Meet Maya Marie!

It's been an ENTIRE YEAR since I've updated

2009-02-24T11:52:00.015-07:00

These pictures are from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. As you can see the guitar was a huge hit.

I knew it had been awhile since I've written but a year? Little Miss has changed quite a bit. She is still an Amazon and growing. A quick update.....We celebrated the 2nd anniversary of our court date on Valentine's Day. It was such a nice day. We started out by bringing Valentine gifts to the kids at Children's Hospital. Then to storytime and tea party at Barnes & Noble with her Godsister Landon and Godmother Kelly, then off to a girls lunch. My 2nd annual attempt at an authentic Russian meal didn't happen. This time I got ill BEFORE eating or even preparing the meal. I've actually become a better cook over the last 2 years. Not sure what my problem is with making Russian food.

Maya did get baptized, much to Grandma's delight. Maya finished out the school year at JCC and started at Montessori last Fall. She is doing great there. Uncle Mike and future Aunt Laura came out to visit a few months ago. This was the first time we all met Laura. She is wonderful and they are getting married this July in Sonoma. Well, my party girl has talked about "Uncle Mike's party" NON-STOP! Everything is about the party. "Look Mom, airplane! We go to Uncle Mike's party". "Maya what are doing?" "I get ready for Uncle Mike's party". She is a woman obssessed. More to come.....

A Catholic and a Jew all in the same week

2008-02-06T20:39:00.004-07:00

rapper MC is born....

yo yo yo.....

We'll get back to my rapper girl later......

Ok first off if anyone reading this is devoutly religious without a sense of humor, skip this one.

I was raised Catholic in a pre-dominately Jewish neighborhood. I was actually really into being Catholic - going to Catholic retreats and singing in the folk group. It was very important to me to go to a Catholic college, which I did. And there I lost interest. Freshman year was the end of my Catholic days.

So here we are 20+ years later and I haven't given religion a thought. My Mother has been horrified that Maya hasn't been baptized and my response has been I'm not going to participate in something if I don't believe in it. But then again.......my very dear friend Kathy, also Irish, also raised Catholic, and also non-practicing has a good point. She had her daughters baptized. Why? Because......what if we're wrong. Hummmmmm.....food for thought. Wouldn't want her burning in hell because Mama was stubborn.

All of this is a preface to how I became a practicing Catholic and a Jew all in the same week.

It all began with wanting to pull Maya out of Primrose for reasons not worth getting into. Just the right thing for her. Who knew just how difficult it is to get a 19 month old into a pre-school!!! I had no idea. Everywhere I called had waiting lists and lotteries. Of course I sought all of my friend's advice about where they sent their kids, who has the best reputation, etc...

I started calling, filling out applications, touring, and getting overwhelmed by it all. I'd heard great things about a Catholic school that doesn't start until age 3 and goes thru 6th grade. Maya wouldn't be eligible until Fall of 2009. BUT I was told, "get on the waiting list now!" I did. And by the way, there is a much better chance if you are a member of the parish. Well........do you hear that? That sound would be the angels singing, Ahhhhhhhhh in response to my Mother's prayers. As she says "The Secret" works.

What the hell. I joined the parish. We have to go to church 2x/month minimum to be active members. And yes, Maya will be baptized. I mean I'm already there.

We also applied to Montessori which I am excited about and hope she gets in for Fall of this year. This school goes through 6th grade as well. I loved everything about it. We find out in March. Again - lottery. Oh and there is an interview for this one. I go on Friday. One of the schools I called initially, the JCC (Jewish Community Center) has a great reputation in the area. Everyone raves about it. When I called them I was told not much of a chance of us getting in since we weren't members. I was told by friends that it is quite diverse - about 50% Jewish and 50% everything else. That appealed to me - the diversity. Personally, I think diversity is important. In fact my main objection to the Catholic school is the lack of diversity - a sea of blonde hair and blue eyes.

The JCC called the same week I joined the Catholic parish to say they opened a new Toddler class and have a spot for Maya starting the next week. I was delighted. Ran down there, toured, and signed a bunch of papers. One of which made me a high member. No clue if I spelled that correctly and no idea what it means. I think I'm a Jew now too. Basically I've gone from agnostic to card carrying member of two religions in a week all for the benefit of a 19 month old's education.

It sounds crazy right? I know. I never thought I'd be obsessed with all of this at her age. After all of this I just want her somewhere that I think is good for her and I don't have to go through this again until college.

It actually doesn't feel bad to be back at Church. Amazing how all of those rituals come back as if it were yesterday. I really like our Priest and Maya LOVES the singing. When they stop she says more...more...and claps. Maybe it will be a good thing for us. Do you hear that???? Yeah, the angels again.

And I do like the JCC. I like the community there, the core values of their belief system, and the embracing of all cultures.

In the end however, it seems her future is as a rapper. I turned around yesterday and she had pulled her coat off of the railing and my hat. This is her feminine ensemble. I'm so proud.

Christmas

2007-12-31T19:55:00.001-07:00

We bought our tree the second weekend in December and I decided we should have a tree triming party to celebrate our first Christmas together. It was last minute but was such fun. All of the kids were in charge of decorating the tree. Maya supervised - as you see she is telling Oliver where his ornaments should go.

It was a Pomitini themed party for all the adults and Good God did I have too many of them. Still can't look at Pomegranate juice.

The pictures by the tree are from our own photo shoot in the living room for holiday cards. She loved posing for me. Always going back to her mark when I asked - my little SuperModel.

The top pictures are from my house Christmas morning and then the Grandparent's house Christmas day. What a multitasker...opened presents without missing a sip.

Tonight is New Year's Eve. Missy Pooh is upstairs sound asleep. I am one happy Mama.

Thanksgiving

2007-12-31T19:42:00.001-07:00

So much to be thankful for......

Halloween

2007-12-31T19:37:00.000-07:00

My little Ladybug.......

Soccer and other tidbits....

2007-10-08T21:07:00.000-06:00

Well there is actually a soccer program at Maya's young age. Unbelievable. I grew up playing soccer with my Mother as the coach for our travel league. Back in the day - Good Lord - girls' leagues ended at 16 years old. At that point I started coaching and loved it. One of the age groups I coached was the earliest at 5-6 years old co-ed. So I was shocked that they now start them this young. Soccer is a stretch. At the first practice, Maya just stepped on the ball and now is a future goalie only wanting to pick it up. Still it is adorable watching all of these little people try to figure it all out. And - let's face it - it's all about the outfit. I mean seriously - how cute is this uniform all the way down to little Miss' ankles??? It doesn't get any better.

