So long, Moscow!
We have officially departed and are en route back to the States. And what a great feeling to be heading home!
But, first, let me catch you up on what we did recently...
After picking up Macy's visa on Tuesday, we had nothing but time to kill until our flight on Thursday. Our top priority was to burn off some of her bottled-up energy, so we decided to head out and do some touring.
Wednesday, we spent the majority of the day at the Kremlin. It's just a short walk from our apartment, and with so much to do and see there, it seemed like the perfect fit.
One of the things on the top of my list was to see Lenin, as he lies in state and has done so for 70+ years. There is so much controversy surrounding his body. Is he real, or a wax figure? Should he finally be interred, or should the government spend millions of dollars each year to maintain his preservation? Regardless of the answer to these questions, I just had to see for myself, and I am glad that I did. After all, how often do you get to get that close to the person who brought communism to be known as it is today?
The whole process took approximately 45 minutes start to finish. The vast majority of the time was the wait in line. The guards allowed large groups of 40 to 50 people to approach the tomb at a time. Before even getting close, you were ushered through a metal detector and made sure that you had no cameras, video equipment, or recording devices of any kind. From there, you walked along the Kremlin wall where there are many Russian dignitaries buried, Joseph Stalin included. Then, you walk into the front door of the tomb and are greeted (I use that term lightly) by many Russian soldiers who are there to make sure you keep moving, appear reverent, and maintain order. Talking is not allowed once inside. There is very little light, and there is quite a chill in the air.
You descend a flight of stairs into the crypt and are led around the glass sarcophagus where the Father of Communisim lies, delicately preserved. A truly amazing site. Any suspicions that I had about him being fake were immediately eliminated. I was convinced that it was in fact Lenin just five feet from me. His details were very convincing.
Before you know it, you were ascending back up to street level where you exited and walked along the other side of the Kremlin wall where more Comrades are buried, and then out to Red Square where the tour ended.
I'm not sure how much longer people will be able to experience this, but I am glad I took the time to do so. Next on the list? The Kremlin.
We purchased our tickets to enter, and walked in through the Amoury Gate. Once inside, we toured many of the cathedrals, as well as a museum with many Russian artifacts. What I found most interesting is that the Kremlin is working government structure. Russian leaders, and foreign dignitaries are conducting business within a stone's throw from where we were walking. Who knows, even President Medvedev or Putin may have been looking out a window as we passed. Security was tight, but nothing like I would have expected.
We had had enough history for the day, and it was way past Macy's lunchtime, so we left the high walls of the symbol Socialism for the symbol of the Capitalism...McDonald's. After our Happy Meal, it was a short stroller ride back to our apartment which Macy used to take a quick nap. Mission accomplished. We finally wore her out!
Today, we caught our flight home, and in just 15 short hours (hahaha) we will be home to give Max and big hug, relieve Grandma and Grandpa of their duties and introduce Max and Macy for the first time. We know that he is excited to meet her, but wonder just how long that will last. We are taking bets on when the first time Max says "Mom! Macy hit me!" or "tell Macy to stop taking my stuff." My guess is before there are fireworks in the sky, there will be fireworks in our house!
I also wanted to extend a huge "thank you" to everyone who has so graciously supported us along the way. Your kind words and encouragement were very much appreciated and we always looked forward to hearing from each of you as we posted our daily adventures. We are very fortunate to have such great family and friends!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
We are now Moscovites!
So, let me cut right to the chase. We made it to Moscow. Now, for the dirty details...
Saturday morning was the day we were to pick up Macy's passport. We arrived a little later than planned and discovered that most of Eastern Europe was there to pick up their passport as well. Looked like we were going to be in for quite a wait. Much to my surprise (and to the others waiting in line) we jumped right to the front, pushed our way to the next window for help, verified that the information on the passport was correct, and off we went. Just that quick! It was back to the hotel to pack up and head to the train station.
