Friday, December 5, 2008











The birthday party was a big success. I think Vadim felt totally loved. I was impressed that the teachers and orphanage volunteers were so caring and warm to him and to all the kids. They had decorated the big party room. We brought 3 cakes, and they supplied tea and coffee. I think Vadim liked his birthday cards (esp. the one from Jake above) more than the presents even.
There are so many sweet kids that need families. There's Luda, Lela, Igor and Sergei. Viktor and Vitali are just darling. Janis and I both managed to hug Yura without much embarrassment. He was happy to see us. So, the party was worth being in traffic 1.5 hours there and 1.5 hours home. Phew.
Today we had a glimpse of sunshine before it clouded up again. Poor mom and Jake had stomach flu yuckiness yesterday. It sounds like things are getting better though. So Sorry mom! :(
Vadim is coming to stay w/ us later today for the weekend. I foresee Uno, ConnectFour, and the video game palace in our future.
Love to everyone.

4 comments:

Julie said...

Robin,
Kids are going down at school with a variety of illnesses. Vadim looks so happy with his card from Jake. Sounds like the party was wonderful! Praying to hear about a court hearing soon!
Julie

Kimbell and Mark said...

THANK YOU for the update and especially for the adorable pic of Sasha - love seeing her face! I love seeing the pics but it also makes me so sad. Anastasia is really sad that VEronika is still there - she was told over 3 years ago by a family that they were going to adopt her :( GOod to see Lilia's face - that's the first pic we've seen of her. Love seeing Vadim's HAPPY face! Praying for you.

Ruth Benander said...

Bravely done to stick it out! I'm sure you will have great ethnographic examples to bring home to your classes, so it is never time wasted. I am collecting youtube videos for you from my student presentations: there is a great classical conditioning clip from The Office using Altoids and the Window's save sound. I love reading about how you are become locals, however, I doubt you will be be able to master the grim expression. Be well!

Laurel said...

LOVE the pictures. Thanks for posting them. Enjoy your weekend. Can't wait for an update on Monday.
Laurel