Maya will be 16 months old next week and tomorrow we are home 7 months. To think of all that has changed. Maya sleeps now. Even though she has for months I'm still surprised each morning. Now - she laughs and smiles and loves and kisses. I look at her and wonder if there is any sign of remembrance of her first months. What if any memories will stay with her as she gets older. I think about her biological Mother. On Maya's birthday, I thought about her Mother a lot. I thanked her for having the courage to have Maya and the maturity to do what was best for her. When Maya gets older and understands, we will have a "ritual" for lack of a better word to remember her Mother on Maya's birthday and hopefully give Maya a healthy appreciation for her biological Mother. I haven't figured out yet quite what this ritual will be - any ideas??? I do wish somehow her Mother could know that she is a happy, happy, smart kid and so loved not just by me but her whole extended family. One of the best gifts we received when we returned home was a beautiful picture frame and inside a note that said Maya Marie Welcome to the Family. We love you and can't wait to meet you! This was from my cousin and her family.

Maya speaks her native Russian (at least in my world she does) - she nods her head and says "Da, da" - in her always emphatic tone. We're working on "Niyet" but a vigorous shake of the head gets the point across.

Grandma and Grandpa moved here a month ago just a mile away. We are sooooo lucky to have them here. And being single it is amazing to have help. Uncle Michael will be here for Christmas and it will be the first Christmas in 6 years that we have all been together - and of course the first with Maya. I haven't been this excited for the Holidays since I was a kid. I bought her Halloween costume in August! I'll be posting those pictures for sure.

Maya's First Birthday!

2007-07-06T09:26:00.001-06:00

Cutie Patootie! Finally can get bows and clips in her hair. Nothing I enjoy more than dressing her........

Just show her a camera and she poses........

Yummy birthday cake

Opening presents.....

She is just too damn cute and so much fun. Such a happy and funny little person - loves to be the center of attention. I hardly saw her the whole night of her party. Smiles and flirts with everyone. Every week she does something new and usually very funny. Still obessessed with the dogs - "dat" and with music - dances all the time even to the music on commercials. Started at Primrose (school just 1 mile away) last week and loves being with all the kids and particularily Miss Alejandra and Miss Jacque two of her teachers. She's walking - Grandma was determined that she walk before her first birthday - she did take a few steps at a time but now is really movin'. She really is just a blast. I so enjoy her.

Single Mom Group

2007-06-08T20:59:00.000-06:00

Kisses from Teddy...

Hummm, should I go bold with the red polish??

In my last post I neglected to mention that through my adoption agency (Commanwealth Adoption International) we are starting a single Mom adoption support group. This is for any single woman who has adopted, in process, or thinking about it. The first meeting is at my house on June 23rd. I say support but really - have some wine and chat - kinda like most book clubs. If anyone reading this is in the Denver area and would like to join us, please contact me through this blog.

I have to say it has been amazing all of the emails I get from other single woman all over the country sharing their stories of adopting their precious babies - such an incredible bond we all share. It also amazes me just how many single women there are that have made this decision. I had no idea.

A week from today we celebrate Maya's first birthday and on the 16th will be her first big birthday bash. She is too cute for words right now. Watching her personality emerge is a marvel everyday - what is from her genetic makeup (the complete unknown) and what is from being in her new environment? I already see she has a predisposition to use her left hand. Does this mean she is a lefty? Is that determined this early? If she is.....hummm science....hummm future surgeon! Excellent. I love watching what she finds funny and what she finds interesting enough to be worth her short attention span. She absolutely loves music and dances even in her carseat - in the rearview mirror I see her little head boppin'. My other 2 Single Astana Mom friends both say they want to freeze time and keep them babies. At first I thought - I don't know - kinda looking forward to no formula, no diapers, and conversation. But yesterday I was in Target (I live in Target) buying baby food in the baby section and realizing I won't be in that section much longer - she's a toddler. It was a bit sad. Still - looking forward to our future chats. Her baby babble right now is so emphatic. She has a lot to say and seems pretty passionate about her beliefs. Really curious to hear all about it. I am confident however that her first words will be Seriously Mom, enough with the pink!

So much to catch up on......

2007-05-29T19:26:00.000-06:00

While I was "in process" and devouring all of the blogs of the families who had already gone to Kazakhstan, most ended when they brought their child to the apartment. It was like missing the last 10 minutes of a movie mystery. I always thought, this is it?!! Then what??

Here is my then what.....

The second night at the apartment in Astana began the hourly screaming from little Miss. And this went on for 10 weeks - more on that later. I think she must have been terrified waking up and not knowing where the hell she was. Can't blame her. We left for Almaty on Sunday as planned. It was actually sad to say goodby to the apartment, Beehet, and of course Hot Landlord. Beehet had to carry Maya into the airport and to the security entrance because the local people don't approve of Americans adopting their children. Maya screamed the minute we took off. Thank God for a wonderful Kazak woman sitting next to us who calmed her. She looked at her, smiled and said, coo coo, coo coo. I learned this is Peek-a-bo in Russian. She loved it.

In Almaty, we stayed at the Astana International Hotel. I decided to splurge for our last 2 nights and stay somewhere nice. Well....not so much. Teeny tiny room with my bed and the crib leaving little room to move. But only for 2 nights. On Monday we went to the Embassy clinic for Maya's HIV test. In the waiting room we ran into all of our friends from Astana. It was wonderful to see them. We got to compare notes on how our first few days have been. All looked as sleep deprived and shell shocked as I felt. After a while all of our children's fingers were pricked and we left not knowing if we'd see each other again.

Later that day we returned to the Embassy for Maya's exam by the US Embassy Dr. He confirmed that she was perfectly healthy. Nothing alarming at all. Then off to the US Embassy to turn in paperwork. On Tuesday afternoon, back to the Embassy for final papers to enter the US. And once again, all of us from the Baby House were waiting together. All with bigger, darker circles under the eyes. The jubiliant energy we all displayed in Astana was replaced with a lethargic look of....God this is hard. While we were waiting, aside from the most popular topic of discussion..... so are you sleeping?.... was..... do you think you'll do this again? I said, absolutely. I would come back for a sibling for Maya. The response from the rest was mixed. Finally after about an hour and a half Maya and I were called up to the counter. My paperwork was presented and Maya was congratulated on being a US Citizen - so cool.....

Now to the trip home.....GOOD LORD!!!!! Our flight was scheduled to leave Almaty at 3am. We were picked up at 12am. The airport at that hour was packed and the line for our flight a mile long with, once again, all of our friends from Astana on the same line. Again a big reunion and so comforting to know we wouldn't be alone of the flight from Almaty to Frankfurt. There were also many other families from other regions in Kazakhstan on their way home with thier babies. The thought quickly crossed my mind, those poor people on this flight without a child.

We were very lucky that our entire row sat all of our friends. Most of us reserved the bassinets in front of our seats in the bulk head. This would probably have been lovely had Maya slept. She didn't. Not the entire 10 hour flight to Frankfurt. She screamed for most of it. Thank God for all of the other babies - easy enough to hide among someone else's crying.

We landed in Frankfurt, caravaned kids and carry ons for the nearest business class lounge and took over. Over the next 5 hours, our families little by little left for their flights home. Maya and I were last. At least we had our friends for company up until 3 hours before our flight. When John and Jamie (the last of our group) left, all of the built up exhaustion hit me and I fought back tears. We were now totally alone. I hadn't slept in almost 2 days, Maya showed no signs of sleeping, we had 3 hours until the next flight and a 9 hour flight ahead. Not long after reality hit, I met two amazing women that kept us company until we boarded. I never did get their names but forever grateful to them for preventing my melt down.