This was the portion of the trip that we were least excited about. We based this on our last experience with Max. It quite possibly was the longest 5 hours of our lives. The crying, kicking and screaming was uncontrollable. Would Macy act the same way? There was only one way to find out.
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The train we took this time was a high-speed train. It took 4 hours (vs. 5 before) and the accommodations were much better. We had 4 seats facing each other with a table in the middle, which made it easy for snacks, etc.
Macy did quite well for the first 3+ hours of the trip. She ate, played and actually took an hour nap, which turned out to be the only one of the day (keep that in mind as you read on...).
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Just about an hour outside of Moscow, the wheels fell off the bus. There was nothing to do to console her. Food? Toys? Drinks? Nothing. Shelly and I couldn't get off the train fast enough.
As soon as the train stopped, we saw the familiar face of Ilya, our driver and translator. He shuffled us and our bags off en route to our apartment that we have rented for the week. Once settled in the apartment, we walked downstairs to a McDonalds. Surely that would calm the savage beast in Macy. For the most part it did, but as usual, once the food was gone, she still wanted more. I would put this girl up against Kobiashi in a Nathan's Hot Dog eating contest anyday. She just doesn't stop.
From Micky D's, it wad back to the apartment to turn in for the night, something that all three of us needed very badly.
In the morning, we found the weather to be rather rainy, so we waited until after her nap to go out and explore. The weather broke and it was warm and sunny, so we ventured a few blocks down to Red Square to see the sights.
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I know we had been there before with Max, but it never ceases to amaze me that I am actually standing where so much history has been made. From the iconic onion domes of St. Basil's, to the Kremlin wall, or Lenin's Tomb...it's all so surreal. You've undoubtably see Red Square during a New Year's celebration, or seen the military parades thru Red Square. There are communist dictators buried less than 50 feet from you. Just amazing. Clearly the highlight of our sightseeing.
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So we walked back towards our apartment and stopped along the way at a grocery store. I take that back...not just A grocery store...it is the fanciest grocery store I have ever seen. We picked up some staples, then headed back to the apartment to meet with Ilya to go over some paperwork for tomorrow.
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As for tomorrow, we have an 8:00am appointment at the medical clinic for Macy's exam. I think we may do some paperwork at the US Embassy as well, in preparation for Macy's visa. We shall see.
We have a tired little girl fast asleep in her bed next door, and two parents who are in need of some shut eye as well. Tomorrow will be here before you know it!
Saturday morning was the day we were to pick up Macy's passport. We arrived a little later than planned and discovered that most of Eastern Europe was there to pick up their passport as well. Looked like we were going to be in for quite a wait. Much to my surprise (and to the others waiting in line) we jumped right to the front, pushed our way to the next window for help, verified that the information on the passport was correct, and off we went. Just that quick! It was back to the hotel to pack up and head to the train station.
This was the portion of the trip that we were least excited about. We based this on our last experience with Max. It quite possibly was the longest 5 hours of our lives. The crying, kicking and screaming was uncontrollable. Would Macy act the same way? There was only one way to find out.
The train we took this time was a high-speed train. It took 4 hours (vs. 5 before) and the accommodations were much better. We had 4 seats facing each other with a table in the middle, which made it easy for snacks, etc.
Macy did quite well for the first 3+ hours of the trip. She ate, played and actually took an hour nap, which turned out to be the only one of the day (keep that in mind as you read on...).
Just about an hour outside of Moscow, the wheels fell off the bus. There was nothing to do to console her. Food? Toys? Drinks? Nothing. Shelly and I couldn't get off the train fast enough.
As soon as the train stopped, we saw the familiar face of Ilya, our driver and translator. He shuffled us and our bags off en route to our apartment that we have rented for the week. Once settled in the apartment, we walked downstairs to a McDonalds. Surely that would calm the savage beast in Macy. For the most part it did, but as usual, once the food was gone, she still wanted more. I would put this girl up against Kobiashi in a Nathan's Hot Dog eating contest anyday. She just doesn't stop.
