Thursday - Bonding and Farewells

We had to wait for our final paperwork to come on Thursday, and we were exhausted from the past two days, so we spend the day inside bonding while waiting for paperwork and visitors in the afternoon/evening.

I taught Polina how to tickle her Papa. This was loads of fun. He is very ticklish!

He couldn't take it anymore - so he gave in to request to "go up!"

After they tired of that, it was time to "walk" around the house in her warm, comfy Russian boots!

After nap, we changed Polina and "Princessa Katya's" clothes and put on their matching coats.

And then our first guest arrived. Unfortunately, I am not able to post pictures with her. She helped Polina and she wants to be able to help other kiddos. So for the sake of those kiddos, she must remain anonymous. Sad. True. This woman was my sanity during the whole process of the adoption. But more than that, she was someone stable for my princess over the years and through the transition from the baby house to the orphanage. I cried when she left. I cried uncontrollably. I love this woman and will always be indebted to her. Without her, we wouldn't have Polina and Polina wouldn't be who she is!

This picture shows Polina opening gifts from afore mentioned woman.

Our next visitors were our facilitators. On the left is Alyona. We worked mostly with her. She did our translations, took us to court, etc. However, during this very busy week in Russia when American families were trying to get court information in prior to Feb. 1, she was busy with translations and representations. So, Katya stepped in to help. Katya took us to the passport office and the embassy and took care of our consulate paperwork. We are so thankful for both of them. They continue to work tirelessly for the children and families that were in the process. In addition, Alyona asked me about my interest in helping them start a program in the future for the special needs kids who would not find homes in Russia. They don't stop with our kiddos coming home. These are the faces of two Russian women who care for these children!

The light Alyona brought for Polina was a great hit!