Approaching our seat I saw that a nice looking German man was seated next to us. He was dressed as man flying on business. I immediately apologized in advance for his trip sucking. Nothing worse than sitting next to a baby and this one is loud. Do you have earplugs? I hope so. He couldn't have been nicer through the entire ordeal. Maya, as predicted, screamed for most of the flight. About 4 hours in, I lost it. I stood with her screaming in my arms in the galley where 2 incredibly compassionate flight attendants took turns with Maya and comforting me. She finally slept the last 3 hours of the flight off and on.

SO......the moral of this story is.....FOR THE LOVE OF GOD.....DO NOT FLY BACK WITH YOUR CHILD ALONE!!!!! I guess if you are lucky enough to have a baby that sleeps it is probably fine, but if not - you're in trouble and need help. Seriously, don't do it alone. Dumbest thing I've ever done. By the way, what I said...oh...30 some hours earlier about coming back for a second?? Not a chance in hell. This is it. Maya's only shot at a sibling is if I marry someone with children. Ok, maybe it is like asking a woman just out of labor if she would have another. I don't know. All I know is 13 weeks later I still say, Hell No!

We landed at DIA and one of the first things that brought tears to my weary eyes was the sound of ENGLISH over the loudspeaker. Once through the first stop of immigration, we were escorted to another immigration desk to hand over our top secret SEALED envelope (I was told repeatedly - DON'T open the package!!!). While waiting to be called up, someone sitting in the same area said, "your daughter is beautiful". That was the first time I heard the words, your daughter.....gave me chills. We were called up, exchange of paperwork and "Welcome to the United States". I touched Maya's feet to the ground and she was official - chills again. Let me just tell you....among all the sentimentality of the moment, the thought continually played in my mind - It's good in America. We are so lucky. Anyone who doubts it should spend significant time in another country. Seriously. Outside the gate, we were greeted by my very dear friend Kathy and her 2 girls. Thank God for them. Kathy got me through the next 2 days until my Mom and Charlie (Grandma and Grandpa) arrived.

The next 10 weeks are a blur. Maya didn't sleep waking up every hour to an hour and half for just about 10 weeks and rarely napping. During her waking hours she would scream with night terrors for anywhere from 20 minutes to 2-4 hours at a time. I really thought I'd lose my mind. I had made an appointment with the International Adoption Clinic at Children's Hospital but wasn't able to get an appointment until the 7th week. The night before she screamed for 4 hours straight. By the 2nd hour I cried right along with her out of frustration and exhaustion. Nothing I did helped her. I found myself getting impatient and twice had to put her in her crib screaming "MA MA", close the door, go to my room, and close my door. I splashed water on my face and cried until I could pull myself together and start over again. Then the guilt set in...what a terrible Mother. She can't help it, she's a baby! Walking into that appointment the next day and seeing all of those Doctors (5 total) I burst into tears (have you noticed I cry a lot in these 10 weeks???) and begged for guidance. They could not have been more helpful. My next big tip - schedule an appointment with the Children's Hospital near you immediately. They spent almost 3 hours with us evaluating her physically and developmentally and for the last 45 minutes talking me through "sleep training". They recommended the book "Healthy Sleep Habits, Healthy Baby". Told me what I was experiencing was normal although Maya was the extreme side of normal. It takes most international adoptees up to 3 months to get into a regular sleep routine. When we bring them home they are like newborns needing to establish all new sleep patterns. They need to learn to self soothe. In Maya's case they told me to expect more like 5-6 months. I about fell out of the chair. The good news was physically and developmentally, she is perfectly healthy and right on track.

I left armed with information and determined to master this. Bought the book (the latest in my expansive library of sleep books) and created a strict schedule for her - naptime is to be no less than 45 mins even if she doesn't sleep she needed to learn that this is rest time, moved up bedtime to 7:15pm, created rituals 30 mins prior....did it all by the book. No luck. Fortuantely, about 1 week later all of our "Astana Parents" got back in touch with a string of emails catching up. Another family sounded like they had the same experience. I emailed them and they told me what worked for them after only 2 weeks. So we did it. My Peditrician had recommended this as well earlier but I was hesitant. The idea is to get them to learn to self soothe. Let's face it - up until then, I was her security blanket. Now this is not a popular method with some and as my Ped said, "All parents have to do what is right for them and when they are ready to do it". In addition to the rituals and strict routines, I followed a modified version of the Ferber method. I started it on a Sunday with my Mother on the phone with me the entire 45 minutes for each nap. We did our ritual, I put her in the crib drowsy but awake as every book will tell you, baby mozart playing in the background, kissed her, told her Mommy loves you, you're safe and left the room. She screamed before I closed the door. Sat outside the door and watched the clock for 3 mins, drop the phone outside the door and back in....rub the back, kiss the forehead, Mommy loves you, you're safe, screaming, leave....and all over again. About 20mins into this I came out, picked up the phone to hear my Mother laughing, "gotta give the kid credit, she knows what she wants! It will serve her well later in life". At that moment I decided to adopt the attitude - she is not hurt, I am not neglecting her, sleeping is critical to her development and really - she is just pissed!! A flash of 3 years from now passed before my eyes of being in Target and her having a temper tantrum because I wasn't getting her the toy she wanted. Hummmmm, this is as good a time as any for her to learn bad behavior will get her nowhere. I quickly went to 5 mins and stayed at 5 mins for all of Sunday. That was a LONG night! I extended to 10 minutes on Monday and stayed there for a few days. On about the 6th day, I extended to 15 mins but by then I already had to go in less and less. She was learning to calm herself and get herself to sleep. By the 9th day, the screaming stopped by the time I walked down the stairs and she was sleeping through the night from 7:15pm-6:30am. It was a miracle. She is a happier baby and I am a deliriously happy Mama! Truly, she is a different baby. She laughs more. She's busier. Just happier. A friend of mine asked if I wished I had done this earlier and honestly I wouldn't have been able to follow through any earlier. The key is consistency. Any earlier I would have caved. This definitely isn't for everyone. It just worked for us.

So now week 13, life is beginning to get into a groove. Can't say normal because we are creating a whole new normal. I am very fortunate to have a wonderful full time Nanny that Maya loves. After being gone for so long, I am re-building my business and it is picking up. I give thanks every day for Maya, the love of my life. For my family and friends, and for the amazing people at CAI that made this happen. For all of the families in process reading this, Congratulations! If I can help in any way - as so many have helped me - I would be honored.

Leaving for Almaty on Sunday!

2007-03-01T19:01:00.000-07:00

These are from Wednesday the day we left the Baby House. Poor baby was so hot under all of those layers they insist on. Much happier once she was stripped down in the apartment.

Beehet is amazing. She came by last night to tell me we are leaving for Almaty on Sunday. She already made our appointment with the US clinic for Monday morning. Then we have some other US Embassy interviews and paperwork and then home!!! I don't have the day confirmed but thinking we will be home on Wednesday the 7th. Can't believe it. Only 2 more days in this apartment.

