little too wound up.<br />
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So here I go to teens with Eddie and asking Gary to hurry on over to pick him up. The other exciting thing about Eddie is that he is catching up. Eddie was deaf when he came home and was about the level of 2-3 year old developmentally. He would obediently wear what we gave him to wear, go where we told him to go, stay where we told him to stay...as long as we were watching. Well, he's learning and growing so much he's getting...you guessed it...ATTITUDE! And lots of it!<br />
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He has an opinion, he knows what he likes and he loves to share it...sometimes in not the nicest ways. And while we are definitely a family that demands respect from our kids, it is delightful to see him push the envelope and give us an "Aw MOM!" complete with stompy feet and slumped shoulders when he is told no. We often have to stifle a giggle when he does it!<br />
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But that's not what this post is about...<br />
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As the parent of a special needs child, there's a certain tightening of the chest (that's your heart preparing for the hurt) and nervousness in the belly when your special kid heads into a group of "normal" kids. Will they accept him? Will they laugh at him? Have you taught him how to interact in a way that will glean acceptance? And yet you know, he has to do this. You can't protect him forever and he clearly WANTS to be there.<br />
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So here he goes...into the mix of middle school boys and a few girls. We are there early and as they come in he loves to give hugs. I anxiously shout my reminder "Fist bump Eddie!" knowing middle school boys would not be into hugs! Yet what did they do? Hugs, high fives, "hey Eddie!" My heart loosens just a bit.<br />
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Then it's game time...these kids are lacrosse players, volleyball "professionals," soccer dudes and gals. Eddie wants to swing...GOOD! The competitive nature of this crew that's better, right? He sees they are playing volleyball and he wants to play. Heart tightens again a little...they willingly say yes. (sigh). Eddie wants to serve...oh man, really? He tosses the ball up in the air and does an overhand serve...and it sails right over the net! High fives from the guys and they move on. No big deal to them...but this mama was cheering like a crazy woman inside.<br />
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They have no idea how important and special there simple actions were. We moved on to worship time and lesson time and Gary picked Eddie up and it was a normal night.<br />
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But I noticed the "safe place" that my church is for our son, I am so grateful for the mamas and daddys who have taught their children so well and for teens who are being Jesus' hands and feet just by being them. <br />
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This could have gone a different direction. Rejection hurts and tears the soul just as much as acceptance is a healing balm.<br />
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Be the balm. And teach your children well :-)Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-30519991002929003152014-03-09T17:33:00.001-07:002014-03-09T17:33:14.746-07:00Firing it Back UpI can't believe it's been more than two years since I last wrote. Writing for me is like breathing...I can assure you I have been writing, I just haven't been sharing!<br />
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After many friends encouraging me and asking when I might start again, I decided today was a good a day as any.<br />
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This year, my word for myself and my family has been ACTION. And I suppose that really is it...don't talk about it, don't plan it, don't set up fifteen meetings about it...just DO whatever it is.<br />
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I started this blog back in our adoption adventure because I truly could not believe the journey we were on. Now two years later I find every day is an adventure. That's really the way we should look at life. Overstimulation is such a symptom of our lives these days. I need the next big thing because life is, well, you know, boring!<br />
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Not so. Every day needs to be seen as the Great Adventure it is.<br />
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Two years ago, you would have seen entries on world traveling - flights, language, food, excitement! Today? You will see entries on real life. School, work, commuter joys, meltdowns and celebrations. And I'm so grateful this is the adventure we are on.<br />
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Random musings for today?<br />
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We have our own little corner of the universe and I love it.<br />
The world really isn't so big...and yes, we should care about what is happening in all of it.<br />
A 10-year old is capable of asking the same question so many times it can make a grown woman (or man) think they have totally lost their mind.<br />
Our daughters laugh...a lot...and it really is delightful and maddening at the same time. Walks take much longer with them but they are MUCH more fun.<br />
A certain brown-eyed boy has the ability to make me pinch myself and my heart skip a beat sometimes to wonder if we really have been so blessed by him really, truly, really being here to love in person.<br />
A certain tall blond boy has the ability to make me cry just by reminding me he's about to go to college...no he hasn't always been this big and yes, my heart is still all wound up in his.<br />
Everything really is ok once mom calls.<br />
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No time to write more...that little 10 year old with big blue eyes? He's asked me about five times already if we're all done and ready for toothbrushing. Yes, son...on my way!<br />
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<br />Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-37218637811822123482012-02-01T14:48:00.000-08:002012-02-01T14:48:42.921-08:00The Last Two Days: Saying GoodbyeI have a Latvian sister...her name is Kristiana...wait, I have several! There are so many amazing people over here who have loved our boys from the time they met them...and others who didn't know them when we started this journey but have been along with us the entire way since March of last year. And then still others who God used to start the Latvian leg of this journey three years ago when they first convinced Janis he should try hosting. I am still amazed.<br />
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Yesterday and today have been just visiting. Janis had wanted to go ice skating so we had walked over to see what time we could skate...and we thought it was 9:45am. We had stayed up late on Monday night so we were a bit tired but I woke him at 9, we quickly got ready and ran downstairs for a bite of breakfast. We headed out around 9:30am and walked to the skating rink. Unfortunately, he misunderstood...and skating was actually 7:45pm...not 9:45am. Breakfast was done by now at the hotel so we went to Cafe 53 right next to the hotel and I ordered some breakfast and he had coffee. We were both still really tired so we decided to head back to the room and hang out for a bit while we decided what to do next.<br />
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I sent him on back because I wasn't done yet and I think we both enjoyed a bit of quiet to start the day. I had ordered fried eggs with potatoes and it was so interesting when it came. Three fried eggs sunny side up with french fries and a side of cold sugar peas. It was actually quite good. I sat there and used their free wifi and checked emails along with facebook. Sent some messages to folks and decided to head back.<br />
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Before doing so, I walked a little down Jomas street and snapped a few pics. I've found that I have taken more photos of scenes and places and buildings and streets than I have of me or Janis. I keep thinking we will want to remember these places when the visits are more than four months apart. <br />
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I mean think of it...we met Janis and Latvia came to us...three months later we traveled for the first time to this place and fell in love with not only the boys but the land...6 months later we traveled the second time and got to experience even more of it, four months later here we are again...and now final trip will be only two months. After that, no one is certain how long it will be before we are here again.<br />
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I realized the battery on my camera was going dead so I went back to the room and set it up to charge it. Janis was there and asking me what took me so long ;-) He missed me! We laid around, Facebooked (nothing going on because the rest of the world was still sleeping) and finally got a message from his sister asking when we were coming. We checked out the schedule and chose the buses as the best way to get to Kauguri. <br />
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We had gone through the items from gifts from the orphanage for the boys and picked out things that either wouldn't fit or would be difficult to travel back with and packed up a box for Zhenya. We walked down to the bus stop and as we waited and were about to board, who was running towards us but Edgars. He gave me a big hug and a manly one to Janis and about that time the bus came. Funny moment...a man in front of me turned to me and spoke to me in Latvian and I looked at him helpless. Janis heard him but answered in half english, half latvian ;-) He wanted to know how much it was for the bus and Janis answered "Fifty centimes." That got rousing laughter from several...took me a minute because it sounded perfectly normal to me.<br />
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We boarded the bus and it was crowded...no place really to sit. A few stops down Aigars jumped on board as it was the bus that passed his school. I stood in the midst of these boys who visited and laughed and periodically I got an "isn't that right mom?" and a smile. He was telling them about our cars, dad's van, things from home. These boys LOVE cars...machinas (sp?).<br />
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We arrived at Kauguri and walked to Opis apartment. This time I remembered to remove my shoes...everyone does here. Zhenya was jumping around and has named me his American Aunt. I'm ok with that for now but someday he'll understand the relationship we have with his uncle Janis. Our neat little table was already set up with gingerbread cookies and we settled in to visit. They were visiting with each other and I played with Zhenya so Janis wouldn't have to translate every five minutes. We read books...I would point to a picture, he would say the Russian word for it, I would say the English word and sometimes Aigars would chime in with the Latvian word. <br />
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Karina made us tea again and Zhenya ran around placing a cookie on the edge of everyone's saucer. Yep, I took photos. We visited a while longer and the boys played video games, I watched iCarly in Russian (that was interesting) and impressed the guys with my typing skills. We left for dinner about 4pm or so and we wanted to treat the family to our traditional Mica Pica there in Kauguri. <br />
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As we walked to dinner, I snapped photos of this group walking together...honestly it was very hard not to cry as we walked seeing what Janis is leaving, knowing he is choosing a mom and a dad over brothers and sisters, understanding the love Opis has for him and encouraging him to go and make a better life with love of a family forever. I am so proud of him and his courage! <br />
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We got to dinner and the food was good...service was slow and rude...and the entertainment offensive! Only to me though...and Janis...since we were the only two English speaking. We were privileged to have a concert of eminem all through dinner...ugh! All of this was irritating but it was still dinner with family...they had fun and so did I.<br />
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We walked back to the apartment afterwards to get Karina's things...they had all decided to go with us ice skating! Fun!! The walk back was brutally cold. I could feel my nose doing that crackly thing again and I mean cold!! We got to the apartment and it was only 18 degrees Celsius INSIDE the apartment...folks, that is COLD. Makes me feel quite a bit spoiled when we have our AC in our hotel room set on 16 degrees Celsius because it's so stinkin' hot in here. As we started to leave, it dawned on me, this would be the last time we would see Opis before leaving this trip. This made me sad...Janis gave big hugs...me too. He said some things to me that Janis translated as thank you, see you soon...in March. I told him I loved him and we'd be back soon and I bundled up and headed to the elevator before anyone saw my tears.<br />
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Aigars bowed out at the last minute which upset Janis but I told him shake it off and let's go have fun. We went down to the buses and ran in to Janis' friend again...please be praying for this boy. He is Janis' age and was dropped off at the orphanage when he was 11 because his parents just didn't want him anymore. His reaction has been one of misbehaving and anger...no wonder he doesn't welcome hugs from me. Anyway, he stayed for just a minute and then off he went. The mini bus came and we boarded and here's a tip for how cold it is...the windows INSIDE the bus have ice on them. You'd think it's just the condensation inside right? Turn up the defroster? Oh no, the inside is FROZEN. Oh my!<br />
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We got to the skating rink and I'm a bit nervous...haven't skated in a couple years but hey, for my kid? OK. We got our skates, got ready and away we went. We had to wait a bit as it didn't start before 7:45pm and while we waited Edgars bought us all small cups of hot chocolate for 45 centimes each. He is a very giving boy...another one to pray for please.<br />
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I look very much like the abominable snowman in my super big but warm jacket from my mama...but I have proof I skated! Quite well at that. And if you've seen my video, well yeah, showoff did too. I love the fact that most of what he talked about was wanting to go with Zach more to get him used to skating, wanting to see M&M skate and most of all...gotta get Daddy on some skates!<br />
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This skating rink is outdoors but fully covered to break the wind. It was still cold though and I was thankful the hour passed quickly. My hands were frozen!! We left from there back into the cold and walked quickly to a side street to Cafe 53 where I treated us to Karamelju Kaffe (probably massacred that)...we chatted about Karina's work, Edgars education, how Edgars can get a job...staying out of trouble. <br />
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We invited them up to our room for a visit since the buses came every 30 minutes. They came on up and with work coming the next day, only stayed for about a half hour. We downloaded photos and I showed them everything we had seen and done since we'd been here this time. They loved it...all four of us piled on the bed and looking at photos and laughing...language not such a big deal. It was time for them to go and once again, I'm the one with tears in my eyes. I hug them both...it's a little easier this time knowing we'll be back in two months...but still.<br />
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They left and Janis walked them to the bus stop, stopping on the way back for our water. We stayed up laughing and talking and talking and laughing til we were both pretty exhausted.<br />
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Today has been super quiet...we slept in a bit, and made it to breakfast just before closing time. I found pancakes are my favorite here now...wish I had tried them the first morning. We walked to the trains and made our way to Riga to meet friends and check out Central Market. Did I mention how COLD it is?? <br />
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Once we got to Riga, we had to find our friends, the Butlers. As we deboarded the train and walked down the perons, it was like greeting an old friend. There's the kiosk with the leather purses I look at every time we come...there's the Rimi we shopped at because it was on the way home that night...<br />
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We walked all around Stockman and it did take the two of us to actually find them...but we did! We had a very short visit with a Latte and a Rutebaga pastry before they had to rush off. Their girls are adoreable!! From there we decided to see what we could find in the market. I had so wanted some mittens because my gloves protected my fingers but didn't really keep me warm. Within a short walk, my hands and face were hurting so badly from the cold. I cannot imagine what the homeless or poor are going through right now. We actually passed an older woman wearing a hat, light suit jacket, short skirt, knee socks and low dress flats. I would normally have said it was a fashion statement but I can promise you from the condition of the clothing, she was wearing what she had.<br />
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We walked around the outdoor portion for a short time but it really was too cold. Janis found a hat he liked and I had to buy one too...we both needed one it just made me laugh we waited til the last day when it is 60 degrees back home! I so wanted gloves but they were five lats for one pair and I wanted to get them for everyone..so I decided to forego that for this trip.<br />
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Janis had never been inside or maybe only a couple times so we went into the hangars and started walking. We had such a good time exploring and seeing this amazing market for the first time. I have tons of photos from in here although I never found the tongue that the Callens and Hess-Bonner family made famous. We were in search of something special for Daddy...I won't ruin the surprise here ;-) I found some wooden spoons and such that were much cheaper than the ones outside and looked all over for an amber cat or horse for M&M but none was to be found. As we walked by one booth, Janis asked me if I wanted to taste a real Piragi...of course I do! We bought two for 16 centimes and that was lunch...YUMMY! <br />
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It was nice to hear what he likes to eat...he wants me to cook chicken fried in the pan (not breaded like southern...more like Mom's Worcestershire chicken), pork chops either breaded and fried or just fried, potatoes...lots of potatoes. All of that is stuff I can and most likely have cooked before...and everyone likes it! After yesterday, we also agreed that we need to do more active stuff as a family...I think everyone will agree to that.<br />
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We had gotten word earlier that Kristiana wanted to stop by and see us and she was going to leave work early for it. So we caught the 3:22pm train back...before leaving I ran in the Rimi and got us some more Pickwick tea...love this stuff! We rode the train back and hurried to walk back to our room to freshen up a bit. <br />
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On our first night I had seen the Russian Kitty and had hoped to see him again for a photo for M&M...well, there he was! Quick photos, run up to our room, try to do something with hat hair and she was here. She had a plan to take us driving in the "rich" section of Jurmala and see the fine houses...she said "You've seen Kauguri, Sloka and Kemeri...it is time you see the rich side of Jurmala...Leilpe, Bulduri, Dzintari." It was so fun and all she could talk about was how much Gary would enjoy this. I made her promise to do it again if Gary comes back with us for last trip.<br />
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We ended at a Japanese restaurant...turns out she's a big sushi fan too! We ordered a bunch for the table and some wings for Janis too and chatted and ate. Dinner was over and it was time to go...she and I both with tears in our eyes and looking at this crazy boy across the table thanked each other at the same time. I told her I have a Latvian sister...and I cannot thank her enough for loving on our sons til we could get here. She made Janis promise to make the most of his life...she's so proud of him. <br />
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She'll be here tomorrow to take us to the airport so we will get to say goodbye once more. Neither of us can believe the week has gone so quickly...we are ready to go because we miss the crew back home...but parts of us will always be here. Kristiana said again what a better life these boys will have in America...and I don't doubt that. But I also know without a shadow of a doubt that our lives will be that much richer because of the prodding given to us by God and the answer we gave him back...you know that verse about "more than we ever imagined or dreamed possible?" Yeah...that's us. (Ephesian 3:20)Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-27606441488555367472012-01-30T16:16:00.000-08:002012-01-30T16:16:29.803-08:00Loti Laimiga!Joy! Unspeakable Joy! At the risk of embarrassing my son later if he ever reads my blogs and to steal Karen Gilmore's comment...I keep staring at our brand new official son and telling him "Know what? You're mine!" I get the eye roll and "Love you too mom" on occasion but I am just giddy that we are in this stage of the game. <br />
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What an amazing day full of gifts from God. We are so undeserving to sit in this front row seat to be so incredibly fortunate. The only thing that would have made this day better would have been to have our whole crew here again...or at the very least, my amazing husband. I better get started or I'm going to be writing til 1am again...<br />
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Janis and I had a really wonderful devotional time last night...thinking about friends and family and praying for today. As such, we were up to nearly 2am talking...I have a night owl on my hands. This morning we woke up a little late...for some reason as I have mentioned my phone is still on American time so for reasons unknown to me, I set the alarm eight hours ahead instead of seven. I had intended on waking at 7:30am and instead was crawling out of bed at 8:30! This was after I had awakened to the most amazing (careful that word is going to be used a lot today...I even taught it to Kristiana) sunrise, fumbled around enough to take a picture and with a false sense of security snuggled back up in bed to catch a few more z's. <br />
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So up at 8:30am and Ilma is coming at 9:30am to give us the lowdown on court. Slight stressor but I hurried up and as soon as I got out of the shower, woke Janis to get ready. I wondered what this day would bring for him...so much going on in his heart and mind. But he was his jokster self...getting ready, playing around. I love the fact that we both have references...little family jokes...that apply back to each one of our crew back home. Pate for thank you, girly teen girl, GOOB, burn the castle...our family will understand ;-) <br />
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We were ready and headed down at 9am miraculously. Breakfast was the same as yesterday...just much smaller. I realized my photo op for the big buffet was gone since the huge setup was only for weekends. We got our plates and settled in to eat. We both seemed a little bit nervous...although he insisted he wasn't. I just really didn't know what to expect. And for some reason, breakfast just didn't seem to be very good today. 9:30am came and Ilma and Kristiana arrived. I went out and brought them in for coffee and we sat and chatted and caught up about how we'd been, what Janis has been doing, how Eddie is...then the talk turned to other boys Janis had known - many of whom are in jail now. I truly believe God's hand has been on this boy for the longest time...preserving him for His plan and for blessing us. <br />
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Around 10am or so Daina arrived and also joined for coffee. She looked like a European model in her stylish dress and cute coat. I told her so and she humbly brushed off the compliment ;-) She's just wonderful inside and out and I cannot imagine going through this process without her. We all talked about the amazing (see I told you) blessing of Eddie's hearing and the long road we'd been on. About 20 past Janis and I ran upstairs to get our coats. We quickly read from our devotional for the day from 1 Corinthians 13:13 and the devo that went with it saying that we are love ALL PEOPLE and always let other see Christ in us. We prayed for our court and where we were heading and that everyone we came in contact with today would feel love from us and we would glorify Him in all that we did today. And thanked Him for bringing us to this point.<br />
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With that we rushed out and down to the lobby. I asked for a quick photo of all these wonderful ladies who have faithfully worked to get us here. Ilma asked if we had our passports...I always have them...not this time! Back up to the room, down again, bundle up and out we went. Daina and her son were our ride to court which was very close. Literally just down the street to Dubulti right next to the church that should have been ;-) We walked in over snow and ice and were greeted by our angel of the Latvian language AKA Dace our translator. I cannot tell you how it sets your heart at ease to see all the familiar faces who you know not only are there to help you along but they serve the same God as you do. It's just the absolute best.<br />
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Janis' brother Aigars and a friend of his showed up as well. The friend was not very welcome by the ladies at court since it seems he had skipped school and somehow traveled three hours in order to see us. I guess if I had dealt with all they have all this time I would feel that way too. Somehow I still see a hurting kid...so I slipped by to give his brother a hug and for now, a pat on the shoulder and Cau for the friend. <br />
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Right on time we were welcomed in the courtroom. It was smaller than I expected but still with the judge's bench, prosecutor's chair and secretary's table. I was quickly educated on the protocol for court and the judge came in and we got started. Before going any further, let me tell you I've been trying to figure out all night why my legs hurt like crazy and my back is stiff. I've figured it out...protocol is to stand when answering any question from the judge...even a simple yes. I did squats all morning LOL and those little pews were super uncomfortable!<br />
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First she did roll call...yep, Gary Belk, she read your name out! Garijis Belkus ;-) to which Daina responded she'd be standing in for him. Then she read a recap of all we'd done so far...all the way back to hosting. Then asked me if we still wished to continue with the adoption...yep, I'm still in! Daina gave a wonderful account of all we'd done...much better than I could have. Then she asked if there was anything I'd like to add. That was tough...I truly didn't know what to say other than please let us have our sons. I shared how we'd loved Janis from the beginning and within two weeks of hosting knew we wanted him, how Eddie had hugged me the first time I met him and how he stole Gary's heart, how we viewed these boys as our sons! and how our other children loved them, argued with them, played with them...just like brothers. And how we'd started this love affair with Latvia because of them and we had every intention of keeping their culture alive for them. And how amazing this day was period because a few months ago we didn't know if this day would come at all for one boy or two. Wow is all I can say.<br />
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Kristiana was asked to speak and she recapped pretty much the same then Ilma. It was very emotional for all of us. Prosecutor had no objections etc etc. Then she asked Janis to speak...since he wasn't officially asked to come, we weren't sure what to expect. Let's just say our translator got choked up and couldn't finish translating for a minute and there was not a dry eye in the courtroom. I just love his heart...yes, he's a teenager...but his heart is pure Belk...made of gold and handcrafted by God just like our other four. ;-)<br />
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I got to show off some photos...they really liked our Latvian Independence Day party! The judge asked many questions about where we lived, what we did for fun...it was really more like chatting at that point. <br />
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Then as I went back to my seat she asked me about our religion. She said we are Christians and Latvia is a Christian country but there are many denominations...Lutheran, Baptist, Catholic. What are we? What is your church like? When I think of our church, our Winfield Bible Chapel, our FAMILY...well I could have talked for hours. But, I summed it up with: We believe the Bible...and we attend a non-denominational church that is less about tradition and totally about your relationship with Jesus Christ. Might not have been much but I was tickled pink to be able to say His name in the place He had brought us. They had also asked us how we chose Latvia...and I told them we didn't...God did.<br />
