November 24-28, 2015
We had planned to walk along the Black Sea with the kids on Tuesday afternoon but it was raining so we went bowling with them and their older brother instead. Unfortunately (or fortunately, depending on your point of view) we were unable to get a translator so we had to see how well nonverbal communication would work. Our son had to do the ordering and we are thankful that he understands some English. When we had to give our names for the scoring he said, "Mama, Papa, ..." We were so happy to hear those words because we had been told that orphans often have a difficult time referring to their adoptive parents as mom and dad (мама и папа - Russian translation). We all enjoyed our time together and as I posted on Facebook, thankfully smiles are smiles - no matter what the language:) Reflecting on our bowling experience, it hit me that this was probably the first time these kids were taken for an outing as a family. I know that I have taken these types of experiences for granted.
There's a girl, a friend of our our new daughter, who spends a lot of time at MJ's place and it was her 16th birthday on Wednesday. We had the privilege of joining the celebration. Later that evening we watched our son play indoor soccer again.
We celebrated Thanksgiving Day for the second time this fall as it was American Thanksgiving on Thursday. There are several American missionary families in Odessa who get together for special occasions. It was potluck so I tried my hand at making a Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake. We splurged and bought a spring form pan. Just like the cookies, it was tasty but not at all like my usual cheesecakes. It was a typical North American holiday meal - lots of delicious food, great conversation, and games. We met more friendly people and enjoyed hearing their stories.
Last night we went out for supper with our new son and his girlfriend (without a translator). It's interesting having a conversation using Google Translate but we managed. It's good that we were all able to laugh about some of the translations:) I am discovering that you have to be careful about the words you choose because we have many English words with more than one meaning! We got a big smile when we told him that someone in Canada has invited him to play soccer. After supper we bought a suitcase for him to take his things to Canada.
This morning we went out to winterize. Rodger's jacket was not warm enough and he needed a touque and gloves and I bought myself a wraparound scarf. We are prepared for the cooler temperatures that we are experiencing. This afternoon we were to meet people at a nearby restaurant for lunch. We got to the restaurant but it was closed for renovations and then we heard the others couldn't make it so we are relaxing at our home away from home (therefore I have time to update this blog:).
Saturday, 28 November 2015
Monday, 23 November 2015
Passed the Test?
Nov. 20-23, 2015
I never did finish this last night like I intended so I'll try again...
Right now I'm listening to songs from 8 Beautiful Songs about Adoption (Show Hope website). Last month, before we left to get our new kids, Jason Waller's song Orphan really resonated with me because it seemed to describe our adoption journey. Today, while listening to Casting Crowns' So Far to Find You I thought wow, this is another beautiful song about adoption.
Looking back over the 3 weeks we have been in Ukraine, I wonder how this experience has/will change our outlook on life. We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received so many times. Last spring someone asked me, "How does one really know what God's will is?" We believe that we are following his will and this has been reaffirmed in so many ways, over and over again during the past 9 months. I may grow impatient with all the waiting but I don't question that it is all part of his plan.
Last Saturday, we headed to the House of Hope to visit with the kids again. While on our way we were asked to pick up the kids' Grandma. When we arrived at Grandma's, their older brother would also like a ride. There were 4 of us in the back of a small taxi! Good thing, they don't have the same seat belt laws that we have in Manitoba.
When we got to the House of Hope, both kids came to give us hugs. I think it was good for their Grandma to see that we have already started building a relationship. We were asked all kinds of questions. Grandma was pleased to hear that the kids would be going to school and that we would help them continue their education with college or university, if they wish. We showed them pictures of our house, the kids' bedrooms, and our family. At one point the Grandma cried and said she was happy for the kids but she wondered if she would ever see them again. We said the kids could Skype and call (I guess we'll have to look into getting a phone plan with good long distance rates!). By the time we were ready to head back, she gave me a hug so I think we passed the Grandma Test.