From Micky D's, it wad back to the apartment to turn in for the night, something that all three of us needed very badly.
In the morning, we found the weather to be rather rainy, so we waited until after her nap to go out and explore. The weather broke and it was warm and sunny, so we ventured a few blocks down to Red Square to see the sights.
I know we had been there before with Max, but it never ceases to amaze me that I am actually standing where so much history has been made. From the iconic onion domes of St. Basil's, to the Kremlin wall, or Lenin's Tomb...it's all so surreal. You've undoubtably see Red Square during a New Year's celebration, or seen the military parades thru Red Square. There are communist dictators buried less than 50 feet from you. Just amazing. Clearly the highlight of our sightseeing.
So we walked back towards our apartment and stopped along the way at a grocery store. I take that back...not just A grocery store...it is the fanciest grocery store I have ever seen. We picked up some staples, then headed back to the apartment to meet with Ilya to go over some paperwork for tomorrow.
As for tomorrow, we have an 8:00am appointment at the medical clinic for Macy's exam. I think we may do some paperwork at the US Embassy as well, in preparation for Macy's visa. We shall see.
We have a tired little girl fast asleep in her bed next door, and two parents who are in need of some shut eye as well. Tomorrow will be here before you know it!
Friday, June 24, 2011
Starting to notice some differences
If it weren't for her appearance, we'd really start to question Macy's genetic similarities to her brother. For starters, her appetite is 180 degrees opposite of Max.
For example, we went to dinner at our favorite Italian restaurant tonight, Caffe Italia. Once we were seated at our table, Macy received the non-verbal cue that it was time to eat. She fussed and fussed until our food arrived. I couldn't cut up her pasta quick enough. She scarfed down a huge helping and wanted more. In the mean time, I sampled her meal to discover that what we ordered was pretty spicy. Didn't stop her from seconds (and thirds). But, she didn't stop there. She had several bites of our pizza, and washed it all down with some gelato. Despite her overindulgence, she was less than happy once her bib came off. Lesson learned: if there is still food on the table, Macy still wants to eat. Summary? Portion control! As for Max, we couldn't bribe him with his favorite anything to get him to eat, if in fact he has a favorite.
One thing that Max truly loves is water, baths especially. Macy? Not so much. We figured that it was about time to give this kid what the baby home deems "a proper washing." Wouldn't you know it, as soon as she hit the water the protest started. It didn't stop until the drain plug was pulled. Needless to say, it was a quick one, and on to bed. But...not so fast.
What we didn't realize was how sugar might have an impact on her ability to turn in for the night. It's now 10:00pm, and the princess is still awake with no signs of giving up. We vowed to watch the sugar intake from here on out. Finally something in common with her brother!
So, tonight is our last night here in St. Petersburg. Tomorrow afternoon, we catch a train to Moscow to complete our journey home. I think I can honestly say that I have enjoyed my time here in St. Petersburg over the years, but hope this will be the last time here for many years to come. Moscow, on the other hand, is one place that I have been looking foward to returning to someday. Our last trip through was a quick one, and didn't allow us much opportunity to sightsee. The beautiful weather combined with the surplus of time on this trip should allow for us to take in a few more sites. Now, let's just hope Macy doesn't take after her brother on the train ride as he was a HANDFUL! Time will tell.
For example, we went to dinner at our favorite Italian restaurant tonight, Caffe Italia. Once we were seated at our table, Macy received the non-verbal cue that it was time to eat. She fussed and fussed until our food arrived. I couldn't cut up her pasta quick enough. She scarfed down a huge helping and wanted more. In the mean time, I sampled her meal to discover that what we ordered was pretty spicy. Didn't stop her from seconds (and thirds). But, she didn't stop there. She had several bites of our pizza, and washed it all down with some gelato. Despite her overindulgence, she was less than happy once her bib came off. Lesson learned: if there is still food on the table, Macy still wants to eat. Summary? Portion control! As for Max, we couldn't bribe him with his favorite anything to get him to eat, if in fact he has a favorite.
