After adoption every one seems to ask the same questions; would you do it again, who did you use, were you happy with the agency, why Russia etc.
Well here are a few evaluations of the entire process.
Russia is becoming more and more difficult to adopt from, this is sad because there are wonderful children there that need loving homes. Yekaterinburg, where we were assigned to is a nightmare with paperwork; and sadly the children are great, but agencies and parents shy away because of the expense and the wait time.
We used Frank Adoption Agency in Raleigh NC. They were very courteous and professional from start to finish. One thing about ALL agencies in the USA, remember --this is about money. Regardless what ANYONE actually says, it is still a business. That isn't a bad thing, just a fact thing.
The team in Yekaterinburg that worked with Frank was fantastic. Lydia, Olga and Yuri could not have been more professional, fun and loving. Irina and Olga the court translator and Rennie and Larissa were great people too. These were people that were from the baby home side that we worked with in court.
Moscow--well what can I say about Moscow...I didn't like it nor the team that was there.
After being stranded there for 4 days and the Moscow Frank team could have cared less. That was a very disheartening part. The team in Ekat would actually call me to check on me and see if we were OK, but the people in Moscow that worked for the same agency could not be bothered with our dilemma. That upset me that an agency would leave people stranded without any help in a foreign country.
The travel agency was not a big help either. For the fees that were charged I would have been better off doing the booking myself.
I am STILL trying to get a refund for unused tickets on Aeroflot and it cost us $3k to get home.
This left more bitterness in my heart for a country that I don't feel cares about its kids as much as they like to profess. If they cared, then get them OUT of the orphanage and into people's homes and stop worrying about parents medicals re done every 3 months. A waste of time and money and resources; that's the communist mentality not the majority mentality. It is all bureaucracy and money...don't let anything fool you that it isn't.
Frank int he states did their job as they were supposed to. I think they could have know the Russian side a little better, but that didn't make them bad by any means. They were honest and up front and always professional. I really cannot say that anything would have been better or worse with another agency.
Every other adoptive family I worked with seems to have some complaint about their agency, it's the nature of the business. It is a very emotional business for the client and a very business business for the agency.
1) Would I do it again?? : NEVER---I love my boys and I am very happy we received two children so they grow up with a sibling, but I give kudos to people that do this 3-4 times in Russia. I don't have that patience, money and tactfulness to do it once more and keep my mouth shut !
2) Were we happy with Frank Adoption Center: Overall, yes we were happy with Frank and IF we ever did it again would probably use them. I hope that they branch into other countries and areas soon because Russia is quickly becoming a sad reality for many families. The costs are skyrocketing, the wait times and the paperwork is getting worse and the demands are unrealistic for a lot.
3) Why Russia: Well, read my earlier posts for that one. But Here is the Reality about Russia---love me or hate for what I am about to say-- but it is my freedom.
It is where my boys were born and for that reason and only that reason I will show them respect. For what the court systems are doing to these 750,000 orphans in their country--for that they deserve no respect.
Although they are trying to expand foster care, which is a great idea in any country, the orphanages are still institutions and that is somewhere that children DO NOT belong. The whole thing about keeping them on the registry for 8 months before they can be adopted internationally---that needs to be ABOLISHED !
Children need OUT of these institutions and WHO CARES who takes them, as long as they are qualified and loving. The PRIDE has got to stop when it comes to caring for these babies !
If the issues these children have, that are so loud and blatant about Post Institutionalized children does not change it, then it is up to US as a society of civilized people to change it ! We care about freedom in Egypt, democracy in Iraq, rebuilding Haiti, but there are millions of orphans everywhere that want families and thousands of families that want children.....hello---this is NOT rocket science people !
We care about parental rights, country rights, but what about the Child's RIGHTS ??!! Don't they have rights too? A family, a home, siblings, an education. One mother I know in Italy has been waiting 17 months for a COURT DATE....this is unacceptable. Meanwhile, her adoptive son's issues could get worse and worse in an institution because of paperwork and a judge.
They want my children to keep their citizenship, well that will be up to my children. As far as I'm concerned, their country left them in an institution for 14 months too long. They were 11 months old when we got their paperwork and 25 months old when they got home to America.....Is this really really necessary????
I know I am ranting now......but I want people to know and this is the only way to tell the world that I know.
Many Adoptive parents are just so happy to be home, they let all the hurt and pain go. Well I cannot sit back and watch other families continue to suffer and wait because of misdirected pride !
Everyone made such a BIG HUGE deal over Artem, the 7 year that was sent back to Russia. Why aren't we making that SAME big deal over the tens of thousands of babies left there while families are waiting !!