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With that she closed the books and said she'd be back in 15 minutes to deliver her decision. We waited...we hugged...we talked and finally the 15 minutes passed. She came back in and we all jumped up as she began reading her verdict...the adoption was FINAL...they are OURS! David Janis Belk and Eduards John Belk have been placed in a family by Him! She gave us the details on the 20 days waiting period and all that and then started to leave but Daina grabbed her for me for...yep, you guessed it! a photo! I thanked her and thanked her and then we took a few more pics.<br />
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Janis and I wanted to change and his friend wanted to spend a bit more time with him and an offer had been made to let us see one of the social houses. This was interesting as this is kind of the inbetween housing that is offered to folks here. We agreed Daina would run us back to change clothes and we would meet Aigars and Kristiana at Orphan Court and leave from there. We did so with yes, a facebook post in the meantime ;-) and handling business with Daina. We also got our suitcase of goodies we had brought for Spriditis and hurried back to the car. Daina dropped us with Kristiana and hugs were given all around. Hard to believe we had come so far for really two hours worth of business and this amazing (did you catch it) woman had helped us get there.<br />
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We drove from there to the social house...amazing in a very different sense of the word. We visited with one of the residents for a little while and they shared her story. What a great opportunity you cannot even imagine. Two precious kids lived there in admist yes, rough conditions...but this is their home. You begin quickly to be very very happy with what you have. You all know us...we don't live in a huge house or even really a nice house. But from the photos I had shared, even those with solid well paying jobs said "your home is very very nice and beautiful!" Be thankful people! WE DO NOT HAVE IT ROUGH!<br />
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We left from there and went to Kemeri...to our wonderful Spriditis. The feeling I had driving that road to Kemeri felt like going home. I can't imagine how strange it felt to Janis...he'd left it to never sleep there again. The workers and children came out to see us right away with hugs, handshakes...jokes about how much Janis had grown. We took in our suitcase and Tamara, Janis' group lady, offered to go through it to divide it out among the kids. <br />
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If you'll remember when we were there in September I commented about the little details that set Europe apart? Well, Spriditis is full of them. Kristiana had invited us to lunch there and we went into the staff dining area...a little room with tile floor and walls and a simple table covered with a pretty little cloth. Our drinks were waiting and another little gingham cloth covered them along with our bread and the utensils. I did take pictures of this!<br />
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We had zupa of cabbage, carrots, chicken and broth, then rice, along with carrot salad and pork meatballs. Our drinks were a homemade apple ciderish kind of drink served cold. IT WAS DELICIOUS. We all ate together but Janis was quickly finished and ran out to hang out with his friends and take a walk with his brother. He asked before he left if he could go walking and stay within "Spriditis territory." sounded so official ;-) I said of course and after he left, Kristiana commented how she loved to hear him asking permission.<br />
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This lunch was wonderful and it wasn't just the food. I had the privilege of sitting and talking...working through a serious language barrier...but sharing about how both of us are well aware of the amazing! work God has done in our story. She was giving us tons of credit and I of course declined...my turn to give her credit and she too said no. I loved hearing about her past and how she came to be at Spriditis. God's been working in her life since the 90's to orchestrate the exact path that would have her there. She gave Him credit so I will too. <br />
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She is wonderful, loves these kids, loves her daughter and her own family and longs for balance. Don't we all...but she truly believes she is where God wants her to be. She loves seeing the families come for her kids and seeing what perfect matches they are. I again could go on for hours but as I told her, we need to write a book ;-)<br />
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I'll leave this part to say that I shared with her how amazing (this is when she asked me what this meant) it is that we are so blessed to have her. I told her I wasn't sure there were many Orphan Directors out there who would pick us up from the airport, take us after court to the orphanage, treat us to lunch, let us take up their afternoon, then drive us to our next destination...and all the while allow and guide the conversation to Jesus and His glory being the reason we do what we do. Amazing...just amazing.<br />
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She had a small amount of work to attend to so Olita offered to show me to Eduards group so I could take some photos for him. There were kids napping upstairs so I couldn't get photos of his bedroom but I did get the playroom and the dining area. Then I met the kids from his group Anna, Ritvars and Ralfs...PRECIOUS. What stole my heart was when I came around to leave and there stood little Anna with two teddy bears that Marleigh and Mae had put in the suitcase. I cried...she loved them! And the group leader shared that as soon as all the kids woke up from their nap, she was going to hand out all the Littlest Pet Shops they had sent. Our little piece of NC by way of Maryland had ended up delighting 6-7 kids in Latvia. Amazing!<br />
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We went back to Kristiana's office and sat for a cup of coffee...visiting with Erika and Olita and of course Kristiana. More presents from generous donors had arrived so Janis opened his and went through it giving away the things too small for him to other kids...namely one of the sons of our dear friends mentioned yesterday ;-) Yes, JR, they had come in to Kristiana's office and I was able to give them their gifts from you...their pocket money and got some great hugs in return. Snapped a few photos and T got Janis' shirt that was too small for him...he really liked it. T was wearing a SC sweatshirt...I told him I really liked it and that we were from NC! That got a smile. They both grinned when I told them how awesome their parents are...can't wait for you to get here...Kristiana sends her greetings too.<br />
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Janis was ready to go so off we went to Opis (grandfather) house to visit with everyone. What a wonderful visit. He lives in Kauguri and we stopped by the market for some chips and pepsi(that's right, the taste born in the carolinas is alive and well in LV). We went up on this tiny elevator that I truly loved and to their apartment. This was my first time meeting Opis and I wasn't sure if he would be happy with me or not. I was taking his amazing grandson to America. We walked in and Zhenya was so happy to see us! Big hugs...but where is Eddie?? HAHA...Eddie has a BFF in Latvia! I was introduced to Opis and I just hugged him...he hugged me back so tight I immediately fell in love with him. All I could say was Paldies Opis...thank you grandfather...for doing the best you could and loving this incredible kid and for giving your blessing for him to join our family.<br />
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Remember the fine details? I was offered a wonderful cup of Auglu Teja by sister Karina where she pulled out a little table with a pretty cloth and candle to serve on and then I proceeded to play with Zhenya, visit with Aigars and Karina and just enjoy our time with no time constraints. I got Janis to translate and asked Opis some questions...where did you grow up, when did you move here, how did you meet grandmother. He told me we found out things he'd never known before...newsflash to dear readers...value your elderly! They are a wealth of information if you'll slow down long enough to talk to them! <br />
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We looked at pictures and I insisted Opis move to our couch to share stories. There are photos of Janis as a baby we are going to try and get copies of. All kinds of great photos from their past. Then we shared our photos we had brought for court and told them to feel free to keep some...I can always print more. As we all visited and chatted a couple things of note struck me: 1. everyone over here likes rap music...and as we are sitting there and strains of other music I have no idea what they're saying float around, Janis went over and pulled up some Lacrae on youtube...and just like that His name was in the house ;-) 2. One of my favorite things on this trip is that Janis will be sharing something with a friend or someone else in Latvian and all of a sudden he'll say "isn't that right Mom?" like I knew exactly what they were saying. <br />
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We figured the 7:10pm bus was a good one to catch and Aigars and Edgars walked us to the bus stop. Not before promising another visit tomorrow afternoon though! We had snapped a few photos and I gave everyone another hug all the way around. We boarded the bus and there was so much to reflect on...so much we had seen and done and heard and said today.<br />
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I was getting hungry and we hadn't really eaten since Spriditis so we stopped in the first restaurant as we started down Jomas iela. We ordered a pizza and sushi...LOL...not quite the common combination but I was craving sushi and pizza is a staple for us. Janis actually tried and LIKED my unagi! He's the one that reminded me to bless the food...and he said the blessing. As Janis and I ate tonight we toasted with our coke and coke light...to our family on both sides of the water...the five in Maryland and the five in LV. I hope you can catch some glimpse of how utterly amazing this day has been. <br />
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We wrapped up the evening in the pools and saunas in the hotel but that isn't the reminder I want to leave you with. It's 2am here and I'm tired...he's sleeping already and yes, I'm still so happy. The reminder I want to leave you with is this...we were reminded again today that Eddie had a bleak future if he had not been brought to America. We didn't host him...someone else did. We need to give these kids...all these kids...a chance. Eddie has no one but Kristiana and the wonderful people at Spriditis missing him...we are his only family and I am quite alright with that. But folks, if you feel even the slightest inkling or discomfort that gee, maybe you could do more? THEN DO IT. Please...someone's life depends on it. Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-44995388158495686182012-01-29T14:54:00.000-08:002012-01-29T14:54:45.765-08:00Today...it was the brush ;-(Yesterday I wrote about how I forgot my bathing suit...today I go to dry my hair and guess what? Forgot my round brush. UGH! So Sunday...here we go...<br />
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I woke this morning with the beautiful sunrise blasting through our window. Sun might be out but it sure isn't warming up...snow still lies on every branch and there's a nice thick layer of ice everywhere you walk. I looked at my phone which still reads American time...can't figure out why it hasn't picked up local time like it did last trip...dug around til I found our borrowed Latvian phone which read 8:40am. Hmmmm can I trust it? <br />
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I decided to go ahead and get up and get my shower and get ready for the day. I knew breakfast was until 10:30am and if I had any hopes of finding a church we needed to get moving. If you remember we went to bed a little strained but by the time I got out of the shower and came out to the room, he was all smiles and Good Morning Mom! That was a long shower! HAHA. We checked his watch and it read only 7:10pm so I am thinking we have plenty of time. We finished getting ready and went down to breakfast. <br />
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Well, European sure enough it was! Breads, meats, cheeses, Farmer's Breakfast quiche with soft cooked eggs, potatoes and some kind of meat, sausages, bacon that was barely cooked, oatmeal cooked with water, oatmeal cooked with milk, pancakes (not the american kind but delish), boiled eggs (some cooked three minutes and some five minutes), whole fresh fruit (apples, tiny oranges, kiwi), curd cheese, sour cream, jams and jellies, pastries, juices, yogurt, cereal and granola and of course COFFEE! We had breakfast and relaxed and then headed to the front desk to ask about church.<br />
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As we walked out we saw it was already 10:30am! Wow...much later than we thought. We asked at the front desk and he looked at me like "why?" but then offered that there were many on Jomas iela...just go out and right and they'd be on the left...but they start at 11am. We rushed upstairs and got our coats and ventured out...and it was COLD! We walked and walked and found nary a church...til we had walked all the way to Dubulti. It was about 11:15am so we figured it wouldn't be bad to go in a little late...it was an Evangelical Lutheran church...until we saw all the people walking out of the church and realized that particular church started at 10am. Bummer...one more Sunday in Latvia and no church. <br />
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However, the talk we had on our walk and the fun and laughter...well maybe that's exactly what God wanted us doing today. We posed in front of the church that should have been and snapped some photos. We were freezing so we decided to head back to the hotel and get Janis a hoodie so he'd have something for his cold ears. We got back and he brought up the freedom aspect again. He simply wanted to walk to the drug store and get me a brush and some water...just an errand and not feel like he can't. Honestly it made me laugh a little because I totally think he's old enough to do that. Especially in Majori. I shared with him if we lived in a place where he could walk somewhere at home, we'd let him there too. It's just that we live in the boonies ;-) Only catch is I had no lats to offer him...he sweetly said he would buy for me out of his money.<br />
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Because he was still on the list from the orphanage he had been getting his stipend every month and Kristiana gave it to him yesterday. I thought that was really sweet of him. So off he went and I started writing the blog we posted this morning. When he got back, we chatted some more and he tried to figure out the TV. We couldn't get it to work so we called the front desk and we had a visit from Engineering. Fun since I'm in the hotel business and it was neat to see his uniform, how he handled it...all that stuff. He showed Janis how to work the TV and we turned on the hockey game. <br />
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Janis kept trying to reach his friend Ralfs who we wanted to try and visit while we were here. After several tries we made contact and checked out the train schedule. He was going to come our way but he's in Tukums and I've never seen Tukums...so why not an adventure. We read our verse out of our devotional book and the devotional for the day...then checked out the train times. We found out the next train was at 2:47pm and it was now 2:34...surely we can make that right? We tried...but it was cold...and we walked slowly. ;-) Next train was 4:29pm so we looked for something to kill time. We walked, exchanged our cash for paying our lawyer...found the Narvesson where we found some really good coffee to warm up. <br />
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I had my brilliant idea that we needed to open a restaurant/coffee shop in Latvia called the Americano. It will serve only large sized coffees and beverages at decent prices. Truly the only frustrating thing I can find about this country is that I REALLY want a cup of coffee larger than 12 oz. that I can sip on for about 30 minutes at least. We continued walking and talking and he routed me around to Dzintari where we kept walking and talking. It was cold but really wonderful. We took some pictures of the houses that were for sale and in really bad shape. It makes me sad to see such beautiful buildings just falling down. <br />
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We walked on around, taking photos and videos and chatting about how much Dad would like this building or what Dad could do with that one. Laughing about Zach, Marleigh and Mae and little Eddie and what they would do if they were here. Janis wanted to show me the ice skating rink where he liked to go often so we walked over there to see what times they were open and how much...and we PASSED A CHURCH. Grrrr...oh well, the family time today was well worth it. We went into the ice skating place and while we were reading who should walk in but several kids from Spriditis...including little T who's being adopted by some friends of ours (well on FB they're friends but boy do they feel like family already ;-)). I snapped a quick photo of him with Janis and told him we'd see him tomorrow with goodies from Mama...he grinned and ran off with the others. <br />
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The place is only open til Tuesday so Tuesday we'll be skating! Only 3 lats each and for last times of things, I think it's well worth it. We walked on down to the train station and purchased our tickets. Lots more of really good talking and bonding and fun times and a few tears and waited in the cold a bit more for the train. I remember telling him how incredibly blessed we are to have a boy as wonderful as he is...kind, respectful, multilingual ;-)...thanks to him, we can make this more like a vacation. I can tell so much we are being covered today in prayer and my prayers have been answered many times over in our ability to enjoy each other and work through the very minor things he needs. I love the fact that anytime he says something might be a challenge for him...he quickly says "but I know I'll get over it" and with a smile at that. <br />
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The train came and we hopped on...45 minutes later and seeing some new countryside I'd never seen we arrived in Tukums. Regress for a quick funny that only Gary Belk will understand...our resident gypsy came begging again! You remember the one who approached us when we were changing money in March? Well he came up again and Janis told him I didn't speak Latvian and he should move on. He did...but we laughed and said if we saw him again, I'd pay him 2 lats for a photo...he's become part of our landscape.<br />
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We saw a beautiful sunset as we rode and once we got off the train it felt like the temps had dropped about 20 degrees. Janis called Ralfs and said we are here! Quickly he showed up and I gave big hugs. We headed up this very steep hill but admittedly with the cold weather, the hill and the walk were welcome to get our body heat up. Since it is Sunday, many things are closed but we did find one cafe at the top of the hill and quickly went in. <br />
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It was so neat! Really cool huge blue couches to sit in and large tables...only three tables in the whole place. A full menu that began with "Boiled Tongue" as an appetizer! OK...that part maybe not so great...but the rest of the menu was wonderful. I ordered a hot tea to warm up and the boys got cokes. We ordered our dinners...pork chops with cheese for the boys and chicken chop with cheese for me. Great sizes and we all got the 1/2 portion. All of this and refills to boot for the same price as the pizza the night before. And the conversation...well, I couldn't have asked for better.<br />
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Ralfs is about to go to England in search of a better life...he just turned 18 a while ago. He shared he's tired of living in terrible conditions and he has a chance at a better life. Janis shared with him how education and working hard work toward helping him get there. The mama in the group told him about how no matter how hard he worked, if he didn't get responsible with his money and start living right, he'd forever be fighting to get the things he thinks he needs or wants. I asked him if he knew Jesus...and he said yes, he knew about Him. He was very vocal to Janis about how much better things would be...and it was so good for him and wasn't he so happy for this chance. Just great conversations. <br />
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They caught up about fashion and style and laughed about old times and my wonderful talent of being able to figure out most of what they were talking about came back so I could actually join in for most of it. I love this kid...Ralfs...and Janis of course. He apologized for his behaviour when we were here in September...no need to, he just broke a dish accidentally. And said that since we've been gone he's had no desire to drink or do anything "else"...this made me happy as I've prayed for him on and off. He's excited at his opportunity and really wants to make a better life for himself. <br />
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We remembered the train was to come around 7 something so at 7:30 we headed down to the train station...and oops! The train had come at 7:34pm and yep, we missed it! So around back to yet another cafe we went and I purchased three capuccinos and something sweet for Janis...all for 1,13 lats...some things are so cheap while others are so expensive. Over our coffee we chatted some more until she came to us and said they were closing. We bundled up and headed out again for our grand tour of Tukums. We walked and talked and I heard all about the hopes and dreams of this young man. It was so nice to hear these two encouraging one another, laughing together and me only getting involved to guide them on maybe better choices of what they were discussing.<br />
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I genuinely hope he can save up and come visit us someday. I hope so much and will be praying for him to really get on track and that England will be the answer God wanted for him. We continued on around and made our way back to the train station. Before we boarded, I gave him a big hug...told him the hope he's looking for will only be found in Jesus, that I'd been praying for him and will be praying for him and to please keep in touch. He thanked me and shared that when they were at camp those many years ago, God made sense...and he wanted that. But when he got home, nothing here looked like that. The seed has been planted...he does have hope...and he's a really great boy. Just needs direction. Please be praying for this boy too! <br />
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There were many things discussed that as an adult and as the parent of one of them...you just want to tell them NO...this is what you should do and to do it any other way is just crazy. But, that isn't always the best way...just guide them, love them, and let God show them. Boy has he done that already in sooooooo many situations. <br />
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Back on the train we settled in and enjoyed the ride back. We nearly missed our stop because we were talking and had to be reminded it was Majori! We quickly walked back...it was so cold! And were so happy to get to our toasty room. I am finally thawing out and getting to write here. <br />
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Janis has been flipping TV channels and we've gotten a dose of Latvia's Got Talent, an old episode of Heroes and an education on what is on regular TV most of the time...yep, we got a small glimpse of pornography as we flipped channels (on regular TV), and saw shows rated 12+ that were littered with foul language. These kids are just exposed to way too much too early helping them grow up too fast when they don't have parents around to do some good old censorship. <br />
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All in all, it's been a wonderful day. God heard our prayers for easing some tensions and working on hearts...mostly mine ;-) and we just had a great day visiting friends and growing as Mama and son. So much He still has in store for us...and so glad I got to just love on his friend too. <br />
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Prayers for tomorrow please...we meet with our social worker at 9:30am...and leave for court at 10:30am...and court starts at 11am. And God willing, these boys will be Belks by noon. For He knows the plans He has for us! He's declared it! And that is to give us ALL hope and a future and not to harm us! Thank you Jesus for such a promise and for delivering already...Jeremiah 29:11.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-8116676397137590052012-01-29T04:24:00.000-08:002012-01-29T04:24:20.111-08:00Cleared for Takeoff!World traveling has started up again in the Belk house...but with only two this time. And I must say these two miss the other five VERY much. <br />
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Our flight left Dulles Friday afternoon at 5:50pm...we had no issues with security, no issues at all and made it on the flight with time to spare. As we found our seats we were bummed to see there was no personal entertainment set up on this plane...Janis was assigned 39A and I was 39C...I went ahead and took B with the assumption no one would mind switching with me. As 5:50pm drew nearer, I realized maybe there was no B...which meant we would get a seat between us and hopefully help with stretching legs and sleeping.<br />
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Sure enough we had the empty seat and settled in/set up camp in that empty seat. We were ready for the 7 hour flight to Frankfurt. As we taxied down the runway, a terrible realization hit me. We had secured wonderful rooms at a nice spa in Jurmala...and I forgot my swimsuit! Janis said not to worry...you never buy anything for yourself Mom, you'll get a Latvian swimsuit! And in his favorite saying, he quipped, "oh, and your husband called and said you can buy anything you want." HAHA. Still, it always happens I forget something...and it just irritated me. <br />
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This was the first time in all his flights that Janis had been assigned a window seat for the "big" leg of the journey and he thoroughly enjoyed it. Some of his comments were great. "The ground looks like the sky and the lights are stars." "Now I understand how God sees us...we're so little and His hand could just sweep us away." It was at that moment we realized we were right over Baltimore and we wondered what everyone else was up to. Wal-mart pizza and a Red box movie if tradition was correct (which a quick check to the suntrust account later confirmed this ;-)).<br />
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We were both starving and to let you know how much, Janis even said that if it was fish and mushrooms he'd eat it...two of his least favorite things. Dinner finally came and it was pasta or chicken...I chose pasta, he chose chicken. Good for airline food...amazing to me (and here comes my hotel catering girl poppinng up) we got two decent sized shrimp on our salad, no iceberg lettuce - only frisee and spinach, chocolate mousse with white chocolate shavings and a monster strawberry on top, then entree and the obligatory cheese slice with bread. I've determined they run a decent profit I'm sure because they have ridiculous portion control. The salad was the size I serve for my hors d'oeuvres menus! Janis even ate his shrimp.<br />
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After a cup of coffee (mini sized of course) we settled in and both of us fell asleep. Not sure what woke us but we did wake up for the movie "Dolphin Tale." And then we realized our 7 hour flight was turning in to 6.5 hours and we were only 1.5 hours from landing in Frankfurt. I read, he PSP'd, we waited. They came around with our breakfast snack which was fruit (remember portion control? we had watermelon - one piece, kiwi and strawberry - several pieces, and one tiny blueberry), whole wheat roll with strawberry jam, granola bar and yes, the obligatory cheese slice. I very much want to call this the cheese wedge but it isn't...just a thin slice. Finally we landed and were way ahead of schedule. It was about 7am Frankfurt time. We gathered our things and headed out...once I hit the jetway I realized we had left my camera! I went back in and thankfully it was there in our "empty seat" under a pillow. <br />
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We made our way to the gate and sat for a moment with 3 hours to kill. Restrooms, organizing our stuff...how bout a snack? We went in search of something to eat...found a little kiosk called Perfect Day. Passed on by and there was a convenience store kind of place and then an asian place called Moosh Moosh (HAHA). We could get us a noodle bowl and beer at 7am! YUCK! We headed back to Perfect Day and settled on yogurt with fresh fruit and Muesli for me with a capuccino and some kind of meat sandwich with capuccino for Janis. The price tag on this meager breakfast? 16 Euro...about $22 bucks. Whoa! That was more than half my budget per day for us! Oh well, I knew some cheap eats were awaiting us in LV and our free ride from the airport was saving us more than that.<br />
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Headed back to the gate, enjoyed our snack. Laughed and chatted some more...both of us were getting punchy because fatigue was really starting to set in. I thought I better check our flight to make sure the departure gate had not changed...wonder upon wonders it had! From A42 to A38...we moved to the other gate with still plenty of time to spare. As we neared that gate, Janis started looking at the people going with us...yep, he's Latvian, oh yeah, she's Latvian...him? No, he doesn't look Latvian. Just made me laugh.<br />
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Boarded the plane and both of us fell asleep nearly immediately. Missed the snack (cheese sandwich ;-)) and finally landed in Riga. As the plane neared it was odd seeing land come into view. I told Janis this was the first time I was coming to Latvia with no anxiety. The first time it was us with Eddie, the second time it was all of us and wondering about him...now? just coming to handle business and see friends. This was also the first time we were landing and not having to walk across the tarmac or take a little bus to the small plane. We actually pulled to a jetway and walked right into the airport!<br />
