Home A Year

Well, I can't believe it but we arrived home from Kazakhstan one year ago today. It has been an amazing year. I'm not going to sugar coat it, the adjustment has been a roller coaster. There has been sleep deprivation, exhaustion, blood, sweat, and yes, tears. But there has been laughter, excitement, pure joy, and total unconditional love. I am so proud of Cameron and the progress he has made over the past year and continues to make. He continues to work with a physical and occupational therapist and is getting ready to begin speech therapy. He has come a long way but we still have some work to do. He is still developmentally delayed but he has made great strides from the almost 8 month old baby I first met in Kaz who could not sit on his own and spent most of his time staring at his fingers. I could not be a more proud Mom!

I always said this blog was meant to chronicle my journey to Kaz and the first year home. And considering the name of this blog is Kaz Bound and we have Been There Done That, I feel it is time to bring this blog to an end. However, I am in the process of setting up a new blog that I will use for updates on my life with Cameron. And who knows, (only God does at this point), maybe there will be a journey to another as well. I'll post the link to the new blog as soon as I finish getting it ready.

Thanks to everyone for following along. I always appreciate the comments and the encouragement I have received, from some who I have never met.

God Bless!

My Little Giraffe

Yep, my little man was a giraffe for Halloween. He enjoyed trick or treating but wasn't all that interested in the other kids in costumes or the candy (He's not really eating candy yet). But he loves to be outside so he very much enjoyed walking around the neighborhood. Passing out candy was less enjoyable. I normally do like to give out candy and see all the kids dressed in costume and my neighborhood gets tons of kids. But, it was a little chaotic this year trying to feed Cameron dinner while answering the door and trying to keep Kelsey from barking (impossible). You'd think after the first 20 or so people come to the door she would get used to it and stop with the barking but no. Luckily Mom was around to help. All in all, it was good fun. I'm sure next year will be even more fun because Cam will be 2 1/2 then.

I couldn't let today slip by without some nostalgia. Today, a year ago, I walked into an orphanage in Semey, exhausted after 36 hours of travel time, and a caregiver brought into the room this beautiful, big baby boy. I don't remember much of the trip but that moment is so ingrained into my mind. It is so vivid as if it were yesterday. Meeting my son for the first time was the most amazing moment of my life thus far. I will be forever grateful to God for allowing me to be this sweet boy's Mom. It is not easy being a single mother. It is truly a balancing act and I have never been more exhausted in my life. But I would not trade it for anything in the world!

Now, if I could only get him to stop standing in the tub!

Fun At The Farm

Cameron had his first pony ride and hayride this past weekend. I just love Fall and I've been really looking forward to this time of year with Cameron. I'll have to post the obligatory pumpkin patch picture at a later date (when I'm able to actually get the pic). I had Cam all set up holding onto a wagon wheel, surrounded by pumpkins, with his pumpkin shirt on and the camera battery dies! Isn't that always the way? So the above picture on the pony is the only picture I was able to take at the farm. The farm also had petting animals such as goats, sheep, and pigs. Cameron could not have cared less about the goats or sheep but he really liked a particular pig. He actually got nose to nose with this smelly pig and there I was, with no working camera!

He is doing very well. He's getting more and more rambunctious and making tremendous progress. The teachers at daycare and church tell me all of the time how good and happy he is. Just today his teacher from school wrote what a joy Cameron is to be around. He loves to be outside and with this cooler weather we are outside more.

This weekend we will head to Atlanta, with Nana in tow, for a Semey reunion. I'm really looking forward to it. What a blessing to be able to meet up with other kids from the same orphanage. I plan to go to as many Kaz reunions as possible over the next years. I think it is really important to try to keep that connection as much as possible especially as the kids get older and understand their story more.

Home 8 Months!

My, how the time flies. I cannot believe we have been home from Kaz 8 months today. We've been so busy this summer that I haven't had much time to update.

Cameron is doing very well. He is moving all over the place now. He is nearing 30 lbs and is a very good eater. He really likes bananas, mac & cheese, and sweet peas. He adores teddy grahams. He's not drinking liquids as much lately, which is surprising given how hot it has been here in the South. But, he's not getting dehydrated so his pediatrician is not concerned. And he drinks when he gets thirsty enough. Actually, he pretty much does everything in his own time. He's on Cameron's time and no one else's.

Cameron also loves music and has alot of fun playing his toy piano. He also enjoys bathtime and swinging at the playground.

I'm looking forward to a Semey reunion in Atlanta in October. I'm really excited to meet some other Semey kids and to hopefully see some little ones again who were in Semey with us. From reading others blogs, everyone seems to be doing very well.