One thing that Max truly loves is water, baths especially. Macy? Not so much. We figured that it was about time to give this kid what the baby home deems "a proper washing." Wouldn't you know it, as soon as she hit the water the protest started. It didn't stop until the drain plug was pulled. Needless to say, it was a quick one, and on to bed. But...not so fast.
What we didn't realize was how sugar might have an impact on her ability to turn in for the night. It's now 10:00pm, and the princess is still awake with no signs of giving up. We vowed to watch the sugar intake from here on out. Finally something in common with her brother!
So, tonight is our last night here in St. Petersburg. Tomorrow afternoon, we catch a train to Moscow to complete our journey home. I think I can honestly say that I have enjoyed my time here in St. Petersburg over the years, but hope this will be the last time here for many years to come. Moscow, on the other hand, is one place that I have been looking foward to returning to someday. Our last trip through was a quick one, and didn't allow us much opportunity to sightsee. The beautiful weather combined with the surplus of time on this trip should allow for us to take in a few more sites. Now, let's just hope Macy doesn't take after her brother on the train ride as he was a HANDFUL! Time will tell.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
A slow day at the office
Not really much to report today. With nothing on our agenda, we didn't accomplish much.
After breakfast, we took a walk in a small park near the hotel just to burn off some energy. We ate lunch, had a nap, and then pulled out that dreadful stroller for a walk to the mall. The battles over the stroller are getting less and less. A good sign as we will be using it more and more throughout the trip.
The mall (or Galleria, as locals call it) is huge. Four stories of every shop imaginable. It is easy to tell what Russian women put as a priority...shoes, bathing suits, and underwear. Almost every store in the mall had those items front and center, if not a store dedicated to one or another.
No mall is complete without a food court, and no food court is complete without (you guessed it) a Mcdonald's. It just so happened to be the busiest place in the mall. Dozens upon dozens of St. Petersburg's youth lined up (if that's what you call it---nobody waits in lines in Russia) to sample a taste of Western culture. But, that didn't discourage us from waiting for some of Ronald's finest. Macy would not be denied the chance to partake in her first chicken nugget. And, boy, was she satisfied. Nuggets, cheeseburger, fries...she loved it all.
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Naturally, all that food, shopping and fresh air wears a little girl out, so back to the hotel we went to turn in for the night. I'm sure she's dreaming of her next happy meal! Welcome to America, Macy. There's plenty more where that came from.
After breakfast, we took a walk in a small park near the hotel just to burn off some energy. We ate lunch, had a nap, and then pulled out that dreadful stroller for a walk to the mall. The battles over the stroller are getting less and less. A good sign as we will be using it more and more throughout the trip.
The mall (or Galleria, as locals call it) is huge. Four stories of every shop imaginable. It is easy to tell what Russian women put as a priority...shoes, bathing suits, and underwear. Almost every store in the mall had those items front and center, if not a store dedicated to one or another.
No mall is complete without a food court, and no food court is complete without (you guessed it) a Mcdonald's. It just so happened to be the busiest place in the mall. Dozens upon dozens of St. Petersburg's youth lined up (if that's what you call it---nobody waits in lines in Russia) to sample a taste of Western culture. But, that didn't discourage us from waiting for some of Ronald's finest. Macy would not be denied the chance to partake in her first chicken nugget. And, boy, was she satisfied. Nuggets, cheeseburger, fries...she loved it all.
Naturally, all that food, shopping and fresh air wears a little girl out, so back to the hotel we went to turn in for the night. I'm sure she's dreaming of her next happy meal! Welcome to America, Macy. There's plenty more where that came from.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Girls...Bossy, but full of sweetness!
I don't proclaim to be an expert on girls after just 24 hours of parenting one, but I have noticed one big difference...they sure can be sweet, when they want to be!
In comparison to Max, Macy is just as content being held or sitting on Mom's lap as Max was knocking down a stack of blocks. Just as inquisitive, but so much more snuggley. With Max, we were able to spot his "horns" right away, but Macy is good about hiding them, if she has any at all.