OK-- I vented- that will be it for my evaluations and criticisms for now. The rest of this blog will be about
my boys and how great they are and how they are growing and learning everyday.
I thank you Frank Adoption and Yekaterinburg Russia for my children. They too will thank you some day for allow them the chance that they deserve !
“There are no unwanted children, just unfound families.”
– The National Adoption Center
Asia/Europe Continental Border
Sunday, February 20, 2011
From the mouth of babes..........
Hi Everyone ! Mama has been writing this blog for a long time, so we thought it was about time to give her a break and we would give you some of our thoughts and feelings !
First- wow, what a ride ! A big giant airplane and something we heard them call "business class"; whatever this business was, we liked it ! We lounged in our chairs, watched movies, slept, ate and played with all the people on the airplane. It was really neat ! We never realized that life outside our baby home was this exciting ! We stayed in hotels, flew to Moscow and ate in fancy restaurants ! We even took a quick trip to Red Square...not sure what that is, but it was cold !
Now here we are landing on what Mama is saying is US soil. Not sure what that means, but we are all smiling and Mama is crying with a smile on her face. She hugged us and said "You're Americans now babies !". I guess this is a great thing, we will find out soon enough !
A BIG black car picked us up and we drove to what Mama said was gonna be our home. We slept most of the way, we were exhausted ! When we finally arrived we stared wide eyed at these two BIG dogs that came and licked our entire faces ! Wow, We never saw such beasts that didn't want to eat us !
Then the hugs and kisses from all these new people. Someone named Grandma and Grandpa and Aunt Kath and Bryce and Ray. Someday we will know who all these people are, but this night we were just exhausted !
Mama and Papa brought us to our new bedroom. Wow- It was nice, a BIG giant bed for us, a TV, a closet all our own and books and stuffed animals everywhere. Two Giant sea turtles stared down at us from a painting on the wall, that was neat too !
This has been a whirl wind of a week for us. We became Americans, we got a new home and now we are a family. This is all gonna take some figuring out on our part ! I know that we have each other as brothers, not sure what that means yet, but I know that we already are used to each other; even if we fight every now ad then.
Mama is showering us with kisses and hugs and Bath time is so much fun now !!
We will keep you posted on how we are doing, but here we are a month after we left Russia and so far so good. We like it here - even if there are rules to follow !
First- wow, what a ride ! A big giant airplane and something we heard them call "business class"; whatever this business was, we liked it ! We lounged in our chairs, watched movies, slept, ate and played with all the people on the airplane. It was really neat ! We never realized that life outside our baby home was this exciting ! We stayed in hotels, flew to Moscow and ate in fancy restaurants ! We even took a quick trip to Red Square...not sure what that is, but it was cold !
Now here we are landing on what Mama is saying is US soil. Not sure what that means, but we are all smiling and Mama is crying with a smile on her face. She hugged us and said "You're Americans now babies !". I guess this is a great thing, we will find out soon enough !
A BIG black car picked us up and we drove to what Mama said was gonna be our home. We slept most of the way, we were exhausted ! When we finally arrived we stared wide eyed at these two BIG dogs that came and licked our entire faces ! Wow, We never saw such beasts that didn't want to eat us !
Then the hugs and kisses from all these new people. Someone named Grandma and Grandpa and Aunt Kath and Bryce and Ray. Someday we will know who all these people are, but this night we were just exhausted !
Mama and Papa brought us to our new bedroom. Wow- It was nice, a BIG giant bed for us, a TV, a closet all our own and books and stuffed animals everywhere. Two Giant sea turtles stared down at us from a painting on the wall, that was neat too !
This has been a whirl wind of a week for us. We became Americans, we got a new home and now we are a family. This is all gonna take some figuring out on our part ! I know that we have each other as brothers, not sure what that means yet, but I know that we already are used to each other; even if we fight every now ad then.
Mama is showering us with kisses and hugs and Bath time is so much fun now !!
We will keep you posted on how we are doing, but here we are a month after we left Russia and so far so good. We like it here - even if there are rules to follow !
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Letter from Jack and Noah
Letter from Jack and Noah
Dear Family and Friends:
It's been a crazy few weeks ~ so many new things to see, people to meet and places I never knew even existed. It's been a lot to take in but we think we are handling it all pretty well -- at least that is what our Mama and Papa think.
The purpose of this note is to fill you in on a few things that make our situation different than perhaps that of someone who was born into this family from the beginning. You see, we have always been with lots of other kids our age and we always had many ladies taking care of us. The ladies did their best but 12-15 kids at one time can be a lot for anyone. They washed, dressed, and fed us, but it was their job to do these things. A person can only do so much. We didn't get the cuddles, massages, kisses and touches that other children might get from their mamas and papas; and really -- we don't know or understand yet what it's like to be loved.