The next day, Sunday we went to the Baptist church again so we could see the kids. We were really happy because their Grandma came in and greeted us with a hug. She would like to visit with us again and asked if she could see the kids to say good bye. She may not realize it but it'll be a few weeks before we can go and of course we want to give the kids a last opportunity to say good bye just before we head to Kyiv (Kiev). I am so grateful the visits were so positive.
Today we went sightseeing with Randy and Debra, a couple from Florida who are here doing some mission work with the Presbyterian Church. We went for a guided walking tour of the down town area. I can't remember all the places that we saw but the architecture here is amazing! One of the things we saw was the Opera House - we plan to attend a show later so we can see the inside of it.
I never did finish this last night like I intended so I'll try again...
Right now I'm listening to songs from 8 Beautiful Songs about Adoption (Show Hope website). Last month, before we left to get our new kids, Jason Waller's song Orphan really resonated with me because it seemed to describe our adoption journey. Today, while listening to Casting Crowns' So Far to Find You I thought wow, this is another beautiful song about adoption.
Looking back over the 3 weeks we have been in Ukraine, I wonder how this experience has/will change our outlook on life. We have been overwhelmed by the support we have received so many times. Last spring someone asked me, "How does one really know what God's will is?" We believe that we are following his will and this has been reaffirmed in so many ways, over and over again during the past 9 months. I may grow impatient with all the waiting but I don't question that it is all part of his plan.
Last Saturday, we headed to the House of Hope to visit with the kids again. While on our way we were asked to pick up the kids' Grandma. When we arrived at Grandma's, their older brother would also like a ride. There were 4 of us in the back of a small taxi! Good thing, they don't have the same seat belt laws that we have in Manitoba.
When we got to the House of Hope, both kids came to give us hugs. I think it was good for their Grandma to see that we have already started building a relationship. We were asked all kinds of questions. Grandma was pleased to hear that the kids would be going to school and that we would help them continue their education with college or university, if they wish. We showed them pictures of our house, the kids' bedrooms, and our family. At one point the Grandma cried and said she was happy for the kids but she wondered if she would ever see them again. We said the kids could Skype and call (I guess we'll have to look into getting a phone plan with good long distance rates!). By the time we were ready to head back, she gave me a hug so I think we passed the Grandma Test.
The next day, Sunday we went to the Baptist church again so we could see the kids. We were really happy because their Grandma came in and greeted us with a hug. She would like to visit with us again and asked if she could see the kids to say good bye. She may not realize it but it'll be a few weeks before we can go and of course we want to give the kids a last opportunity to say good bye just before we head to Kyiv (Kiev). I am so grateful the visits were so positive.
Today we went sightseeing with Randy and Debra, a couple from Florida who are here doing some mission work with the Presbyterian Church. We went for a guided walking tour of the down town area. I can't remember all the places that we saw but the architecture here is amazing! One of the things we saw was the Opera House - we plan to attend a show later so we can see the inside of it.
Odessa Opera and Ballet Theatre
Thursday, 19 November 2015
Names
Nov. 16-19, 2015
Trying to remember what we do each day is getting to be too much for me. I can come up with all kinds of excuses but as I reflect back on years past when I've tried journaling, I can see a pattern. I start off with great intentions but they slowly peter out....
We took the kids bowling on Tuesday. I don't think either of them had bowled before so it was a learning experience. Slavik won the game. Should I say, "Of course!" He loves and is naturally talented to any athletic activity it seems. I probably bowled my best game ever and was only a few point behind him. (Maybe teaching grade 3 students how to bowl, paid off!) Our regular translator was busy with our adoption documents so we had a new translator. She is a very kind Christian lady. God has blessed us over and over again with people that he has put on our path.
Yesterday our big event of the day was losing a banking card in an ATM. We got a call this evening to say that they got the card out of the machine so we can go and get it tomorrow morning. Not a nice feeling!
Today we took the kids out for lunch - pizza. They really seem to enjoy pizza which will work out really well. I'll have a "go to" meal that 6 out of 6 like. I wonder how many meals I will be able to say that about?
We had more forms to fill out. I'm not sure that I'll ever want to fill out another form when this process is finished! These are for Manitoba which makes you think about coming back home. Anyways we needed to have the kids' present names and their new names. It's a whole new experience having kids choose their names instead of we as parents choosing the names for the kids.