That being said, if she doesn't like something, she will let you know. The stroller, for example, is something that she is getting used to. The fits of anger are getting less and less when placed in the stroller, which is ironic because once she's in and moving about, she settles right down. It probably doesn't hurt that Mom is holding her hand the entire time!
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Our stroller adventure took us to a park nearby today. There were swings, sand to play in, and miles of walking paths for us to enjoy. Given the first opportunity to spring free from the confines of the dreaded stroller, Macy was off and running around the park. She must have walked a mile around the paths, with very little desire to be carried, and definitely no desire to get back in that four-wheeled straight jacket.
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It got to be pretty close to dinner time, and my keen sense of cuisine sensed a Pizza Hut about a block from the park. It seemed to me that Macy was way overdue for a good ol' taste of Americana. She ate about a half of a piece of pepperoni pizza and then decided she didn't want any more. Not bad for her first time. We wondered what the director at the baby home would have to say about that???
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After dinner, it was back in her favorite mode of transportation for the walk back to the hotel. Less of a battle this time, but still not enthralled.
A short amount of play and into her jammies before she started to rub her eyes...the international gesture for "put me to bed." Shelly complied and off she went without a whimper. And we aren't far behind her!
In comparison to Max, Macy is just as content being held or sitting on Mom's lap as Max was knocking down a stack of blocks. Just as inquisitive, but so much more snuggley. With Max, we were able to spot his "horns" right away, but Macy is good about hiding them, if she has any at all.
That being said, if she doesn't like something, she will let you know. The stroller, for example, is something that she is getting used to. The fits of anger are getting less and less when placed in the stroller, which is ironic because once she's in and moving about, she settles right down. It probably doesn't hurt that Mom is holding her hand the entire time!
Our stroller adventure took us to a park nearby today. There were swings, sand to play in, and miles of walking paths for us to enjoy. Given the first opportunity to spring free from the confines of the dreaded stroller, Macy was off and running around the park. She must have walked a mile around the paths, with very little desire to be carried, and definitely no desire to get back in that four-wheeled straight jacket.
It got to be pretty close to dinner time, and my keen sense of cuisine sensed a Pizza Hut about a block from the park. It seemed to me that Macy was way overdue for a good ol' taste of Americana. She ate about a half of a piece of pepperoni pizza and then decided she didn't want any more. Not bad for her first time. We wondered what the director at the baby home would have to say about that???
After dinner, it was back in her favorite mode of transportation for the walk back to the hotel. Less of a battle this time, but still not enthralled.
A short amount of play and into her jammies before she started to rub her eyes...the international gesture for "put me to bed." Shelly complied and off she went without a whimper. And we aren't far behind her!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Special Delivery!
Just when you think you have everything figured out, you get a surprise. Sometimes for the good, sometimes for the bad. Today, it was for the good.
Oh, I don't want to make it out like it was smoothy sailing from the start, but comparatively speaking, we are off to a good start.
We arrived at Macy's baby home at 4:30pm with clothes, a couple of fans as a gift to the orphanage, and a sneaking suspicion that we were about to embark on an afternoon of peacekeeping. While Macy didn't completely let us down, she was rather content on the car ride home. It may have helped that she got to ride on Shelly's lap in lieu of a car seat. Her curiosity keep her eyes fixed on all the activity outside our car. She definitely was taking it all in.
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Much like the reception I got at the orphanage visits, she preferred to keep me at a safe distance. I did get a few high fives and kisses blown my way during our trip.
We received her schedule today and were advised to stick with it. In an effort to maintain compliance, we fed her dinner (soup, bread, purred veggies, cheese and some juice). She prefers to dink out of a cup by herself, but when given a sippy-cup, she grasped the concept in no time. She ate almost everything that was put in front of her. Then it was pajama time and of to bed, both without incident. Just a couple of whimpers at first, but now she's fast asleep in her crib.