From reading all of the boards, it does seem as if adoption from Kaz has gotten a little slower this summer. Some changes in the Kaz embassies here in the US have slowed some things down and because more families are wanting to adopt from Kaz now, the timeframes seem to have gotten a little longer. I just keep praying for the families that they will hang in and not give up so these wonderful kids will have a shot at a family. The changes I see in Cameron in the last 9 months since I first met him are nothing short of miraculous. He continues to work hard with his therapists and I could not be a more proud Mom. I shudder to think how far behind he would be if he had stayed at the orphanage.

Busy Little Man

Busy Weekend At Nana's

First Gaze Into the Ocean

Look at that cool flying kite!

But, I don't wanna pet the bunny!

Chillin' at first picnic

We have had a very busy May. Cameron had his first official picnic in the park, where we met many other adoptive families in the area. He had his first look and feel of the ocean, saw his first flying kite, and his first petting zoo (He could not have cared less about petting the baby bunnies and kitties).

He seemed to enjoy the beach immensely. (Maybe I will be able to talk him into being a marine biologist.) He even didn't mind putting his feet in the sand. This was surprising since he doesn't like to put his feet in grass at all. He like the water until the wave splashed too far up onto his torso. This was cold and he did not like it. But he really seemed to love being there. So much to see!

Cameron has made amazing progress over the past 6 months since we have been home. He is crawling at high speed now. He's getting better at walking while holding my hands and can stand without assistance for a nanosecond. He is finger feeding better and will eat almost anything you put in front of him. He doesn't seem to like tomatoes (that's my boy!) and loves grilled cheese sandwiches. He is using a sippy cup although still needs some assistance. My main challenge currently is getting him to drink cold beverages. He wants his drinks warm or room temperature at a minimum. His hair and teeth are taking their sweet time coming in. He definitely has more hair now but it is still not very thick yet. And it's looking redder by the day. He still has 4 teeth although 2 more top teeth are right on the verge of coming in.

He definitely has a mind of his own and I'm pretty sure I'll be dealing with a bit of a temper as he gets older. Must be the red hair! But, he is still pretty happy, laughs alot, and is jabbering up a storm (still working on Mama with no luck so far). He is a great sleeper most of the time. He plays hard and sleeps hard. The more mobile he gets the more he wants to explore, so he keeps himself pretty busy (and me too!).

Saying Yes

"It's What You Say Yes To That Determines Your Life"

Over the 18 months or so that I was either researching adoption or going through the process, I had some inspirational and encouraging quotes on sticky notes around my desk and computer. They are all mostly still there. One of my favorites is above.

How different is my life today since saying Yes to international adoption. I could truly not imagine life now without Cameron. A friend of mine asked me recently if I really felt like a Mom yet. I didn't even hesitate answering Yes to his question. I remember reading on one of the message boards that some Moms felt like it took 6 months to feel like you aren't babysitting someone else's child and I can remember thinking that I hope it doesn't take me that long. I can honestly say that it did not, not even close. Now, I didn't feel like a Mom immediately and I don't know exactly when it happened. It's like falling in love; you can't pinpoint exactly when it happened but you just realize one day that it has happened.

I also remember, early on when I first started talking about my plans to close friends and family, a friend of mine told me that I had no fear. Now, this is someone who has known me since 3rd grade. I remember thinking later that it wasn't that I don't have fear. I just try to live my life despite sometimes being afraid. I try to push through the fear and do things anyway and make decisions based on my faith and the path that I feel God has chosen for me. I don't want to get to the later years of my life and have regrets. And most elder adults will tell you that they regret more the things they did not do more so than the things they did do. I am so glad I pushed through the fear and said Yes. I now have an amazing son.

Cameron continues to do well. He seems to have adjusted to his school well. I am very happy with the daycare so far. He is getting EI (Early Intervention) and PT (Physical Therapy) and OT (Occupational Therapy) to help get him caught up developmentally. He's almost 14 months old. He is much more mobile now, even though he's not walking yet or crawling for that matter. He just doesn't seem to like being on his hands and knees. But he scoots and rolls to get around the room. His legs are strong and he is walking with someone holding his hands. So, I think it won't be long before he walks on his own. He is eating mostly table foods now and will eat most everything you give him. And I know I've said it before, but he is a BIG boy. Everyone comments about how big he is and they all seem amazed he is not closer to 2 years of age. And believe me, my back and wrists agree!

Happy Birthday, Cameron!

Birthday Boy

Yum, sugar!

Me and Nana

Love this fish wrapping paper!

Me, Mom and Kelsey

Me, Mom, Nana, Aunt Alice & Uncle Clay

My Birthday Stash!