Maya has been doing well. She is sleeping a ton, wakes up, snaps her head around - what the hell? I'm still here? Then she looks at me, scrunches her eyebrows, oh yeah, I know you. ok. She must be feeling insecure because (like my dogs) she is following me everywhere. We tried to go out last night for dinner with Elise - Maya's first dinner date - but not a chance. She started screaming when I went to get my boots on. I don't really know what happened but that was the end of our outing. Probably too much on the first day home.

Internet connection has been unreliable again. I don't know if I will have any in Almaty. So this may be the last entry until we get home. The trip home should be interesting. 7 hr flight from Almaty to Frankfurt, 7 hour layover in Frankfurt, and 10 hour flight home. Good Lord.

Tomorrow is the day!

2007-02-27T04:51:00.000-07:00

Today was the 37th and very last time…..I put her in crib, kissed her and promised I’d be back; left the nursery with the instant drop in mood and a little sick to my stomach because I wouldn’t see her for 24 hours; I drove out of those gates without her.

Tomorrow Beehet and Gusanna will come here in the morning for about 30 minutes of paperwork. Then we pick up cakes – one for Doctor’s room and one for the caretakers in her nursery. After lunch, we’ll go to the baby house and make the rounds thanking everyone, handing out gifts, thanking Dr. Alma (head Doctor) who is just wonderful. Then finally, finally I get Maya and drive out of those iron gates for the very last time.

Elise is taking me to dinner tonight. As she says, my last night of freedom - EVER! Doubt I’ll sleep at all tonight. Excited and anxious all at once.

Count down

2007-02-24T06:11:00.000-07:00

Baby girl is still not feeling well but trying hard to rally at the the playroom party.

Beehet told me yesterday that I can bring Maya home to the apartment on Wednesday as long as she is better. Funny. You'd think she would get better faster in the apartment away from 100+ kids passing germs around. Anyway, that is my campaign pitch.

A bit about Kazak pop culture....Driver's choice of music in the car is primarily American Rap and club music. Second runner up is Beyonce. And believe it or not some Celine Dion and George Michael. Everyone here has a cell phone and the rings are most often an American song. God knows how long it will take upon my return to get the most commonly heard song on the radio or on a cell phone out of my head - Smack That. out on the floor....smack that... gimme some more....tappin' my foot as I type.

I just came from dinner with a new Mom adopting a gorgeous baby girl, Julianna. Elise is a single woman from New Jersey. We have the immediate East Coast bond. She arrived at dinner frenzied, fast talking and animated as only East Coast people can be (God I miss that), telling me she is fed up with everyone staring at her and pointing to her head!! On her walk to the restaurant she was stopped on the street by several stern looking, older Russian women. They scolded her by pointing to her hatless head, where is your hat stupid woman!!!

As adults we learn to be polite, wait your turn, say excuse me and thank you. Not here. Survival of the fittest. What is that about? Why are they so angry? Leftover oppression? And why are they all so skinny? A genetic fight to stay alive? As Americans we haven't had to fight for anything except for the remote in a million years. Anyway, for such a rude bunch they are surprisingly soft spoken. I've learned to say the very few words I know in Russian looking down and in a whisper. So Elise has now had the ephiphany we all seem to have our first week...push, shove, scowl and mumble. How quickly I move from proud to critical huh? I am proud. I just find all of this interesting. Some would say the same of my home state, New York.

The deal about the hat is this. The belief here is that being cold causes colds. That is why the babies are bundled up so tight they look like stick figures. Nobody walks in public without being covered with hat, scarf, coat, and boats. Even the men. On the day of court Gusanna wore this cute little black skirt on her 22 year old size negative zero body, black pantyhose, and boots. Cute as a button. It was freezing and windy that day. Beehet took one look at her and in a Motherly, concerned tone told her to cover up her legs. She threw a scarf over her legs in the car. I asked Gusanna about it. She said that Beehet is worried about her fertility. What??? If she gets a cold down there she won't be able to have children. I really try to be respectful of the crazy old wives tales here but couldn't help laughing. Now, whenever she wears a skirt I shake my finger at her.....remember your fertility...

The count down has begun. I'm actually crossing out days on my calendar like a prisoner awaiting parole. Love my beautiful daughter's country but time to go home.

The Baby House

2007-02-19T18:48:00.000-07:00

These are from yesterday. Maya was tired girl unless Darhan was around. She is sleeping on my leg. She is doing just great. What changes in just a month. From sitting only when propped up to crawling and standing strong just holding my pinkie. Rarely smiling to smiling all the time showing off her bottom teeth (8 total now, 4 up and 4 down). She is also getting more vocal. Maya is diggin' me now. Looks to be sure I'm still there. Reaches up to be held. Big smile when I walk into the nursery.

I heard her first frustrated cry - no tears, I have yet to see tears. This was after court. "Ok, we are official now. Honeymoon's over Mama. Slooooowly letting out my true colors." She is so good, I have this fear of bringing her home and devil child emerging.

These pictures are of course the playroom where

we visit with our babies for 2 hours a day.

I got there early yesterday and wanted to show

you all how cheerful and well equipped it really is.

The 3rd wall is a rack of all different size balls and 4th wall is a wall of

windows overlooking a small parking area and

large outdoor playground (one of two outdoor

playgrounds).

2 representatives from the states and from my agency, CAI were here yesterday. They are visiting the baby houses in different regions in Kazakhstan. It was funny, I felt like a proud citizen making sure they got how wonderful it is here. "You need to tell prospective families about the baby house, the Doctors, the caretakers, the grounds, the beautiful, beautiful babies, the city.......they are lucky to hear your baby is in Astana!"

We are officially a family!

2007-02-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

Court is over and we are officially a family as of February 14. I'm so happy. Maya is happy she caught the ball. My internet connection has been down more than working lately so if you don't hear from me or I don't answer your emails assume that. But keep them coming! The support is amazing and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate all of the kind emails and comments here on the blog.

Maya turned 8 months old on February 15. I got her new measurements. She is 27 1/2 inches and 18 lbs. So she grew about a half an inch and lost almost a pound. All that crawling no doubt. I'll bring Maya home to the apartment on March 1. We are in the home stretch! More to come. Better send this while I still have service.

Court has been moved up to tomorrow!

2007-02-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

The love story continues.......

Beehet is just the best. Some background - after court begins the 15 day appeals period. Not the way we think of appeals, just another waiting period. On the 15th day, the Judge declares his/her final ruling. Beehet needs this to begin the final paperwork and to get Maya's passport. On the 16th day I can bring Maya home to the apartment. Well last week at lunch Beehet realized the end of the appeals period falls on a holiday Thursday March 1. Which means people will take off Friday as well. I'd lose 2 days. I teared up at lunch. Every day, every minute closer to bringing her home is meaningful. So Gusanna just called and Beehet was able to move court up a day so I wouldn't lose any time. Just love her for this. So court is tomorrow, Valentine's Day at 5pm.