MJ invited a missionary couple from Florida for supper. They've offered to take us sight seeing on Monday. We are looking forward to that.
Trying to remember what we do each day is getting to be too much for me. I can come up with all kinds of excuses but as I reflect back on years past when I've tried journaling, I can see a pattern. I start off with great intentions but they slowly peter out....
We took the kids bowling on Tuesday. I don't think either of them had bowled before so it was a learning experience. Slavik won the game. Should I say, "Of course!" He loves and is naturally talented to any athletic activity it seems. I probably bowled my best game ever and was only a few point behind him. (Maybe teaching grade 3 students how to bowl, paid off!) Our regular translator was busy with our adoption documents so we had a new translator. She is a very kind Christian lady. God has blessed us over and over again with people that he has put on our path.
Yesterday our big event of the day was losing a banking card in an ATM. We got a call this evening to say that they got the card out of the machine so we can go and get it tomorrow morning. Not a nice feeling!
Today we took the kids out for lunch - pizza. They really seem to enjoy pizza which will work out really well. I'll have a "go to" meal that 6 out of 6 like. I wonder how many meals I will be able to say that about?
We had more forms to fill out. I'm not sure that I'll ever want to fill out another form when this process is finished! These are for Manitoba which makes you think about coming back home. Anyways we needed to have the kids' present names and their new names. It's a whole new experience having kids choose their names instead of we as parents choosing the names for the kids.
MJ invited a missionary couple from Florida for supper. They've offered to take us sight seeing on Monday. We are looking forward to that.
Sunday, 15 November 2015
License Plates
Thurs., Nov. 12/15
We had to go for another interview and to sign papers today. The interview wasn't difficult or long. They asked about our family, why we wanted to adopt, what were our plans for the kids ...
Déjà vu with the medical paperwork:( The medical paperwork for our new kids has been a challenge. Most of last week was spent trying to see the doctors and get forms completed correctly and stamped with the proper seal/stamp. We hope to have it all completed tomorrow so that they can be all be submitted.
Fri., Nov. 13/15
We visited with both Slavik and Vica at the House of Hope. (Vica is visiting her brother this weekend.) The Qwirkle game was a hit again. Igor and Ira, house parents, are so welcoming. We admire them for what they do with the orphans who stay there after they leave the orphanage. They live out their faith. Rodger was very pleased when Igor presented him with an Ukrainian license plate to add to his collection:)
Most people use public transit, either city buses or streetcars/trams, or taxis. When we compare the prices to what we pay in Winnipeg, it is dirt cheap. The city buses remind us of Puerto Vallarta. Most often it seems that there is standing room only. You pay just before you get off the bus. If you aren't at the front of the bus, you pass your money to someone ahead of you and tell them where you want to get off, that person passes it on to another person, until your fare and message get up to the front! The taxis have been interesting. Usually you call ahead, they give you the colour and make of the taxi along with the license plate number. When the taxi arrives the driver sends you a text to say it's there. On Friday evening we didn't have great luck as the taxi stalled several times and at one point died altogether. The driver coasted to the side of the road and did something under the hood before we could go again.
Sat., Nov. 14/15
Today we went with our translator (and pizzas) to visit the kids again. A lunch of pizzas was appreciated by all. We brought Skip-Bo which Vica enjoys playing. Since we were there in the afternoon we were given a tour of the yard and surrounding area. This property is a little higher up so we had a nice view of the surrounding area.
It seems that Slavik understands quite a bit of English but is hesitant to try it out on us. We have to watch what we say because he'll probably figure it out. Vica is very quiet and shy.
Sun., Nov. 15/15
This morning we thought we'd go to Slavik's church since both of the kids would be there. It is a Baptist church and the service was in Russian. It was an interesting experience and gave us a taste of what church is like for a visitor who doesn't know the language. Hearing the choir sing was the part I most enjoyed.