Today is Cameron's 1st birthday. We have been home a little over 2 months and I can't believe how fast time is flying. He is doing so great. He is such a happy, good-natured little boy and I am still amazed that I get to be his Mom. On this day, I took time to pray for his birthmother and to thank her for giving birth to this wonderful boy. I will be forever grateful that he was given the opportunity for a better life and to enrich my life as well.

We celebrated Cameron's birthday on Saturday with a party at our house. I kept it relatively small; mostly inviting just family. We had a blast! I think I may have gone a little overboard with too many presents but I just couldn't help myself. You only have your first birthday once!

Enjoy the pics!

Transitioning Well

I have not been great about updating lately, so I thought I would do so now. In the last month since Christmas, Cameron and I continue to adjust well to our new life together. He cut 4 teeth, on the same day naturally. At least, I think there are 4 (2 upper and 2 lower) but he doesn't like to let me get a really good look. I started back to work and he started preschool. He seems to really enjoy being around other kids and seems to like the teachers. I'm happy with the arrangement so far. I had a tough time getting back into the swing of things at work but I'm getting back into it now.

Cameron has been responding to his name in the last few weeks and also seems to know the dog's name. He and Kelsey continue to do well around each other. He really likes to watch her wag her tail and likes her to kiss him on his head.

He is also becoming more and more active. I've noticed he reaches out more and grabs onto toys and things in front of him (like his food) more often. He also seems more curious about everything around him. He is also starting to eat small amounts of real, chunkier food. The changes he has made are incredible.

We are really settling into a routine. I feel so blessed to have this little man as my son. I cannot express into words the feeling. Life is so different and I wouldn't have it any other way.

We will celebrate his first birthday in a couple of weeks. I'll post pics.

First Christmas With Cameron

Cameron and I have been home a little over 2 weeks and it has been a great couple of weeks. I have been offering food to Cameron at nearly every meal since we've been home and low and behold, about a week ago, he finally decided he would try it out. And he has been eating at every meal since. We've had our first trip to see the doctor (the drawing of 5 vials of blood and receiving 5 vaccination shots were not fun) and all of his tests came back normal. He is just slightly anemic. A multi-vitamin with iron should help with that issue. We have caroused the neighborhood with Kelsey every day. We have been shopping several times and visited several dining establishments. We managed to make the house appropriately decorated for the holiday and have also survived the Christmas family introductions.

Cameron does very well when we are out. He still only fusses when he gets sleepy and occasionally when he gets bored. He likes to stay on the move. He has become more interactive with his toys and is a pretty happy boy most of the time. I can't believe how quickly the time is passing. He will turn 1 year old in just 7 weeks.

Needless to say, my family and I have had a very Blessed Christmas. I hope all of you reading had one as well.

Merry Christmas!!

Days 33-34 – The One Where Cameron Becomes a Citizen of The Red, White & Blue

First Day Home

Thursday-Friday, December 6-7, 2007

Sorry it has taken so long to update. We have made it home safely and we are now trying to adjust our body clocks to East Coast time.

The last day in Almaty was fairly uneventful. We lounged around and packed. We did go to lunch at a place called Stetson, where Marina, the Almaty facilitator, recommended. She said they had an American menu. I think that description is a little misleading. However, they did have some good sandwiches with good french fries, with regular Heinz ketchup (most of the ketchup in Kaz is this dark red and it doesn’t taste exactly the same as ours). So, it was a pretty good almost-last meal in Kaz.

On Friday, we met Sam, the driver, at 6am to go to the airport. I have to admit, I have never been happier to be on my way home. Cameron did very well on the flights, even the long legs. He had a couple of meltdowns, but that is to be expected during 25 hours of travel. We were able to get the bulkhead rows between Almaty and Amsterdam and on the Amsterdam to Memphis leg. This row gives you extra room and they attach a baby bassinet to the wall in front of you. This was extremely helpful and Cameron did sleep in it.

Cameron became a U.S. citizen as soon as the wheels touched down in Memphis. Of course, he was screaming during one of his two meltdowns. I have to think it was his ears and not the thought of becoming a citizen of our great country. After waiting for longer than I had hoped in the Immigrations office, Cameron received his very important stamp on his Kaz passport that will allow me to get him a U.S. passport.

We arrived in Columbia around 10pm and went straight to Cameron’s new digs. I think he was impressed, but it was hard to tell. Our clocks are a little messed up but not too bad. I am currently working on getting us on a schedule and preparing for Christmas.

This closes my “The One With…” series to chronicle my adoption trip. However, I will update with Cameron’s progress and our transition. Thanks again for all of the wonderful comments. It’s been quite a journey!

God Bless America!