Up until this past year, a Mama was any lady and a Papa was any man. That's probably why we all call out "Mama", "Papa" when we see people walking through the orphanage yard. We hear the ladies that care for us, tell other kids that Mama and Papa are coming, so that’s why we think they are all mamas and papas. Up until recently, we have been introduced to our real Mama and my Papa and now the meaning of those names changes. We didn’t even know or realize that we were brothers before they came to visit us.
Before they picked us up on January 17, they visited us almost every day for 2 weeks and a few times before that as well (frankly we were too young to even remember the first visit). They were great playmates and we loved spending time with them in the music room. Since the 17th of January, though, things have changed. They now do everything for us that the ladies used to do ~ plus a whole lot more. They hug us, kiss us, and tell us "Ya tibya loo bloo" (I love you) all the time. This is very foreign to us ~ but we really like it.
This is a very critical time for us as a family. We have to learn what a true "Mama" and "Papa" means ~ and who they are to us. We even have to learn what it is to have a brother, or what a brother is. We need time to attach and bond as a family since we missed out on the first 24 months of our life here on earth. We are trying to understand we have been a “family” for only one month and many people have seen us and given us great “stuff” , but we got a little dazed and confused by all the attention. Even Grandma and Grandpa are great, but we need a little more time to understand who we all are. Having said that, we're all going to try and follow a few guidelines for kids who find a forever family just like we did.
1) Our world is going to be small for a while. On the first night here, we got to meet our grandparents and Aunt Kath and her family, but that was a crazy day! Meeting a ton of people at the airport and on the plane was really neat, but exhausting. For the past three weeks friends and family poured in to welcome us, and we are very thankful ; but right now we need this downtime for just a little bit. We'll start venturing out soon to see people slowly so please be patient with us.
2) We need everyone to know that in order for us to fully understand the roles of my Mama and Papa, all caregiving aspects should only be performed by them. By that we mean -- feeding us, changing us , dressing us, holding us, soothing us if we cry or get hurt, cuddling us, kissing us, and putting us to bed ~~ any and all of these activities should only be done by our Mama and Papa. That doesn't mean we can't play because of course we can! But if we are hungry or start crying, simply take our hand and lead us to Mama and/or Papa. Others holding and soothing one of us will only confuse us so please don't take it personal ~ this is just temporary while we still get to know each other as a family. We’ve never known what it was to have a family so it will take a little while for us to sort it all out.
3) We are used to living in a very structured setting back in Russia. Here at home now, Mama and Papa are trying to make each day very structured, too, to help with the transition and all the changes we are experiencing. We have lots of rules and that’s what we are used to and we understand. We would appreciate it if you called first before coming over just so we can be sure it's a good time. Please understand if we tell you it isn’t a good time, don’t take it personally.
4) Mama is home with us every day (Papa works hard to give us great things !) and she could always use a quick note, email or call to tell her you are thinking about her. Remember, we are learning to love Mama and something that can be a very exasperating thing for someone who works so hard for us every day. We went from nothing one day, to all of us being a family overnight- there was no transition time for Mama and Papa to learn who we are as infants and for us to bond with them as parents (I think you call it “The Honeymoon”.)
5) We don’t speak English yet – they obviously never taught us that in Russia; but with Mama and Papa’s help we are learning everything very fast and eventually talking up a storm ! It can be exhausting to them and us, but with time and love we are all learning many languages (hugs, kisses, and even ‘time out’ !)
6) We ask that you keep us in your prayers. Our union as a family is a dream come true for all of us. But we all have so much to learn about life and living together and we definitely believe in the power of prayer and patience!
Thank you for your never-ending support and concern during this long journey. Mama says that she has received so many wonderful gifts and well wishes for us all; and she is trying to respond to each one individually- but we take up a lot of her time ! And thank-you to everyone who has posted on our blog www.angelswaiting.blogspot.com. Mama says she will update more and more as her time gets more free.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask my Mama and she'll do her best to answer them for you.
Paka-Paka and Spasiba!
~Jack and Noah Di Eduardo
P.S. A Special Thank You to Laura Deary, a wonderful support shoulder and fellow Adoptive Mama to Kristina
Adoptive Parents are a very special group that understand and empathize with the efforts, trials and tribulations that each of us are experiencing. They can are overwhelming and we know each week brings a new experience and an calmer method of coping. These are by far the greatest group of people I have ever met ; not because most people think we(adoptive parents) did something wonderful and decent, but because we truly know it is our children that have done the wonderful and decent for us as people.