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Restroom stop, organize our luggage and head to baggage claim. Thankfully both of our bags made it through fine and we went out to see if we could find Kristiana. Right there she was! With a surprise! Aigars was with her! She gave big hugs with tears and I hugged Aigars and we traded and it was wonderful. Moment I had...I had no tears...which bewildered me. Now I realize why...my heart was with me ;-) Janis and Eddie have been home and my family is complete. So many love Janis...and Eddie...and now they are the ones missing them. Made me sad and glad if you can understand that. I hurt for them but am so incredibly grateful for us!<br />
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We loaded up in the Spriditis van and began the familiar drive to Jurmala. There is snow...lots of it...not as much as last year yet. And it is cold! Very very cold! We drove to the hotel and found parking pretty easily. They helped us unload and we checked in. The hotel is nice...right on Jomas iela and so fun to be here when we've visited so often. Looks very much like it did last March when Gary and I were here. <br />
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It truly doesn't seem right to be here without Gary...seeing things we've seen together. And to be here this time with only one kid in tow...But, we're using this time to handle the business and enjoy each other. We got to our room with Aigars and Kristiana helping us with luggage. Once we got to the room, the presents came out! Wonderful people had sent presents for Janis and Eddie since they were officially still on the list of kids at Spriditis. Candy and toys and watches...Janis opened several and then once he hit the watch, he said Eddie can have all that was left. There were two boxes too...one for each of them...we opened Janis' and there were so many nice things...some he didn't care for and said he would leave for the other kids. <br />
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We visited for a short while then Kristiana had to go. Aigars stayed with us and we thought about what to do. Well, since we were at a place were all the spas, pools, etc were included in our rate, we decided I needed to find a bathing suit. So, off we went. I found one reasonably priced just across the street...hot pink no less UGH! Oh well...I'll forever have the memory of my hot pink Latvian swimsuit HAHA. We kept walking towards the train station and the boys said they were hungry so we stopped into the first place we came to...crowded! Nowhere to sit but in the smoking section...no thanks. Went on and found Sasliki restaurant...crowded too...so we moved on. We were going back to "our place" right beside the hotel and there's this double decker bus on the way that's been converted to a restaurant. We figured why not? <br />
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Pizceria Ripo was our dining spot. A super large salami (pepperoni) pizza with two sodas and a water and we went upstairs to eat. It was so fun! And the food was really good. As we started to leave, I asked Janis to leave a tip since I didn't have any cash yet...he commented she wasn't very good! I understood that but 30 centimes wasn't going to break us and maybe she would think differently after we left. Janis and I were starting to wear down so after we went back to the hotel. Passed the Russian kitty on our way back (M&M will remember this kitty...same guy we saw in September that was so huge and fluffy). Considered buying some thigh high wool socks...but thought better of it ;-)<br />
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Back at the hotel, we just hung out. Aigars and Janis called a bunch of friends and caught up...having fun tricking them and saying "you know who this is??" It was so fun to listen to them laugh and chat. Even if I couldn't understand a word they were saying. Aigars realized his bus was not leaving for another hour and a half...so I decided a shower would be good. <br />
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Interesting things about our room...1. It is tiny. The photo on line showed this large room...angle of photography makes all the difference. 2. We figured out how to run the lights...you have to put a key in a slot by the door and it has to stay there the entire time you're in the room. 3. We have no clue how to run the TV...that will be a challenge for day two. 4. The cooling/heating is in Celsius...I'm at Janis' mercy there LOL<br />
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After Aigars left I could tell something was not quite right. We were too tired for the pool so decided to just turn in for the night. He misses his freedom...going out walking and visiting with just friends. Funny thing is I don't really mind...he just didn't ask. We were both tired so we decided to sleep on it and figure it all out tomorrow. Overall a great day. So much here to love...and so much here to reflect on. Still a bit of competition feeling here. There's a struggle for his heart but he's made it clear he's chosen us. And that is a lot to be thankful for. <br />
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Enough for now...finishing this up on Sunday morning when it appears the rest of you are just getting up. Update on Sunday later today...Have a great day America! We love you!<br />
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Verse from last night for me and Janis: "I came so they can have real and eternal life, more and better life than they ever dreamed of. John 10:10"<br />
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Appropriate as we continue on this journey leading to a new life here on this earth...and appropriate to remember as we help this amazing boy say goodbye to so much here and hello to amazing things for his future. That future with Him is more important than anything else we can do.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-30126049607445085792012-01-27T05:36:00.000-08:002012-01-27T05:36:41.557-08:00Travel Day...Coming Home!Finally to the real last day of our amazing trip...the day we came home to America! Our flight was to leave at 11:30am so we determined it would be best if we headed to the airport by 9am. We were all up early to get things going and actually ready early. We had arranged for our guy who had driven us to Kemeri to pick us up and take us to the airport. It seemed everywhere we turned our clothes had multiplied and packing up was getting more and more challenging! <br />
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As I write this some four months later, it is hard to remember it all. But a few things stand out. Most importantly, we had a lot of food left over. Stuff that was good...only a day or so purchased. J asked what we were going to do with it and I said I didn't know...we weren't allowed to leave it for the next family coming in behind us. He asked if we could give it away. Of course!<br />
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Zach jumped on the service wagon as well and those two boys bagged up everything that was worth giving and headed out. They walked down the street to the Russian Orthodox Church where there are always many many people there begging for money. J of course had to do the talking but he asked a woman if she wanted it. She of course said yes and when they gave her both bags of food, they said she was amazed and just kept shouting "Paldies! Paldies!" Thank you thank you!<br />
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What a way to end our visit here...and all along I had said I had wanted us to serve while we were in Latvia. Funny, sometimes we don't see what we were able to do til you look back on it four months later. Honestly, I came home thinking, we didn't get to do a thing! Now, just loving on the people we met, visiting with older folks and orphans, and of course, giving away two bags of food. Yes, I'd say we got to serve. Maybe opening my eyes to what is around me and recognizing service for what it is might be helpful. It doesn't have to be organized with T-shirts and a mission statement...it can be just living, every day, purposefully.<br />
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So off we went to the airport...made our flight just fine...connected through Helsinki. Stressed a bit in Riga when the boys decided to go find sodas and croissant for breakfast...yes, I let things slip a bit. And the stressful part was wondering if they would make it back for the flight! But make it we did and then all the way through to NYC. <br />
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There is where we hit some hiccups. First, our flight was late arriving and we had maybe 45 minutes to make it to our connection. We received our fast pass that was supposed to get us through Homeland Security faster. Unfortunately, no one could understand why we were traveling with 1. so many children and 2. who were these orphans? Well, let me tell you mister...they are orphans no more! They are our kids! And yes, one of them doesn't belong to us but she is our friends' daughter. <br />
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No one listens to me ;-) and we sat and sat and sat in Homeland Security while they "reviewed" the papers, yes we're holding your luggage, no you can't go...YES you missed your flight. Ugh...are you kidding me? Nope...definitely not.<br />
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Well, once we got through that mess, we found a very very nice man who helped us find another flight...but...it was a LaGuardia and we were at JFK. Remember that trip to NYC I was hoping for at the beginning of this blogness? Well, Gary Belk took me to New York! But, it was a Super Shuttle ride around the city...didn't even see the big buildings from a distance. But hey, it was me and Gary in New York! HAHA. We were treated to the most amazing sunset that night and if I can ever get as talented as Julia Hess, I'll begin dressing up my posts with photos...I can't seem to figure that out.<br />
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We finally made it to BWI at like 11:30pm...late..deserted there...except for our light at the end of the tunnel, Jen and Chris Diehl. Thankfully they had picked us up (well they had to get their daughter ;-)) and were bringing us home. <br />
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Such a surreal feeling to be on our soil, in Maryland, with BOTH OF OUR BOYS and ALL of our kids. As usual I was moved to tears...they groaned when I pulled out the camera once again...but at least I didn't make them pose. <br />
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We got home and both of our big boys actually slept on the couch...when one doesn't know if one is coming home, it is hard to prepare for you. As Gary and I fell into bed, we reflected on what the last 17 days had been for us...bonding, building our family. Some saying hello and a lot of saying goodbye.<br />
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The past four months have been wonderful and beautiful and HARD. So much we've all been working through...too much for here this morning (I do have to pack you know). I realize our settling in may have been harder because we didn't know when we left for Latvia if we were coming home with one or two...God gave us two! And there was much to be done to put Humpty Dumpty back together again...but it did get done! <br />
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Here we are four months later and I am preparing to leave TODAY to head back and do the second court that will make it all official. I figured I better wrap up the end of THAT trip before I can start the beginning of this one ;-) We are heading into a different world...but a beautiful one. If I haven't said it before, I'll say it now...I love LV! And I love the people there. And my one prayer as we travel is to be used. Whatever He wants us to do on this trip...I want to do it. <br />
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We've got many people to visit...friends and family. And it will be hard I am sure. But at the end of the day, February 2 will come and we will come home. God's been with us on every single trip so far...we've seen Him work both times. Last March, it was immediate answers AS SOON AS WE LANDED! September, it was the gift of J. Kind of makes me excited for what He's going to show off and do this time. Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-3639743929228137352011-11-06T19:14:00.000-08:002011-11-06T19:14:00.141-08:00Last Day in LatviaIt's hard to believe I'm finally writing about this day...it is true that the longer you wait the harder it is to remember. But thankfully I took ridiculous amounts of photos and have the young minds of my kids to help me remember. I find myself in a VERY rare moment of having no one in the house but my little one fast asleep so thought I would try to knock out this post...and then all there is left is traveling home, which is a long post in and of itself.<br />
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The last day in Latvia posed a few challenges for us...there was much to be done and only one day left to do it in. We had really tried to make a vacation and enjoy ourselves and suddenly we found ourselves needing to go back to Spriditis for the rest of J's things, say goodbye to the orphan director there, pick up Visas at the Embassy, get our painting shipped and meet up with the daughter of our friends who we were escorting back to America for them. And to make things really interesting we slept a little late too! Shocker I know!<br />
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Oh, and I forgot that I had promised to get a cell phone for our friends who would be traveling soon and go ahead and get it to their daughter in Riga so they could contact her. I was up at a decent hour and quickly got my shower. Gary decided to finish up what was in the fridge and thought a good breakfast of our last bit of traveling bacon (sounds like a follow up to the traveling pants), eggs, potatoes and toast would be in order for our last day here. While he was cooking (remember we can only use one unit at a time so it took forever for the potatoes to fry) I decided to run on out to buy the cell phone and get started on the many things to be done. <br />
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I remember it was a beautiful morning..crisp and cooler but sunny. I went to the first suggested spot and they said to go across the street. At the Narvesson (where they sent me) I could get the Goldfish for the phone but couldn't get the actually phone...they sent me a bit further to the Tele2 store. As with everything in Latvia, you take a number and wait. All the little tags telling you which number to pull from were in Latvian so I took my best guess and pulled a number and waited. I had no book, no smart phone, nothing to occupy my time but people watching! So that's what I did...there were about 20 of us waiting and I began to wonder about each of them and their story. The young woman who looked so very "put together," the older woman who was obviously a businesswoman in her suit and smart looking jacket, the old couple - he needing a shave and she with her cute dress and tennis shoes on - wondering what their lives had been like over the past many years of occupations and war and changes. <br />
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After about 45 minutes, my number came up on the little screen and I hurried up to the desk and quickly asked if she spoke English. The answer? "of course!!" In short order, I asked for the right phone, gave her my Goldfish. She activated it and I told her I needed it to be able to accept incoming International calls...she pushed lots of buttons and said ok..all set. I paid and hurried out and back to the apartment. <br />
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I miss Riga...I can still remember the way the sun felt glaring that morning as I realized it was after 10am and we needed to get on our way, yet taking the time to enjoy the views around me. The flower market as I walked back, the grouping of students on the corner doing a small version of a flash mob and the not so good views too...of the beggars on the Russian Orthodox church steps. <br />
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When I got back, breakfast was ready. We ate and everyone got ready and we tried to map out the day. The dilemna? Kemeri was a 1 hour train ride outside the city...the train left a 11:30am and we were definitely not going to make it. I needed to be at the Embassy no later than 3pm because we were meeting our friend's daughter no later than 4pm. And that meant I needed to catch the 2:15pm train back to Riga from Kemeri (remember that 1 hour train ride?). So, you do the math...there was no time for me to go...yet I couldn't leave Latvia without saying goodbye to the friends at Spriditis! <br />
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We quickly got ready and called our cab driver from before to see if we could get a ride to Kemeri. He was happy to oblige as we were a pretty decent cab fare...and I was looking forward to the children getting to see the road trip version out there...and in the cab, it was only about 40 minutes. He picked us up and off we went. We arrived to Spriditis and J took off...he wanted to go over to the school and say goodbye to all his teachers and friends there. It was a little weird since he didn't really want us to come along...but he's 15...and isn't that normal? I often embarrass the ones I've had for much longer ;-)<br />
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E ran off with M&M to play on the playground and Gary and I went in to find our wonderful Orphan Director and visit for a moment. We had a few more gifts to give out as well so once we found them we started with hugs, pictures, tears and gratitude for sticking with us and working so hard to help us get both of our boys. And she had a gift for me! A photo book of Latvia and a book of Old Riga...wonderful memories of our amazing trip. They are truly amazing people at Spriditis! The hour passed so quickly and we had to hurry off to the train. I gave final hugs and promised we'd be back in November or so. We all walked to the playground together and took more photos of all of them with E. Then the we had to practically run to the train station to make sure we made the 2:15pm train. <br />
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Without J with us, I muddled through buying tickets there and accidentally bought one too many. She thought five of us were heading back and there were only four. It was very emotional getting on the train from Kemeri station one last time...I know we'll be back twice more, but it was very odd to be there and be leaving three of my family there while me, the girls and E headed back. Something about the finality of it just seemed weird.<br />
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We didn't realize about the extra ticket til we'd made the train and the ticket person came around...she asked me where the fifth was...in pantomime of course. I held onto the ticket...and then at one stop, realized someone had jumped on the train and was sitting on the steps and not coming in. It dawned on me, this person was most likely either homeless or just couldn't afford to pay to ride the train. When the ticket lady came around again, I gave her my ticket and asked her if she could just delight someone during the day who needed to buy a ticket...give them one for free. She looked at me like I was crazy...and I said "gift...make someone happy?" She laughed sweetly, thanked me and said "I try!"<br />
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That is something I notice continually about the people of Latvia...they are very kind, wonderfully sweet people. But they aren't used to getting something with no strings attached. Things that are kindnesses "just because"...these are foreign to them. Yet it is truly delightful to be the one on the giving end of these interactions.<br />
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As we neared Riga, I began to get anxious and felt as if we were on the Amazing Race. We deboarded the train and made our way to find a cab since it was already after 3pm. We had switched our time to meet our friend's daughter to 4:30 or so. We found a cab and made sure he knew where the new Embassy was and then conveyed we needed to go there and he needed to wait please. It was supposed to be a quick run in and pick them up visit. And it kind of was except it took nearly half an hour inside. When I was in there it was so cool to be present when another Latvian family I'd met on FB was in there picking up her daughter's final packet declaring her a US Citizen...it was wonderful to get to see that happening! Tears and happiness just all the way around.<br />
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After our number finally came up, I hurried back out and found a very antsy cab driver waiting there...but wait he did! He hurried us back to Elizabetes iela and we quickly grabbed our painting to try and find the post office. As we walked back towards Freedom Monument I was thinking we just didn't have time to handle this before meeting our friend's daughter. We did finally find the PO and waited briefly...then we gave up and ran to meet her by Cili Pica (our hangout). She's adoreable! And she immediately hits it off with our girls. She gives quick hugs and goodbyes to her foster mom and then she has to run.<br />
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We quickly head back to the PO and wait again. They get to us pretty quickly and they seem shocked that I want to mail this painting. The clerk (thanks to Em and her translating skills) tells me it will be 27 lats...and yes that's expensive but it's better than leaving the painting behind and it's also a lot cheaper than it cost to ship the other direction! We wait and wait while she packages and wraps the painting...and I say a little prayer to please let it get home safely. Finally we are done and we head on to the next errand!<br />
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We take our additional girl's things back to the apartment, get everyone a sweatshirt since it is getting cooler and then run out again. I wanted to get over to Old Town as there were a few quick things I had wanted to pick up for home. After renting everyone bikes again, we headed quickly to Old Town...picked up some pottery, a matching bag like my daughters' got and hurried to the souvenir shop where I had seen these cute dangling rings...I got one for each of the girls. From there it felt like we could breathe...and it was getting late.<br />
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We rode bikes back to the canal and I sat on the banks while they rode around a bit more. It was starting to rain so we headed back, turned in our bikes and walked back over to the apartment. I started packing right away because it then dawned on me, "we're leaving in less than 24 hours!"<br />
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Dinner was whatever was left in the apartment...which wasn't a whole lot...but enough to fill our bellies and save a dollar. The boys finally made it back rather late and had enjoyed a really nice afternoon. They had wrapped things up at Spriditis and taken the bus to Kauguri where J's grandfather lives. Gary got to look at old photos, visit with grandfather, take more photos and J got to say goodbye. Then they took the train to Majori and the boys enjoyed the coffee shop with the little Russian lady before heading back to us.<br />
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After settling in, getting everyone some dinner, we had Circle Time to help us refocus for the next day...the day we would actually leave. We were ready to come home...but we knew too how hard it all was for J. And honestly, I've said it before, I love Latvia. Thinking back on that night, I remember feeling bittersweet. Soooooo ready to get home to our family, both immediate and church, our pets, our food!! and Diet Mountain Dew LOL...but knowing I would miss this place. <br />
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Prayers and bedtime and then on to travel day...which takes a post all on it's own.<br />
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I wrap up this post on Sunday, November 6...which is National Orphan Sunday. I am so grateful God opened our eyes to how He wanted us to serve Him in serving orphans. We had a great day today worshipping and sharing in church...and I urge all of you to find the way you can get involved. Yes, it is 147million kids strong of an issue...and how do we fix it? One child at a time. Find where He wants you to be...but above all, do SOMETHING. Don't just sit by with pity...that isn't what they need and that won't help the situation. <br />
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And as I shared this morning that God just laid on my heart in the middle of church today...God showed us how to get involved and our family was meant to adopt. But to be very clear, orphans do not live in our home. Our children live here; our kids have come home. Once we answered the call for Him, our sons became orphans no more. <br />
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And I challenge all of you, please be ready to say yes. Your child may be out there somewhere, waiting for you to get out of your comfort zone and find him or her. You wouldn't leave your biological child waiting. So if you feel even slightly that God is calling you to take that step, please don't hesitate. <br />
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If it is meant to be, He will make the way. And if it isn't meant to be, He'll shut the door. But that's His call isn't it? Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-19250250605970441662011-11-04T20:24:00.000-07:002011-11-04T20:24:33.161-07:00September 13...VisasTuesdays are quickly becoming my favorite day of the week. And how fitting that today, on a Tuesday, I'll be writing about a Tuesday nearly a month ago. Tuesdays are now my Saturdays and I start my day early by choice. I get to make breakfast for all five of my kids, pack lunches for four of them and my hubby and then spend my day getting things done and playing school with J. I laughed when I told him I used to LOVE to play school when I was a kid...and he was a much better student than my stuffed animals!<br />
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But today, on this Tuesday, I'll share about THAT Tuesday...<br />
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Embassy interviews for Visas are required for adoptive families...we weren't sure what to expect but our appointment was at 11am and we had seven to get to the Embassy which was a little distance away. Thanks to a friend on Facebook, we'd been given the advice to head to one of the bigger hotels and we would find a minivan kind of taxi. So after being up a little early, getting everyone ready, we headed over to the Radisson Blu in search of a taxi. <br />
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We found one straightaway and asked if he could take us to the US Embassy...important to note it had moved since March and we needed to be certain he understood where exactly the new location was. I asked if he spoke English...yes we had J with us but often I wondered if he got tired of being our translator - Moms and Dads are supposed to make these arrangements, you know? He did (he said) and said he understood. I told him we needed to be there at 11am and he said ok ok, I pick you up there. And pointed to the sidewalk. 10:30am came...and 10:35am and I began to get worried maybe he thought I said we needed to LEAVE at 11...so I sent Gary and J off to find him and make sure he understood. No he had not! Thankfully he was willing and able to load us up quickly and shoot off to the Embassy.<br />
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We arrived just in time, paid him and asked for his number to have him come back and get us. Daina, our attorney, was waiting for us outside the security entrance. She's like a security blanket..you see her and all is right with the world! This was old hat for Gary and me but the first time for all the kids. As we went in, it's very cool to realize you are entering US Territory...ahhhhhh, home sweet home! <br />
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I related the story to the kids when I was in college and went on my study tour to France. I remember we visited the cemetery at Normandy where the French gave the US land to bury our dead there..our professor called out as we pulled into the area "Ladies and gentlemen you are now on US soil!" and one smart aleck student said "Great! Can you run by my house and pick up my socks! I'm cold!!"<br />
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So back to Latvia...at security you have to leave cameras, cell phones and anything with software like flash drives etc. Gary had asked me to put his phone in my bag to make sure it didn't get hurt going through the xray. As we got to the other side, I gave them the Latvian phone and my phone and camera...and we passed on through. The grounds there are really pretty. From the outside and on the street, it is a very non-descript building, yellowish in color and not very stately. The streets leading up to it make you feel like you're going somewhere way off the beaten path. But once you get through security, there's lovely plants and sitting areas and the guards are very very nice. J commented as we walked through that a boy in Kemeri had helped with the landscaping there. These kids are taught at an early age the importance of working and of doing a job well.<br />
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Passing through one more area of security and metal detection, we were directed to our waiting area where American TV and magazines were prolific. It was a good bit larger than the last Embassy with four windows of interviewers. It's very interesting that there isn't a private room or any place to "step away"...you simply walk up to the window. After a relatively short wait, we were called up. We were expecting a little more questioning and such but the only thing she wanted to be certain we understood was that J could not under any circumstances attend school while on this Visa.<br />