Days 30-32 – The One Where We Plan Our Escape

Monday-Wednesday, December 3-5, 2007

Cameron and I and Mom all arrived in Almaty safely. The plane between Semey and Almaty is so small that you have to drag your luggage yourself from the plane. So, I was a little anxious about getting my two, very heavy suitcases, backpack, stroller, and Cameron and I off the plane and into the terminal to our Almaty driver, Sam. As it turned out, I had a very nice Australian man and two Kazakh men all dragging my luggage for me. Everyone was so nice and I was so thankful. I guess it helps a woman alone with a baby!

On Monday, Cameron and I got settled into the hotel and went for a stroll in the park. It was nice to have a little independence. We both slept well that night, but the heat does not work well in the room and they would not bring a portable heater to the room. So, it was cold but we were both bundled up and had plenty of blankets. On Tuesday, we did manage to get a portable heater, which made the temperature much better in the room.

Early on Tuesday morning, Mom arrived. I was very happy to see her. We went to the SOS Medical Clinic that morning and Cameron was poked and prodded. We also met some other American families. Most of them had adopted from Krygyzstan, which is a fairly new program. But, they all seemed to have positive experiences. All of the babies were so cute.

We three are doing very well. Everyone slept well on Tuesday night. Cameron slept later than I have seen him sleep yet. The crib the hotel gave me for him is put together a little precariously. We were trying to all take a nap on Tuesday afternoon and we heard a crash in the other room with the crib. I went flying in and the bottom had dropped out of the crib. Cameron was fine and actually was smiling and laughing. He thought it was fun. And a man from maintenance fixed the crib for us. But I’m still not convinced of it’s sturdiness.

Cameron’s Kaz passport arrived from Astana late Tuesday night. So, we were able to go to the US Embassy on Wednesday afternoon. This is the last step in the adoption process before we are allowed to go home! So, we then went to the KLM office and booked our tickets. We could have left Thursday morning, but you have to leave the hotel at 6am to make the flight and we thought it would be better to give Mom an extra day to rest and to not be so rushed to pack. So, we leave bright and early Friday morning and arrive in Columbia late Friday night (same day because of the time difference).

I realized at the Embassy that today’s date was December 5, exactly a month after we arrived in Semey and first met Cameron. I cannot complain about the adoption process. Every turn has gone very smoothly. The staff in Semey and Almaty are very professional and they have a very good handle on how to move families through this process. But, then again, we all know who was in total control of this entire journey. And I have to send praises to God for sending me down this path and for making the path a fairly smooth one. I will never forget this month for as long as I live.

Tomorrow, we will hang out at the hotel and lounge around and pack. Then we will head back to the good ole’ US of A. Thank you all for your wonderful encouraging words and prayers. I’ll update again when we get home.

Days 28-29 – The One Where We Say Goodbye to New Friends

Lenin Statue

Larissa, Vladimir, Jennifer Having Fun At Lenin Statue

The Famous Pasha

Vladimir

Saturday & Sunday, December 1-2, 2007

Well, Saturday was not our best day. We met the others for lunch as usual, but Cameron was particularly fussy for some reason. I think he gets bored and he seems to like it more outside than inside. Needless to say, I didn’t get to eat much of my lunch. We then ran some errands and the meltdown got worse. We only had one driver and the others still needed to finish their errands so Larissa called Olga and she and her driver came to pick us up and take us home. Olga has a 7 year old son, German, and he is adorable. He was practicing his English on me and I must say his English is very good.

After an unusual hour long afternoon nap, Cameron woke up happier. We had dinner and played and spoke to Nana on the phone (Well, Cameron didn’t really speak to Nana but he did listen to her.). He went to bed fairly easily around 8:30. He slept through until about 6:00 which is the normal time he is waking up. He still fusses at least once in the night which wakes me up, but he goes right back to sleep. I guess I’ll get used to it at home.

Today, Sunday, was a good day. We were out for lunch, shopping, and one last sightseeing trip for about 3 hours and he was happy the whole time. We went to see some statues remaining from the Soviet years. One is an extremely tall statue of Lenin and other smaller busts of other Soviet leaders. We got out of the car to take pictures and we had to trample through the snow. Cameron thought this was the most fun. He just laughed and smiled the whole time. He also took a much longer (1 ½ hours) nap this afternoon.

Cameron and I leave Semey for Almaty tomorrow morning, so we had to say goodbye to Jennifer and Marshall and Matt, Shari, and Sarah. I will sincerely miss having our daily lunches together and I plan to stay in touch. We also had to say goodbye to Pasha today, sadly. He was leaving for Ust this afternoon and Vladimir will drive us to the airport tomorrow. He was so sweet. He made a point to come into the restaurant at lunch to tell us goodbye. I will truly never forget these wonderful people who live their lives here in the city where my son was born. Although, it has been a tough month and an even tougher week, I will have fond memories of my time in Semey and I will tell Cameron about it as he grows up. Who knows, maybe we’ll even come back to visit someday.