Dear Family and Friends:
It's been a crazy few weeks ~ so many new things to see, people to meet and places I never knew even existed. It's been a lot to take in but we think we are handling it all pretty well -- at least that is what our Mama and Papa think.
The purpose of this note is to fill you in on a few things that make our situation different than perhaps that of someone who was born into this family from the beginning. You see, we have always been with lots of other kids our age and we always had many ladies taking care of us. The ladies did their best but 12-15 kids at one time can be a lot for anyone. They washed, dressed, and fed us, but it was their job to do these things. A person can only do so much. We didn't get the cuddles, massages, kisses and touches that other children might get from their mamas and papas; and really -- we don't know or understand yet what it's like to be loved.
Up until this past year, a Mama was any lady and a Papa was any man. That's probably why we all call out "Mama", "Papa" when we see people walking through the orphanage yard. We hear the ladies that care for us, tell other kids that Mama and Papa are coming, so that’s why we think they are all mamas and papas. Up until recently, we have been introduced to our real Mama and my Papa and now the meaning of those names changes. We didn’t even know or realize that we were brothers before they came to visit us.
Before they picked us up on January 17, they visited us almost every day for 2 weeks and a few times before that as well (frankly we were too young to even remember the first visit). They were great playmates and we loved spending time with them in the music room. Since the 17th of January, though, things have changed. They now do everything for us that the ladies used to do ~ plus a whole lot more. They hug us, kiss us, and tell us "Ya tibya loo bloo" (I love you) all the time. This is very foreign to us ~ but we really like it.
This is a very critical time for us as a family. We have to learn what a true "Mama" and "Papa" means ~ and who they are to us. We even have to learn what it is to have a brother, or what a brother is. We need time to attach and bond as a family since we missed out on the first 24 months of our life here on earth. We are trying to understand we have been a “family” for only one month and many people have seen us and given us great “stuff” , but we got a little dazed and confused by all the attention. Even Grandma and Grandpa are great, but we need a little more time to understand who we all are. Having said that, we're all going to try and follow a few guidelines for kids who find a forever family just like we did.
1) Our world is going to be small for a while. On the first night here, we got to meet our grandparents and Aunt Kath and her family, but that was a crazy day! Meeting a ton of people at the airport and on the plane was really neat, but exhausting. For the past three weeks friends and family poured in to welcome us, and we are very thankful ; but right now we need this downtime for just a little bit. We'll start venturing out soon to see people slowly so please be patient with us.
2) We need everyone to know that in order for us to fully understand the roles of my Mama and Papa, all caregiving aspects should only be performed by them. By that we mean -- feeding us, changing us , dressing us, holding us, soothing us if we cry or get hurt, cuddling us, kissing us, and putting us to bed ~~ any and all of these activities should only be done by our Mama and Papa. That doesn't mean we can't play because of course we can! But if we are hungry or start crying, simply take our hand and lead us to Mama and/or Papa. Others holding and soothing one of us will only confuse us so please don't take it personal ~ this is just temporary while we still get to know each other as a family. We’ve never known what it was to have a family so it will take a little while for us to sort it all out.
3) We are used to living in a very structured setting back in Russia. Here at home now, Mama and Papa are trying to make each day very structured, too, to help with the transition and all the changes we are experiencing. We have lots of rules and that’s what we are used to and we understand. We would appreciate it if you called first before coming over just so we can be sure it's a good time. Please understand if we tell you it isn’t a good time, don’t take it personally.
4) Mama is home with us every day (Papa works hard to give us great things !) and she could always use a quick note, email or call to tell her you are thinking about her. Remember, we are learning to love Mama and something that can be a very exasperating thing for someone who works so hard for us every day. We went from nothing one day, to all of us being a family overnight- there was no transition time for Mama and Papa to learn who we are as infants and for us to bond with them as parents (I think you call it “The Honeymoon”.)
5) We don’t speak English yet – they obviously never taught us that in Russia; but with Mama and Papa’s help we are learning everything very fast and eventually talking up a storm ! It can be exhausting to them and us, but with time and love we are all learning many languages (hugs, kisses, and even ‘time out’ !)
6) We ask that you keep us in your prayers. Our union as a family is a dream come true for all of us. But we all have so much to learn about life and living together and we definitely believe in the power of prayer and patience!
Thank you for your never-ending support and concern during this long journey. Mama says that she has received so many wonderful gifts and well wishes for us all; and she is trying to respond to each one individually- but we take up a lot of her time ! And thank-you to everyone who has posted on our blog www.angelswaiting.blogspot.com. Mama says she will update more and more as her time gets more free.
If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask my Mama and she'll do her best to answer them for you.
Paka-Paka and Spasiba!