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I of course wanted to debate this a bit as it has been a point of contention among many of us. How many people attend school illegally and yet, we are bringing them home legally and they can't go? I also gave full disclosure about E's school to be sure there were no challenges there. Thankfully since his is considered rehabilitative then he is fine. She didn't appreciate the debating too much and simply continued smiling kindly and said, you understand about J right? We waited and waited and then she said we were approved and we could pick everything up the next day.<br />
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As we headed out to security to pick up our things, Daina and I lagged behind chatting. Gary and the kids had walked on ahead. We got there and Gary was asking about his phone, insisting I had turned it in for him. It was nowhere to be found...so I looked in my bag and yep, we had broken a pretty big rule and smuggled a cell into the Embassy...oops! The guards were very kind and I promised to behave.<br />
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We were pretty excited as we headed out and when we got well outside and headed toward where we would wait for our taxi, I wanted to take a photo...well wouldn't you know a very stern guard came out of nowhere and fussed at me in Latvian and then said "Photo...NO!" I apologized and we quickly moved as far away as we could to wait for our cab. <br />
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Daina had asked us to go to see the ladies at the Welfare Ministry...we had met them over the summer when they were in the States but they had also worked very hard and been hoping for a family for little E...so they really wanted to see us while we were there. We had our cab take us over and marched all seven of us up to the very top floor to have tea, coffee and sweets together. We met these three women who are responsible for organizing the referrals for all our kids...three women who make it all happen for families all over the place! What a wonderful time together as we visited, sipped tea, talked about E and J and how things were going, learned about their lives...so very refined ;-) We spent about an hour with them and snapped some quick photos. <br />
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We realized as we left that we weren't that far from our apartment so we simply walked back to finally get changed and relax for a bit. But only for a minute! We'd been made aware that J had forgotten to sign one document when we were at Orphan Court the day before. Gary was still fighting a head cold so, realizing we really had no other time to do so, we decided that J and I and anyone else who wanted to go would head out to Dubulti on the train and get that handled and then stop by the little kiosk I had wanted to buy soaps from before heading back. <br />
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Typing this now, it sounds like oh so much! We really were busy all the time...our choice of course. A little more of the disease I deal with daily of not being able to just sit around. <br />
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So, hop the train we did! Marleigh and Mae wanted to go along and Zach and Dad stayed back with E. We decided we should get off at Majori, rent more bikes and ride them to Dubulti. That's exactly what we did...it was chilly and overcast and starting to mist a bit. But it sure felt nice! Riding bikes that far, at least a mile or more to the court house, it felt like something we'd been doing our whole lives. We all waited outside while J ran in to sign his papers and then we took off and headed back to Majori. <br />
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We found our soap lady and bought one of each flavor! The challenge is going to be deciding what to give away and what to keep! I had planned that we would be back there before Christmas so this was meant to be just one part of our Christmas presents for friends and family...now it might be all they get!<br />
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After our soaps, we continued down the cobblestones, stopping and shopping at a few more places along the way. I wanted to see the sea one more time so we rode up there and just sat for a little while. On the way back, we stopped in a Russian antique shop...wish I'd bought something there! We had a train to catch though, so we hurried back and checked our bikes back in. There was still a bit of time, so we went into the coffee shop located inside the train station there. <br />
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This was our spot when we were there in March...Gary really liked the coffee from the Russian lady there. J wanted to buy some sweets and a pastry or two and the girls wanted an ice cream. I got a coffee and a Honey Cake and again, it just felt so natural...like we were there just yesterday. I remembered how when we were there in March, it was so bitterly cold and now, chilly but not so cold...and yet, warmed the soul just the same. I remembered sitting there and chatting with J about hurrying home and now, here we were just two days away from going home...all of us together!<br />
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Finally the train came and we boarded and headed back. It had been so chilly and it felt so good to get settled in and just enjoy the ride. Funny, this was one excursion they convinced me not to take my camera with me and I told them there was definitely going to be a moment where we wished we had it. Thankfully I did have my iPhone so I snapped a few with that, including a beautiful shot of the sun breaking through the low hanging clouds.<br />
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Once we got back to the apartment, we ate what was there, and got ready for bed. It had been a long day and we were realizing we had a lot to accomplish in our last full day of Latvia. <br />
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Another glimpse as to how crazy our lives are now...not crazy in a bad way, but busy! I started this entry about three weeks ago and now here I am on a Friday night at 11:20pm finishing it. And the sad part is that there is SOOO much I could and should have shared on all that has transpired over the past 1 1/2 months home. <br />
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As I posted a few weeks ago, it just gets better every day. I love the talks, the learning, the growing by ALL of us...melding us into a family. I can't wait to get all the rest of the paperwork done and REALLY settle in...but for now, it's nice to try and simply live. Every day, getting more and more settled.<br />
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Last day in Latvia...coming soon!Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-17392814396408401652011-10-10T21:40:00.000-07:002011-10-10T21:40:20.494-07:00Taking a Chance...Is there actually a chance I can have time to write about Monday...the 12th! Gary and the big boys have gone fishing and the girls are at AWANA and me and E just got back from a quick swinging date at the elementary school. Now we're back and no one is home and I've got about 15 minutes before it's time to fix him dinner and get his bath and he's happy with his cartoons for a minute.<br />
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So, let's try! <br />
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Monday was Second Court date but it wasn't until the afternoon at 3pm. We were able to sleep in a little, not much! J needed new jeans. I wanted him to have something a little nicer but that's not quite his style so jeans it was and we were all ok with that. It gave everyone else permission to wear jeans and then Gary and I were the only ones to really "dress up." After court we planned to go to Majori and go to the sea and I had this idea for taking our picture on the shore there. <br />
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So, after breakfast, we split up and Gary and the boys went in search of jeans and me and the girls and E went towards Old Town. We rented bikes from Baltic Bikes to run our errands and what fun! Cheap transportation and so so much fun! Mae and Marleigh wanted E to ride with them so they took turns. It really was quite fun. We went all down to the furtherest section of Old Town and sure enough I found what I was looking for. Black Latvia tees for all the kids and white ones for me and Gary. <br />
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We headed back to the apartment and realized we still had some time so we stopped off to feed the ducks again and I sat and read while they rode bikes all around the loop where we were. In short order it was time to head back so we returned the bikes and got back to the apartment to start getting ready. The boys arrived right after us so we quickly finished up and were ready to go to the train station. As soon as we opened the door the rain started! We snapped a quick photo of Mom and Dad and the boys and hurried down to the consignment shop and bought the last two umbrellas they had. Now we know why umbrellas are on the pack list for Latvia! Rain just stops and starts there all the time!<br />
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With two new umbrellas in hand and feeling quite European, we hurried now to the train station to make the 2pm train. Turns out it was more like the 2:10pm train and we knew it was about a 30 minute ride. We were a bit concerned but not too much. Once on board and relaxed a little, we met an American living in Riga now. What a nice conversation as he asked us why we were there. We used our newest version...we'd come to pick up our sons since they'd been in Latvia for a few years and it was time for them to come home ;-) His name was John and he'd married a Latvian woman and had been living in Florida, then Colorado, then France for four years and now Riga for four years...from there they had to choose where they were going next.<br />
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We finally made it to Dubulti and walked across the street to Orphan Court. Everyone was there and we started right away. They wanted to interview J first, then each of our bio kids (yikes..we weren't prepared for that part!) and then discuss with us about E. J's was pretty quick, Zach charmed them and made them laugh so loudly we could hear them in the hallway! The girls were pretty quick too. All of the first ones went well, and for some reason I was very nervous about this court date. <br />
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Finally it was time for us and E. E regressed about six months and if you didn't know him, you would have thought he had serious issues. These formal areas make him very nervous and this is how he deals with it...wallowing on us, humming loudly, rocking again. We held him and answered questions as best we could. Then they interviewed Gary about J and asked him to go ahead and take E out and they would continue with me.<br />
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With some humor they asked questions about traveling back for second trip, why me and not Gary, why didn't Gary and the children leave on the 9th since they had agreed he could, lots of random questions that showed they really adored my wonderful husband but really wanted to pick on him. They said "He's afraid to get lost isn't he?" We all chuckled a bit. Then some more questions for our Orphan Director, then more for me. After what felt like an eternity they said OK, I think we're done. I said, "well? Do we get to take them home?" They said "Of course! We decided that a while ago!" Oh my word! I can breathe now thanks!<br />
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Before we left, we had the boys give all the ladies the gifts we'd hauled all the way from America and Gary came back in. There was much good-byeing and Gary had his chance to ask "all ok?" They said yes and as we said goodbye Gary shocked them all by giving them hugs! Not quite European protocol but they loved it and he brought his bit of Southern charm all the way to Latvia.<br />
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We gathered everyone up and out we went to the park to walk toward Majori. These two towns are one train stop apart and you can see the stations just across the water. The architecture there is really lovely and if I can ever get a minute, I will upload all the photos and label them so you all can have pictures along with my writing. It does make a difference! We were so relieved and happy! We stopped in the park and the boys got out of their dress shirts and into their tee shirts I had bought them...then off we walked. <br />
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It was about a two mile walk...maybe less to Majori. The first thing we did was go straight to the Baltic Bike stand and rent four bikes for our four oldest kids...Mae wanted E to ride with her. And then we continued toward the sea. Majori is such a lovely little town...brick cobblestone streets, little boutique shops, cafes and bistros. When you first come to the town, there's a statue of a knight slaying a dragon that's pretty big right in the grassy part across from the station. The walkway (and it is that...no motor vehicles that we saw) is about a mile I would guess, maybe less. Gary and I meandered along as our kids looped and raced and rode all around us. We looked at all the little stands selling their wares and really liked this one station with homemade Latvian soaps that smelled wonderful! <br />
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When you reach the end of the walkway, you turn left and continue on down toward the sea. J showed us which restaurant he had worked at this summer and the one his brother had worked at too. Remember the last time Gary and I were there everything was frozen (in March) so it was so nice to see water in fountains and businesses actually open! As we headed up toward the sea, there's a fountain that comes up out of the ground, shooting water straight up with cool lights too. We avoided it the first time as we were in search of a bathroom to change clothes in. While it was still warm, the bathrooms were shut down as "end of season" so we made do and yes, we quickly changed tucked around the corner keeping an eye out for each other. I was able to teach my daughters what it means to "shuck off those slacks quickly and throw on the jeans!" <br />
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Together we walked on up to the entry way to the sea and it was beautiful. I still need to read up on what makes a difference between the ocean and the sea but the biggest difference on the shore is the beach area is flat...super super flat and really wide. And there are no waves! It was so cool to be here after walking on this very body of water when it was frozen solid. We ran and played and Zach and J picked up the girls and pretended they were throwing them in and then all the big ones grabbed little E and pretended to throw him in and we played and played...and it was wonderful! E threw sand and got in trouble...but not for long ;-) Then I made them all gather for a couple of family pics and there is where we got our Christmas card photo. It's just perfect! All seven of us with the sea in the background and these tremendous clouds and the sun. We looked for shells but didn't find any.<br />
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The wind was picking up and sand was blowing so we decided to start heading back...and shockingly the whole crew was starving. That is SO unlike us! After a few more snapshots we returned the bikes...but not before they took turns riding them through the fountain shooting out of the bricks!..., started getting eaten alive by mosquitoes again and made our way back to our little cafe where we ate with J back in March. It was so warm in there and we were starting to get cold so we ordered our drinks and Gary and I and J got our Karamelu Caffe (yummy!) and we started deciding what to get to eat. <br />
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After eating at Charlie's the night before where we'd gotten so much for so little, we just couldn't stand seeing these prices. So in short order we decided to go catch the train and go to Charlie's again for dinner. It wasn't REALLY breaking our pact of eating at different restaurants since J had not eaten there the day before...right? We got to the train station and enjoyed an amazing sunset over the water and a full moon rising on the other side...just gorgeous!<br />
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The train felt so warm and after much walking it felt so good to snuggle in and enjoy the thirty minute train ride back to Riga. Once there, we went straight to Old Town and made our way to Charlie's. These cobblestones are so very quaint, and I love them, I really do! But after several days they begin to become hard to walk on and my poor feet and ankles were soooo tired! I was so happy to get to Charlie's, be escorted back to our same red booth in the back and really snuggle in for a warm relaxing dinner. We were truly starving...I think we ordered six pizzas! But remember they're only 30 centimeters!<br />
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Finally we were done and ready to head back to the apartment after a very long day. J had gotten his pocket money that is given to all the kids at the orphanage at the first of the month. I think it is about 6 lats? Anyway, he had his own money and as we walked back he made a point to give one lat ($2) to the first needy person he saw. Reminded me of Jesus' story of the woman and the rich man...his gift meant a lot!<br />
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I can honestly say the bed felt good that night. Mae made us all a cup of hot tea when we got back. We all rested well and enjoyed recapping our favorite parts of the day. Looking back now, we had such wonderful times there. Sure there were challenges and we were tired but it was wonderful. <br />
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And just like Latvia, here I am at 12:30am, the entire house asleep but me and it's my quiet time to write. My timing is getting better! This post only took two days to write ;-) and I can tell I need to find my muse once again. Re-reading this one it sounds "tired" sorry about that. 5am will come early tomorrow as everyone heads out to school and work. So, remembering to rejoice in ALL things...goodnight!Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-43567402820610093542011-10-09T05:34:00.000-07:002011-10-09T05:34:06.033-07:00Don't Fall out of your Chairs!I'm writing again!! <br />
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I'm still going to go back to Latvia and catch you all up from where I stopped there...and much of that is for my own benefit as much as it is for yours. But so so much happened and we saw and did so many things, I just couldn't let it not get on paper...or wait, digital? It's hard to believe we've been home three weeks and I'm going to write about things nearly a month ago! Anyway...let's go back to Sunday, September 11.<br />
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I was determined to have my family in church and they obliged. We were up on time if not early and got ready for what we thought was a 10:30am service at the Dom Cathedral. We wanted to start the day together because J was going to go and spend the day with a friend and their family and say goodbye to all of them. We weren't too thrilled about it but at the same time we've learned that there are many things that are unique about our entire experience and we've respected the things that have sometimes felt like a complete departure of "normal" for us. Orphan Court had said when he needed to return but it was up to us as to when he went. We agreed he could be on the mid day train that he could make after church. <br />
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We set out from our apartment on what was promising to be a beautiful day and rushed along down through Old Town to the Dom. There was very little foot traffic out...a quiet Sunday morning. If I didn't feel so uneasy about the day, I would have enjoyed our walk. But regardless, our whole family was together and we were headed to church! The Cathedral is under renovation but still open so we rushed in running right on schedule...to find out there is no more service in English there. One more minor set back in this long journey for which we have learned to take in stride. <br />
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As we stepped back out into the sunshine and onto the cobblestone streets we debated about what to do next. We decided to make the most of the morning and walk through Old Town back towards the park. With little to no company there, we were able to see even more of the old buildings in Old Town including the Cat House and the Big and Little Guild. There was no rush, and we were able to just wander. <br />
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We headed back to the park and held our own little church of seven right in the park. Sitting on a park bench, we read scripture and talked about how to apply it to ourselves and then prayed together. We took a quick walk to the train station and put J on the train to head to his friend's for the day. It was really an awful feeling letting him go away again and just resolved to have a good time together in spite of his going. We stood there til the train left and watched him go and then the six of us headed back out into Riga.<br />
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We were starving and the weirdness we were all feeling was soothed with a burger from McDonald's! After lunch we went back to the apartment to change clothes and rest for a bit. I had the same problem in Latvia that I've had at home in that I can't seem to just relax...I felt we needed to be out seeing something or going somewhere. Gary was pretty tired though so we sat and rested for about an hour and then struck out walking again. We had plans to meet our friend around 4:30pm or so for dinner...so what to do with our day?<br />
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We found ourselves back by Freedom Monument and the canal with the boats. We remembered that they weren't very expensive so we decided to splurge and do the 45 minute canal ride. What a wonderful experience! The ride took us down the canal and out onto the Daugava and all the way across so we had amazing views of Riga, the bridges and the boats. We went all the way down and got very good views of the big ferry we can take from Stockholm sometime. E had to wear a life jacket and had his cute hat on...we called him Gilligan!<br />
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After a relaxing ride we got back and it was just in time for a wonderful September 11 ceremony Latvia was hosting at Freedom Monument in honor of America and the people we lost that day. There was speaking, beautiful singing, dancing and PRAYER. Such a nice way to spend our Sunday. Our sweet friend Ines and her two foster children arrived right on time and we met by Cili Pica to spend the afternoon together. <br />
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A few days earlier we had gotten coupons for a place called Charlie's Pizza and thought that would be a good place to head. Ines' little ones had NEVER had pizza! Can you imagine! How fun to share this first experience with them. We walked down through Old Town and found Charllie's. Walking in, it's a really cool place! I wasn't sure it would be good for kids but they welcomed us in! The decor was plush purple and red banquettes that had huge high backs. It reminded me of that cool place on Central Avenue in Charlotte that many of my NACE friends would remember...wonder if its still there ;-) <br />
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We settled into a large red banquette and took over the back of the restaurant and proceeded to check out the menu. There was a "discount" section in the back of the menu where cheese pizzas were 1,40 lats! And fully loaded ones were only 2-3 lats...we had struck gold! We were able to feed 9 people for about half of what we paid to eat at TGIFriday's! And we had salads, pizzas, drinks AND desserts. Best apple crumb with vanilla ice cream! Oh, writing this now really makes me miss all of our experiences.<br />
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We cozied up in the restaurant and visited and ate and just relaxed...it was such a nice afternoon! Ines needed to get back to the tram so we headed out and stopped in the square there to take some photos. Then we walked her back to the tram and continued exploring until it was time to go meet J at the train station. It had been a busy day and we met him and leisurely walked back to the apartment hearing about his day. It was good and he felt good about saying goodbye. <br />
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It had been a long day...a good day for all of us. And while it had been hard to be apart, it gave us time to enjoy different things and at the end of the day, we were all back together. The next day was second court...and I'll write about that very soon. <br />
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I guess this gives you a glimpse of what my life is like now...it has taken me four days and about seven different tries to get this one entry written. Life is busy with work, school, kids and remembering that gorgeous guy I married almost 17 years ago. But it's wonderful and I love it...didn't say it wasn't hard!...but I love it.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-61845664412652290642011-09-13T23:25:00.000-07:002011-09-13T23:25:18.903-07:00Catching up...Today it was Trams!Maybe you've noticed there hasn't been a post in a few days...SORRY! And maybe you haven't, and that's ok too ;-)<br />
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Honestly, our days have been so long, at some point I had to decide to either go to bed at midnight or go to bed at 3am...and I've been so tired I chose midnight! And that is why there've been no posts. To share with you a little from Saturday...<br />
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Saturday began the first of our past four days of really just "being a family." There wasn't any big sightseeing or trip planned and no souvenir shopping. We were all wiped out from walking who knows how many miles (or kilometers!) at the castle on Friday and so we just slept. Late! As usual. <br />
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We talked about all that we needed to do or had to do over the next few days and started mapping out how we would get it all done. One of the things we did definitely want to do was see our friend Inese here and her two foster children. She has been wonderful in arranging the apartment for us and we wanted to thank her and deliver some things that were sent by folks for her and the kids to use. <br />
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We had to meet the lady here at the apartment at 3pm to pay for the rest of our stay and then as soon as she left we struck out to figure out the trams. Inese lives in Mezaparks and none of us, even J!, were familiar with how to get there. She had shared to use the Number 11 and it would be very easy. <br />
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You buy the tickets for these at the Narvesson which are the 7 Eleven stores I was telling you about before. We started out on our walk because the stop for the tram is located behind the opera house. We stopped at the Narvesson, bought our tickets and continued on our way. Remember I told you about the flower stands all around? Well, I still love these things! And so we thought (Gary and I separately and at the same time!) that it would be nice to take her some flowers. <br />
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I asked the kids what they liked and they picked the red and white gladiolus. They were gorgeous...I said two of each please! J then quickly said, no mom...you need to buy five. You can't get even numbers...it has to be odd! OK, I'll entertain this for now...give me five. <br />
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Glads in hand we head on to the tram station. It takes some figuring out but as we work our way around, ask several questions, we figure out where it picks up and that we have about 7 minutes wait. Finally it comes and we board...and it's nice. Cheap way to travel around the city and in about 30 minutes we are there.<br />
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Mezaparks is a lovely area with some beautiful homes and streets. It's definitely one area I would like to spend more time in...but for ths day, only a quick visit. We see the entrance to the zoo...but don't get to go. And instead after a quick call to Inese, walk down the street to where she is. Her apartment place is really lovely...a gorgeous house that has been outfitted into apartments. Or maybe it was apartments all along, but really pretty. <br />
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Her little angels are sitting on the couch and are there for a visit. She gets them full time on Monday and it is so nice to see them being loved on! They are beautiful! Check out my facebook for photos of them. Absolutely precious! They don't know English but quickly seem to understand hello and smile! <br />
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We visit in the other room while the kids watch AirBuddies in Latvian and Stuart Little in English. Over a cup of tea we chat...about Latvia, about the children, about our children, about ministries. She is a wonderful woman who loves God and has ministered to so many. Such a privilege to be able to just sit and chat! <br />
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Our kids are starving (sleeping til noon will cause this when you have breakfast of cereal at 12:30pm)...ugh, this will not continue in America! ;-) So we ask if we can go find something to eat nearby and we all go for a walk. It really is a lovely area and we enjoy the walk to the restaurant. It isn't very big and as soon as we walk in the girl tells Inese that she only has one cook so it will take at least 50 minutes for food. We feel so welcome! LOL<br />
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After some debate we decide it's getting late so we'll meet again later and have dinner some other day. The little ones most likely can't take the wait. We part ways and we head back into downtown Riga to find dinner. We reboard the tram and ride back and get off at a stop closer to the apartment. Double Coffee sounds like a good solution to dinner so we head there...they have the best Caramel Coffee! My only wish is that these yummy beverages came in a venti size!<br />