I don’t know how much internet access I will have in Almaty, so the updates may be sparse from here on out. But, I will try to touch base and I will definitely update once we are home. We hope, depending on how fast we can get an appointment at the U.S. Embassy, to leave by Friday. Fingers crossed!

Days 26-27 – The One Where My Life Flashed Before My Eyes

Thursday & Friday, November 29 & 30, 2007

I had my first very scary moment as a Mommy on Thursday night. I fell in the apartment with Cameron in my arms. I usually have him in the walker in the kitchen with me while I’m preparing dinner. I gave him his bottle and he fell asleep. When I carried him out of the kitchen, I tried to move the walker with my foot and it got caught and down we went. I took the brunt of the fall, thank goodness. I bruised both knees and scraped my elbow and wrist pretty badly but luckily I didn’t break anything. But, Cameron’s head did hit the floor and the wind was knocked out of him. He lost his breath and couldn’t cry for several seconds but of course it felt like forever and scared me to death. However, we are both okay. I feel like I’ve been in a car wreck but Cameron is fine. His head was red but never swelled and was back to normal within an hour. He didn’t vomit and his mood was back to normal after I got him calmed down. I watched him like a hawk all night, waking every couple of hours to check on him. Talk about getting a crash course in parenting. What a week we’ve had!

Tonight, Friday, Cameron got himself up on his knees and his arms at the same time. It was only a couple of seconds but I don’t think it will be long before he is crawling. He is sleeping better through the night, which means so am I. We’re still having food issues because I don’t think the formula really keeps him that full but he still refuses food. But, we’re doing okay.

I’ve never been more ready to go home in my whole life. I leave on Monday morning instead of Sunday for Almaty. I hope to be there no more than a week and then I’ll be home. Mom comes into Almaty on Tuesday morning. I can’t wait to see her.

I wanted to send out a very special Congratulations to the Conley family. They went to court today and were awarded the adoption and the immediate custody of their 16 month old precious, little girl. I also wanted to thank Shari, who talked me through the scary fall situation immediately after it happened. I am so thankful that I was here with these wonderful people. This journey is not only about the children you bring into your lives but the people you meet along the way as well. And thanks to Matt for always carrying my backpack when my arms are full with Cameron.

I also wanted to Congratulate Jennifer and Marshall on getting their court date for Wednesday. To quote a line from one of my favorite movies, Almost Famous, “It’s all happening!”

I also have a funny Pasha story. When he came to pick up Cameron and I for one of our walks in the park, I was getting Cameron into his snowsuit. Remember, I mentioned the multiple layers in which they dress their children. Well, I only had one layer because it is so hot in the apartment and then the snowsuit keeps him very warm while we are outside. Well, Cameron lifted his shirt and Pasha noticed his bare belly. He fussed at me and lifted his own shirt and patted his belly and said “For Pasha, okay. But, for baby, no”. It was so funny. But, I still did not put another layer on him. Whenever we come back from those walks, Cameron’s entire body except for his face, which is the only body part exposed, is very toasty. It was just so typical Pasha.

Day 25 – The One With The Walk In The Park

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

The last 2 afternoons, Pasha has been nice enough to pick up Cameron and me and take us to a nearby park for a nice, albeit cold, walk. The park is just around the corner on the next block. I could easily walk but I’m not allowed to leave my apartment by myself. I can’t wait to be able to actually drive myself somewhere whenever the time is actually convenient for me. But, the staff here takes such good care of us that they want to make sure we get out once or twice a day. The name of the park is Central Park, but it is not even remotely like the one in New York. One thing I have noticed here in Semey is that a lot of people walk to where they need to go. And several girlfriends walking together usually link arms as they walk. This makes them seem very warm and close to each other. I thought it was really nice. Of course, they could just be trying to stay warm.

The walks are interesting since we don’t have Larissa to translate and Pasha speaks little English. But we did manage to have a nice conversation about our respective families. Pasha is married and has three sons. He also told me his youngest son also didn’t want to eat food and only wanted the bottle. I guess Larissa must have mentioned that we have had some food issues. It was nice to get reassurance.

I have resigned to giving Cameron mostly formula with cereal in it until we get home. I was starting to drive myself crazy; not to mention the others at lunch everyday. He does take a few bites of cereal in the morning and I was able to get him to take some of the bananas off my finger instead of using a spoon. But it was still just a few bites. Baby steps (no pun intended).