~Jack and Noah Di Eduardo
P.S. A Special Thank You to Laura Deary, a wonderful support shoulder and fellow Adoptive Mama to Kristina
Adoptive Parents are a very special group that understand and empathize with the efforts, trials and tribulations that each of us are experiencing. They can are overwhelming and we know each week brings a new experience and an calmer method of coping. These are by far the greatest group of people I have ever met ; not because most people think we(adoptive parents) did something wonderful and decent, but because we truly know it is our children that have done the wonderful and decent for us as people.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
January 17, 2011 Final Return to Russia !!!
I know its been a while since I have written anything on here and I apologize, so I am going to try to back track my blog entries to keep them all chronological for everyone reading.
We head back to Russia on Jan. 15 departure, this time on United Airlines. (yes we are STILL trying to get a refund from Aeroflot!) . The return trip was pretty uneventful, for once, and we arrive with all the connections in Yekaterinburg on January 16 at 800pm.
Seeing Yuri and Lydia and for the last time was bitter sweet, we were happy to be done, but there were people we would miss. They are certainly two of them !
Arriving at the Park Inn was like arriving home after a two week trip. Everything was already prepared for us, crib, extra towels, extra pillows, etc. Everyone greeted us and they were so happy to see us again, although sad that this would be our last trip.
We settled into our room, went downstairs for a night cap (we find ourselves drinking more since embarking on the adoption road) and relaxed a bit. The next morning we would pick up our children for the last time.
Everything was pretty easy in Yekaterinburg; Olga and Lydia had prepared everything for our arrival. We were also kind of glad we waited for Lydia to return from her London vacation; we would have missed her if we came on the 10th.
The boys ran to us when we arrived in their room for the last time ! They was so encouraging. We watched so many families enter the music room and change their children's clothes for the trip home. I watched with tears every time it happened, knowing that soon it would be our turn. Now here we were, and another family watched us with the same heavy heart we have all carried.
The boys were eager to leave with us, which was encouraging. They kissed all the care takers goodbye and hugs were given all around. We waved good bye to the orphanage for the last time. Again, bitter sweet; great memories, but there were better ones ahead.
The boys were so curious they had no fear of leaving and going to hotel. This was just one big adventure to them and they were willing and happy participants. The hotel was a great place to embark on new adventures. Eating in a restaurant for the first time, sleeping in a King sized bed with Mama, bathing in a nice bathroom with heated floors. Things we take for granted everyday, they were just knowing.
Anatoly and Maria met us that afternoon to get a bag full of gifts we brought them from the US and some stuff that Carol and Richard sent as well. They gave the boys Park Inn stuffed bears, which they still sleep with to this day ! We were catered to in Ekat and we will never forget the people that made us always feel at home in Siberia ! It was cold outside, but we were always warm with smiles inside !
The 18th we departed for Moscow for a 3 day journey to citizenship (turned out to be 4, but that will come later). We were met by who we thought was Jane and found out was Tanya and the drive Vladimir. They were cordial and polite, but they were NOT Yuri and Lydia !
We went to the Renaissance where we confirmed a family suite for the stay, just so we would be more comfortable with 4 people. There were many Americans and other nationalities there. Moscow was definitely a melting pot, much like NYC. We remembered when Dmitri told us that on our second trip.
Noah and Jack cuddled with Mama inn the King Sized bed, got Room Service for dinner that night and watched TV on a big screen. Wow, I would be excited and they were too. They had a blast. The next morning we would be woken at 6a for the visit with the Embassy Doctor. A very nice man in his 50's and very down to earth. A quick visit with two groggy kids, but they quickly woke and began to play with him and his stethoscope.
After the visit we waited for Tanya to fill out paperwork. Wednesday would be our day to do what we wanted while she went to the embassy for our appointments. Around 1pm we asked the concierge to get us a cab to take us to Red Square. It would be a shame to come all this way and not even see it.
Even though it was -27 degrees in Yekaterinburg, it was actually colder in Moscow. The wind was crazy bitter.
We got to Red Square and were dropped across the street by the cab, who was to return in 2 hours to pick us up at the same location. Well who ever thought that just getting across the street to Red Square would be such an adventure. First, whoever thought that Moscow is such a BIG city that there are people that speak English, WRONG !!! There were more English speakers in Ekat and that's in Siberia (almost)!
So we watched and I noticed that no one was crossing the street here. I saw a staircase going underground with a big M, normally this would be a Metro station, which it probably was, but in this case it was also the way to get across the street. Who would thought ?!
So we carry the double stroller, with the kids in it, down the stairs. Not ADA friendly here either ! A nice lady helped with my diaper bag while Joe and I managed the Stroller. We looked like tourists, no doubt, but I have to say that the Russians are very courteous when it comes to children. (only children that is).