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Here we encountered some "no one's ever told me this was not ok" behaviour. Nothing major but the cell phone became a dinner guest and Mama and Daddy weren't happy. One quick look across the table though silenced it and we finished dinner and headed home. <br />
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We got home and I grabbed my grocery list and without having to ask had three volunteers to go to the store with me. We got our groceries...some begging ensued for ice cream for which I relented (funny, it was the same kind we bought in the park the other day and it was cheaper in the park!) and then started the walk home. <br />
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Finally, in for the night, another load of clothes, unpacking groceries and another "kitchen conversation." I love the way these just pop up...many times instigated by our children. Meaningful talks just out of the blue...some of them are better than others at starting them...but it's nice to know they WANT to talk. <br />
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Parenting kids, teenagers, is never easy. They are figuring out themselves and we are trying to walk them through it all. And really this is what today became (well Saturday since I'm writing this way late)...it became the day we started figuring out our family. No castles, historical places or shopping to distract. Just a day where Gary and I and our five children went to visit friends...nothing fancy about it. And it was good. Mind you I said it was good...not perfect, not the way I want every day to be, not without challenges...but it was good, in ALL of it's imperfections. ;-)Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-82035273184187647292011-09-10T03:29:00.000-07:002011-09-10T03:29:22.018-07:00Planes, Trains and Automobiles...Well, Not Exactly!More like Buses, Golf Cart Cars, Feet, Cable Cars and Trains! Today we were tourists! Well, yesterday...I was wiped out...worse than wiped out last night...so today I write ;-)<br />
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The one request by everyone was to go see a castle...a real castle. So I began looking for them and there are tons in Latvia but we wanted to find the best one that wasn't too far away. At least two natives here had suggested we go to Sigulda and that area was mentioned in our travel book too. I looked up the train schedule and wanted to be on the 8:05am train out there. Of course my teen, pre-teen entourage looked at me as if I had three heads and we compromised on the 10:42am train.<br />
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Well, as you all know, I have taken to staying up til 3am to write these blogs (except last night of course). Alarm went off at 8:30am and I just couldn't move...add to that having a hard time getting everyone else going and at 10:30am we still had teeth to brush and shoes to get on and we are a good 15 minute walk from the train station. Frustration set in...but then I realized little E most likely wouldn't last more than about 6 hours hiking all over creation so we went to option two...the buses!<br />
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We found one that left at 11am and the next after that to be 12pm. None of us, including J, really knew where the bus station was...we knew general vicinity but not really where it was. So we decided the 12pm was the best choice to give us time. We struck out toward the train station where we believed the buses to be too. It was neat, we got to walk through Central Market too...one of the things I wanted to mark off of my things to see/do list. We arrived, bought our bus tickets and made our way to the platform to wait. It was to be about 45 minutes wait. <br />
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While we were sitting there, I pulled out my book and looked for reading material. As I read, I found out that the huge warehouse things right in front of us were built to be German zeppelin hangars in WWI...and now they are used for markets. It's interesting, if you just open your eyes, you find the most amazing details in what's right in front of you. <br />
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That leads me to our life lesson for the day. As we sat there waiting, a man came by. On face value he looked pretty ok. Appeared to be clean, holding a shopping bag. Until he started digging in the trash cans, looking for food. He didn't speak to us, he didn't make eye contact, he just did what he needed to do to try and find food. And as he passed, I noticed the "details." He "appeared" to be clean and well put together...but in the details - the hem of his shirt was filthy, his pants down at the bottom of the legs looked extremely worn and his shoes...well his shoes had no laces and were just hanging on his feet, soles looking sooo thin. He continued down the line of trash cans (they're placed about every other platform) and I couldn't stand it. He didn't beg...he was just surviving. I gave some money to J and told him to please go give it to him and tell him to get food. He did and the man finally made eye contact. <br />
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Now this guy needed physical help...food, clothes, you know the drill. But the lesson I shared with our kids last night is the fact we need to pay attention to the details. There are people around us every day who are hurting...they may have the best looking clothing but if you look at them closely, really get to know them, we find they are filthy inside and in need of something we can give - a kind word, a hug, a shoulder to lean on, the truth of Christ and how He can change all of that. I am not naive enough to think we can help all the hurting people either here or in any city...but I do believe we are called to action. One at a time...that's how we impact any issue, right?<br />
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Our bus finally came and we boarded...not super luxury but not terrible either. It was a little hot but otherwise ok. We all piled on and got comfortable. The issue we had was that no one was really certain where exactly we were to get off. As we drove, everyone took a little nap or read for a while. It was a little over an hour ride and as we got closer we started speculating on where we should get off. At one stop, it looked right, so we started to...and this wonderful man sitting next to Gary said No! Wait a little more. So grateful he spoke up! The bus pulled us right up to the main station and the information center with a fabulous English speaking clerk was literally right next door. <br />
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Our main goal was to see a castle so she offered us several options to see several castles and then get back to the train. It was later though so we decided we should go straight to the biggest one and then make our way back down. They called a Golf Cart for us and we ran across the street to a pizza place to get some lunch. We ordered three pizzas to go (their larges are like our mediums...so we're not being exceptionally piggy ;-)) and drinks and as they came ready, our cart pulled up. We had a sweet driver who showed us some sights as we went up the mountain. The actual town for the castle was Turaida and was only 6 km from Sigulda. <br />
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She offered us all blankets, said it gets cold as she drives. M&M&E accepted but our "tough guys" decided they were fine. And I was upfront beside her. We got to the top and we were all COLD! We sat outside the gate on some benches and ate our pizza and then went through to enter. They had prices for two adults, and two kids (family) and we were trying to figure out how we would pay. Finally, I told her, "let me just tell you what we have and you tell us how much." I told her we were two adults and five kids and all were ours. ;-) She let us go in for the same family price as the two and two! <br />
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We started out and went up by the oldest wooden church in Latvia and where the Turaida Rose is buried with a hundreds year old linden tree keeping her company. Then on down toward the castle. There's a gift shop there with authentic Latvian made items inside...super expensive! I wanted a wrap badly but it was 42 lats! So, not this time ;-)<br />
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I cannot tell you the surreal feeling as we crested the hill and the castle came into view. Imagine being, for real, in a place straight out of Lord of the Rings. The castle tower rising above the road. Standing still for a minute and imagining what we're reading. There used to be two towers with a gate in between and a moat...oh my goodness that serious dip in the ground used to be a MOAT! Wow! J said to me, wouldn't you like to be able to go back in time and just see what it might be like? Like if there was a way for you to just see the figures moving...but I suppose that is what our imaginations are for ;-)<br />
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We continued on in and saw the courtyard, the areas where the guards lived and worked, the well, the jail! The furnace room and the gardens. This is alll from 1207...hello that's like 800 years ago! We kept saying as we walked we just could not believe we were walking in these places! The wooden part of the castle was destroyed by fire in the 1700's I think and was never rebuilt. So the palace part was purely imagination...nothing but the foundation remains. We all took a turn with the archery there...not too bad. J and Zach hit the yellow part of the target, Gary was good too. I actually hit the white paper! E and at least one of the girls missed the board completely ;-) It was fun!<br />
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We climbed the tower...which was a LONG way up! All of the stairwells and walkways were super narrow. We laughed about how everyone must have been skinny and short back then. But one really cool observation was that the stairs were worn. The bricks had smoothed out curves in them where hundreds of feet have gone up and down. We walked and walked and walked up the stairs til we finally reached the top and could see the most amazing views. The River Gauja in flowing right beside the castle and in the distance, Sigulda Castle and Krimulda. Sooooo much cool history here!<br />
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J commented that he felt like a tourist...we told him he was. Our answer has become, when people ask us why we are here, we are here to pick up our sons...they've been living here for a long time and they're coming home now. ;-) <br />
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So the deal was we had a ride up the mountain but we were to walk down it and see sights along the way. And off we went since it was about 6pm. The first sight we came to was the largest cave in Latvia. That was so cool. Legend has it that the Turaida Rose was murdered here because she would rather perish at the hands of an admirer than deny her love for her true love, the gardener Victor from Sigulda. There's also a stream there that flows out of the cave where women in olden days would bring their newborns to wash their heads there and it would make them smart and beautiful. I laughed with our kids that boy did I miss an opportunity HAHA. The cave is made of sandstone and people have carved their names and dates in it for years. The oldest one we could find was from Lucy Lane 1817. <br />
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On we walked past another smaller cave and then to Serpent's Road. This was a ,80 km walk UPHILL along a winding road. You could say we certainly got our workout in! At the top of the hill is the Cable Car ride and after a brief rest and wait it came. While we waited there were some kids playing with motorbikes. Gary really enjoyed this as they were rundown bikes but he loves this stuff.<br />
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On to the Cable Car that would take us over the valley and directly over the River Gauja. These views were amazing...great pictures of Turaida, Sigulda New Castle and Krimulda Manor. And the best gift was an amazing rainbow that appeared in the clouds just as we crossed. This Cable Car dropped us right at the Tarzan Parks where we had promised the kids to ride the toboggan. Mae was scared...not sure she wanted to. They took off down the mountain and they got to ride the chair lift back up. When they got back up there was a chorus of "again Mom...please!!" I sent them right to Daddy and he relented...one more. <br />
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From there we started heading to the train station and realized that by the time we got back to Riga, it would be after 9pm so we just happened to pass another pizza place ;-) This place was cheap...amazingly so. We went it and it felt wonderful...the seats at the tables were like armchairs and couches and it was so warm (it was getting really cold outside!) We cozied up and ordered more pizza and cokes and even ice cream and then it dawned on us, hmmmm, the last train to Riga, we don't know when that is?? We asked the server and she said she thought 9pm...uh oh, it's 8:30! Cancel the coffee, gotta go! <br />
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We headed out foregoing pictures with the HUGE spider yard art out front and walking quickly to the train station. We got there and found out it was really 9:20pm for the train...so we had some time. The girls and I ran back to the same pizza place for lunch for a bathroom break and wonderfully, saw he had a coffee machine! I ordered two capuccinos to go and back across the street we went. <br />
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We finally boarded the train and settled in for the hour long ride back to Riga. What a wonderful wonderful day! All outside, all walking and hiking...definitely time for a nap. After getting all toasty on the train, looking at all our pictures on the camera of our day and napping a bit, we finally arrived back in Riga. It was a freezing walk back to the apartment where we relaxed with a cup of tea and Circle Time. <br />
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What a blessed day! What fun! The only "bummer" part of the day was thinking of how many of our friends and family would have loved to have been here with us. Those who would appreciate it for the history and the fun.<br />
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We had a great day...but we are READY to go home. And now we're down to more of the "business" we came here for. Today we are going to meet a friend in Mezaparks and maybe go to the zoo. Monday we have court again and then going to the Baltic Sea. Tuesday Embassy interviews and Wednesday picking up their Visas. <br />
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Please keep praying for these last days...it gets a little harder every day and a little easier too. I know that may sound odd but it is true. Lots to plan for and lots to say goodbye to. Very much need the support and prayers of our friends and family. <br />
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Thanks...here's hoping we continue to get stronger and build even more family memories together!Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-75324859233459066762011-09-08T16:17:00.000-07:002011-09-08T16:17:54.822-07:00Do Not Be Anxious About Anything!Well, we've all heard that one before...but today, I was stubborn! I went to bed at 3am again after blogging once all the kids were in bed. I have this issue that my twins like to write too so while I start writing, they start talking and before you know it we've gone an hour and a half and it's crazy! <br />
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Anyway, I was awake at 8am freaking out about to make myself ill worried about flights. Would we be able to find a flight for the 15th, how much would it cost, can we get J and our friend's child on the same flight with us. I got up and starting surfing the web trying to find phone numbers. We had a travel agent do all of the arrangements for us and with the Hurricane changing everything he did the first leg of changing with no fees. Then he had surgery...and I have felt terrible in having to bother him while he's healing! <br />
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But our challenge is that we had no way of knowing if our departure would have to be changed til we got here. So at 8am I'm trying to figure out what to do on my own....I've always been an Expedia kind of girl so this is daunting. I email our agent, I email a friend and I facebook a friend who I think might have a clue as to what to do...and then realize it's the middle of the night in my real world and there's nothing I can do.<br />
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So, I pray about it...and go back to bed and try to sleep a little more. Finally at 10am I get up and decide to give it a try on my own. I grab my trusty Latvian phone and call the Latvian number for FinnAir. Mercifully, the wonderful woman Eva speaks English. I tell her our situation and she finds our records and says she'll need to work on it...can she call me back. I thank her and wait for her call. <br />
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Shortly after she does call me back and give me good news and bad news. Good news is she found flights that all 8 of us can fit on...the bad news is it will be $250 to fix the six tickets (PER PERSON!) AND 150 lats per ticket on J and our friend's child. Deep breaths...we'll figure it out. My biggest concern is having our behinds on a plane on the 15th. So I tell her fine, we'll take them and figure out any reductions later. I'm kind of in a tight spot boys (That's a movie reference for my parents.)<br />
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Not that easy...she can't take my card over the phone...can we come to the airport? Well, sure, that's not a problem...ugh...just not the way I had planned to spend my day. Showers done we head to the airport to work it all out. Before I go in their offices, I check my email once again to see if there's anything from our agent...no word. But an encouraging email from my FB friend saying she'd be praying and to kindly but firmly keep asking for a supervisor. <br />
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FinnAir was wonderful...they called their supervisor but unfortunately because the ticket was issued by American Airlines, there's nothing they can do. And they don't have a number I can call. Grateful for free wifi in the airport, I start searching for American's help desk line while sitting at Lido. Finally I find a number and using my $2 a minute phone, call. I get this wonderful woman named Sandy who checks it all out and sympathetically listens to my story...she checks and says the best she can do is if we can leave two days after our scheduled departure since that is the amount of time we were behind in arriving. I explain to her it isn't that easy...I'm working with the courts here in Latvia...we're adopting! She says I should speak to a supervisor (wink wink...thanks Sandy!) She puts me in touch with Ann and I explain it all again...Ann thinks about it, explains her side. I recap to her that we have court Monday, Visa interviews Tuesday, pick up Visas Wednesday, leave Thursday. I assure her we aren't just hanging out to sightsee some more.<br />
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She puts me on hold...and then comes back to say she's going to confirm the seats and I'll need to get back to FinnAir to take care of the other two seats. She finishes and says "is there anything else I can help with?" I said, well, how much is it going to cost me? Her reply, Oh nothing...I just exchanged them for you. I cried, called her an angel, told her she was an answer to prayer and ran to the FinnAir office! <br />
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We did have to pay for those to be changed but Ann saved us $1500!!! And it's so cool...because we found out later we needed to pay a little more to stay longer in our apartment too. But here's a cool story too...when we thought we needed to pay for the ticket exchange, we were trying to remain calm and figure out how we would finagle the money to make it work. It's cool y'all...it's all His but we've got to be responsible with it. So math lesson...we had a certain amount we were encouraged to bring in cash by our agency. We thought it was way too high but complied. We knew how much we needed for court costs and we knew how much the apartment would cost and we knew from our trip in March we could use our cards and ATM's all over. But grumble, grumble, fine we'll take it. Well, checking out our accounts back home, thinking of which cards to use...it dawned on us, how much cash do we have left? We deducted the amount we needed to pay for legal stuff and the amount left over was EXACTLY what it would have cost us if we'd had to pay for the change. It just encouraged me soooooo much!<br />
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We returned to the apartment and decided to take our usual walk of the area. We needed to get passport pictures/visa pics made of the boys so we went in search of that so we could handle it for the next day. We found ourselves again by the Dome Cathedral, then looking around St. John's Church and this cool little walkway that used to be the monastery entry. We walked through a neat courtyard that had many restaurants and the food smelled sooooo good. But we were on a mission. Out the other side of this ancient courtyard and there was a brand new mall (the malls here go up instead of out and have really great modern architecture). Inside is where the passport pics were so we went down and she was still open! <br />
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Mark that off the list! While we waited for them to be printed there was a tiny pet shop across the way so we looked around. We saw our first ever chinchilla for sale. He was so cute!! Photos done, E bouncing off the walls, frustrations with parenting stuff starting to bubble and I was hungry! We walked out and Gary asked me what I wanted to do. I spouted off "I want to find a lovely restaurant with a beautiful courtyard where we can have an amazing meal and relax outdoors and just appreciate we're in Latvia! But it's late and I seriously doubt that's going to happen!" Then my sweet Marleigh said, Hey mom...why don't we go back to that place that smelled so good.<br />
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So we did...the Black Pigeon was our dinner spot with this beautiful courtyard in the middle of a 17th century old monastery...and as we read about it, isn't it fitting it's actually a hotel restaurant? And it was soo good! They had a family style dinner that was supposed to feed 4...she looked at us and said "it will be enough." Sausages, pickles, french fries, pork ribs, two different sauces (Latvians like their sauces), onion rings, chicken "shishkals" shishkabobs and of course our obligatory coke and coke light. It was so refined they brought us cloth placemats when we were seated and little wine glasses to drink our cokes and apple juice from. And the whole meal for all seven of us was about 35 lats. A little over our daily budget but we took home enough meat to make another meal out of it!<br />
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It really was relaxing and fun and a wonderful experience eating a true Latvian meal. Check one more experience off the list please! We walked back through Old Riga and it was fun to see it at night. The cobblestone streets, the night life (both good and questionable)...there was a three or four piece 50s style music band playing right on the square...if it weren't chilly I would have enjoyed sitting and listening for a while. But our little one was really really tired. <br />
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I hung back and watched them walk...girls goofing off taking turns walking funny, boys dancing like sillies as we walked past the band, Daddy holding the hand of little E as we walked and him dancing along. <br />
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Closing down for the night with Circle Time and funnies about the day...I love this part of our family time. It's when I was reminded, so gently by my sweet daughter..."do not be anxious about anything" cause it's in the Bible! Please continue to pray for us. We are trying to have fun (and we are) but we feel distractions and pulls trying to steal our joy. There are many who realize this is it for J, he's really going...and some, not all, are trying to make that departure emotionally difficult for him. Mae even said as her prayer request tonight for "evil to just stay away from us." So please be praying.<br />
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And me? I'll remember that in all things to give thanks...but to not be anxious for any of it. Cause He's already figured it out...He just hasn't shown me how yet.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-20994499155781383542011-09-07T16:55:00.000-07:002011-09-07T16:55:41.454-07:00It Feels Like...Our family has always done birthdays big. Not like tons of presents or extravagant parties that would be featured on some reality TV show...but we love to celebrate each other! And I'm a party planner by trade and creative thanks to God so it's always a bit more involved than it has to be...and my husband tolerates...no embraces! my craziness. <br />
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The day started out like every other...E in the bed with us at 7am, trying to sleep in spite of his rolling and tumbling, starting to give up when it got to be...oh wait, is that the phone ringing?? Yep, I rush out of bed at 9am because our dear friend is calling and I need to meet her to deliver some papers. I actually thanked God for her as I went to shower because I needed to get up...and that was my incentive. Get going Shelley!<br />
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We made arrangements to meet by the Opera House and I ran to get a shower. As most of you know by now, today was J's birthday. And as you may or may not know about us is that we have this tradition. You get the number of gifts that you are old...so he was in line for 15! Now, don't go crazy on me...they aren't big gifts. There might be one or two that are "fun" but they aren't a big deal. However I was up til 3am last night because I write these cute little poems to go with them and leave little numbers all over the house...the kids have to find them. So, before I left I had to get a couple set up and leave instructions on where the next few were in case he found them too quickly.<br />
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Before coffee, before granola bars...Zach and I headed out for the short walk to the Opera House. It was a nice walk...beautiful morning! We got there in time to see the posting of the guards at Freedom Monument...did the quick exchange with our friend and headed back. It was some great one on one time with my firstborn. Love that kid!! <br />
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I know I've mentioned this before but there is something so refined, so cultural, about Europe. Today's observation was a cute little girl riding on her Daddy's shoulders dressed to the nines. Purple leggings, purple cordoroy skirt, light colored jacket, blond hair in pigtails and a proper little kerchief tied over her head. Adorable!<br />
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When we got back, I got my coffee, yogurt and granola and settled in to start looking through my tour books (you know my nickname is Tour Guide Barbie). The girls were giving J an introductory lesson on how this birthday deal works and he was loving it. We also realized there are seven of us and we have seven days left here...so we decided to give everyone a day to plan...and today was J's. <br />
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He said he didn't know what to do, so could we just go grocery shopping and hang out here. We thought, well maybe he doesn't know what to suggest...so let's just get out and walk around. So off we went...heading toward Old Town again and let's see what we find. We always walk straight into Old Town and for some reason stay to the left...so today we decided let's go right.<br />
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The girls wanted to feed the ducks so we took the bread we thought was wheat that turned out to be rye (not a fave in our family) and headed toward the Riga Channel that runs through town. As we headed down we saw the boat landing with paddle boats we had been in search of two days before! And everyone thought it was a good idea to see how much it costs. The girls and E went to the channel's edge to feed the ducks and we sent the two big boys over to find out costs. They called to say it was only two lats per boat...pretty economical in Riga. We decided it was a good birthday idea! And they were willing to let us have E ride with Gary and me.<br />
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We all piled in our boats and took off. Sooooo much fun. I'm not sure I've ever done paddle boats before and I'm certain our kids hadn't. It really is cool the different perspective you have of the city from those little boats. However, about 10 minutes into it you understand why they are booked in 20 minute increments...our thighs were screaming at us! Ouch! We paddled, had a bit of bumper boats, coasted, dodged a bigger boat! and all around just had a blast. Funny, towards the end, the kids took to paddling (pedaling) with their hands because it hurt their legs! <br />
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Once we climbed out, we started walking through the park...and the first thing we saw was an ice cream cart. These things are all over Riga. In the strangest of places...but really ALL over the city. We relented and bought one of the cheapest on the list...again, a fun birthday thing to do. And we kept walking. There's this raised area in the park that looks like it could be a cool historical spot...but I haven't been able to figure it out yet...so we walked to the top of that. <br />
