The Abraham Family’s Journey to Russia to Bring Home Their Daughter

June 20, 2008

Delays

We still don't have set travel plans set. Our dossier had to be officially registered in the region and our homestudy had to be updated to approve us for a baby. But mainly it seems that it is difficult to coordinate everyone's schedules in Russia who need be present when we visit the orphanage. Tis the season for vacations, I guess. Now it looks like we'll go around the middle of July. Hopefully, we'll be able to complete our trip before the visas expire on the 21st!

Have I mentioned how hard it is to wait -- even if we're just talking about another two weeks? I am patient about a lot of things, especially with my kids, but waiting is not my forte. Martin is much better at it than me. He has the attitude that it's out of our hands so we just have to stick it out and hope for the best. We're both pretty go-with-the-flow kind of people, but it's hard not to think about those Siberian Airline tickets direct from Houston to Moscow that are only $765 roundtrip per person IF we fly before July 1st. After July 1, the price increases to $1,365 per person. That’s a $1200 price increase for summer rates! Thankfully the tickets start to go back down in September in time for Trip Two.

There are a few good things about the delay. First, it is better for my work schedule. We thought that three out of the five contract reviewers in our legal dept would be out at the same time. The other two were willing to step up to the plate, but I'm sure they had a huge sigh of relief when I told them I'm not leaving until the others have returned.

The other thing is that Nolan's 6th birthday is on the 3rd of July and we would have been traveling home either that day or the 4th of July. Now, I have time to plan a little birthday party for him at our home. Plus, we won't miss all the fireworks! He is very excited.

Lastly, it gives me more time to prepare for the trip. That said, I have reached the point where I am tired of preparing and really don't care if I have forgotten something. I just want to get to Russia and hold our sweet baby girl in my arms!

COME ON TRAVEL DATES!

7 comments:

Amy said...

Wow, I just found your blog and we have mirroring lives. First off we too are waiting and waiting and no it's not easy. We had travel dates but they we not confirmed. SO we're hoping for something next week. It's always next week, isn't it??? Our oldest turns 6 the end of June and we're having his party next Satruday. We, too, thought we would be missing his b-day.
So here's to NEXT week...CHEERS!
Amy

Carrie said...

Take it from someone who has had her fair share of delays - this will work out. I think it is better to have a delay before meeting your child than after. I have had it work both ways. The time will pass quickly!

Elaine said...

I agree with Carrie - the time will pass quickly. I've seen you in action, Kim, and I don't know how time keeps up with you now!
hahaha

kate said...

Your verse of the day is one of my favorites, Psalm 27:14

"Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD."

I hope your wait is short.

Be strong. Take heart.

Troy and Rachel said...

I sure hope they get their schedules straight soon so you can head off. Keep looking at the bright side and time will fly! We're thinking about you.

Michael, Carrie, and S said...

I hope you get your confirmed travel plans soon! I know the wait must be so hard, but I'm glad it is working out well for your family and your work schedule. I hope all of your preparations are going well! I'm sure you've got it all ready and just need to get on the plane! :)

Over-Caffeinated said...

Hey girl, I know this wait is excruciating. I remember waiting for that first meeting, it was like torture. I'll be praying for you during this difficult period. Enjoy the birthday boy!