We maneuvered the underground, which is not easy in a double stroller. The doorways are as thin as the Russian women and we had to take the kids out of the stroller to get through them and try to carry the kids and the strollers and the diaper bag. We finally got to the other side and walked into Red Square.
It was impressive, the beautiful buildings with their minarets (not sure of spelling) at the top of assorted colors. The Kremlin with a wall around it the size of the Great Wall of China. People bundled up and cobblestone walkways.
We found a small stand and were able to buy two small Russian speaking mouse like animals called a "Cheburuska" (again, not sure of spelling). The children loved them, but we did not last long at Red Square. As we headed more into the wind, it bit at our faces and the children started crying. Noah wanted to walk, or should I say RUN, and Jack just wanted to be inside in his warm hotel room.
We made it a little while, about an hour, and most of that was trying to get across the street. Then we called the hotel and asked the concierge to call the cab driver to pick us up again. We made the trek back across the street and the crying children drew stares like we were a circus act.
Long story short...we went back to the warmth and comfort of the hotel, ordered room service and a nice bottle of wine for mom and dad and watched some movies before and after the kids went to bed. Tomorrow would be our trip to the US Embassy !
The Embassy was really the easiest part of the entire adoption. They talk about an exit interview, but honestly I don't even remember an interview. Some questions, yes, but is that what they call an interview. That part was easy. I heard some people say "oh, don't worry about the embassy...blah blah..." I would say that it is such a non issue, don't even think about it.
Of course the only time my boys decided to have a meltdown was in the embassy. Noah threw his cup across the room and broke the "unbreakable" sippy cup and Jack fell off the chair onto the hard floor. It was comical. Everyone was very amazed at our twins, and honestly we are still amazed every day.
We got all of our paperwork and instructions and waited for the next day when we could finally split this joint for good !!
Friday came and we gladly packed and readied ourselves and 2 toddlers for the 10.5 hour flight ahead.
The good thing was that we upgraded to Business Class....Best thing we EVER did !!
The bad news.....It seemed like a great flight. Two hours in and the kids fell asleep, mom and dad were watching movies and sipping wine and eating warm nuts. Then the pilot comes on........
"Ladies and gentlemen it seems we have a problem with the wing flaps and have to return to Moscow to repair it. We apologize and will let you know what is happening once we land. Please tighten your seatbelts as we will come in fast and hard."
REALLY??????!@#$^$(@%&@#$)%&
Are we just being held captive or do we really have the crapiest luck when it comes to flying???
We land back in Domodedovo, climb down the ice covered stairs on the tarmack, and get into another bus to bring us to the terminal. We won't be leaving today for the US. :(
At this point I could not get upset as we had the kids with us and I had to hold it together for them, but after the 4 day nightmare in Moscow on trip two,, I was SO DONE with this city and country !
Joe collected our luggage (at the EXACT spot where 31 people died 36 hours later from a terrorist attack---chilling) and I went to the only United counter ahead of the 200 passengers to secure our seats on the next day's flight. Luckily, because we were in Business Class we were automatically rebooked for Saturday's Flight. THANK GOD !! another great decision on my part !
United knew how to handle their customers, although I did have to get my Russian Attitude on with a few people that tried to push in front of me...not this time Natasha...BACK IT UP B !!!!
We got our flights, seats and luggage and our vouchers for the airport hotel. At least this stay wouldn't cost us $3000 like when Aeroflot stranded us. Yet ANOTHER reason to applaud the Americans !
We checked into another hotel. The boys were great. They went with the flow. no crying, no whining, nothing. The people were amazed at how well behaved they were. (honestly, so were we !)
I cried at one point, but my kids didn't !
We checked in to the hotel, got some dinner and some much needed sleep. Saturday we met all of our English comrades back in the Business Class line (what great people we met this trip) and we chatted while we played Groundhog day again. Re-check the boys' paperwork (as if we changed who they were from yesterday.) Recheck all the docs at passport control....again. But Security......non existent.
Joe and I made a few comments on how lax it was at Domodedovo and the bombing 36 hours later proved that one.
We finally boarded the plane and were truly headed for the USA this time ! We finished the glasses the wine, the boys were sleeping in their comfy chairs and mom and dad were trying to watch movies and chill out after a long and arduous journey that we would never ever repeat.....say for the kids of course.
We landed January 22, 2011 in Dulles Airport in Washington DC. The peace and glory to be on US soil with our children. Official US citizens...two more to add to the bunch of free people !
Our driver was waiting for us outside and I was never happier to get into a car and start our 3 hour drive from DC to Wildwood. Glad we booked the car instead of going to PHL for the connection; as it turned out, we would have missed our 5pm Cnx and the 10pm was delayed until 1am....Sometimes I am glad I am a planner and a thinker aheader !!
