Gratitude

We had some more nerve-wracking experiences with government officials this last week. Two officials were convinced I must have ulterior motives for adopting the girls because they can't figure out why someone would do this. Another official was very stern about not wanting to fulfill her step of the process (even though the court said we can proceed). When we first came to her office, she wouldn't even look me in the eye. She sent us back into the hallway where I prayed silently for about 15 minutes, and when we were invited back in, the atmosphere was completely different. She agreed to do her part and wished me good luck and that the girls would be obedient. I would rather not give the details about the situation on the website, but can email those of you still coming to the Poltava region after me when I have more time in Kiev next week. (That is assuming I'll have more time next week!)

All in all, I have a profound sense of gratitude to the Lord for changing hearts and melting walls. I have seen it time and time again here, and I know He is very aware of us and wants these girls to be in our family. Every time I come up against what seems to be an impossible situation, He finds a way to make it happen. I have felt peace during this process because I believe that if we felt inspired to bring these girls into our home, He will not let anything stand in our way. I would be very ungrateful if I didn't give Him my appreciation.

I have not had the chance to speak with Oksanna about sponsering her for college yet, but I hope to in the morning.

I compiled a list of things I've noticed here for those coming to prepare, and as a point of interest for anyone else:

1. Doors open the opposite direction. I haven't mastered this one yet after a month!
2. There are no seatbelts in any of the rear seats of vehicles.
3. Plan on purchasing a new blow dryer here instead of using your converter. It will work better, and your American one will most likely burn out anyway (mine did), so if you're going to be purchasing a new one anyway, they are cheaper here.
4. Americans have forgotten how to walk!
5. No matter how SLOWLY someone speaks in an unfamiliar language, it won't make the listener magically understand them. (This applies both directions!)
6. Learn to like dill. It's in everything. If you don't like it, learn to say you don't want it, and say it whether you think the dish will have it or not. It garnishes probably 95% of soups, salads, sandwiches, and some meats. Luckily I haven't seen it in yogurt.
7. Hope you like beets. Enough said.
8. Are some women genetically designed to wear high heels every day?
9. If you don't like a wire, pipe, or door for that matter on your wall, just paint or wallpaper over it. No one will notice...