Another long day but worth it!!! We woke early, headed to the orphanage, picked up Ira, pronounced (ee-ra, rolling the r). We then went to Ira's school and picked up her teacher and headed out to meet Ira's grandfather. We had to stop the car 3 times so Ira could relieve her upset stomach (bad case of car sickness.. doesn't ride in cars much and nervous). About an hour and a half later we arrived in his village (very humbling) . He was not there (in the forest cutting wood to make more wood craft items). 10 minutes later he came into view with his bicycle with a load of wood tied to the back. Ira appeared a little nervous and of course her grandfather was trying to figure out what the 4 strangers were all about. Introductions were made and Sergey explained our purpose. Her grandfather, Victor, took it all in and did not want to stand in the way if this was what Ira wanted. She said it was and he felt strongly that he would miss her but did not want to have Ira come back to him in the future because he held her back and make her resent him. He was clear that he want to have her call and write and visit, possibly within a year. We agreed and let him know how important it was to us to have her stay in touch with her only family. He asked us to send him an available single women and I showed our neighbor (no names) and he gave a thumbs up!!! Victor and I embraced upon leaving and he added that he now he had more family! We plan to see him again before leaving the region. Much more yet to do before we can head back to Kyiv and the Embassy and head back home. It looks like we will be here about 3 more weeks due to holidays and delays. We will spend as much time with Irina as possible to bond and get closer. Her new full American name will be Irina Christine Richards - DOB: 11/27/95
Pic. 1 - Irina & Victor; Pic. 2 - Sergey, Ira, Ira's teacher, Tatiana; Pic. 3 - The gang!
6 comments:
Wow, sounds like a nice visit. Three more weeks seems like a lot but I'm sure you will enjoy your time being able to see Ira and maybe take her places and such. I'm sure you are relieved that the grandfather gave his approval. We will pray for a speedy rest of the process.
God Bless,
Laura and Rob
I am so happy it makes me cry. I can't wait to hug her, she is a little doll. I LOVE her name, it is as beautiful as she is. I'm glad everything worked out with her grandfather, and you were able to bond with him as well. Please tell my little sister that her oldest sister already loves her (have Sergey tell her) PLEASE! I love you all, keep up the notes. Love, Jodi
How wonderfully giving of her grandfather to be willing to let her go! She is so blessed to have her wonderful new parents!
An amazing day for your new family! It is wonderful news that all is well with the family approval. We will pray for smooth steps and great bonding time.
There is a park in Kharkiv where you can take a (long) gondola ride over the city and also a small amusement park. So - there is stuff to do while you wait!
Blessings on the rest of your journey!
~Jean & Jim
Dale and Debbie
I am so thankful your trip is going well. Your new daughter is beautiful and I hope the adoption goes smoothly. We look forward to your return. Happy Easter
Greg and Kathy Stewart
Dale & Debbie,
We rejoice with ALL of you as God gives you favor and blessing! Irena Christine Richards is beautiful and looks like her Mama.
We can't wait for her to meet her new extended Williamsburg family.
Happy Easter...HE IS RISEN!
Love,
The Schweickert's
Post a Comment