Lunch was at our favorite place, we now go almost every day. The group is getting larger as new families arrive. The doorman knows us now. For families going over it is called Shakirasada (not the right spelling - phonetic) close to the Baby House, Driver will know it. Fabulous Kazak buffet for 500 tenge (about $4.00 right now). So over lunch I learned a new phrase. Bis ma la (again no clue how to spell) means God be with you in Arabic. Some knew of it and I guess it is in a Queen song???? Anyway, brand new to me. The caretakers say this to the babies all the time. The couple from Dallas told us. She is originally from Egypt. He is from Holland. Bis ma la, Bis ma la. Nice ring.

There are 2 english channels on my TV. The EurAsia news comes on everyday at 5pm. I thought it would be interesting to see if they report on any or what news from the States. It appears much like our Nightly News. A very professional female reporter comments on the flooding in Thailand, the business news report, a sudden increase in honor killings, the war in Iraq, and.......the death of Anna Nicole, American Playboy centerfold dies suddenly. Now don't get me wrong, I think that is just tragic, truly. But seriously!

Ok, I will report back after court. Wish me luck!

Bis ma la,

Mirror, mirror

2007-02-12T05:03:00.000-07:00

This is from Saturday. The day I moved down to 4th position for the biggest smile from Maya. Beehet, Darhan, her Mother, all stepped down to the new reigning Queen, Maya herself. There is a big inflatable castle in the corner of the room against the mirror. We decided to check it out. Maya discovered the mirror and the rest of the session was spent with her cracking up at her reflection or pulling my hair.

The other 4 families went to court on Friday so lots of discussion about how it went. What questions were they asked. How was the Judge, the prosecutor, how long it took....it felt a lot like back in college searching the dorm for someone that already took the final you're about to take. The questions, the questions....The coordinators prepare us as best they can for what we may be asked. I went through a mini, mini version of this on the day I met Maya.

Before going to the Baby House that first day, we went to the Ministry of Education. It looks and feels like any government building, long hallways and sterile. We entered into a small room and were greeted by 2 women. Beehet and the 2 women started talking in Russian, seemed friendly, there was some smiling. Then Beehet motioned for me to have a seat. Gusanna stood as did the woman who would be asking the questions. The tone of the room changed and I got nervous. The questions started out pretty routine, all translated by Gusanna. Do I understand the laws of adoption in Kazakhstan, do I understand my obligation to complete post placement reports....I started to relax a bit. Next question, I look to Gusanna and she translates in the same monotone, "Do you have boyfriend?" Probably a release of tension, but I burst out laughing. Did we go from interrogation to girl talk? Four eyes glaring at me in silence. Guess not. "No, no I do not currently have a boyfriend." Next question, "What will you do if you want to marry a man that does not like your child?" Oh, that is where they were going with this. Ok, easy. "I couldn't love with a man who didn't love my child." I was tempted to add.....or my dogs. Probably not relevant. Beehet told me to expect this question in court as well. I won't laugh. From there we went to the Baby House to meet my angel love.

I just talked to my Mom. Through the computer! For free! Technology is so cool when it isn't frustrating the hell out of me.

3 days to court!

Heroin and Kisses

2007-02-08T07:57:00.000-07:00

So Maya and Darhan have a "thing". I caught all the action -
Darhan approaches,
"I'm goin' in"....
"Oh good I think she's into it"....
"SCORE!!!"

But my girl is no fool. She's playing the field. A few minutes later, she CRAWLED from our mat over to Muras' mat. But no kissing. That would be rude, Darhan is watching.

Hate to say it but an even bigger moment than my daughter's first sloppy kiss was my internet connection being down for over 24 hours. You would think it was heroin. I am sure Beehet and Gusanna were ready to commit me to the nearest asylum. "Can we go to the cable place now?" "How 'bout now?" "Can we go now?" Thank God for their patience with the neurotic American.

The other families are going to court tomorrow, they seemed anxious. The conversation during playtime went to whether or not each of us wanted a second child and would we come back here or go to another country. All said we wanted a second child, long pause, and the now universally known look among us........the money. I said I hoped to own Maya out right by her third birthday. Danielle said a friend of hers is adopting their second from China and is naming her "Equity".

I'm learning some new Russian words like the word for what or how is "kak" How are you? "Kak dala?" After I say something, Beehet will say to Gusanna "kak?kak?" Now here's the kicker. It is pronounced "cock". "Cock? Cock?" I asked Gusanna if she knew what that word means in English. She blushed. Guess she does.

We had lunch at yet another great Kazak restaurant. Love the Borscht! We talked about the culture some more. The predominant religion is Muslim. Beehet and Gusanna are Muslim. A small percentage are Russian Orthadox and believe it or not, Catholic. Beehet told me that they do not eat Pork. Pork is to them as Horse is to me. Beehet smiled and told me Maya is never allowed to eat pork. Well I can promise she won't eat horse.

Tomorrow everyone will be at court but we have a new family to play with. A nice couple from Dallas are adopting a pretty little girl - Alyssa. I think Maya will be disappointed that there won't be any boys to tease.

Court Date is set!

2007-02-06T03:26:00.000-07:00

A week from Thursday, on February 15th at 10am. Maya turns 8 months old on the 15th. Good omen. This is her Doctor. So nice, Maya seems to really like her. Aunt Christy gave her that onesie. Isn't it cute? Can't see the pink pants too well but they have a ruffled hem. Just love dressing her. Such fun. Wait til you see tomorrow's outfit! Don't know if I'll sleep, I'm so excited.

Court Application Day!

2007-02-05T02:05:00.000-07:00

Day 15. Official Bonding period is over. Beehet will take the court application over this afternoon. I should know what my date is by tomorrow, likely sometime next week. On Saturday Pam, Zach, Gusanna, and I went to the Eurasia (no idea if I am spelling that correctly) mall. It is a massive indoor mall with 3 levels. Most of the shops are little - maybe 20x20. On the bottom floor is a huge market. Similar to our farmers markets. Wouldn't you know it as you walk down the ramp to that market the first row you hit is the meat. Hanging dead meat. Can't escape the meat. JEZ...

The opposite direction has all of the produce vendors and bakeries. Did I mention that everything here is organic? The produce are absolutely delicious. They just go bad quickly without all of those pesticides. Pam is into cookies and they are yummy. Then there is the bread...oh I just looooovvvvve the bread. The 2 upper levels are store upon store of either kids clothes or furs with some furniture and jewlery mixed in every now and then. Great prices. Pam and I both bought a bunch of baby clothes. So cute! A sign of being a real Mother, I didn't buy anything for myself. Zach was a dream. He sat in his stroller and checked everyone out and played with his toy. Couldn't have been better. Funny - everyone kept staring at Pam and Zach - as if to say, "tsk, tsk look at the American taking yet ANOTHER one of OUR children." But interesting that with Zach, people actually did the unheard of! They moved out of the way, held doors open, didn't just charge past her. Amazing! We also had lunch at the mall. The Kazak beer is sooooo good and cheap! $2-$3!

