Sofia's First Smile for Us

As has been the case in the last 3 days, we can't wait to get to the Baby House and smother our baby with kisses and hugs. Today was no exception, and we had a great day with her. She was very awake, and ready to play. Alex held her a few times, and Dominique spent some time squeezing her too. Suddenly, there it was - the precious smile. We hadn't seen one of those full-blown smiles yet, so this was priceless. When it was time for her to go, it was tough to let her go. But there is tomorrow, and the day after, and the day after, and the day after. . .

Meanwhile, we walk around and explore the town of Kostanai, and have lunch with Sandy and Helen. They are from Louisiana, and are the nicest people. Besides them, we have also met 3 other couples who are staying at our hotel and who are in the last stages of their adoption process. Two of the couples are from the USA and one is from Ireland. All lovely people!! Today they had their meeting with the judge and all were approved in their adoption of their children. It was very stressful for them (there are cases of people being refused the right to adopt, even after spending 3 weeks here bonding with the child!), but they all did well and went out celebrating tonight. I do not look forward to that day in about 2 weeks!!

All of us are still exhausted, and continue to wake up at night. Mike and I can't wait for the night when we and the children sleep until 6 am, without waking up countless times. Mr. Sandman, where are you when we need you???!!. . .

Thanks to all of you for posting comments and for emailing --- it's so nice to know we are thought about, plus it's fun reading the comments. The kids really enjoy that as well!
Tata for now. . . and good night.