We arrive int he driveway at 9pm Saturday and Kathlyn, Grandparents, Bryce and Ray are there to meet us with decorations everywhere ! We were exhausted, but it was a good feeling !
We head back to Russia on Jan. 15 departure, this time on United Airlines. (yes we are STILL trying to get a refund from Aeroflot!) . The return trip was pretty uneventful, for once, and we arrive with all the connections in Yekaterinburg on January 16 at 800pm.
Seeing Yuri and Lydia and for the last time was bitter sweet, we were happy to be done, but there were people we would miss. They are certainly two of them !
Arriving at the Park Inn was like arriving home after a two week trip. Everything was already prepared for us, crib, extra towels, extra pillows, etc. Everyone greeted us and they were so happy to see us again, although sad that this would be our last trip.
We settled into our room, went downstairs for a night cap (we find ourselves drinking more since embarking on the adoption road) and relaxed a bit. The next morning we would pick up our children for the last time.
Everything was pretty easy in Yekaterinburg; Olga and Lydia had prepared everything for our arrival. We were also kind of glad we waited for Lydia to return from her London vacation; we would have missed her if we came on the 10th.
The boys ran to us when we arrived in their room for the last time ! They was so encouraging. We watched so many families enter the music room and change their children's clothes for the trip home. I watched with tears every time it happened, knowing that soon it would be our turn. Now here we were, and another family watched us with the same heavy heart we have all carried.
The boys were eager to leave with us, which was encouraging. They kissed all the care takers goodbye and hugs were given all around. We waved good bye to the orphanage for the last time. Again, bitter sweet; great memories, but there were better ones ahead.
The boys were so curious they had no fear of leaving and going to hotel. This was just one big adventure to them and they were willing and happy participants. The hotel was a great place to embark on new adventures. Eating in a restaurant for the first time, sleeping in a King sized bed with Mama, bathing in a nice bathroom with heated floors. Things we take for granted everyday, they were just knowing.
Anatoly and Maria met us that afternoon to get a bag full of gifts we brought them from the US and some stuff that Carol and Richard sent as well. They gave the boys Park Inn stuffed bears, which they still sleep with to this day ! We were catered to in Ekat and we will never forget the people that made us always feel at home in Siberia ! It was cold outside, but we were always warm with smiles inside !
The 18th we departed for Moscow for a 3 day journey to citizenship (turned out to be 4, but that will come later). We were met by who we thought was Jane and found out was Tanya and the drive Vladimir. They were cordial and polite, but they were NOT Yuri and Lydia !
We went to the Renaissance where we confirmed a family suite for the stay, just so we would be more comfortable with 4 people. There were many Americans and other nationalities there. Moscow was definitely a melting pot, much like NYC. We remembered when Dmitri told us that on our second trip.
Noah and Jack cuddled with Mama inn the King Sized bed, got Room Service for dinner that night and watched TV on a big screen. Wow, I would be excited and they were too. They had a blast. The next morning we would be woken at 6a for the visit with the Embassy Doctor. A very nice man in his 50's and very down to earth. A quick visit with two groggy kids, but they quickly woke and began to play with him and his stethoscope.
After the visit we waited for Tanya to fill out paperwork. Wednesday would be our day to do what we wanted while she went to the embassy for our appointments. Around 1pm we asked the concierge to get us a cab to take us to Red Square. It would be a shame to come all this way and not even see it.
Even though it was -27 degrees in Yekaterinburg, it was actually colder in Moscow. The wind was crazy bitter.
We got to Red Square and were dropped across the street by the cab, who was to return in 2 hours to pick us up at the same location. Well who ever thought that just getting across the street to Red Square would be such an adventure. First, whoever thought that Moscow is such a BIG city that there are people that speak English, WRONG !!! There were more English speakers in Ekat and that's in Siberia (almost)!
So we watched and I noticed that no one was crossing the street here. I saw a staircase going underground with a big M, normally this would be a Metro station, which it probably was, but in this case it was also the way to get across the street. Who would thought ?!
So we carry the double stroller, with the kids in it, down the stairs. Not ADA friendly here either ! A nice lady helped with my diaper bag while Joe and I managed the Stroller. We looked like tourists, no doubt, but I have to say that the Russians are very courteous when it comes to children. (only children that is).
We maneuvered the underground, which is not easy in a double stroller. The doorways are as thin as the Russian women and we had to take the kids out of the stroller to get through them and try to carry the kids and the strollers and the diaper bag. We finally got to the other side and walked into Red Square.