The pictures above are a few of Cameron in the apartment. The one of him looking at his feet are from the first day here. They really bundle the kids up here in Kaz in 2-3 layers even to stay inside. So, I don’t think Cameron had really had a chance to check out his feet before. He thinks they are the greatest things ever.

Days 23-24 - The One With The Feeding Blues

Monday & Tuesday, November 26 & 27, 2007

Well, Cameron and I are doing well except at meals. He adamantly refuses to eat the food. He will actually swallow some cereal in the mornings but not much. Everything else that makes into his mouth gets spit back out. And that’s if the food even makes it to the mouth because he sometimes starts screaming when the spoon is coming toward him. However, this does not surprise me. I don’t remember if I talked about the way they fed him at the Baby House in an earlier post. They basically had to force food down his throat. I saw him being fed three times and it was extremely difficult to watch. He wanted the bottle but they alternated between spoonfuls of food and the bottle. I think they gave him the bottle mainly to make sure the food went down his throat. Then, he would spend most of our bonding time spitting up. Now, I do want to make one thing clear. The caregivers are not harsh, horrible people. There are typically 2 caregivers for each shift and they are trying to take care of 10-12 babies at the same time. So, unfortunately, the babies have to eat fast. But, it is obvious to me that this feeding experience has traumatized Cameron and is something I will have to work on with him. The formula does not hold him through the night. He is sleeping no more than about 5 hours straight. He goes right back to sleep after another bottle, but I know at almost 10 months of age, I will need to find a way to get food into his system. I am trying to make the experience more pleasant for him. I am not forcing it but I am offering food at every meal even though I know it will probably go to waste. I’m trying to find a fruit he likes first since most kids like fruit because it is sweeter. So far, he did not take to bananas or peaches. These meals are upsetting for us both. It is so hard to see him not eat when I know he needs it. But, we will keep trying. And, of course, he is not going hungry. I keep reminding myself of that point. I have plenty of formula and I have started adding more cereal to the formula. Plus, they give the babies a substance called Kefir here. It is basically drinkable yogurt. He likes it and it is more filling than formula alone.

I knew long before I came to Semey that this week in the apartment with custody would be the hardest and I was right. Homesickness has really set in. Now that the stress of court and wondering if I would get immediate custody is gone, I just want to go home. But, we have to wait on his passport to be processed. And I guess I shouldn’t complain too much since waiting on a passport in the U.S. takes months instead of 7-10 days.

I’ve had some questions about when I can leave Semey and when I will meet back up with Mom. Right now, I’ve been told I will probably leave Semey on Sunday. I should be told more definitively in the next couple of days. Mom and I will also decide in the next couple of days when she will leave SC to meet me in Almaty. She will probably arrive in Almaty maybe Tuesday of next week. I’m really excited about seeing her and knowing every day that passes gets me closer to home.

Days 21-22 – The One Where We Blow This Joint

Saturday & Sunday, November 24-25, 2007

I went to the Baby House as normal at 10am Saturday morning (I thought I was done with this schedule?). But this time, it was to pick up my son. I had to sign some paperwork, basically stating I was taking over the responsibility of Cameron’s care from the orphanage, and I had to wait until the director arrived at 11am. But, by around 11:30, we blew that joint and went back to the apartment together. There wasn’t much fanfare at the apartment since Cameron was already asleep for his morning nap. He slept for about 1 ½ hours. Then we had lunch and played for awhile. Then, he was ready for his afternoon nap. Then, we lost electricity. He slept about 45 minutes and then we played some more until dinner. I had to fix dinner without the electricity and we ate by candlelight. Cameron loves his bottle but he’s not real big on the food; maybe because I couldn’t heat it up? He eats the food but not much. I think he’d just assume stick with the bottle.

He really enjoyed his bath but it was short because I don’t have a baby tub or mat in the tub, so he was slippery. He thought it was great to slip and slide but I was afraid I would lose my grip and he’d bust his head open. We’ll have to see about getting a baby tub. Cameron was ready for bed by 8pm. The only time he really gets fussy is when he gets sleepy. He fights it. But, he slept good; just not quite as long as I would have preferred. He woke at 4am. He didn’t wake up crying; he was babbling and blowing raspberries, which he does a lot by the way. I waited about 20-30 minutes to see if he would go back to sleep which he did not. So we got up and had a bottle. According to the Baby House schedule, he usually goes to sleep at 8 but wakes around 10-11 for a last bottle. But he never did wake until 4. After the bottle, he went to sleep briefly but was wide awake about 6:15.