Oh, speaking of Pam and Zach.....so about a week ago at the baby house I walked in on something I found horrific. In the room where the babies eat and play, there is a large playpen with wooden spindles. The inside perimeter is lined with little plastic toilets. Maya and the other children are sitting on the potties and tied to the spindles with some cloth. Now I had heard about this but thought in such a Metropolitan city, surely they wouldn't do it here! Well it took everything I had not to go take her out of there. The kids didn't seem unhappy and it is all they know. Besides it would be disrespectful to show my horror. I haven't seen it since, thankfully. So here is where Pam and Zach enter the story. On the first day they are here, Pam is unpacking and I am liking her more and more. She is funny and easy going. She has a great haircut - short (like McBane's for those who know her) but long in the front and spikey on top. Really very cool. Her style is, to use her word, - kicky. So all of a sudden out comes this little plastic potty!! I couldn't believe it! She says, "Isn't this great? I'm so happy I found one!" All smiles. I tell her, "I CANNOT believe you bought that! How awful!" She tells me Zach was always laughing and having a great time whenever she saw him on it. I guess in a way it makes sense - men love being on the toilet. Anyway, she puts it on the floor and brings Zach over to the hot pink, no less, potty. Places him on it and ties him with her leopard print scarf. He screams bloody murder. Hot pink potty was left behind.

On Sunday, Pam and Zach took off for Almaty for the final formalities before going home to Schaumberg (outside of Chicago). It was great having them here. I'll miss them.

I went to the morning session today instead of my normal schedule of going in the afternoon. There are 4 families in that session. All about a week ahead of me. 2 couples from Boston, a single woman from San Diego, and another single woman from Washington D.C. I was told today there is another single woman coming on Thursday from New Jersey. They are all so nice and most are about my age. I'll have lunch with them tomorrow. A 5th family arrived today from Dallas. The room is packed with babies all about the same age. Maya of course is fascinated with all of the new people and has to check everyone out - preferably upside down. What is with the upside down? I talked with Maya's Dr today after her check up. I really like her Dr. She smiles a lot and is caring. She says Maya still has a cold but ear infection is cleared up.

On Saturday at the morning session all 4 families were allowed to feed our babies. First time I've fed her and it was a complete disaster. Way too much going on to look at and I missed her mouth 8 out of 10 times. Then another first - poopie diaper. Maybe this post should have been labeled "All about Poop."? Anyway, the final first of the day - she fell asleep in my arms about half way through playing. Today, as you can see, she did again but this was the last 10 minutes. Sweet, huh? She looks like a frog. Just love that kid.

Meat is history

2007-02-01T07:05:00.000-07:00

So hot landlord and young guy just came by and picked up the meat. Hot landlord flashed that gorgeous smile and apologized. Pam walked him out and asked, "what kind of meat was that?" "Is National treasure....horse". Anyway, its out of here.

Poor Zach is having a tough time and so is Pam. He is sick and crying any time he is put down. Just wants to be held and rocked. Poor little guy. Maya smiled when I came in today. She is feeling much better. She had lots of catching up to do - trying to crawl, cooing, watching everyone. Not much cuddling, too busy. I told her about Zach and not to do that to her Mama. Come home healthy, happy little girl.

GET THIS!!!

2007-01-31T08:35:00.000-07:00

HOLY MARY MOTHER OF GOD! I CAN'T BELIEVE THIS...So the landlord was to come to the apartment at 7pm (NOT the hot one - his Mother in law) to drop off extra sheets. Gusanna told us earlier that she was also "bringing some meat to store in the freezer" Whatever. At 9pm Zach is sleeping, Pam and I are in the living room. The doorbell rings. I open the door to a short, stout Russian woman and tall young man each holding a large cardboard box. On top of hers is a plastic bag. She smiles at me (first person to smile at me) and nods to the bag. I take the bag of sheets. They walk past me to the kitchen and put down the boxes. The inside of the boxes have BLOOD on the sides. Both boxes are FILLED with fresh butchered MEAT! I mean there are ribs and bones, and BLOOD! She opens the freezer, takes out what I have in there and starts shoving a COW in there! My mouth hanging open, I turn to Pam. She says call Gusanna. By now the first box is empty except for drying blood and the first drawer is full. She forces that drawer shut, opens the second, and shoving AGAIN! Pam is saying ,"Nyet! Nyet! Nyet! (No, No, No) I hand the phone to the landlord and Gusanna tells her to stop. Landlord smiles at me again (first damn person in this country to smile at me and she has a whole butchered cow in my kitchen!) She takes out only what is in the second drawer and refills the box. Takes our dish towel and wipes up the blood on the freezer and floor and leaves! Now those of you that know me well know I can't even eat chicken on a bone! God FORBID anything that could potentially be a pet. And anything in its original form makes me sick! After they leave Pam looks in there and says, "I think its Horse". Well that is it. Now Black Beauty is in my freezer. I'm going to throw up. Then she says, "You are really pale." Is it March yet?

So nice to have a friend

2007-01-31T03:33:00.000-07:00

Privyet! (Hello!)

Maya is still sick but determined to crawl for most of our visit. The rest of the time she was staring (upside down) at her new boyfriend Zach and lastly fighting sleep.

Pam is really is just great. Today was her day to bring Zach home to the apartment so I am watching everything she does. She learned from the families before her. When she and Kevin were here there were 2 other families with our agency so they were together all the time. Don’t know what I would have done now that I see all that is involved. We don't learn much from the baby house – we get their schedule on the last day. I don’t get to feed her before I bring her home. Learning A LOT about how the rest of this is going to go. Zach is an absolute cutie pie.

We took him to lunch first and he slept. Have I mentioned this? Every restaurant (at least those we have gone to) as you enter you check your coat (furs, furs, furs) and nearby is a LARGE mirror where all the women check their hair and apply fresh lipstick on the way in and out. I am still amazed at how beautiful and beautifully dressed they are. We are slobs in the US. By the way, Pam tells me fur coats are WAY cheap here. She bought one (Siberian Wildcat, collar is polar fox - very stylish, she calls it "kicky") when she and Kevin were here. She knows all the best shops for everything. I am going steal an idea of hers. Pam bought a little cultural gift to give to Zach for each birthday until he turns 18. So sweet I'm doing that. We stopped in a souvenir shop after dinner last night and she gave me ideas. My favorite is the Kazak cloth doll. Seriously, how lucky am I that she is here????

Oh, back to lunch, Beehet saw that I was envious and got the calendar out. "If all goes as it should" wave of finger, "as it should" meaning all depends on when I get my court date, I will bring Maya back to the apartment on March 2 - 4 weeks and 2 days and yes I am counting. Monday, February 5 is the 15th day of bonding period so I should know next week when my court date is. Zach is stitting here on the floor playing with his Mama. I can't wait for that to be me and Maya. Das Vindanya! (Goodbye!)

Passport Photo Day

2007-01-30T05:13:00.000-07:00

Today we left the Baby House to get Maya's passport photo taken. Needless to say, the Caretakers believe in OVER dressing for the outdoors.