It was impressive, the beautiful buildings with their minarets (not sure of spelling) at the top of assorted colors. The Kremlin with a wall around it the size of the Great Wall of China. People bundled up and cobblestone walkways.
We found a small stand and were able to buy two small Russian speaking mouse like animals called a "Cheburuska" (again, not sure of spelling). The children loved them, but we did not last long at Red Square. As we headed more into the wind, it bit at our faces and the children started crying. Noah wanted to walk, or should I say RUN, and Jack just wanted to be inside in his warm hotel room.
We made it a little while, about an hour, and most of that was trying to get across the street. Then we called the hotel and asked the concierge to call the cab driver to pick us up again. We made the trek back across the street and the crying children drew stares like we were a circus act.
Long story short...we went back to the warmth and comfort of the hotel, ordered room service and a nice bottle of wine for mom and dad and watched some movies before and after the kids went to bed. Tomorrow would be our trip to the US Embassy !
The Embassy was really the easiest part of the entire adoption. They talk about an exit interview, but honestly I don't even remember an interview. Some questions, yes, but is that what they call an interview. That part was easy. I heard some people say "oh, don't worry about the embassy...blah blah..." I would say that it is such a non issue, don't even think about it.
Of course the only time my boys decided to have a meltdown was in the embassy. Noah threw his cup across the room and broke the "unbreakable" sippy cup and Jack fell off the chair onto the hard floor. It was comical. Everyone was very amazed at our twins, and honestly we are still amazed every day.
We got all of our paperwork and instructions and waited for the next day when we could finally split this joint for good !!
Friday came and we gladly packed and readied ourselves and 2 toddlers for the 10.5 hour flight ahead.
The good thing was that we upgraded to Business Class....Best thing we EVER did !!
The bad news.....It seemed like a great flight. Two hours in and the kids fell asleep, mom and dad were watching movies and sipping wine and eating warm nuts. Then the pilot comes on........
"Ladies and gentlemen it seems we have a problem with the wing flaps and have to return to Moscow to repair it. We apologize and will let you know what is happening once we land. Please tighten your seatbelts as we will come in fast and hard."
REALLY??????!@#$^$(@%&@#$)%&
Are we just being held captive or do we really have the crapiest luck when it comes to flying???
We land back in Domodedovo, climb down the ice covered stairs on the tarmack, and get into another bus to bring us to the terminal. We won't be leaving today for the US. :(
At this point I could not get upset as we had the kids with us and I had to hold it together for them, but after the 4 day nightmare in Moscow on trip two,, I was SO DONE with this city and country !
Joe collected our luggage (at the EXACT spot where 31 people died 36 hours later from a terrorist attack---chilling) and I went to the only United counter ahead of the 200 passengers to secure our seats on the next day's flight. Luckily, because we were in Business Class we were automatically rebooked for Saturday's Flight. THANK GOD !! another great decision on my part !
United knew how to handle their customers, although I did have to get my Russian Attitude on with a few people that tried to push in front of me...not this time Natasha...BACK IT UP B !!!!
We got our flights, seats and luggage and our vouchers for the airport hotel. At least this stay wouldn't cost us $3000 like when Aeroflot stranded us. Yet ANOTHER reason to applaud the Americans !
We checked into another hotel. The boys were great. They went with the flow. no crying, no whining, nothing. The people were amazed at how well behaved they were. (honestly, so were we !)
I cried at one point, but my kids didn't !
We checked in to the hotel, got some dinner and some much needed sleep. Saturday we met all of our English comrades back in the Business Class line (what great people we met this trip) and we chatted while we played Groundhog day again. Re-check the boys' paperwork (as if we changed who they were from yesterday.) Recheck all the docs at passport control....again. But Security......non existent.
Joe and I made a few comments on how lax it was at Domodedovo and the bombing 36 hours later proved that one.
We finally boarded the plane and were truly headed for the USA this time ! We finished the glasses the wine, the boys were sleeping in their comfy chairs and mom and dad were trying to watch movies and chill out after a long and arduous journey that we would never ever repeat.....say for the kids of course.
We landed January 22, 2011 in Dulles Airport in Washington DC. The peace and glory to be on US soil with our children. Official US citizens...two more to add to the bunch of free people !
Our driver was waiting for us outside and I was never happier to get into a car and start our 3 hour drive from DC to Wildwood. Glad we booked the car instead of going to PHL for the connection; as it turned out, we would have missed our 5pm Cnx and the 10pm was delayed until 1am....Sometimes I am glad I am a planner and a thinker aheader !!
We arrive int he driveway at 9pm Saturday and Kathlyn, Grandparents, Bryce and Ray are there to meet us with decorations everywhere ! We were exhausted, but it was a good feeling !
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