We spent most of the day relaxing. We went to the grocery store on our own to pick up a few things for lunch. It's challenging when you can't read the labels or signs but we managed. It was one of MJ's roommates' birthday today so we got to sample a homemade layered torte. Delicious!
Please pray that the medical paperwork will be completed tomorrow and other paperwork signed so that we can apply for a court date. This is needed before we can proceed to the next step.
We had to go for another interview and to sign papers today. The interview wasn't difficult or long. They asked about our family, why we wanted to adopt, what were our plans for the kids ...
Déjà vu with the medical paperwork:( The medical paperwork for our new kids has been a challenge. Most of last week was spent trying to see the doctors and get forms completed correctly and stamped with the proper seal/stamp. We hope to have it all completed tomorrow so that they can be all be submitted.
Fri., Nov. 13/15
We visited with both Slavik and Vica at the House of Hope. (Vica is visiting her brother this weekend.) The Qwirkle game was a hit again. Igor and Ira, house parents, are so welcoming. We admire them for what they do with the orphans who stay there after they leave the orphanage. They live out their faith. Rodger was very pleased when Igor presented him with an Ukrainian license plate to add to his collection:)
Most people use public transit, either city buses or streetcars/trams, or taxis. When we compare the prices to what we pay in Winnipeg, it is dirt cheap. The city buses remind us of Puerto Vallarta. Most often it seems that there is standing room only. You pay just before you get off the bus. If you aren't at the front of the bus, you pass your money to someone ahead of you and tell them where you want to get off, that person passes it on to another person, until your fare and message get up to the front! The taxis have been interesting. Usually you call ahead, they give you the colour and make of the taxi along with the license plate number. When the taxi arrives the driver sends you a text to say it's there. On Friday evening we didn't have great luck as the taxi stalled several times and at one point died altogether. The driver coasted to the side of the road and did something under the hood before we could go again.
Sat., Nov. 14/15
Today we went with our translator (and pizzas) to visit the kids again. A lunch of pizzas was appreciated by all. We brought Skip-Bo which Vica enjoys playing. Since we were there in the afternoon we were given a tour of the yard and surrounding area. This property is a little higher up so we had a nice view of the surrounding area.
It seems that Slavik understands quite a bit of English but is hesitant to try it out on us. We have to watch what we say because he'll probably figure it out. Vica is very quiet and shy.
Sun., Nov. 15/15
This morning we thought we'd go to Slavik's church since both of the kids would be there. It is a Baptist church and the service was in Russian. It was an interesting experience and gave us a taste of what church is like for a visitor who doesn't know the language. Hearing the choir sing was the part I most enjoyed.
We spent most of the day relaxing. We went to the grocery store on our own to pick up a few things for lunch. It's challenging when you can't read the labels or signs but we managed. It was one of MJ's roommates' birthday today so we got to sample a homemade layered torte. Delicious!
Please pray that the medical paperwork will be completed tomorrow and other paperwork signed so that we can apply for a court date. This is needed before we can proceed to the next step.
Thursday, 12 November 2015
Ukraine - Week 2
Nov. 8/15
This evening we headed to a church service with MJ where a few missionaries and their families meet in one of their houses. It was interesting to hear that this is the house that the Gorters lived in when they lived in Ukraine. (Transcona CRC people, I'm sure you'll appreciate this tidbit.)
Later we headed to the House of Hope where Slavik is living. We had a wonderful visit with him, his house parents, and others who live there. Slavik whipped Rodger in foosball which Rodger hadn't played since his days at Dordt. We ate supper, played some board games, and visited. His house parents are a wonderful Christian couple who care deeply for the boys living there.
Fabulous day!
Nov. 9/15
It's been a week since we arrived in Ukraine. We feel like we've got a lot done but we still have a long road ahead of us.
Today is the second working day since we arrived in Odessa so it was a get going on the paperwork day. First we headed to the Orphanage #5 where Vica is. She had to write an official letter saying that she wanted us to adopt her. Slavik had to do the same. The orphanage also handed us a huge stack of papers which we need for our adoption dossier. Next we went to a notary where we had to sign papers stating that we wanted to adopt Slavik and Vica. After that it was off to Slavik's trade school to explain what paperwork we needed from them. This is the first time that they've gone through this process so they were unsure of the expectations but they are very willing to help us.