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I think I mentioned yesterday that we had invited J's sister and brother and nephew to dinner for his birthday. I think it was something he was so excited about but didn't want to be a bother...but meekly he added two more to the guest list and we were happy he wanted to share this day - and us - with more people here. The one friend was coming at 3pm to meet us in Riga and we met up at Cili Pica and continued our walking. As usual we headed into Old Town and had our history lesson for the day. <br />
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The Powder Tower (circa 1647) is situated right at the edge and has cannonballs stuck in the side of it said to have been launched there by Peter the Great himself (I think...I don't have my tour book here with me ;-)) And inside this tower is the Latvian War Museum going all the way from the 1200's to present day. Very cool. We spent quite a while in there as it was a total of four or five floors of museums. The area that struck me the most was the section about 1991 and their fight for independence. As I stood there looking at the photos of the resistance, I thought about what I was doing in 1991. I was one year out of high school and one year into college. I was worried about what I was wearing to Emerald Ball, how I was doing in class and when I was going to see my boyfriend again. These people were fighting, life was hard...and the economy and the wonderful resilient people are still rebuilding from this. <br />
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Don't get me wrong, I think some - maybe even most - here are just fine...really fine. They have wonderful lives..."normal" lives. And honestly many of those are the wonderful people who are helping those of us who have children here. But for those on whom it hasn't been as easy, I think there is still a sense of extreme hardship. Whether it is financial, addiction or just having been dealt a hard luck hand...the hold just isn't as easy to climb out of. All of that just hit me as I looked at those pictures from 1991. And I thought of J's mom...in 1991 she had two kids already and she would have two more...and what was she doing in 1991. <br />
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So after our long visit there, we headed back just as a rain set in. J said every year it rains on his birthday! We rested for just a second and then headed to the grocery. He had to pick out his cake! I had a pretty long list and we walked around the store gathering all our things. Latvia's most challenging thing for me is the size of the items you can buy. For example, one cannot buy a gallon of milk here...it's all quarts. So for a family of seven this can get very expensive! Cereal comes packaged in these little bags that would take care of my boys one morning! Eggs come in a 10 pack, not a dozen. You get the picture. <br />
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We headed over to the pastry counter to look at cakes. They are works of art...really gorgeous! With the number we have coming we decide we better get two. J doesn't know what to pick...so we talk him through it. Do you like berry, or just chocolate? We decide on one that is mostly chocolate and one that is kind of a cheesecake with cherries on top. They both look amazing. Again, my high culture or maybe it's old fashioned observation is that they put it in this pretty box and place a lid on it and then tie it up with these strong ties - but pretty - so you can carry it old fashioned style just from the little ties. Yes, I took pics.<br />
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We check out and head back and we're all starving because we didn't really eat lunch. After a quick snack of fresh baguettes, salami, mozzarella, tomatoes, cucumber and the like Gary and I start cooking. Peeling potatoes, putting the macaroni I brought from home on to boil (mac and cheese velveeta style is on the menu) and opening up the sugar peas I bought. J wanted the potatoes fried so that's what we did. <br />
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About 10 minutes in he said his sister and nephew had arrived and would be at Freedom Monument soon. I kept cooking while he and Gary went to meet them. While they were gone the power turned off three times! Apparently you can't run more than one unit at a time on the stove without tripping the breaker! <br />
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I'm not sure I've fully described our kitchen situation. We have a kitchen up front with refrigerator and great countertops...but no sink or stovetop. The kitchen in the back is about the size of a hallway (smaller really) and has the cooktop, sink...but no fridge...hmmmm. Tough when you get like five people in there some making tea, some slicing potatoes, some washing up dishes...a leetle tight!<br />
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I realize at this point I should have done all the potatoes first because they take the longest. But the noodles are already on for the mac and cheese so I'm committed. I finish these up and Gary returns with J, sister and nephew and now E is in heaven! He has a playmate! We keep cooking (having a small frying pan doesn't help either) and just getting such joy from how happy J is. He keeps coming back to check on us...are we ok? do we need anything? Thanks for doing all this. <br />
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As potatoes get ready, we offer for those who are here to go ahead and eat...but we find out that his brother and his best friend are coming soon, so can we wait? And the answer is of course we can. They arrive in perfect time and J and his sister walk to meet them. When I meet them all, I just can't help but hug them all. These are the people who love J...who have helped shape him into the boy he is. <br />
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Marleigh has been busy entertaining J's friend who came early, Mae has been almost obsessively cleaning the apartment and setting up the buffet (I think she's gonna be like her mamma!) and Zach has been resetting the breaker box, slicing potatoes and helping tidy up. We get everything set up finally and everyone is here and gathered. The buffet is Rotisserie chicken from Rimi, Velveeta Shells and Cheese, Sugar Peas, Fried Potatoes and beautiful cakes!<br />
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We all gathered in the den for prayer before dinner and then the buffet was open! They were somewhat shy at first...but it really is amazing what the language of love and acceptance can do to bridge the gap. We got everyone fed and had to hurry a bit through blowing out the candles and cutting cake because J's friend had to head back to school. While everyone was eating dinner, J's grandfather called. He wanted to wish him a happy birthday. We so wish he and his other brother could have come but they were both sick. J translated what he wanted to say to us - thanking us for taking care of J, he wishes us only the best in life and please keep doing what we are doing with our good hearts. Wow...I love this man and have never met him. I cannot imagine how hard this must be for all of them. We've asked J to be sure this is what he really wants...and he tells us he wants a family who can care for him AND loves him...and this is what his family here wants for him too. We tell J he needs to go visit before we leave...we have to make the most of every day we have. God is SOOOO AMAZING!<br />
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He had such a good time and we were so glad to be able to do this with and for him. We snapped a quick photo of everyone at his party and then he and his sister walked his friend to the train station. <br />
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We tidied up a bit and then just visited with our guests until they too had to go to the train station. I went in to check with Gary about who would walk them back and he was exhausted. Here's where the title for tonight comes in ;-) We are beat...our backs hurt, our feet hurt, we're just plain tired. And here's the fun realization...we feel EXACTLY like we do after we host a birthday party for one of our kids HAHAHA (that's me laughing with joy) because ladies and gents, we just did. His very first that was all his...and it was wonderful!<br />
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And the other realization I have is how truly blessed J is. He has two brothers, a sister and a grandfather that love him and want what's best for him. And now he has us who love him as one of our own...poor kid, he's a Belk (soon). And sweet E...I realize just how blessed we are. No one's asking to say goodbye to him...but again, he's already said goodbye. His last name might not be Belk yet, but he's a Belk through and through.<br />
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At Circle Time, J shared with us what a good time everyone had. We complimented him (Zach's observation) on what a good host he was. He worked the room visiting with everyone to make sure no one felt left out. I remember when he made his plate for dinner, he said "Mom, there's so much food. It reminds me of America." This made me happy and sad at the same time. He also shared with us that his friend felt we were too "good" for him to mingle with us. He was too "bad." Made me so happy that I'd given him a hug...praying that showed him we love everyone just like Jesus does. <br />
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Then he said it was the best birthday he'd ever had...and he was ready - so ready! - to go home.<br />
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Want to know what J's 15 presents were:<br />
1 underwear<br />
2 socks<br />
3 a card from his brothers and sisters<br />
4 three toy skateboards<br />
5 deodorant<br />
6 a calendar<br />
7 hair gel<br />
8 basketball shorts<br />
9 undershirts<br />
10 a tee shirt from annapolis<br />
11 cologne<br />
12 a card from me and Daddy<br />
13 two snicker bars<br />
14 a sketchpad with a drum set on the front and a paper jamz guitar from burger king<br />
and 15? oh yeah...<br />
15...a plane ticket homeShelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-32241736047493487892011-09-06T15:31:00.000-07:002011-09-06T15:31:47.521-07:00Thanks Mom...for Holding me Accountable ;-)My mother missed my blog post last night so the first thing I did this morning was post my blog. Since she's my best friend, financial advisor, prayer warrior Mama...I decided I wouldn't keep her waiting again. So here we go:<br />
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It was a chilly, rainy day in Latvia (sounds like the beginning of a great book huh?)...and we slept in. Wait, that sounds like every other day! Seriously though, we did sleep a little late. Gary and I were troubled about several things and I personally didn't sleep very well. That coupled with the fact that a certain little boy magically appears in our bed around 6 am every morning to then flop and flip and elbow us with hugs and kisses sprinkled in makes for the fact I woke up tired and a bit irritable. <br />
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I immediately got coffee from my hubby and then blogged before Mama called me out again ;-) At 11am we decided the kids needed to rise and shine so we rousted them out of bed. Breakfast was an "on your own" kind of thing with cereal and granola bars...this family goes through so many bananas I'm beginning to think the moniker "monkeys" is quite fitting. Once done with breakfast, Gary and I decided a talk was in order. <br />
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It was a good, cleansing, get it all out in the open kind of talk. And everyone felt better afterwards. While the kids were held hostage by "yellow" (it's all E wants to watch...Sponge Bob Square Pants) Gary and I got our showers and discussed what to do for the day. J had wanted to go to Kemeri to get his things from the orphanage...another big step in this process.<br />
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I really cannot imagine what it must feel like to have been in a place for three years where it's been the only home you've had and now you're moving out...and you're moving out because you now have a family. It has to be wonderful, scary, thrilling and sad all at the same time. I had emailed his Orphanage Director to make sure that was ok and had not heard back but he called and it seemed to be ok. So we took an empty suitcase and off we went. <br />
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It seemed God was really smiling on this as the rain stopped and when we got to the train station, blue sky was already starting to show. And it had been raining ALL morning...hard! <br />
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The train ride is an hour to Kemeri. We all piled on and the trek began. E got bored pretty quick but I gave him my music on my iPhone and my ear buds and before long he was jamming out bigtime. Zach and J were sharing ear buds on Zach's iPod. Marleigh and Mae were between reading, listening to music and snacking (they are very efficient travelers...never leave without a bag and always have a snack). Gary borrowed Marleigh's ear buds and before I knew it he was serenading us on the train with some good Beach Music. I told Marleigh...the train ride was 13 lats for all of us...but the entertainment was free!<br />
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Finally we got to Kemeri and off we piled. There's a short cut through the woods I knew our blond kids would enjoy. So we took the suitcase and E and went by the sidewalk and told J to take the others through the woods and we'd meet them at the orphanage. We got there and went up to his room...he wanted all of us to come. He packed a few things, showed us a few things, got his guitar immediately and asked Gary to play while we packed him up. After a few minutes, he asked if we could walk around some. We had about two hours before the next train. So we did...<br />
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His sister works at the little market on the corner so we went down there and visited her and bought some chips and cokes for a snack. His brother...VERY SHY...was coming to meet us for the first time and visit with him and bring his little five year old nephew to see us too. We hung out and just walked around...getting eaten by mosquitoes again! His brother arrived and little Zhenya bounced off the bus with him. It was so good to finally meet this brother and see little one again. We set out walking around and just looking at the area. Stopped and took a few photos along the way...shocker!<br />
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E was so funny with Zhenya! Acting like the big man on campus and making him hold his hand as we walked. J really needed this time I think. It wasn't closure yet...but the beginning. When it was nearing time to go for the train, we walked back to the orphanage and got his suitcase...packed a few more things in. He said goodbye to the lady who works mostly in his group...she was obviously touched by him...happy for him. I gave her a hug and said Paldies...so so much! These are the women who have tried so hard to work with and care for our sons. And they have made a difference. This makes us want to so badly to do something for and with this orphanage. <br />
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It is a unique place...not perfect but wow, so caring. And it made me sad too for E. He has nothing to gather from this place. But at the same time, he's the happiest kid around. He could care less about stuff to take away...look at what he's got! A FAMILY of seven people...where's he's the Baaabbbbyyyyy! (drag that out and put a little sing song on it). However, at orphan court, their director commented that when she saw us with E in March, her heart had let him go. Now how many directors out there would get that attached to their kids? I'm telling you, she's a GREAT director!<br />
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We walked to the train station and re-boarded to head back to Riga. I reflected to Gary how fortunate we are. We'd spent the afternoon walking around this small town admiring the little things. Houses might be run down but did you see the flower garden? Front yard a little rough but how about that very cool ladder built out of two tree trunks with smaller logs for the rungs? Just appreciating the little things in this town that our boys have called home for three years. And seeing other orphans from their home riding each other on bikes around the block, taking turns. It struck me...who's there to doctor a leg if they fall down and scrape a knee? And who's going to make sure they get a bath before bed? These kids are cared for but they need homes! At one point, J had seen another kid out and about...and J said, "he's too young." And he yelled across the street and told him to get back to the orphanage...he knew he wasn't supposed to be out. I hope more of the older ones help look out for them.<br />
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As we pulled back into Riga, J was the happiest he'd been since coming with us. All four of the big ones piled into the little exit area and started making lots of noise. He commented "everyone's going the other way because there's a bunch of Belks back here! And Daddy's trying to act like he doesn't know us!" We struck out toward the apartment walking quickly because we were all starved for dinner. Half the crew had Ramen noodles and Gary cooked the others a breakfast supper. <br />
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We spent some time catching up again and just chatting and then Circle Time. I think "home" is starting to come about again finally for all of us. It seems every time one of us "feels" good, Satan comes along trying to steal our joy again. And he does for a minute...but then, somehow, it all comes right again.<br />
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Tomorrow is J's birthday...and while one of our issues has been not to make everything "all about him," tomorrow needs to be. He said to me that he's never had a birthday cake that wasn't shared with someone else. And he said everyone forgot about his birthday...except his parents (THAT'S US Y'ALL)! We've invited his brothers and sister and little Zhenya to eat dinner with us. I'm making mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, sugar peas and this really yummy looking rotisserie chicken from Rimi. <br />
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We're all ready for home...and the next 9 days are going to be long. Please be praying for us to make the most of it and not miss any opportunity to enjoy each other and give glory to the One who's brought us here.Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-7979113945471123032011-09-06T02:38:00.000-07:002011-09-06T02:38:13.462-07:00Sorry Y'all...I Was Just Too Tired!You know I had to be tired to not feel like writing last night! It was a busy day and we're still trying to figure out this timing! I can't stand staying up so late and sleeping half the day away...but somehow that is what tends to happen when puzzles, UNO or other activities are going on and it's just fun!<br />
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So, yesterday...the social worker was to come at some point but we didn't know when. She was going to call or text J's phone (they got that from him at first court before I could share that we had a Latvian cell). Now early in the morning is most likely not the most reliable time to text or call a 14 year old. I was up at 8:30am or so...got my shower, tending to laundry. Just waiting for the call.<br />
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By about 10, we figured we better get everyone up and tidied up...we hadn't heard yet but surely it would be soon! Yesterday was a gorgeous day and we were anxious to get outside and seeing more of Riga. We woke J and asked him to check his phone and sure enough, there was a text from her...she was outside right now! Once she came in, she politely removed her shoes - a Latvian custom I think we will adopt - and I offered her coffee. I had some of my French Vanilla Creamer and she loved it! (Mental note as to what my next round of gifts will be!) Then we found out she'd been outside the apartment for over 30 minutes! <br />
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Yikes...great impressions already. She asked me simple questions about the layout of the apartment, sleeping arrangements, how many bathrooms there were. Then what we'd been up to and what our plans were for the rest of the time. She then spent the next 20 minutes or so with J...asking questions and interviewing him. When that was done, she came back to me and shared the final schedule of court and embassy meetings. We are free and clear til next week. She did confirm that Gary and the school kids can leave on Friday if need be...but all of us can leave on the 15th. That seems like so far away!<br />
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M&M are really missing their fluffies!!! And we're all ready to get home and get into a routine, whatever that will be. She was so so nice though and thanked us several times for wanting both boys. She said we would not see her again until "big" court on our second visit. <br />
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After she left we were hanging around waiting to hear from Daina so we can get some documents to her. By 11, I went ahead and called her and she was in Old Town...asked if I knew where the McDonald's was to meet her. I feel like I know this city like the back of my hand now...and yep, I still love it! Gary was wanting to go to a consignment shop right next to the apartment so he and our big boys went there and me, my girls and E went to meet Daina. <br />
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That was a quick drop off so from there we went in search of the paddle boats and how much they cost. We got into the park and began walking the direction we had seen them: up past the National Opera House and behind it (interesting...it is such an upscale area and yet, behind the opera house there were some artsy, young, hippie looking people hanging out back there with a few bottles of beer...it's now 2pm?) These park areas are really pretty. <br />
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We went on up and made our way to the light to cross the street. There we saw an old woman, sitting flat on the sidewalk with her old, swollen, arthritic looking legs stretched straight out in front of her. And one hand stretched straight out, unwavering, begging. I couldn't look at her without thinking of my own grandparents...no one her age should have to be sitting and begging. No one should have to beg period. I pulled out my wallet and Marleigh asked if we could give her something. I gave her a coin without looking and said yes. Turns out it was a lat...and while that may seem like a lot ($2) it seems so easy to part with it since it's a tiny coin. But what it meant to her? She cried out in a voice I'll never forget "Paldies! Paldies! (Thank you! Thank you!) It brought tears to my eyes. <br />
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As we crossed the street, I noticed that she got up and starting shuffling down the street, her cane...no it was really a stick...helping her move along, barely. So I wonder if that was enough for the day...or if her need was so great that she needed to go tend to something right away...and the cynical person would say that she'd gotten enough from that corner so she'd moved on. But seeing her...friends, we need to open our eyes to the needs around us...no matter the continent we are on.<br />
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The girls, E and I continued down to the other side of the park where the paddle boats were no where to be found. So we found a sunny spot and sat in the grass to have a snack and wait. It was so peaceful and nice and quiet! We sat there on the banks of this little river and they played, feeding more of their snack to the birds that came around than eating it themselves. E picked me a bouquet of fallen leaves which of course he asked me to hold for him. I called the boys to tell them where we were and found out they were search of an inexpensive barber shop for Gary. They were headed to the train station because it's really like a mall in there. I told them where we were and pulled out my travel books to figure out where we wanted to go after we all got back together.<br />
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It was so nice lying there in the soft grass, watching the girls and E find feathers, name all the birds (Snowy, Puffy, Pinto, Hairy, Fluffy, you get the picture). They would get the little, downy feathers and blow them off their hands and then try to keep them airborne. Finally the girls laid in the grass too to read and of course that bored E...so he began jumping on us and when we said no, he'd flop over like he'd passed out...we'd make a fuss over him and then it started all over again. So much fun!<br />
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The boys finally showed up...Gary got a Latvian haircut - he looks even more European (everyone thinks he's from here)...and they had this great idea to go have hotdogs from the train station Narvesson (kind of like a 7-Eleven). So off we went. For 9,50 lats we fed all of us and the dogs were pretty good. The buns were like these pretzel buns that had been grilled and the hot dogs weren't very thick but they were long and the mustard (they call it mayonnaise) and ketchup were good. Pickle relish they call salad...all very good. We sat on the wall outside the train station and ate. <br />
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Oh! I almost forgot to share! We had to go to the restroom at the train station...and I got to experience what Shannon Starr had written about!! 15 centimes per person to use the bathroom and you got your toilet tissue at the place you paid! Our lady was very nice and could tell we didn't speak Latvian...she spun her hand around a lot to show us to take it there. No limits. Marleigh thought she was telling her to hurry LOL. Very interesting and I thought a great way to keep the place cleaner!<br />
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I remembered when we were at TGIFriday's and we asked the server if refills on beverages were free...she said to Gary "This is Latvia, Honey!" Hilarious...and she was wonderful!<br />
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Then it was time for the history of the day! I led the way with my trusty map...complainers in tow. We went to the oldest warehouses still standing (from the 17th century) and continued exploring til we found the last part of the fortification wall from 1537 still standing. Gary was thoroughly enjoying the adventure and all our kids enjoyed what they called the "creepy, cool old streets." We were really in the section of Old Town not frequented by tourists...which made it even more fun. <br />
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As I continued to lose my audience, I offered them 10 lats if anyone could give me the meaning of etymology. No one could but I had their attention...and we did a quick lesson on the street names and their derivations. I LOVE history...and my poor children suffer for it! <br />
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We walked back and got to the apartment in time to sit for a minute and then made sandwiches from this really good stuff I got at the store. I bought some Buffalo Mozzarella with Basil already in it, Salami, Herbed Crusty French Baguettes and Tomato. Oh my word what a great sandwich! <br />
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Puzzles, TV and Circle Time wrapped up a great day in Riga. <br />
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Today so far it is raining...and pretty hard at that...not sure what today will hold except a walk to the consignment store to buy an umbrella. We forgot all of ours!Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-53289592509134607552011-09-04T15:22:00.000-07:002011-09-04T15:22:05.778-07:00Ahhhh....Sunday!Today was Sunday, a wonderful day to venture out and experience Latvian church life...well it would have been! Except we can't seem to get on a good *normal* schedule. In fact, tonight we have required everyone to head to bed by midnight...let's hope they can actually sleep! And Gary and I have decided to wake them by 9am in order to get a bit of a normalcy going on. <br />
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Today was a great day though. I was up around 9am and started out just ill. Frustrated I mean. I had this perfect day in my brain. Church, lunch somewhere, a little more sightseeing...you know the drill. And here I had this apartment full of sleeping humans. Remember when I said I wasn't expecting everything to be perfect immediately? Well, I think I need to get THAT tattooed on my forehead! <br />
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So anyway, the monkeys didn't crawl out til around 12pm...and by then I had done a load of laundry, washed all the dishes and had already showered. After a quick breakfast and Gary reminding me that the only person I should be irritated with is me (I mean really, I could have been dressed and Eddie and I could have been at church by 10:30am) we were all ready to hit Riga once again. <br />
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It was late again and we had no ideas as to what we wanted to do. So Zach had suggested the museum that was in Old Town. It is the museum of the Occupation of Latvia. This little country has been through so much...and yet they have such resolve and persistence. Such a proud people in spite of all they've been through. If I remember correctly 10% of the population was deported at one time for reasons that made no sense...but because of their size, they really had to just go along with Russia or Germany (depending on who it was at the time). Really all the Baltic States had to deal with this. <br />
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As we were walking through, J mentioned there was a train memorial/monument not far from Riga, we could go there. With E getting a little restless and the older ones having already blasted through the museum, we headed to TGIFriday's for lunch/dinner (J's choice!) to get a bite before going to the memorial. We ran into one of J's friends from the orphanage who had recently left to be on his own. He's in between homes right now so we invited him to eat with us. He only speaks Russian so I'm not sure how much of a positive influence we were on him...but at least we know he ate well tonight. <br />