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We submitted for her passport today, and as a result, will have it Saturday morning. Once we get it, we will be off for Moscow. Until then, we just fill the time. Maybe a walk to the park, or a little "retail therapy." Never too early to start that, right?
Oh, I don't want to make it out like it was smoothy sailing from the start, but comparatively speaking, we are off to a good start.
We arrived at Macy's baby home at 4:30pm with clothes, a couple of fans as a gift to the orphanage, and a sneaking suspicion that we were about to embark on an afternoon of peacekeeping. While Macy didn't completely let us down, she was rather content on the car ride home. It may have helped that she got to ride on Shelly's lap in lieu of a car seat. Her curiosity keep her eyes fixed on all the activity outside our car. She definitely was taking it all in.
Much like the reception I got at the orphanage visits, she preferred to keep me at a safe distance. I did get a few high fives and kisses blown my way during our trip.
We received her schedule today and were advised to stick with it. In an effort to maintain compliance, we fed her dinner (soup, bread, purred veggies, cheese and some juice). She prefers to dink out of a cup by herself, but when given a sippy-cup, she grasped the concept in no time. She ate almost everything that was put in front of her. Then it was pajama time and of to bed, both without incident. Just a couple of whimpers at first, but now she's fast asleep in her crib.
We submitted for her passport today, and as a result, will have it Saturday morning. Once we get it, we will be off for Moscow. Until then, we just fill the time. Maybe a walk to the park, or a little "retail therapy." Never too early to start that, right?
Monday, June 20, 2011
Final Trip
So, here we are...back at the Hotel Vera. Third and final trip to St. Petersburg, Russia. We now have made 6 flights back and forth to Russia in our lifetime. Something that I NEVER would have guessed I would have done if you asked me 5 years ago.
Not that a trip to Russia is "routine," but the trip seems to get shorter and shorter. When we landed in Amsterdam this time, some 7+ hours after takeoff from Detroit, it felt like we just boarded the plane. Perhaps a sign that this process is getting easier. We hope that the routine nature of our travel translates into a smooth transition for Macy.
Today is not only a big day for us, but a life- altering day for Macy. Life as she knows it is about to change, and looking through her narrow lens on life, it may not be a good one. Yes, she will come to appreciate the change after today, but all that she knows is about to get turned upside down, for which we have great empathy. The people she knows, the familiar language, the way food tastes, her daily routine, it's all about to change. Not an easy transition for such a little girl. But, what we hope she learns quickly is that she has two people who are dedicated to every move she makes for the rest of her life, a brother that wants to meet her very much, and more family and friends that she could ever imagine that will love her unconditionally.
Our schedule is to depart the hotel at noon in pursuit of the baby home. We anticipate some stops along the way, but shortly after, we will arrive at home as she knows it. As we did with Max, we will bring clothes for her to wear home, as her current wardrobe remains behind. I'm sure there will be celebratory pies for all of the works to enjoy, marking the departure of one of their little ones.
So, the next couple of days will be a big change for all of us, but one that I'm confident will be overshadowed by what's to come.
Not that a trip to Russia is "routine," but the trip seems to get shorter and shorter. When we landed in Amsterdam this time, some 7+ hours after takeoff from Detroit, it felt like we just boarded the plane. Perhaps a sign that this process is getting easier. We hope that the routine nature of our travel translates into a smooth transition for Macy.
Today is not only a big day for us, but a life- altering day for Macy. Life as she knows it is about to change, and looking through her narrow lens on life, it may not be a good one. Yes, she will come to appreciate the change after today, but all that she knows is about to get turned upside down, for which we have great empathy. The people she knows, the familiar language, the way food tastes, her daily routine, it's all about to change. Not an easy transition for such a little girl. But, what we hope she learns quickly is that she has two people who are dedicated to every move she makes for the rest of her life, a brother that wants to meet her very much, and more family and friends that she could ever imagine that will love her unconditionally.
