Saturday, Jan. 2 - Wednesday, Jan. 6

The caregivers recently told me that the day we don’t come, our baby cries (no visits on Sundays). And when the caregiver changes her into the daily outfit that we bring, she starts to smile, seeming to know that she’ll be with us. She puts her head on my shoulder now, and reaches to touch my face. Joe figured out weeks ago that when she’s rocked up and down a certain way, she laughs and laughs. It’s the most joyous feeling to know that she’s happy and getting more comfortable with us. The most difficult part of this whole process is having to give her back when our hour is up, until our next visit. To bring some levity, I tried my own version of “Drago,” once outside. And, snapped a photo of the fantastically large squawking birds overhead.

So many changes to adjust to living here, particularly for a person not fond of change :). But, I’ve finally settled into the rhythm and routine of daily life, and begun to appreciate the slow, simpler pace and environment. For my daily workout I listen to “The Fray” on my trusty IPod. Even though Joe downloaded an array of music for me, I prefer the repetition of this album. Comforting-- that sense of familiarity. While I'm on the stairs, I still expect to see him next to me on the bike. Miss you, honey. I’ve surprised myself with my newfound aptitude for technology. (Adam, you’d be proud of your aunt). Certainly, the reams of notes and labels/baggies that Joe made for me before leaving have been a lifesaver.

Funny-- with all the outside signage looking like colorful calligraphy, the two English signs now look out of place. Whereas our translator used to walk steps ahead of us, we now greet each other with a hug or kiss, and walk arm in arm when traversing the icy walkways (no salt used here). With more snow, then rain/ice, then more snow, and yes, COLD, the tress are covered with the most beautiful ice/snow/icicles that looks absolutely magical.

I think I’ve passed the litmus test for acclimating-- twice I’ve been stopped by locals to ask me directions. Truth be told, I’ve also been stopped and questioned, twice, for taking photos. Those crazy Americans clicking away in subzero weather. My local vocabulary is increasing-- dobranutra, dobraden, spasibo. Upon leaving our driver/translator the other day I proudly said dostoyevsky, rather than dosvedona, and we all had a good laugh. As a previous English major, old habits...

I’m learning more about surrender and patience. And trust... to always take that leap of faith.

I was so touched by our baby’s favorite caregiver. On the eve of their Christmas (1/7), she waited in -20 bitter cold, so I could bring her a gift for her retirement. I came to express my gratitude for all that she had done for our baby, and she handed me a jar of homemade raspberry jam. We exchanged big hugs. Upon tasting it later, it is the most delicious, sweet, raspberry nectar-- like nothing I’ve ever tasted. Perhaps it’s from all of the love and care that she put into it, just like she gave to our baby. How fortunate we are for our baby to be at such a great baby house and country, with all of the dedicated people that are making this happen in country, and in coordination with our agencies in the states. Let alone all of our family and friends in the states that continue to support us.

On the home front, Joe is busily making runs to “Babies R Us.” Thank goodness for skype, as we consult our “Baby Bargains” bible. I’ve been on a quest for a baby bath and soft, hooded towels. After three days and five shops (no “Target” here), I think I’ve come up with a viable option. Yea!