In the whirlwind of activities going on in December, I've gotten seriously behind in blogging about the amazing things happening here.
If you read by blog about Thanksgiving at the Ambassador's home and haven't read the outcome on Facebook, I'm sorry to keep you in suspense. It was a WONDERFUL time! We met so many fantastic people, ate amazing food (all the traditional American food, even pumpkin pie), and many new friendships were started. One woman invited me to join a playgroup the following Tuesday which I did attend with my youngest 2 daughters while my eldest 3 children were in the Russian school for their second full day.
On the topic of school, Gavin, Brendan, and Ashlynn are doing well. They are picking up language through immersion and are pleased that their teachers and classmates are being supportive and helpful in their endeavor to learn Russian. Their classmates are taught English in the curriculum as well and enjoy practicing with my children. It's wonderful that it's been a relationship of give-and-take. I was concerned that it might be more difficult for them in the transition. But it's really more like my kids are little celebrities in the school and have been welcomed with open arms.
The only communication issues that have caused any discomfort have been for Brendan (who was adamant about leaving the school at a specific time (that he believed we would be downstairs waiting for him). They have security guards who are trained in protecting the school and have strict rules for releasing students. So when Brendan was being very 'determined' for lack of a better word about leaving, the teacher and students physically restrained him and made it clear (beyond any language barriers) that he was NOT going to leave without approval. It was a good lesson for him, being as strong-willed as he is.
The other incident that helped him keep his willfulness in check occurred the day that he forgot to bring his tennis shoes to change into from his snow boots. He discovered on that day, that if you don't bring shoes to change into, that you must put plastic bags (like plastic grocery bags) on your feet and secure them with rubber bands for the whole day. Yes, I'm laughing as I'm typing this, but I can assure you that Brendan was NOT laughing that day. In fact, the was very upset about it and did NOT want to put bags on his feet. His teacher thought he didn't understand what she was asking him to do and in his rant (in English spoken so quickly that she had no idea what he was saying) about not wanting to do it, he alarmed her to the point of having big brother, Gavin, called out of his class to try to calm Brendan down and explain to him that he needs to cover his boots. I still don't know if the teacher is aware that he understood and was just mad about it, or if she knew all along that he was just having a tantrum. But another lesson was learned by Brendan that day - be prepared or accept the consequences. He's been amazingly cooperative and prepared since then.
Other notable differences in school are that meals (yes, that is plural) are free. There are 2 lunches: one at 10am and one at 1pm. The 10 am lunch is typically breakfast type foods like a pastry, cereal and such always including fruit, yogurt, and juice. The second meal is a warm meal like sandwiches, burgers, fish sticks, etc, always including soup, fruit, and tea (sometimes milk). Any leftover food from the meals are divided up and taken home by the students. It's common for us to end up with with 3 to 5 oranges, kiwis, bananas, or apples to come home each day.
The final notable difference is the level of physical roughness/play among boys here. It's commonplace for rough-housing/wrestling/whacking one another type behavior in halls among boys. This was (and still is) a bit concerning for my kids. They're not targets, just observers of how physical they are in their interactions with one another. During break time (in the hallways), boys play what my kids call 'violent video games on their PSPs', games like Mortal Combat. I find it interesting to hear their perspectives on the appropriateness of these behaviors and have taken the opportunity to educate them on cultural differences, like 2 years of mandatory military service for all Russian males. They've also made note of the many manual labor work that they see on a daily basis. They're piecing together how important a good education is and how it can unlock opportunities for the future....otherwise, they will need to fall back on their physical prowess (which is not appealing to them, thankfully).
This has been a wonderful learning opportunity for all!
Friday, December 30, 2011
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Random thoughts
Chivalry is not dead. Small acts of kindness and courtesies build communities. It does not matter whether I am alone with my 2 youngest daughters, or all together with my family (5 children with my husband) - someone always stands up and lets me, Meghan and Caitrin have a seat on the subway. Someone offers to help by holding a door, or looking out for one of my children getting on or off the subway, bus, steps, you name it, even when I'm holding their other hand.
At first, I thought maybe I was just looking really pathetic and helpless, knowing it was very obvious that we are not from here (my red curly hair has yet to be matched with anyone living here, even among expats). So why is everyone being so helpful, especially given the cold, unfriendly expression that seems to occupy the faces of the people of this wonderful city?
The answer is quite simple: their outward appearance is no indication of the warmth and depth of caring that these people carry beneath their stoic appearance. They are tough people, no doubt, given what they've historically endured and experienced in their day-to day lives. But there's so much more, so much richness of culture and connectedness, even in a huge city where nearly everyone they see is a stranger.