Our schedule is to depart the hotel at noon in pursuit of the baby home. We anticipate some stops along the way, but shortly after, we will arrive at home as she knows it. As we did with Max, we will bring clothes for her to wear home, as her current wardrobe remains behind. I'm sure there will be celebratory pies for all of the works to enjoy, marking the departure of one of their little ones.
So, the next couple of days will be a big change for all of us, but one that I'm confident will be overshadowed by what's to come.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Another Major Milestone
The adoption journey has many milestones along the way, but today's ranks right up there at the top. All of the signatures, copies, notaries, certifications and apostilles that take several months to complete are all done for today...our day in court.
The proceedings are very formal, with representation on bealf of Macy from just about every governmental agency in Russia. They read her background and health report, as well as some information about us as potential parents. The judge then asks for recommendations from each party present before exiting the courtroom to prepare her final verdict. It was but a few minutes before she reentered and read aloud the words that we longed to hear since that call last September..."you are now parents and legal guardians of Macy Rose Gottschalk.". And with that, it's official. We are the proud parents of two beautiful children.
In the afternoon, we were able to visit with our new addition at the orphanage. Once again, we were greeted with a little girl who wished to stay with her caretaker rather than some strangers. But, it didn't take he long to remember the bag of toys from the day before, and she settled right down. In addition to the toys, she wanted nothing more than to be held and walk around, with occasional brake to swing, or play on the equipment.
Macy seems to be a real imitator. When prompted, she loves to give high fives, "pound the rock," and blow kisses. She even let out some real giggles as Shelly swung her back and forth in her arms. Just as predicted, her caretaker came and swooped her away for dinner and it was time for us to say "Baka,Baka.". The next time we see her, we will be picking her up to start our journey home, less than two weeks from now. Seems like yesterday wen picked Max up for the very same thing. Let's hope she kicks and screams less than her big brother did!
The proceedings are very formal, with representation on bealf of Macy from just about every governmental agency in Russia. They read her background and health report, as well as some information about us as potential parents. The judge then asks for recommendations from each party present before exiting the courtroom to prepare her final verdict. It was but a few minutes before she reentered and read aloud the words that we longed to hear since that call last September..."you are now parents and legal guardians of Macy Rose Gottschalk.". And with that, it's official. We are the proud parents of two beautiful children.
In the afternoon, we were able to visit with our new addition at the orphanage. Once again, we were greeted with a little girl who wished to stay with her caretaker rather than some strangers. But, it didn't take he long to remember the bag of toys from the day before, and she settled right down. In addition to the toys, she wanted nothing more than to be held and walk around, with occasional brake to swing, or play on the equipment.
Macy seems to be a real imitator. When prompted, she loves to give high fives, "pound the rock," and blow kisses. She even let out some real giggles as Shelly swung her back and forth in her arms. Just as predicted, her caretaker came and swooped her away for dinner and it was time for us to say "Baka,Baka.". The next time we see her, we will be picking her up to start our journey home, less than two weeks from now. Seems like yesterday wen picked Max up for the very same thing. Let's hope she kicks and screams less than her big brother did!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Medicals and Reunion
Bright and early this morning, we were off to get our medical checks at the University Clinic. After meeting with almost all of the same doctors we met with last time, they signed off that we are healthy enough to be parents. As part of the process, we met with the same psychologist as last time. He remembered us from two years ago. I'm not sure if that is a good thing or not, but he was the only one throughout this process that acknowledged our recidivism and simply signed off. Finally someone who recognized that this process tends to be more complicated than it needs to be given our recent adoption. We laughed because of all the people, he really could have dug into our preparedness. I guess we will take a reprieve anytime we can get one.
Our afternoon visit with Macy went better than expected. We remembered how much Max threw a fit upon our arrival for court and anticipated the same reception from her. She didn't disappoint, but warmed up much quicker than he did.
Since the weather here is so nice, we had our visit outside today. We walked around a path until she felt comfortable enough to play on some of the equipment on the grounds. She really enjoyed the swings, which is where we spent the majority of the time playing.