We noticed that there's been a shift that now when we see the kids they come and give us a hug on their own, not our initiative:)
Nov. 10/15
We shopped at the grocery store (just across the street and down half a block). It's always interesting to see the things they have that are the same and similar to what we have in Winnipeg. Many prices are crazy cheap (to us, however not to Ukrainians).
We visited Vica in the orphanage and played Qwirkle and Spot It! We are also trying to teach her a few English words and phrases. I wish I had flashcards on my laptop that I could use. I've been looking online but haven't found anything that I like.
Nov. 11/15
MJ has supper and a Bible Study at her place on Wednesday evenings and she asked if I would make cookies for dessert as she thought the kids would really like that. Well I made chocolate chip and M&M cookies but between substituting ingredients (no Crisco Gold or chocolate chips available) and a different oven it was a challenge that took me most of the day. Everyone thought they were delicious but we knew they weren't the same as those I make at home.
After supper we went to watch Slavik play soccer indoors. Not that I am the best judge but he seems pretty good and loves it. He's hoping that he'll be able to play soccer in Canada.
It was really nice to be able to Skype with Kevin and Krista last night. Reassuring to know that everything is being capably looked after on the home front.
This evening we headed to a church service with MJ where a few missionaries and their families meet in one of their houses. It was interesting to hear that this is the house that the Gorters lived in when they lived in Ukraine. (Transcona CRC people, I'm sure you'll appreciate this tidbit.)
Later we headed to the House of Hope where Slavik is living. We had a wonderful visit with him, his house parents, and others who live there. Slavik whipped Rodger in foosball which Rodger hadn't played since his days at Dordt. We ate supper, played some board games, and visited. His house parents are a wonderful Christian couple who care deeply for the boys living there.
Fabulous day!
Nov. 9/15
It's been a week since we arrived in Ukraine. We feel like we've got a lot done but we still have a long road ahead of us.
Today is the second working day since we arrived in Odessa so it was a get going on the paperwork day. First we headed to the Orphanage #5 where Vica is. She had to write an official letter saying that she wanted us to adopt her. Slavik had to do the same. The orphanage also handed us a huge stack of papers which we need for our adoption dossier. Next we went to a notary where we had to sign papers stating that we wanted to adopt Slavik and Vica. After that it was off to Slavik's trade school to explain what paperwork we needed from them. This is the first time that they've gone through this process so they were unsure of the expectations but they are very willing to help us.
We noticed that there's been a shift that now when we see the kids they come and give us a hug on their own, not our initiative:)
Nov. 10/15
We shopped at the grocery store (just across the street and down half a block). It's always interesting to see the things they have that are the same and similar to what we have in Winnipeg. Many prices are crazy cheap (to us, however not to Ukrainians).
We visited Vica in the orphanage and played Qwirkle and Spot It! We are also trying to teach her a few English words and phrases. I wish I had flashcards on my laptop that I could use. I've been looking online but haven't found anything that I like.
Nov. 11/15
MJ has supper and a Bible Study at her place on Wednesday evenings and she asked if I would make cookies for dessert as she thought the kids would really like that. Well I made chocolate chip and M&M cookies but between substituting ingredients (no Crisco Gold or chocolate chips available) and a different oven it was a challenge that took me most of the day. Everyone thought they were delicious but we knew they weren't the same as those I make at home.
After supper we went to watch Slavik play soccer indoors. Not that I am the best judge but he seems pretty good and loves it. He's hoping that he'll be able to play soccer in Canada.
It was really nice to be able to Skype with Kevin and Krista last night. Reassuring to know that everything is being capably looked after on the home front.
Sunday, 8 November 2015
On to Odessa
Nov. 5/15
We spent the morning sightseeing in Kiev. We've done a lot of walking these past few days:)
In the afternoon we picked up our documents from the SDA and flew to Odessa. It was wonderful to see a familiar face, MJ when we arrived.