She was so hot, poor baby. And still sick. Cute though!

I have a roommate for a week. Pamela is adopting precious baby Zach. She arrived yesterday and is staying with me at the apartment. She and her husband were here a few weeks ago for the bonding period, court, etc. went home for 2 weeks and now Pamela is back for Zach. We'll pick him up this morning. We had girls night last night - beer and pizza at the mall. I can't tell you how wonderful it is to have someone to talk to. We've had similiar exeperiences and observations here so fun to laugh about it and have some validation. Zach is a cutie pie. It will be great to see how Pam manages having a baby at the apartment and then I'll know what to do when Maya comes home. Pam is really great, my kind of gal. Too bad we don't live in the same city. Zach and Maya seem to really like each other he puts his arm around her - very cute.

Oh and I fell on the ice. Just a matter of time! I'm hobbling like an old lady - charming.

Sick Baby

2007-01-29T04:37:00.000-07:00

Start of the second week of bonding period. Miss Maya is sick with a cold and ear infection. Although you would never know it except for a runny nose. Today there were 2 new families in the playroom, plus Dan, Lisa and the twins. Both new couples from Boston and adopting baby boys. Soooo much for Maya to look at, no time for sickness. The nurse told me not to put her on the floor. Fine with me, we cuddled the whole 2 hours, as long as she was positioned to see everything.

At the end of visitation I put her in her crib for the first time and covered her with her snuggly blanket from Aunt Amy. She cried for a half a second and fell asleep. Angel girl.

Ok I'm gushing

2007-01-27T00:16:00.000-07:00

Ok you all emailed me and told me I can gush.

What can I say? perfect......

Tips for families in process

2007-01-26T20:02:00.000-07:00

There are things that I wish I had known before coming over so I thought I'd jot them down as they come up and edit this post. I don't know how much of this applies to other regions in Kazakhstan but I've found to be true in Astana.

- no matter how much money the agency tells you to bring - bring A LOT more either in cash or MC/VISA (Astana anyway doesn't take American Express except to draw cash). Beehet went over all of the fixed expenses of my trip both here and in Almaty on my 2nd day. Needless to say, I do not have enough beyond fixed expenses. Apparently this happens to a lot of families.
-it is customary to bring a cash donation for the Baby House. Ask your cooridinator how much. It is given at the end to the Head Doctor.
-The Baby House is HOT!!!! Wear layers. I wore a tank top with a cotton sweater over it yesterday and still hot. Everyone wears t-shits/tank tops and jeans.
-You can buy just about anything you need for toiletries, etc at similiar prices to US. EXCEPT for DIAPERS. They are outrageously expensive here. $20-30 depending on brand and size pack. But the rest helps keep your baggage weight down. I packed all of it and was 14 lbs over.
-Definitely bring a laptop if you can. Most apartments will have cable internet access($100/month and as fast as at home). Much more comfortable than internet cafe.
- you are only in a hotel for a night or two when you first arrive. I think it is worth the extra money to stay in a nice hotel. I stayed in a cheaper hotel for only one night in a room that wreaked of smoke. All of my clothes smelled like I'd been in a bar even though they weren't unpacked. And a nice hotel probably has internet access to let family know you arrived safely. My hotel had no internet and couldn't get through to the US on the LAN line.
-SKYPE!!! The best invention! www.skype.com You can sign up for free, have your family sign up for free - add each other to your address books and talk for free through your computers! You just need to pack a headset with a USB plug at the end (at any Circuit City or Best Buy) and have family get one. FAB!
That is all I can think of for now.

Tough to leave today

2007-01-25T20:34:00.000-07:00

This is her infectious laugh. It just kills me.

I tried to give her the pink teething toy she seemed to love you much, but you know "that is soooooo yesterday...."

We had 30 minutes alone before the twins arrived. It was wonderful. She was tired and focused more on looking at me, touching my face, and of course, pulling hair. I am hoping we are close to her recognizing me when I arrive. If nothing else I am the keeper of cool toys. Today was the first day it was really, really hard to leave. The 2 hours went by way too fast. I guess I am attaching first.

It is STILL snowing here! Gusanna says it snows pretty much every other day. Thank God for Driver. I could get used to this. I walk out of the apartment building, Baby House, grocery store, and THERE IS DRIVER! FAB......

Bonding Day

2007-01-24T07:46:00.000-07:00

Today was Day 3 of the 15 day bonding period before applying for a court date. We decided to go to the 2-4pm visiting hour instead of 10-12pm to see if the playroom was less crowded. Maya and I are still getting familiar with each other and with her intense curiousity, she would never look at me with all the people around. Entering the Baby House each day smells deliciously of fresh baked bread. The caretakers recognize me now. They smile and say to Maya, "Mama!" Beehet continues to be Maya's most favorite person. Maya just looks at her and cracks up. I don't know what she says to her in Russian but Maya finds it funny.

We got lucky and there was only one other family. A very, very nice couple, Dan and Lisa. They are adopting 9 month old TWIN girls. They have a 5 yr old and a 4 yr old girls at home. I brought along clothes this time, binkie, teething ring, and toys.

I promise this is the last post from me gushing about the simpliest things she does as if she is the first child ever in the universe. First child, third day - I find it all miraculous. Forgive me. Maya seemed to focus more on my face this time. Mostly because I wore my hair down and she loved pulling on it. At least it kept her looking at me for a bit. As you see she LOVES her binkie and teething ring. Frequently trying to put both in her mouth at the same time. She has a few teeth already. I read in my book that it is good for them to be on their stomachs to gain strength and learn to crawl. Although after watching Dan and Lisa chase the twins, not sure why I am encouraging that. She is determined little girl. She decided she really wanted my camera. I placed it away from her and called her to me. She did take a couple crawl steps(?) and then pulled herself, crawl steps, pull, but by God she got to that camera. I have to say much of what I do with her reminds me of being with my dogs as puppies. Same behavior, different species, I swear. The twins would cry a bit. Maya thinks that is very funny. When one does, she whips her head in the direction of the noise, eyes wide, scrunch of the face and giggle. She coos but I have yet to hear her cry or fuss except to arch her back to get down and explore. By the end of the 2 hours she is content to sit in my lap and rest. I kiss on her face and neck constantly, she opens her mouth as a kiss back. When I stop, she leans in for more. She is a lovey.

Beehet, Gusana, Dan, Lisa and I went to dinner together tonight. $7.00 for pizza and beer. Love it. The food here has been very good and inexpensive. I am in love with Borscht. I need to learn how to make that. The pizza place was in a mall similar to the Cherry Creek mall. Beautiful stores and expensive. Outside of the mall is the most gorgeous light display from Christmas not taken down yet. I'll try to get a picture.

I added Maya's middle name to the blog - Marie. She is the latest in a long line of strong, independent, and fabulous Taylor women to have the middle name Marie. I think my Grandmother would be touched. More pictures, less talk to come. Thank you for all of the kind wishes, they mean so much.