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From there we walked to the train station and bought our "billettes." Only three lats for all of us to ride. It was only one stop away in Tornakalns. There we see a train car...looks like a cattle car really...that was used on the nights of June 13 and 14, 1941 to deport people to the GULAG. It is tiny...and terrifying to think of this. In fact, this monument area is called the Communist Terror...I'm certain that I cannot relate to this...I've always felt safe. <br />
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As we stop for photos, Gary politely motions for a two women to walk on by...the one says "no, we'll wait." And then she asks where we are from. He told her Maryland, USA...and she says ME TOO! Crazy isn't it? This world is so tiny y'all! She lives in Potomac and works in Rockville and she's originally from that small town where we were visiting this monument. Gary had to give her a hug ;-)<br />
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We walked down around the other monument, were nearly eaten alive by mosquitoes (Robert and Wendy, it was bad enough to remind me of Savannah and the biting flies!). J picked me a flower for my birthday a week or so late. I took pictures of all my kids climbing all over the statues. And then little E started picking me flowers. Now I had to take pictures of this. J's flower was one stem with the extra leaves pulled off...Marleigh and Mae added more whites, yellows and some purple...carefully thought out. <br />
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But E? E's bouquet was snatched handfuls of clover, tall grass and some yellow weeds all mashed together. He shoved them in my face with a huge grin and "Mama!" Then just as quickly told me to hold them but they were "Ebbie's." He was soooo funny!<br />
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We went back up to wait for the train to take us back to Riga and while we waited the girls picked more flowers among the train tracks...they look like little yellow snapdragons...the boys pitched lats (yes like pitching pennies....but with lats). And I swatted mosquitoes! Got one on Gary's shoulder and one on Zach's chin!<br />
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Finally the train came and we got back to Riga. J pointed out where his church is that he has attended on occasion...if we are here through next weekend, we are going to go there on Sunday. And also the building where one of his friend's grandfather's works. <br />
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We walked a different street back to the apartment and cut through the park...they are so pretty here! Very manicured and lots of flowers. As we walked along, E practically pushed me down the path towards...you guessed it!...the very Auto Bounce House we saw the other night. For one lat he could bounce for 10 minutes! He was in heaven! (If I have not clarified before, Auto = Disney Cars...the kid is CRAZY for auto!) The girls stayed with me and jumped on a trampoline for 10 minutes while he did and then we all headed back.<br />
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We had a quiet evening here at the apartment. Sandwiches for dinner, watching Nickelodeon...Circle Time together. It was nice when J said his praise for the day was being with us as we learned more about Latvia. He's proud of his country and we are proud of our son. <br />
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Two things to share that are just observations I like:<br />
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The first are the street performers. Some are simple beggars (I can't stay here too long because I really want to help them all). But some are very talented and just have fun doing what they are doing. There was one set today that started with guitar and singer...and they were good. And as we walked back after lunch, they had changed to guitar, bass and clarinet...and they were good! I was wishing my husband would have twirled me around a bit...with our five watching there would have possibly been a mutiny from embarrassment though ;-)<br />
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The other observation I had wanted to share the other night and forgot...there is such a nice "civility" thing you see here all the time. People walking with fresh flowers. There are flower stands all over and some are already made up into pretty bouquets...almost like you could walk up and do an entire wedding from what you see there already done. And they are pretty cheap...3 lats for a nice size bouquet. But EVERYONE buys them...and when I asked why? Well, it's just because. Flowers are nice. I think we should all learn a little from that...don't only take time to smell the roses, but take some home (unless you're Mae wanting to pick one from the window box of the Radisson hotel HAHA).<br />
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For starters, I'll take my hand picked bouquet from the little meadow in Tornakalms...and thank God every day for the hands that picked them!<br />
Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-38274661702926262182011-09-03T15:28:00.000-07:002011-09-03T15:28:38.570-07:00It's a Wonderful Life!What a great day! Thanks everyone for your prayers! <br />
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We got up early...well earlier than the past few days ;-) I was up earlier...just felt the need to be up and reading. My brain has been full of the things that have to be worked out. Some of the concerns I shared briefly yesterday...just feeling in a funk. And then the "stuff" that still has to be worked out of traveling, extended time here, finances (always) and then when we get home of schooling, the next step in the process...you get the picture. Don't get me wrong, I think I've been clear in all of these writings that we have seen time and again how He works things out. But I was feeling a bit overwhelmed. <br />
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My chronological Bible took me to John 6. And as I read it was the part about the loaves and fishes: John 6:5-6<br />
When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward him, he said to Philip, "Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat? He asked this ONLY TO TEST HIM, FOR HE ALREADY HAD IN MIND WHAT HE WAS GOING TO DO.<br />
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And, don't you know it! He already has in mind what He's going to do for us too. Again, I am humbled that He takes the time to care about what is going on in my little family...in ALL our families. <br />
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We woke the rest of the crew and began getting ready for the day. Have I mentioned how glad I am that I packed all of the food I did? We're still spending a fair amount on food but we've been able to stay within budget so far! <br />
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We had a nice talk with J...I love these talks as we build our family. And it reminds me how we need to trust Him with everything, everyday. He is always faithful to work out our concerns. <br />
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We made arrangements for J's friend to come at 6pm and the rest of us struck out to begin our own exploring of Old Riga. FUN! We hit the open air market...or rather the little vendor stands...shopping a little, looking a lot. Continued on to Town Hall Square and took pictures at the statue of Roland (since we have two!) and the House of Blackheads. Our main goal of the day was to visit Big Kristaps, who according to the tour book was located in Albert Square. He (legend has it) is the Giant whose money began the city of Riga. Everyone we asked said go to the river and turn right. <br />
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I couldn't see it right off, so we kept circling back, certain that we needed to stay in the cobblestoned area. We found ourselves back at the market square and this woman painted head to toe in gold. J didn't believe me that she was real and he approached her. You should have seen his face when she blinked her eyes! Hilarious! We got pictures with E with her (he was scared at first but liked her little gold bird) and then with E and finally with M&M. <br />
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We kept walking and finally made it to a part of the Daugava River where we could see the encasement Big Kristaps now stands in. We went down, took pictures and then decided it was time for lunch....well dinner too. We've been trying to eat one bigger meal a day and then have smaller "apartment" meals for the other two. And with so much to choose from, we've decided not to eat at the same place twice. That does make it fun! The kids just had to choose McDonald's today...they were just not convinced it would be the same. And it was! Aside from very little ice in the drinks and having to pay for ketchup, everything else was really the same. <br />
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E was hilarious chasing birds (pigeons) and wanting to be just like the big kids. Don't try to hold his hand! He makes us nervous though running on the very edge of the sidewalk, so we've taken to forcing him to hold our hands or just holding on to his wrist...which he really hates. You know that just isn't cool! ;-) By the end of our trek he was getting piggy back rides from several (mostly Daddy)...funny again because when he first came to us, that terrified him! It is unbelieveable to see how he has grown and changed. And so much fun to be on a front row seat.<br />
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I commented to Gary at one point that I was just so very happy. It is so fun to look at the five kids meandering along in front of us and know...THEY'RE OURS! As we went about on Friday, it dawned on me, we have to get skilled at navigating seven people and keeping us together and accounted for. I can't wait for the practice! <br />
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We walked back through part of the botanical gardens of Riga and arrived just in time to rest a minute before the guys went to the train station to meet J's friend. I happily put my feet up and rested...such a quick but effective nap! The boys returned and J's friend had made me a birthday present...a beautiful brooch! Truly a Latvian souvenir!<br />
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We spent the evening working puzzles, playing UNO and just visiting. Really a wonderful night. <br />
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So the news report is that all is worked out, everything is resolved and it's smooth sailing from here. NOT! I know you guys who read this aren't that naive ;-) BUT, the news report is that I do know who the Captain of the ship is...and He's got it all under control.<br />
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Night all!Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-41949240755823426802011-09-02T15:41:00.000-07:002011-09-02T15:41:04.060-07:00Riga...Home Sweet HomeAnd so it is for about two weeks ;-) <br />
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Today we slept and slept and slept! I was shocked to wake up and find out it was Noon! Even E didn't get up til then. You have to know we were jetlagged, drained and just downright tired from traveling and the activities of the past 48 hours. <br />
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We did what has become natural for us of piling on our bed with coffee, NutriGrain bars and the like and catching up on emails, watching some TV and just generally lounging. Sidebar: I WANT ONE OF THESE BOIL IN A MINUTE POTS TO TAKE HOME! I've already asked Gary if he could install a European outlet in our house so I can have one. They are so cool. You fill it with water, turn in on and go about your business and in a couple minutes, voila, boiling water! It turns off by itself when it is ready...and in seconds you have Ramen noodles, instant oatmeal or a great cup of tea.<br />
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Around 3 or so we decided to get showers and venture out for a while...and we found ourselves at Galleria Riga again. We love this mall...good places to eat! Although the shopping is a bit pricey, we found a few good deals. New shoes for J only 8 lats and a new Auto boomba for E only 1,90 lats. The girls got a couple puzzles for us to work on and I picked up a few travel books on Riga and Latvia to try and get some day trips planned. After wrapping up with dinner at Hessburger we went down to Rimi and picked up a few essentials and then headed back to the apartment. <br />
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It was a nice day just to walk and honestly I wouldn't have minded venturing to another park or something just to be outside. I love the architecture here. As we walked back, I really noticed the narrow streets, cobblestone paving, old and new buildings mixed together. The detail in the architecture is really lovely. There are little shops and coffee cafes all over...and these gorgeous spires of old buildings that jut into the sky and really make beautiful pictures against the clouds and sunset. But crazy enough many of us were still tired. So we worked puzzles, the guys surfed the web, the girls did some frype messaging and E played with his boomba. It makes us sad to see how much he has forgotten the little Latvian he knew. <br />
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When he was interviewed by orphan court yesterday he really knew nothing they were saying. Gary had to go in with him and the translator (wonderful wonderful woman we've gotten to know) quizzed E on a few key points to get a feel for how he sees us. But no more Ata, no more boomba...we've actually been working with him on saying boomba again. He's picking it up.<br />
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I have to say I've been in a bit of a funk today and am praying it is just fatigue. It just seems strained and I'd appreciate the prayers. We've got the weekend ahead of us and nothing planned to fill it yet...and somehow I feel that every idea I'm coming up with just doesn't seem to fly. So maybe tomorrow will be better.<br />
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Later this evening, we decided to play a round of UNO...that was fun! Finallly something all of us together...and E was having a hard time falling asleep, so he got to come back out and play too. Well with me anyway. <br />
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I guess that is it for tonight...as I struggle with many "little" things, our Circle Time tonight was from Matthew and Jesus telling us that to deny our lives and follow Him is to live. And the well known truth that what profit is it if we gain the whole world yet lose our souls. Thankful to Tobymac for making that well known song of scripture to make it relevant for our youth. We're following and trying to remain true to that...and praying ALL our children understand what that means. This world has NOTHING to offer us...HE has everything to offer us. And the crazy thing is that it is here for the taking...FREE, with no strings attached. <br />
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We have not decided what we are doing tomorrow but please be in prayer for us. One of J's friends has asked to see him and while we want to comply to help with the transition, it's hard. We want so much for our family to bond together...and sometimes it feels like these are distractions from that. Please pray for wisdom for us on how we should proceed and work with him to accomplish both. <br />
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I'm not a very good writer tonight so I'll stop...until tomorrow! <br />
Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-18544569939152255172011-09-01T16:12:00.000-07:002011-09-01T16:12:48.710-07:00I'm Sorry to Inform You...That we will not be home on schedule. OK...sorry, that was mean. But we can't leave on the 9th because J SAID YES! And he's coming home! And the orphan court needs that much time to get the ministry to issue a referral for him and then do court again. So, we definitely need to change our flights...which is a stressor but, He'll work this out like everything else!<br />
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So, let's start at the beginning...this morning:<br />
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We had a great morning. Thankfully Daina was too busy for a morning court time so we were scheduled for 1pm as you all know. What a blessing! We slept til about 9am and then started in on breakfast (sooooo glad I packed that suitcase of food! Instant oatmeal, granola bars...man what a savings!) Zach was up first and we could tell he was worried...not troubled but concerned if that makes sense. <br />
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We had a great morning though all piled on our bed drinking coffee, remembering funny moments on the plane, just laughing like crazy. We needed to leave by 11:30am to walk over to Cili Pica to meet Daina so we started getting ready...picking out the right outfits and making sure we all looked our best. E really slept late and about 10am he comes shuffling in our room already fully dressed in his blue jeans and auto t-shirt, auto socks carrying his new Vans shoes. I ran him back to his room and put on the clothes we had picked out for court (thanks Chastity! tan courdoroys, green button down...but I relented and allowed his auto shirt under the green one). <br />
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We rushed to finish up and before running out the door, we all stopped to pray...to really give this day to God and thank Him for all the friends and family we had praying for us all over the world and to trust Him with the outcome. Easy to say but hard to do, yet we truly felt His peace as we walked to meet Daina. <br />
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We feel so citified (put my southern accent on that one). We walked down the main avenue toward Freedom Monument and passed these gorgeous flower stands. I SO wish my mother-in-law could see these flowers. The size, color and kinds I've never seen before. Don't worry, I did take pictures! Walked a little further past the Russian Orthodox Church where Gary and I stopped to pray in March...on down past Freedom Monument...stopping briefly on the bridge for a photo to prove Riga is not frozen all the time!<br />
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Nerves are a little crazy at this point and you cannot imagine my relief when I spot Daina. She's looking wonderful as usual but says she's suffering from her once a year headache. She is truly like a calming balm in this process. Between her and Kelly Barth, our case worker, I really don't know how they do it all. All these families wanting their children and these two women work all over the great country of Latvia. Daina literally drives all over, city to city, to be there in person for all these families. Just amazing. God's Angels in the flesh!<br />
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We jumped in her car with her son driving (again, her giving so much of herself! and her family too!) and head to Jurmala. All the way there I am asking questions about how this will work, what if Janis does say yes, where do we have to be next...she is calm all the way, answering my questions as best she can and assuring me that if Janis says yes, she will get it done as quickly as possible. We share with her we have no idea what will happen but we are hoping and praying for the best.<br />
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I have to stop here for a minute and just say I CANNOT TELL YOU HOW WONDERFUL IT IS TO BE TYPING THIS AND HEARING MY TWO TEENAGE SONS BANTER ABOUT SHOES AND COOL JACKETS! God's mercy is amazing and wonderful!!<br />
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So, back to court...we arrive at Jurmala court and Daina says we need to sign three documents. She says we will sign for E today but she has already prepared for J...in hopes that we are there soon. We go in and head upstairs and Daina lets them know we are all here and just waiting for Kristiana. We wait a while longer and we get a call from her...that she AND J are on their way. According to Daina, my eyes got as big as my head and Gary and I both cried, laughed and then cried some more. We didn't know what that meant but we knew for sure we were going to see him at least. <br />
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We sat and waited and suddenly Mae said "Mom! There he is!!" He came up the stairs and we rushed over and cried and hugged and cried some more. After he'd hugged everyone, he quietly said, "Mom...I've decided I want to come home." I couldn't believe I was hearing those words. Gary said, what did he say? And I repeated it. And Gary jumped up and danced a little jig and everyone was so happy to see all this happening.<br />
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I am forever grateful to everyone in Latvia who has faithfully worked on all of this to get us to this point. We all agree, it is simply God working in His timing to make this miracle happen. <br />
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And so the court proceedings began...they interviewed E and our translator said he did well. Then they interviewed me and Gary...we did well but we were a little unclear on some of our questions. They asked us how long we wanted to visit with him, keep him...and we didn't realize that they were asking for this "visitation" period while in Latvia...so we said forever! HAHA. They asked us what countless friends and family have either asked or thought about asking: You have three kids, animals, demanding jobs...why in the world do you want two more kids? And our answer? Because God told us to and we love them like we love our own birth kids. <br />
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Then they interviewed J...for a while! After that we went back in to talk to them again, this time about J. Then they agreed to allow us to "host" J and "preadopt" E. They have to do it this way because we don't have the referral yet. That's ok...he's with us...and tonight I get to experience what I have begged for...I am the Mama to five beautiful children! So, now we have to wait for our referral, do another round of courts and then get visas...which will extend us til at least the 15th of September. That's ok...we've said whatever it takes...and we meant it. If we were in this for only the easy stuff, we'd have jumped ship long ago.<br />
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Please please be praying that by another miracle, all can get done faster and maybe we won't have to change flights. And that if we do, the fees for the changes will be affordable for us to work with. <br />
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So after court, we headed to Kemeri to get J's things. It was so good to be back there...I LOVE the people there! They love the children so much and truly try to work with them and for them. We sat in Kristiana's office and had a civilized cup of tea while we reviewed documents. J packed a backpack to come with us and we got our painting that Diana had done for us back in March. We needed to kill some time before the train came at 5pm. So we walked down the street, showing the children where J and E were from. Came up by the local store and stopped in for sodas and water...E had to get an auto candy! <br />
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We passed two girls on the street that looked shocked and they spoke to J in Latvian. After we walked by he said they knew E from before and could not BELIEVE how different he is now. We walked on toward the train station and saw E's old school and, now, J's old school and then on to the train. <br />
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We headed in on the train and stopped off and picked up a friend of J's to come and join us for dinner. Our day had been so so busy we never ate lunch...only snacks and breakfast. We got into Riga at 6pm, walked to the apartment (can you believe there was some kind of festival going on in the park beside the apartment with Disney Cars bouncehouses! E was in heaven!!). After changing clothes we headed to Cili Pica for dinner to celebrate. Dinner was great...we were starving! And then we headed to Double Coffee for dessert and coffee. A really fun night! <br />
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We got back here at 9:30 or so and J's friend had to catch the 10:30pm train to Tukums. Gary and Zach walked with them to the train station and we got little E in the bed. Once they returned we had a great time just catching up. No more silence, no more wondering if we really loved him in spite of anything he could have done or said. He wanted to really talk to us and he did. It isn't going to be easy...but he loves us and we love him and this is what families do. <br />
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And every time I look over at the couch and see him sitting there beside Gary and Marleigh, I praise God for allowing me this. Family is what matters..our kids matter. They are worth it...if they are born to us or brought to us...they are worth it. Every heartache, every stress, every disappointment...and every joy, every celebration, every hug. We promise our spouses we take them for better or for worse...why in the world would we not promise our kids the same thing?<br />
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I promise not to get hung up on wanting things perfect immediately...it isn't going to be. I do promise to enjoy every day starting today. The really cool thing too is that E has never given up on J. Tonight as I put him to bed, all the big boys had gone to walk J's friend back to the train. He walked around the apartment saying "J, hug? Zachturn hug? Daddy hug?" And as soon as they got home they went in to make a little boy's night. <br />
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There's a lot of history here for J...so we've decided we'd do every other day. One day just us, bonding and building our family...and one day with one friend or family member from here. We're being honest with each other and tonight started the real conversations of what we expect and what he needs. He's an amazing young man and he's already fallen right back into the yes ma'ams and yes sirs.<br />
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Please keep praying for us...we've a long road to go yet. But God knew the desires of our heart as a family and He chose to grant them to us. And we'll be true to that. Love y'all!<br />
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Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-9288007170068880822011-08-31T11:51:00.000-07:002011-08-31T11:51:21.413-07:00Now This is InterestingSince we are in Latvia, Google, who powers my blog, is recognizing we are in Latvia. So my Dashboard, profile, all of it, are showing up in Latvian! How funny! As long as it doesn't translate automatically or something, I think we'll be ok ;-)<br />
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There is SO much to share from our travels and how God has smiled on us so wonderfully over the past 48 hours. Oh yes, we've had trials and issues...but EVERYTHING has worked out beautifully and Gary and I actually said tonight, it was an EASY travel to get here. <br />
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I'm just going to jump right in and if I get too tired I'll just have to pick up tomorrow. We are tired...so very very tired. And our concerns over tomorrow are getting to us all...moreso to me, Gary and Zach especially. M&M and E are, as always, just happy to be here. That's an inside joke with some of my family but if you know them, you understand it. They make fun, laughter and joy anywhere they go...all three of them.<br />
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But let's go back to this morning...wait, Tuesday morning. Since I literally have not slept since I got up Tuesday morning at 6:30am (well maybe a couple of cat naps here and there) it feels like this is all one REALLY long day. We were up on time, a little nervous. Finished our packing, ate some breakfast, took care of all of the last minute details and our wonderful friend Chris Diehl was there promptly at 8am to pick us up. The luggage was a bit overwhelming but we took one suitcase per person (6!) plus one carry on per person (6!) plus 6! people! We loaded up, snapped a quick picture and away we went. <br />
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Now, we didn't think we needed to be at the airport quite so early...but God did. Before leaving Chris prayed with us which helped calm all of us and then we hit the road. And then we hit traffic! We got to the airport a little after 9am and there was NO LINE! We went straight to check in thinking we had PLENTY of time. Hehe...there were issues with our ticketing! Apparently there was a challenge with transferring the tickets the number of times we had to do so because of Irene and the uncertainty of our travel. The agent tried everything she could to fix it but said she could not on her end. We needed to call our travel agent. <br />
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Don't panic, step to the side, sit down. Start calling. I called home, work and cell and no answers...for 20 minutes. Then out of desperation, I called a client that knows my agent very well. I am so grateful that idea popped into my head because she reminded me that my agent was having surgery this morning. He wouldn't be out before 12noon at the best...our flight was to leave at 12:10pm. I put on my sweetest smile and attitude and walked up to the ticketing agent. I told her our situation and I told her there was no one else to help us, could she please. <br />
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Precious Mary Mannon made it happen! It took her about 45 minutes but she worked her magic, found our tickets, transferred them over AND gave us seat assignments that kept us together and let the kids have window seats for their first ever flights. <br />
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We took a photo with her...I'll post tomorrow as I am too tired to figure out my USB cable and my laptop <br />
;-) Suffice it to say when we were all finished I asked if I could hug her, told her she was certainly an angel sent to calm us. Through our conversation I did determine she was in fact a believer and I am so grateful for her. The other agents were a bit short-tempered and not so much into helping...she on the other hand was happy for the diversion of needing to use her brain and her skills. <br />
