Day 28--Last Trip!!!!

Day 28-- February 15, 2009

John and I made it back to Kazakhstan in record time—a mere 23 hours. So, what’s the only thing worse than traveling when you’re really sick? Arriving two days before your luggage. That’s right, my luggage didn’t make the Washington to Frankfurt flight, and since there is only one flight per day from Frankfurt to Almaty, I must wait until Monday a.m. to get my clothes. A good piece of advice for anyone traveling with more than one bag: put a set of pajamas, clothes, toothbrush, etc. in each suitcase. Fortunately, we stayed at a hotel the first night, so I at least today had soap, shampoo and a new toothbrush/toothpaste—and access to John’s clothes.

We slept the day away, and met up with Olga late this afternoon to take us to our apartment. It is really, really nice, and in a great location. There is a great playscape here, the restaurant with the indoor playscape is just up the street, and the mall with a playscape as well is relatively close by. The grocery store—the “Harris Teeter” of grocery stores--is only ½ block away.

We go tomorrow a.m. to get Aidar for good!!!!! I hope someone has explained to him what will be taking place. I know he will miss his friends and the staff at the baby house. We didn’t get to see him today since we were awaiting Olga’s call this a.m. and were going to the apt. this afternoon during visitor’s hours. I am so worried that I will get him sick. I guess that’s the only thing that’s worse than traveling when you’re sick: forcing your child to travel when he’s sick.

We will go to the SOS Clinic on Tuesday to get his medical clearance. Thursday will be a busy day: his passport is due back (we think it includes his visa), and we have our interview with the U.S. Embassy. We’re scheduled to leave early Saturday a.m. (around 4:30), but will spend the day in Germany, since there are not enough seats on the flight back to the U.S. for the three of us. We can’t wait to bring him home to meet everyone! We brought a number of pictures of our family and friends so that he will recognize everyone when we get back to the States, and won’t be so overwhelmed.

Thanks to all of you for your warm wishes, your help, and your prayers. It looks like this is finally coming to fruition!