My little Love

2007-01-23T04:25:00.000-07:00

How cute is my precious little chunkster?! This is day 2 and already taken a million pictures, I've narrowed it down to these few. Of course more to come! I met Maya yesterday, Monday the 22nd at the Baby House in here in Astana. She is just perfect. Healthy, active, and a cuddler. She has a great laugh and scrunches her whole face when she does. Maya was born on June 15, 2006 (my dear friend Deidre's birthday, not to mention 2 of her 3 children's birthday). She was 6 lbs at birth and now 19 lbs. She is very curious and has to check out everything going on in a room. She fights sleep for fear of missing something good (very much like her Grandmother). On the floor she is trying sooooo hard to crawl. The nurses all love her and tell me (via translator) that she is such a good girl and "clever". I think they mean curious. The Baby House is outstanding. Colorful, cheery, toys and stuffed animals in every room. Doctors, Nurses and caretakers everywhere. They couldn't be nicer or more attentive. There are several American families here and the playroom during visting hours is packed.

Astana

It is cooooold here! 10 below zero when I arrived on Sunday. My flights here were uneventful. My coordinator, Beehet, translator, Gusana, and my driver met me at the airport at 8am. They are just wonderful people - caring, funny and easy to be with. Beehet's cell phone ring is the sound of a baby laughing - cracks me up every time. I feel very fortunate. We accomplished a lot that first day except for the most important thing - calling my Mother!!!! I could not believe in a city were everyone has a cell phone, we couldn't get a LAN line to call the US. It was very frustrating. I didn't get through until Monday. The good news is that once I did, I was able to tell my Mom she was a Grandmother. And just in time. I am pretty sure the Kazak police were going to be notified of an all points bulletin in a matter of hours. So sorry again Mom.

I moved into my apartment yesterday. It is large, comfortable on the 8th floor - I have a beautiful view of the city. The cable guy hooked up my internet here this afternoon.

Astana feels a lot like New York City, people drive so fast and pay no attention to cars driving right at them or people crossing the street – insane. People for the most part do not smile and just shove if you are in their way. I asked Gusana if they don’t like Americans, she said no, that is just how they are. If you smile at them, they think you must be crazy. The women are beautiful - all tall, slender, and stylish. Boots, bags, coats (fur or fur lined) and hat - all out out of Vogue. They all wear high heels even though all of the sidewalks are a block of ice. Reminds me a lot of Paris. The men are HANDSOME. GOD! My landlord is so hot, I am calling him for many, many repairs. They are tall, strong facial features, and well dressed. I wish there was a Man House I could go to after the Baby house and complete the family. Beehet (speaks no english) catches me staring often, laughs and says boyfriend! All and all I am incredibly fortunate for CAI (my agency), the Baby House, and of course most of all my baby girl.

Got the call!

2007-01-14T15:58:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, January 9, 2007 Ashley called to tell me I have an "Invitation to Travel". I honestly cannot tell you much of what she said after those words. I was in shock and just kept saying, "NO WAY! REALLY? NO WAY!" This call came much, much sooner than expected but everything happens as it should. I truly believe that. The mix of emotions is incredible, similiar I am sure to pregnancy. I've applied for my Visa and pray it gets here in time. I've booked my flights - 2 full days of travel - Denver to Frankfurt, Frankfurt to Almaty, Almaty to Astana. I will arrive in Astana on the 21st. Astana is 13 hours ahead of Mountain time.

I leave on Friday the 19th and will meet Maya on Monday the 22nd. All I know about her is she will be between 7-12 months old. I'll get her medical history and all other information about her on the 22nd before meeting her.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of good friends, Christy, Meghan, Lindsey, Dan & Tiffany, I am set with all of my baby needs for the trip. Maya will be quite the looker in all of her cute outfits. Thank you guys. You are great.

About Kazakhstan

2007-01-04T11:12:00.000-07:00

When Vi mentioned this country as an option I didn't even know where it was. Kazakhstan is located between Russia and China. It is actually the 9th largest country in the world, roughly 4 times the size of Texas but with only 15 million people.

A great resource for information on any country is The CIA Worldbook www.cia.gov

"Native Kazakhs, a mix of Turkic and Mongol nomadic tribes who migrated into the region in the 13th century, were rarely united as a single nation. The area was conquered by Russia in the 18th century, and Kazakhstan became a Soviet Republic in 1936. Independence came in 1991. "

Contrary to what "Borat" would have people believe, Kazakhstan cities are pretty modern. Adult literacy is 99.5% literacy rate and women are represented in every profession. In fact, laws against homosexuality were defeated in 1997. Which is why I was so surprised when they insisted on my Statement of Heterosexuality - a fabulous trip down memory lane of failed relationships but stating "there is hope!"

Maya is in Astana, the capitol of Kazakhstan. From what I have heard it is quite architectually interesting. I'll let you know. All I have been able to focus on so far is that it is below zero there now. I am just not a cold weather girl! This bizarre winter we are having now in Denver is killing me and I keep thinking, man it is going to be sooooooo much colder there!

The Paper Pregnancy

2007-01-04T09:17:00.000-07:00

This posting is mostly for families in the process or thinking of beginning the process of international adoption. One thing I really wanted to know when I started this was how much time to expect for each phase. I drove my angel case worker, Ashley, CRAZY with this. The agency will give you the averages and typically very conservative estimates. I wanted to hear from people who went through this recently. So I hope this is helpful.

My first call to CAI (Commonwealth Adoption International) was on the 28th of July 2006. Vi Pierce, the agency Director, spent a lot of time with me on the phone. As a single woman, I wasn't sure what my options were. After talking with her, I chose to adopt from Kazakhstan. There is more about Kazakhstan in a separate posting. I signed the contract with CAI 2 days later. Upon signing, you are assigned a case worker. Mine is Ashley. I have to say I am absolutely THRILLED with CAI. Vi, Ashley, Anna, Pam, and my social worker, Diane are just the best people. Ashley will forever be Aunt Ashley to Maya.

The massive paperwork to be completed (the dossier) arrived within days. Fingerprinting, signed and noterized originals stating everything from yes I have health insurance to - no joke - a statement of Hetersexuality (not required by all countries). Then it all gets apostilled. I had no idea what that was (The Secretary of State confirming your notarized copies are legitimate). The agency quotes approximately 4 months for families to get this completed. Part of how long it will take is how quickly you move on it and part is how long it takes the government to get documents to you that you will need for your dossier. I started in August 2006 and had it all apostilled in October 2006.

In addition to the paperwork is your home study. 3 visits total. I finished this in a month but depends on yours and the social workers availability. Since I am self-employed, it was easier to schedule. The social worker's write up is also part of your dossier.

My dossier went out to Kazakhstan in November 2006. So first call to dossier in country, for me, was 4 months. From there, it is country dependent on how long it will take to get a referral. Mine happened much more quickly than expected and I couldn't be more thrilled. For those in process that have questions, please don't hesitate to ask. I have been blessed with wonderful families that have answered all of mine and happy to pass that on.