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We headed to security and went through it quickly. E was a pro...pulling out the bin, shucking off his shoes. The others did a fine job as well. We agreed we would head on to the gate and get settled in before looking for bathrooms or snacks. I have determined that if you have to connect three times, it is easier to make the first connection domestically. Security is much easier...when we traveled in March, we had to fly straight to Paris and go through security a second time which was pretty stressful. At the gate, we called and texted our goodbyes with promises to call again in Chicago.<br />
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Flight was early, and fun. Mae was full of questions, "how does this work, what does this do, how do we know what's free and what we have to pay for?" So much so that by the time we boarded for Helsinki, she knew everything and happily educated her brother and sister on how to work all the controls. We got to Chicago about 20 minutes early, found our connecting gate. Lunch at McDonald's, bathroom break and last cup of Starbucks for 2 weeks...and one more call to my BFF (my mama!)...and we were off to Helsinki.<br />
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Overall the flight was great. Attendants were a little testy and E was bouncing off the walls again...but NOTHING like March. When we said go to sleep, he tried to comply. There's just too much stimulation on those planes! Here's where we passed from Tuesday to Wednesday and really, I didn't sleep at all on the plane. Exhaustion started to set in...but gratefully everyone else did end up sleeping at least for an your or two each.<br />
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The big 3 did great though and the only rough part really is that we were about 10 minutes late arriving to Finland. Our flight from Helsinki to Riga was supposed to leave at 9:30am and we were scheduled to land at 8:40am. YIKES! <br />
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We hit the ground running in Finland and I was stressing for us to make it from gate 30-something to 20a. We had to have our passports checked and they had to ask us several questions about E. How long are you staying, where are you staying, why do you have him? I just wanted to shout, "Hey, we're headed BACK to Riga...and if you ask much more we're going to be stuck here in Finland!" But I didn't...thanked him and drill sergeant style told my entourage to step it up, we were going to miss our connector. E didn't want to hold anyone's hand but rather, from fatigue, wanted to amble...stagger really...through all the business travelers causing really lovely kind looks all over the airport HAHA (now I can laugh about it). At the time I took him by the wrist (thanks Trish!) and guided him jog style to our gate. Now please remember our plane was to LEAVE...not BOARD...at 9:35am.. We arrived at the gate at 9:20am. <br />
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The agent was so kind...she said in her wonderful accent..."Why rush? We are not!" I was fully expecting a mutiny from my party as to why I made them run through the airport, grumble through a needed bathroom break and guzzling water we bought in Chicago because I thought we were going through security once again. But I didn't...nothing but sweet smiles because they were glad to be on the last leg of the journey.<br />
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As you who have been reading this know, I sometimes wax philosophical at times...and here is my regression ;-) First of all, I want to tell you how many times today I have reflected on how incredibly blessed we are to be able to do this trip. Back when J was first decided we talked about how fun it would be for Zach to come with us on this trip...then that grew to everyone. And we prayed and prayed for us to do the right thing financially and that all would be provided for us to be able to. And while we aren't doing this entirely debt free, He has provided the resources to be able to. This experience with ALL of our children is wonderful. <br />
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I take for granted they know where to go and what to do...and it dawns on me that they don't even know how seats are numbered or lettered on the plane. I hear a chorus every time we board of "where do I sit mom?" And I LOVE it! This is something they will tell their kids about. Some of you may be blessed in ways where international travel is no big deal...but I can tell you I don't have that memory with my parents. And I think it is just something you just can't replace.<br />
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Second, is that Karen Kingsbury wrote this great little book called "Just Beyond the Clouds." I liked that book and sentiment so much as the fact that if you go high enough, past the storms, there's beautiful clouds and sunshine up above. I had just shared this with the kids as we were boarding the plane (had to take a shuttle bus to the tarmac for the commuter jet we were on and the rain was coming down hard!) and as we taxied away and prepared to take off, I told them it would be cool if we did that today. The flight was only 45 minutes so I thought he may not go that high...but sure enough he did. Straight up through the gray, gloomy day of rain up to where there's sunshine and fluffy clouds. And yes, that is what life is like. If we just weather the storm and set our sights on things above, there is sunshine and fluffy clouds and nothing bad or gray.<br />
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So, back to our journey...<br />
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We landed in Riga on time and here's where my heart started to hurt. I love this place. It is where our sons are from. I love the people, the language, the food...I don't know why really. It isn't exceptionally beautiful and the food's a little odd. I just have an affection for it that makes me miss it...and when we landed I was reminded the last time we came here, J and his orphan director and our translator that has become my dear dear friend (already my sister) were all waiting for us. <br />
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My two biggest worries as we traveled were that all our luggage (did I mention we were traveling with 6!) would make it and that we would figure out transportation to our apartment. (did I mention we had 6!...in Eastern Europe?? Where big vehicles are not common??)<br />
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We got to baggage claim and I went to exchange a little money to pay for the cab fare and Gary went in search of our bags. Kids headed to restrooms and watching our carryons. <br />
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ALL our bags made it...every single one. We went through customs and I nearly cried as we exited because THAT is where J had been but keeping it together and the task at hand headed straight out to the cabs. There were two mini vans so I approached and asked "English, Please?" He said "ya, of course!" LOVE the accent!! I asked how we get one of those and he said reservation only...talk to the desk inside. I went in and she only had two smaller cars...that's ok! Paid our flat rate of 10 lats per car and went out to claim our cars. <br />
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The drivers both spoke English too and knew exactly where we were headed. On the drive, you guys know me...I strike up a conversation. His name is Jurgis and he'd love to be our cab driver while we are here. I have his cell number ;-) He's suggested the Latvian National Art Museum, Old Town and many other excursions. I loved recognizing things and pointing them out to the girls. Spice Mall, US Embassy, Freedom Monument, President's Home (really where he works), the ferries, Dagauva River. Did I mention how much I really love this place? <br />
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Chris and Jen had loaned us their Latvian cell phone, so I was able to call our dear friend who confirmed the owner of the apartment was on her way to meet us. We waited about 10 minutes and there she was. Another beautiful Latvian (inside and out) to sweetly show us the apartment (it's great!) and also walk us to where we can exchange money to pay her as well as take care of what we need for court. I asked her where the closest grocery was and she said 7 story mall, turn left here. It is literally one street over from our apartment! We got her settled and decided to just veg for a while. We couldn't figure out what time it was...HAHA...still not sure. My computer says 2:18pm...so assuming it is around 9 or so? <br />
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We did determine it was about lunchtime so the kids made Ramen noodles, some of us took naps, some took showers. I am SO glad I went to the trouble for all this food! If we manage this just right, and we've all committed to it, then this will really be workable for us to not go broke. Food is not cheap here. <br />
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I blew a circuit drying my hair and had to get in touch with the owner (again grateful for the cell phone Jen!) who very kindly walked us through how to get it back on...so fun. She said to use the metal stairs to flip one big switch up high...it took a few minutes to realize she meant ladder! Here I was thinking we were headed in a secret staircase to Narnia or something. Speaking of that, our apartment is really cool...odd doors and closets in the strangest places. And two kitchens.<br />
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And the most magnificent huge jacuzzi tub that fills up WITHOUT running out of hot water. The water is hot, so wonderfully hot! I took a lovely tub bath and am certain I will do this daily as my treat to myself.<br />
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Once we got the power up and running again, we decided to head out for dinner and shopping. We are all so tired we knew it needed to be just those two things or we'd never make it. So we headed to our 7 story mall (Galleria Riga) and looked for food first. The 7th floor has really great restaurants...an Oyster Bar, Italian, etc. We found a restaurant called Harry Morgan that looked a little more family friendly and boy did we hit the jackpot. GREAT food...and reasonable. We had: Tomato and Mozzarella Wrap, three Harry Swiss Burgers (no jokes here Unka Waba), potato latkes, hummus and Israeli Salad, spicy Chicken Wrap and chips (fries). It was SO good and we had leftovers to bring home. <br />
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We headed out after to go to the grocery but Zach suggested we go up to the rooftop terrace...so we did. And it was amazing views of Riga. Old and new all mixed in together...again, photos tomorrow. We walked around there for a while and E started to really melt down. So, Gary and Zach headed back with E to the apartment while me and the girls went to the grocery. <br />
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We only spent 30lats and got a LOT of stuff! Water, soda, bananas, bilberries (blueberries), piens (milk), apple juice, orange juice, tomatoes, wheat bread, white bread, creamer, paper towels, coffee, coffee filters, sugar, eggs, butter, I think that was about it. And this Rimi has some very nice looking fresh cooked rotisseri chicken...I'm thinking dinner with some mashed potatoes and sugar peas or green beans. Yes, I found all this in the store!<br />
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One other thing I am struck by is how America and English permeates this city and many of the areas we've traveled through. It also makes me feel rotten that we have such confidence that someone will be able to speak our language when we travel abroad but yet many of us are intolerant of those who don't speak English in our country. The cab driver, the server at Harry Morgan, the pastry chef at Rimi...all happily spoke English to help me (us) wherever we went. 1. We need to learn another language and 2. We need to be more patient and kind! There was american music on the radio in the cab and american music in the store...and I'm currently watching something on FoxCrime right now in English...it's the only thing I can understand...but do we have any Russian or Latvian channels in America? Anyway, not really a soapbox so no need to chastise me...just an observation.<br />
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So back to the apartment and I desperately need a nap. I try, oh I try, and my sweet daughters unpack all our food and suitcases. Put all our clothes away, stack suitcases and organize the kitchens and the gifts we have brought. My sweet E is bouncing all over the apartment, dancing, singing, "Maamaaaaa! Goooood!" etc etc. I finally give up. Grumpy, tired...wanting to cry...and I do a little. <br />
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It is starting to sink in that tomorrow all our questions will be answered. We go to court at 1pm and have to meet Daina at Cilli Pica at 12pm. (I know where this is and I LOVE that!) After that we go to Spriditis and we meet with J. And after that we will know. <br />
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We are concerned, we are worried even...but we are still trusting. Zach is having probably the hardest time. <br />
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E finally gives up and out of the blue brushes his teeth (it is around 7) and says night night! Olo! He's gone back to that on occasion. Then he goes to put himself in the bed. After struggling with him all afternoon to be a little quieter so everyone can nap that wants to, we decide we should go dance around his bed and give him a taste...he loves it. Laughing as we all give him hugs and tuck him in. <br />
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Zach has fallen asleep in his room so we head in there next and there we give it all to God. He has brought us to Latvia, He knows the desires of our hearts...and He will decide what is best for our family. We truly have no idea what the outcome of tomorrow will be. We only know that E for sure is coming home and we pray that J is too.<br />
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So much has already been worked out though...we'll be calling Jurgis tomorrow for a ride, our travels speak for themselves and court for E was rescheduled without issues. I am confident God will work out this last part too. <br />
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Eyes are burning from being up way too long...a few critical reminders please:<br />
That we get up on time and all are ready with our certain to be jet lagged bodies.<br />
All of our paperwork is in order and no issues when we get to court.<br />
J to be receptive and at the very least agree to come spend some time with us while we are here.<br />
J to come home!<br />
1pm court, 12pm meet Daina, probably 3 or so for J meeting<br />
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I think that's it...I promise photos tomorrow!<br />
Good night all!<br />
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Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-71509451924041570772011-08-29T14:47:00.000-07:002011-08-29T14:47:28.970-07:00Don't Feel Much Like WritingBut figured I should. We're all set to leave tomorrow. And this entry will really be more of an update for everyone. I think we're all a bit on edge because of the "hurry up and wait" of this trip. All set to leave Saturday and then delayed...hoping to leave on Sunday but that was a no go...and now leaving tomorrow.<br />
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I am still very grateful for having the extra time to really get things finished. We are done packing, we do have transportation to the airport. I think I'll feel better once we finally get in motion. So you all can keep us in your thoughts and prayers (please)...we fly BWI to Chicago on a 12:10pm, Chicago to Helsinki on a 2:30pm, Helsinki to Riga on a 9:30am (Wednesday morning).<br />
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Our new court date is September 1 at 1pm. Right after that we will go to the orphanage to visit with J and see what his thoughts are. We are confused because he was told the challenges we are having with travel and he told them "no" but then today we received another email from him telling us he "loves us *more*" and will see us soon. <br />
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A praise to share is that we did here from Daina and she assures us we can get through all the required stuff in the time frame we have. So, we will be able to leave on September 9 to come home...unless J says yes. And if he does then we'll have to stay in Latvia longer. <br />
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So once again we're needing to put this new "storm" in His hands to work it out. J can say yes, and things could wonderfully work out for us to get it all done in time so we don't have to pay yet again to fix airline tickets. And, we also know that it may just very well be in His will for J not to come home. I'm sure this all has a lot to do with my mood today.<br />
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To share a bit of sunshine with you all...yesterday was a wonderful glimpse of normalcy. Now that may sound strange because we all went through a hurricane either directly or from those outlying bands...but it was a "normal" day! There was very little packing to be done and instead of working on anything really travel or adoption related, we simply enjoyed each other as a family. I worked on puzzles with my girls, played outside and visited (long overdue) with a great friend. I have to say it was quite possibly the best day I have had in months. <br />
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In fact, it inspired me for my FB post yesterday that I DO think storms need to come more often. They take away the things we think we need like TV, Internet and even power...and leave us to turn to the things we REALLY need like visiting with those friends, playing with our kids or simply having some quiet time. And then the realization hit me...that the storms we have in life do the same things. The thing we hold most dear might be stripped from our grasp...but it turns us to the One whose grasp we can never be stripped from.<br />
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That's it for today...Praying for brighter outlooks tomorrow.<br />
Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-50852780244558013082011-08-27T20:27:00.000-07:002011-08-27T20:27:24.808-07:00Happy Birthday to Me!It's been a long day figuring out flights, finishing packing and all around cabin fever as we wait for this storm to come and go. In spite of it all, it has been a great day. To make sure everyone is up to speed, we are now leaving Tuesday on the earliest flight Finnair could get us to not make fares change. And yes, we tried everything!<br />
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We could have gotten a refund and rebooked tickets leaving tonight...but who has that much cash laying around? We'd have waited for the refund to buy the tickets and then they'd be gone. We could have taken a flight out of Dulles tomorrow...it was only $2900 per ticket. So we did the reasonable thing and took the Tuesday flight...and we've emailed Latvia to say we're not going to make it.<br />
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I feel sure we'll be able to get court changed...but, we also have experienced about everything one can experience on this journey. All the joys, heartaches, uncertainty...you name it, we've done it. So this leg of the adventure should not be any different. It's cool though how we really are ok with all of it. We're a little tired...but now we have plenty of time to rest up!<br />
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So after a few hours on the phone figuring it out and a few more making sure the resolution was communicated to everyone necessary, we decided to brilliantly go out in the storm. We needed to run to the mall and we had the best time. NO ONE was there! No lines in the stores! We cut up, laughed, played all around the mall and felt like it was open just for us. Then, for my birthday, we went to Texas Roadhouse for dinner. There's normally like a 30 minute wait there. Tonight we walked in, were seated and had our food in very short order (good thing since there's nothing in the house...remember we're not supposed to be here?)<br />
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We laughed and giggled and played...hard to tell who was the adult and who was the kid! And we missed J. But E was very entertaining! Us girls on one end of the table could not quit laughing...while the boys just looked at us and shook their heads. I told them that this was why girls do "Girls Night Out"...we just "get" each other...and sometimes you just need to giggle.<br />
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Here we are back home and I thought I'd post quickly before the power goes out (seriously hoping it doesn't). I've had quite a few people who are friends on FB asking me what we're up to. Some know half the story and others don't know anything if they've missed my posts over the past months. So, the quick story is:<br />
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Last year in October, Gary and I knew God was laying it on our hearts to be more involved in Orphan Ministry. We, as Christians, are commanded in too many places in Scripture to help the orphan and the widow and we needed to do something *active* to make a difference. <br />
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We decided a good first step was to host a child for Christmas. This would give us the opportunity to allow a child to see a Christian family and let us see if our family was one that could assimilate a child who was not blood related into our family...how would it feel, what would we do, how would our kids react? We went into this not intending to adopt...just "check it out." We picked J out of a biography/photolisting and began what would be the first of many stages of waiting. <br />
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December 13 he arrived at National Airport super late in the middle of a snowstorm. Gary and I would talk later about the fact that when we first saw him coming down the jetway, I looked at him and immediately felt love for him...that was our son. Scary and weird to say the least. We got home at a ridiculously late hour and the first thing he asked was if he could take a shower. After getting everyone in the bed, we both said to each other that it did not feel like we had a stranger in our home.<br />
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We had five wonderful weeks with this boy and by the second week we were ruined. We knew that as long as he wanted a family, we wanted to be that family. On January 8, we went to a hosting party where we casually met E. J mentioned "Mom, that's the little boy from my orphanage who follows me around sometimes." He came up to me and gave me a hug...Gary and I joked then, "why not two at a time?" (We never shared that with our friends the Hurlburts I think...Dave's mantra is SIBLING GROUP!)<br />
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Too much to else share here but suffice it to say, he left us on January 15 and we immediately dove head first into getting the adoption underway. <br />
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A few days later we found out that E was still here on an extended visa...and we decided we'd love to meet him. E was a special needs child and was just turning 7. VERY different from spending time with J who was fluent in Russian, Latvian and English. SO much happened in the following weeks...so much that on "slow" nights for the blog, maybe I'll do a little Then and Now stuff. We learned so much by being taken through all of that with God. Trust, sharing, loving unconditionally - REALLY UNCONDITIONALLY - seeing a child who was sweet, everyone knew that, but in such need of focused love and development. It was just unreal.<br />
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And I am so grateful to the Vargas family for bringing little E here and working so hard for him and other special needs children. I was watching video of E today from our first weekend with him in January. The only two words he could clearly say were Apple and J's name. Might have been more but that was all we got.<br />
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Today, E is a blabbermouth! Now, we still don't have communication (he's about 2 year old speech) but he gets his point across. The other day a few weeks ago he stood at the refrigerator and with a little coaching from Mae said "I want apple juice please." I cried. <br />
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I cannot wait for his Orphan Director to see him...and there is so much more to share about this boy's amazing journey and how God has used him in so many ways to open the eyes of others. <br />
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J has been through some challenges since going back...and we are not 100% certain that he will accept our adoption. We have poured prayer all over this though and we know without a doubt that whatever God wants for our family WILL be done. I beg him to let me be this boy's mama. And I know it won't be easy. He's a teenager for goodness' sake...it's not easy with the three I already have. But we would no more walk away from this precious boy than we would the three we got to know and see from birth. And little E? Well, he's stuck with us ;-)<br />
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So this is why we must get to Latvia. Our sons are waiting to come home...and while we've been blessed to have E with us all this time, we are so ready to start taking the title of orphan away from them. For they are orphaned no more...they have a family.<br />
Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-249389446818184215.post-18141665088977518792011-08-27T08:45:00.001-07:002011-08-27T08:45:26.577-07:00Irene, You were NOT invited on this trip!With all of my planning, posting, preparation and overall whirlwind of getting ready for this trip...we're still sitting at home. There's this little thing called Hurricane Irene that decided to butt into our flight.<br />
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To bring everyone up to speed:<br />
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We packed and packed all day yesterday, never turning on the TV or radio. "Stay focused kids! We've got a lot to do and we leave in 24 hours!!" I had the mother of all lists working and my little soldiers were getting it done (well, mostly anyway). About 4pm our wonderful Adoption Agency called to wish us well and find out if we'd been re-routed. Re-routed? Why? The storm isn't coming til late Saturday...I've already shared how cool it is that God knew all along? What in the world do you mean?? We quickly hung up and I called my Travel Agent...only to find out that yes, our 2:35pm flight from BWI was, in fact, cancelled already. <br />
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But not to worry! He would get us on another. We ran out for last minute errands and to the library where we got the call. Good news! He could get us on an earlier flight but we'd have to leave out of National at 6am. Ugh! How much does the family love us that was taking us to the airport?? I was looking forward to finishing packing, getting in bed for a good night's sleep, etc. etc. My plan of course, right? Our ride confirmed they would take us and the mad dash was one. My humaness couldn't resist chastising my husband a little saying "this is exactly what I DIDN'T want to be doing." Rushing around at the last minute, if I'd had a little help...blah blah blah!<br />
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We finished our errands and arrived back home starving around 8pm. Not much food in the house, well we ARE going on a big trip...who buys groceries before a trip? As Wal-Mart pizzas cooked, we continued our packing...checking off the list and getting things done. <br />
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Then Daddy called.<br />
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Did you know the airports in NYC are closing at 12pm tomorrow? Well, no, of course not. I'm packing! I quickly hung up and called the airline and while I'm on hold our wonderful Travel Agent calls. Did you know the airports are closing in NYC tomorrow? Well, yes, I do now! He started working on flights for us and at 1am sent an itinerary that may work. It gets us in when we need to get in but as of right now we don't know at what cost...financially. <br />
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You see, there are a couple of things at play here. Our court date is August 30 at 10am...we need to make that date! E's visa that he's on right now expires August 31. So, we can't miss that date either. Amazingly, I haven't cried, I haven't stressed...other than the inconvenience of being stuck on the phone for a long time figuring it out, I am ok. <br />
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This journey already has taught us so much about God's timing...He isn't going to change for us. We are to change for Him. I'm looking at all the positives: laundry got finished, everyone got new shoes for school (and I got a really cute pair of camouflage sneakers for $4!), I was able to download all of our videos so we can have a camcorder on the trip, I've been able to check and double check our lists and pack extra gifts for the orphanage children...the list goes on. <br />
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Gary wasn't ready either...he hates to fly...and he needed the extra time to not feel like we were rushing from a day at work to jumping on a plane. <br />
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So while I don't get my day in New York City (sigh), I do get time to breathe and thank Him for lining it up just right. Because whenever we are supposed to be on a plane, we'll be on a plane ;-)<br />
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I hear tempers getting a little tense upstairs...gotta run calm them. I've not always been a very good Job through all of this...now it's my turn to show what I've learned. And as always, prayers appreciated!<br />
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</div>Shelleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12750155584795378337noreply@blogger.com0