Before long, she began to interact with us and smile as we played peek-a-boo and teased her. We would tap on the seat of the swing, and she would tap back, saying "tap, tap, tap.". She loved to give high-fives as she swung back and forth. At one point, I think she even broke out in song.
Tomorrow, we have our court date. We will prepare for that tonight without translator. After court tomorrow, we will visit her once again and hope for another warm reception.
Our afternoon visit with Macy went better than expected. We remembered how much Max threw a fit upon our arrival for court and anticipated the same reception from her. She didn't disappoint, but warmed up much quicker than he did.
Since the weather here is so nice, we had our visit outside today. We walked around a path until she felt comfortable enough to play on some of the equipment on the grounds. She really enjoyed the swings, which is where we spent the majority of the time playing.
Before long, she began to interact with us and smile as we played peek-a-boo and teased her. We would tap on the seat of the swing, and she would tap back, saying "tap, tap, tap.". She loved to give high-fives as she swung back and forth. At one point, I think she even broke out in song.
Tomorrow, we have our court date. We will prepare for that tonight without translator. After court tomorrow, we will visit her once again and hope for another warm reception.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
3 Months Later...
Almost 3 months ago to the day, Shelly and I enjoyed a gelato at our favorite Italian restaurant here in St. Petersburg. During that dinner, we discussed how quickly we could get back here to bring Macy home for good. There was a short list of documents that we needed to get completed in order to secure a court date. Certainly a task that could be done in a hustle. Our biggest hurdle we faced was a couple of weeks of holidays in May, but we thought we could get back before then. Wrong, again.
The good news is that we are here, just a little later than anticipated. Not by much, but days seem like weeks when you left with nothing but ambiguity. Once we got a court date, everything else began to fall into place.
We arrived back in St. Petersburg today to find grass and leaves. Something we hadn't seen on our last trip. The temperature is somewhere in the mid to high 70's. A stark contrast to March's weather.
Bright an early, tomorrow, we will head off to the medical clinic/hospital for our medical checks. Just like our medicals with Max's adoption, we anticipate being poked and prodded to prove our worthiness as parents. One of the uncomfortable realities of this process.
After our exams, we will head off to the orphanage where we will be anxious to see how much Macy has changed over the last three months. Did they cut her hair (what little she has)? Did she get taller? Is she talking Russian yet? And, most importantly, will she be excited to see us? Or even remember us???
Our experience with Max's reunion was less than warm. Let's hope round two goes better.
Here's our schedule for the week:
Medicals and Visitation on Wednesday
Court (and Visitation???) on Thursday
Visitation???? on Friday
Depart on Saturday
Arrive home on Sunday
The following week, it's back to St. Petersburg, then to Moscow, then home...for good!
The good news is that we are here, just a little later than anticipated. Not by much, but days seem like weeks when you left with nothing but ambiguity. Once we got a court date, everything else began to fall into place.
We arrived back in St. Petersburg today to find grass and leaves. Something we hadn't seen on our last trip. The temperature is somewhere in the mid to high 70's. A stark contrast to March's weather.
Bright an early, tomorrow, we will head off to the medical clinic/hospital for our medical checks. Just like our medicals with Max's adoption, we anticipate being poked and prodded to prove our worthiness as parents. One of the uncomfortable realities of this process.
After our exams, we will head off to the orphanage where we will be anxious to see how much Macy has changed over the last three months. Did they cut her hair (what little she has)? Did she get taller? Is she talking Russian yet? And, most importantly, will she be excited to see us? Or even remember us???
Our experience with Max's reunion was less than warm. Let's hope round two goes better.
Here's our schedule for the week:
Medicals and Visitation on Wednesday
Court (and Visitation???) on Thursday
Visitation???? on Friday
Depart on Saturday
Arrive home on Sunday
The following week, it's back to St. Petersburg, then to Moscow, then home...for good!
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