We are wondering if we will be able to see the kids before the weekend or if we'll have to wait until Monday. Wondering what their reaction will be. To think that we've been praying and planning for 9 months but they have no idea. The time is drawing near.
Nov. 6/15
This was a very l-o-n-g day. We met our translator, Alyona. She's a wonderful Christian lady, very friendly, has a heart for orphans. She believes all children should have families. She has been/is a blessing to us and the kids.
Alyona said that both of the children were told yesterday that we would be coming. Now we know that they've had a night to wrap their brains around the news.
To start the day we went to the Child/Family Services office in Odessa for more paperwork. Next we went to the orphanage to meet Vica. After meeting with the director, Vica was called to join us. She came into the office with a huge smile.
Later we went to a trade school where we met with the directors and then met Slavik. I think he was more nervous than we were.
Alyona then arranged that we could get Vica and visit with both kids at McDonald's. Both of them had lots of question which we answered as best as we could. They asked about everything from where we went to church, would they have their own rooms, could they keep contact with their grandma, what about their names, could they work part time while going to school, do we have any pets ...
We came home (MJ's place) very tired, not so much physically as mentally/emotionally. We're looking forward to seeing the kids tomorrow and hope that they will choose to be part of our family.
Nov. 7/15
Amazing birthday present - both kids have said that they would like us to adopt them:) God has answered our prayers.
I never thought I'd be celebrating my birthday in Odessa, half a world away from home.
We went to the wedding of one of Slavik's friends. Later we took Vica and one of her friends to a restaurant for pizza.
In the evening we played games - Jenga and Qwirkle. There was a bilingual chocolate birthday cake (Зображення для запиту Happy Birthday). Two teenagers who were visiting MJ made me the cake. People have been very friendly and kind. (I have to see if we can find a Qwirkle game to put under our Christmas tree.)
Nov. 8/15
This morning we went to church with MJ - a bilingual church service. We would sing a song in English and then in Russian. The scripture passages and sermon were also translated. Whenever I hear God's praises sung in other languages I am reminded that we have brothers and sisters in the Lord all over the world.
It's nice to spend the afternoon at home relaxing. This evening we will be visiting Slavik.
Tomorrow promises to be a busy day as we will starting a new round of paperwork. Praying that this will go well.
Wednesday, 4 November 2015
Trip to Ukraine
I'm just learning how to blog so it's nothing fancy but I'll be able to share our adoption journey with you. We covet your continued prayers.
Reg & Rodger Faber
Nov. 1'15
Major butterflies as we left for Ukraine Sunday morning. Difficulty staying focused on packing and other things that we had to get done on Saturday. We were packed by late afternoon and then went out for supper as a family. When we came home, I baked cookies - for me that's a sure sign of being stressed!
As we reflect on the past 9 months, we have been so blessed by people's support. It has been amazing! I received lots of encouragement from students, parents, and staff last Friday (my last day of work).
Nov. 2'15
Okay, we've been to Montreal (cloudy, drizzly), Paris (very foggy), and now are in Kiev. It was a long, tiring trip, but we are here! Dima, our adoption facilitator here in Ukraine was at the airport to meet us. We took a taxi to Karen's place where we are staying while in Kiev. So nice to have a home away from home. Wonderful to meet Christians half a world away who are so friendly and welcoming.
Nov. 3'15
This was our cushion day. We thought it prudent to have a day so if there were any flight delays we could get to our SDA (Department of Family and Children) appointment on time. We did a lot of walking - 5 hours worth with short breaks for breakfast and lunch. Sensory overload! There is so much to see and experience. We will be spending a week or two at the end of the adoption process so we will be able to take the time to do some sightseeing/touristy things. Also got a new SIM card for my phone so I can call and text people here.
Nov. 4'15
Our SDA appt. went well:) We were nervous but the staff person was friendly and didn't ask too many questions. She reviewed Slavik and Vica (pronounced: Vee-ka)'s files with us and said the paperwork would be ready for us tomorrow at 4:00 pm. We will pick up the papers on our way to the airport tomorrow.
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