So, basically he slept for about 8 hours. The problem was I could not go to sleep. I think I probably finally fell asleep between 1 and 2 am. His crib is in the same room with me and he is a noisy sleeper. If he’s not outright snoring, then he is grunting in his sleep. I remember the caregivers telling me he does this when I first started seeing him at the Baby House.

Cameron slept good for his morning nap on Sunday. We then met the others for lunch. None of the restaurants have high chairs, so you have to eat with the little ones in your lap. I thought I did pretty good feeding Cameron some juice with one hand and feeding myself with the other hand. The others were amazed at how good and alert Cameron was even since the day before. They all noticed some differences in just one day.

I don’t think Cameron likes the afternoon naps. He babbled and looked at his feet long before he fell asleep. He only slept about half an hour. I have to admit, I was very tired this afternoon with the few hours of sleep I got the night before. But, we had dinner and a bath (Thanks to Jen and Marshall for letting me borrow the baby tub they have in their apartment!). He was really sleepy so he just went down about 7:30. He was asleep before we even made it to the crib. Let’s hope he and I sleep straight through the night!

Day 20 – The One Where I Introduce My Thanksgiving Butterball

Introducing: Cameron Boyd Craft!

Friday, November 23, 2007

It’s a boy! 21 lbs, 27 inches! At approximately 10:30 am Kaz time, (11:30pm Thanksgiving Night EST), the judge granted my adoption of Cameron (fka BabyKaz) and waived the 15 day appeal period. I get to bring him back to the apartment tomorrow morning! God is so good! And the timing is amazing. It brings a whole new meaning to Thanksgiving.

Court ended up being pretty easy. I had a new judge, which had Larissa and Olga (and me, frankly) a little worried. Of course, before court, Larissa said it was nothing to worry about. She only told me that they were worried as we were leaving the courthouse. Instead of having me deliver my speech, the judge and prosecutor just asked me questions. It still covered everything in my speech, but it was much easier just standing and answering questions.

OK, I’m not an overly emotional person, and I thought I would be so focused on what I was saying that I would not cry during court. I was wrong. The judge was about 30 minutes late and I was looking at the photo album I put together as evidence of the bonding period while we waited and I started to cry a little then. During court, the representative of the Dept of Education described how well Cameron has been doing since we started the bonding period and I started to cry then. So much for not being emotional!

I don’t know how it works in every region, but in Semey, the speech has 3 parts. In the first part, you just describe your life, family, job, health, house, experience with children, financial condition, and your reasons for adopting. If you’re divorced like I am, you have to explain. In the second part, you explain the process you went through. You name your agency and how you chose it, when your documents were registered at the Kaz Consulate, when you received your LOI, when you applied for your Visa, and when you arrived in Semey. You also describe meeting the orphanage director and when you started the bonding period. You also describe what happened during the bonding period; how the baby changed and got stronger. This is where you describe some of your emotions during that time. In the third part, you describe what you are asking the court. You ask the court to adopt this baby and give his/her date of birth and you explain how you want the names on the new birth certificate to read. That’s pretty much it.

Now, the way mine worked is the judge and prosecutor asked me questions that are covered in Part I. The orphanage director and Dept of Education representative basically covered Part II and Olga covered Part III. To be honest, I think I got off pretty easy. Sometimes you get hit with a lot of tough questions but I didn’t get any surprises. I didn’t even get asked most of the questions I practiced with Olga the night before. Easy, breezy! All I have to say is Whew!!

I spent the afternoon stocking up on formula, food, and diapers. And I went to Vital Records and signed the adoption certificates. The lady at Vital Records ceremoniously handed me Cameron’s new birth certificate and the adoption certificate. The next step is to get his passport and exit Visa. I should be in Semey another week to ten days. And then I go to Almaty for him to be checked out by the medical clinic and then I will go to the US Embassy for an appointment. This takes anywhere from a few days to a week depending on how quick I can get the appointments set up. Then I can go home!

Better get some sleep. As my Mom said, Now the fun really begins!

Day 19 – The One Without Turkey on Turkey Day

Thursday, November 22, 2007

There was no turkey to be had in Kaz today. But, technically, it was Wednesday in the States. It was just another day that has become very routine. Except today was my last day of this routine, hopefully. It was actually a little sad for me in the bonding room this afternoon when the realization dawned that it was the last day I would be bonding with BabyKaz with the other 2 families. We took a great group photo that I will truly cherish. I will always remember this group of people. I’m glad I was able to share this amazing journey with these particular people.

Between visits today, we went to the bazaar. It has clothing, shoe, and souvenir stores. But, the crazy part is downstairs. It is a huge airplane hangar-size building. Most of this space consists of rows upon rows of raw meat just lying out on tables. It would never pass FDA inspection. But, you can get anything you want; cheese, bread, candy, fish, etc. It was quite a sight to see.

