Dateline – 0800 local – Tuesday 20 Feb 07 – Chernigov …….
Well – yesterday was a bit frustrating as we hit bureaucracy full force. We thought it would be our final drive to Gorodnia for a quick pickup of the court decree and some records from the orphanage. Instead we ran around town getting paper to make copies of the decree, made two trips to the orphanage, had an interesting experience changing money, etc.
We arrived in Chernigov around noon to get the new birth certificate and passport, only to discover both offices were closed. We ate a leisurely lunch and then Oles taught us (what he claims to be) the favorite card game of all Slavic people – duroc. Now I thought it was a bad word, but he told us it was OK to use only in the context of the game itself.
How can I best explain the game – hmmm – the first game was held with a running narration of everything from when children first learn the game, to the finer points of cheating during the game, to rules that only seem to be rules when they work in Oles’ favor. The narration dwindled as it appeared that the American male was going to win the game – which he did! Now, rather than explaining that I had won (I didn’t realize it at the time) we launched immediately into a new game, which Oles won. Only then were we allowed to stop playing. So, I said, “Oles – you just won a game you have been playing your entire life with passion against a 12-year old girl and two American’s that don’t have a clue about the game – you are Chocolate Pie!” My assessment didn’t dampen his enthusiasm and we never did discuss me winning the first round. (Beverly, I’m on your side about this one ;-) Very very suspicious (in Russian) said I!
The good news is that the Ukrainian court has issued its final decree and we now officially have a daughter! We are anxious to return home now so please pray for quick movement through the myriad details required to finish the process here. It doesn’t look like we will travel Wednesday, we’re hoping for Thursday or Friday now.
Tim and Charlene
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8 comments:
Tim and Charlene,
Please tell Oles that he has that L still looming over his head! He needs to come here to visit to see if he actually can win at a game in the US- by the "standard" rules- not the OSOR(Oles set of rules)!
It would have seemed you were in a miracle dash but I think the Lord just wanted you to have one slight birth pain to make it seem real. We are praying for doors to be opened and for safe travel home.
I will see you when I return from FL.
Love,
Beverly
GREAT NEWS on the official decree. Howdy Sophie and safe travel ahead.
We will pray for your speedy (well, speedy Ukraine style) journey home with your precious new daughter.
Laura and Rob
Tim and Charlene, well, you're getting there! Blessing for a safe trip home..
Debbie & Dale
I hear they got MacDonals's over there. What, no Mac-plane ticket? No Mac-travel visa?
Come on home folks. We're praying for your Mac-Speedy return.
Hello Mom et Dad its will. !m stying home sick cause i gots strep ( yes) we found the dumb dog and i sent you email. so good luck and good day.
from the files of Fort Will
Thell this oles character that he is a Galla Boi
Godspeed, safe journey--got your card Char and can't wait to talk to you!
Left with two,
Home with three,
Home to loving
Friends and family!
Love to the Three of You!
(Aunt) Barb
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