After the afternoon visit, I made second practice with Olga and Larissa. It took almost 2 hours and we reviewed the court process. This included Olga throwing out questions that she thinks the prosecutor and judge will probably ask. Some of the questions are really crazy. But it was good to practice and I feel better about. I’ll let you all know the results tomorrow. Prayers are much appreciated!

Day 18 – The One Where I Danced Like No One Was Watching (Of course, no one was watching)

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Last night, I needed a break from my speech so I flipped through the songs on my I-pod until I found something I could dance to. Do you know that it is just as easy to dance in the middle of the living room in Kazakhstan as it is in your own home in the U.S.? Have I mentioned how glad I am I packed my music??

Second verse, same as the first. That’s what the days are feeling like at this point. I have a hard time keeping up with what day it is. However, I am in the homestretch and it really feels good. Getting through court on Friday will be such a relief. I realized today that my court time is at 9am on Friday which is 10pm Thursday Eastern Standard Time. Hopefully, I will have my decision from the judge before Thanksgiving officially ends. I have so much to be thankful for this year.

I also want to take a moment to thank everyone for your comments. I enjoy reading them so much. They are so uplifting; especially on the days that I am particularly homesick. Keep them coming!

By the way, I started salivating over the thought of a Bojangles sausage biscuit this afternoon. It’s funny the food you start daydreaming about when you’ve had the same foods for over two weeks straight. I also thought it was ironic that I would crave that particular food since all I’ve had is meat and starch, which of course is exactly what a sausage biscuit consists. Go figure!

Days 16-17 – The One Where I Get My Court Date

Clapping

Mosque

Inside Mosque

Monday, November 19, 2007

Well, today was the last official day of the bonding period and Olga submitted my petition to the court. Evidently, Pasha had to drive to Ust (the capital of the Eastern Kaz region and about a 3 hour drive one way) to drop off my documents as well as some other documents for Olga. I’ll tell you one thing, Pasha is much, much more than a driver. He works so hard and can fix anything.

Today, we went to a small book store. The bookseller was a very nice and enthusiastic Russian lady. She was so helpful pointing out all of the books that were in English. I bought about 4 children’s books that had all 3 languages (English, Russian, and Kazakh). I thought it would be nice for BabyKaz to have his native language in print. The bookseller made a point to thank all of us for taking care of their country’s children. She seemed genuinely grateful and it was very touching. Although, I thought it was a little ironic since I feel like I’m the one who is grateful.

One new skill BabyKaz has begun using the last couple of days is clapping his hands. His hands don’t always meet but he is getting better and better at it. He is also so happy to look out the window. I think he likes the outdoors. I don’t think he has been outside much, if at all, since being transported from the hospital a week after he was born. He’ll get to be outside a lot in the SC sunshine!

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

I received very good news this afternoon. Olga came in during our afternoon visit to let me know my court date. It is Friday, November 23, at 9:00 am. It was very exciting and everyone was very happy for me. This evening, Pasha even dropped off a crib and walker. How’s that for faith?

BabyKaz seemed the most animated I have seen yet today. He was very happy and vocal. He clapped his hands so much and was grasping these stacking cups I brought from home. By the way, all of the babies love these cups. It so amazing; something so simple. It started snowing again this afternoon; huge, beautiful flakes. I was glad to see the snow because there is so much mud when there is no snow on the ground. BabyKaz and I watched the snow fall from the window and he just laughed. It was wonderful to watch.

After lunch today, we visited the inside of a mosque. It was around 100 years old and it was very beautiful. There was a lovely Kazakh man who took the time to talk with us about the Muslim religion. The main point he seemed to really want to get across was how they feel about us adopting their children. Many people in Kazakhstan do not approve of Americans coming to their country and taking their children away. I guess they would rather see them grow up in orphanages. However, this man said he felt it was a very good thing that we were doing. Essentially he said, that we were all children of God and their children were also our children. It doesn’t matter where they grow up as long as they are loved and nurtured. He also stressed that all people, no matter their religion or where they live, should be loving and kind to each other. He was a very open man with very kind eyes and I was very touched by his words. It was an experience I will never forget. I am not a political person and I don’t want to get into a debate about the war in which we are currently involved. However, I will say that I wish more Americans could have the experience we had today and hear this Muslim speak. It really made me realize the difference between these beliefs and the extreme beliefs of terrorists. Unfortunately, I believe too many Americans don’t know the difference between the two. Now, I am a Christian and I admit to knowing very little about the Muslim religion. I do know that we don’t believe all of the same things. However, what we do have in common is that we both care about people in general and believe we should be honest and loving to everyone.