So how can a huge city of individuals create such a uniformed front in performing acts of kindness? The threads of humanity here have been woven into beautiful tapestry of kindness, respect, and genuine love of others. They care about their neighbors (not just the ones they choose to like). And while I was a bit confused by their collective facial expression depicting coldness and detachment, it's the best example of not judging a book by its cover.
Perhaps I should't be surprised by this, but I truly am. I've been to big cities in the U.S. and haven't had the same experiences. I've seen lots of mixed messages. I've seen smiling faces who are detached and self-interested. People smile and act as if everything is ok even when their world is falling apart, even to friends and family. It's very confusing, really. Here, people rarely smile, but are surprisingly kind and helpful. In the U.S., people smile a lot and can also be helpful, but send mixed messages about how they're really doing.
Maybe when I come back from Russia I will have developed a mix of the two expressions, a blank, undecipherable look when I don't have any specific 'feeling' to express. A blank expression is actually very easy to do. It's not a frown, or a scowl; it's just the absence of expression. I can think of many times in a day where that would be a perfect expression to have! LOL! And then, when I smile, people will know for certain that I am really happy, not just putting on a happy face to cover something else that I am too prideful to share with others.
Sooo....have you tried it? Have you tried to make a 'blank expression'? If not, go try and look in the mirror. Think of something mundane, like chores or brushing your teeth (unless you really enjoy them enough to smile while doing them). Then let your face relax into one without expression. Do your smile and/or scowl lines seem less pronounced? Just think of the money to be saved on skin cream! LOL! Just kidding.
More importantly, make an effort to smile when you mean it. I think that's the most important thing I've learned so far. Don't try the old 'fake it 'til you make it'. Be real! If you're not happy where you are, what you're doing, etc., take stock. Figure out what's working, how you've been blessed, and then assess what could use some improving and make changes. And don't be afraid to let others around you know how they can help. Make it obvious (like me walking into a crowded subway with little kids)! Let people act on God's commandment to Love Your Neighbor! If no one knows, then how can they help, right? It also makes it impossible for others to be blessed by helping others. And who knows, if everyone were to act like that, can you imagine what an amazing world we would be living in?!
Ok, those are my random thoughts (my philosophical rant, possibly) for the day. Hope you're all having a wonderful weekend. Missing friends and family, especially the ones I have been blessed by who keep it Real! :D And yes, I am smiling for real. I promise not to even type a smile that isn't real! Ha ha! That's an easy enough way for anyone to start, right?
At first, I thought maybe I was just looking really pathetic and helpless, knowing it was very obvious that we are not from here (my red curly hair has yet to be matched with anyone living here, even among expats). So why is everyone being so helpful, especially given the cold, unfriendly expression that seems to occupy the faces of the people of this wonderful city?
The answer is quite simple: their outward appearance is no indication of the warmth and depth of caring that these people carry beneath their stoic appearance. They are tough people, no doubt, given what they've historically endured and experienced in their day-to day lives. But there's so much more, so much richness of culture and connectedness, even in a huge city where nearly everyone they see is a stranger.
So how can a huge city of individuals create such a uniformed front in performing acts of kindness? The threads of humanity here have been woven into beautiful tapestry of kindness, respect, and genuine love of others. They care about their neighbors (not just the ones they choose to like). And while I was a bit confused by their collective facial expression depicting coldness and detachment, it's the best example of not judging a book by its cover.
Perhaps I should't be surprised by this, but I truly am. I've been to big cities in the U.S. and haven't had the same experiences. I've seen lots of mixed messages. I've seen smiling faces who are detached and self-interested. People smile and act as if everything is ok even when their world is falling apart, even to friends and family. It's very confusing, really. Here, people rarely smile, but are surprisingly kind and helpful. In the U.S., people smile a lot and can also be helpful, but send mixed messages about how they're really doing.
Maybe when I come back from Russia I will have developed a mix of the two expressions, a blank, undecipherable look when I don't have any specific 'feeling' to express. A blank expression is actually very easy to do. It's not a frown, or a scowl; it's just the absence of expression. I can think of many times in a day where that would be a perfect expression to have! LOL! And then, when I smile, people will know for certain that I am really happy, not just putting on a happy face to cover something else that I am too prideful to share with others.
Sooo....have you tried it? Have you tried to make a 'blank expression'? If not, go try and look in the mirror. Think of something mundane, like chores or brushing your teeth (unless you really enjoy them enough to smile while doing them). Then let your face relax into one without expression. Do your smile and/or scowl lines seem less pronounced? Just think of the money to be saved on skin cream! LOL! Just kidding.
More importantly, make an effort to smile when you mean it. I think that's the most important thing I've learned so far. Don't try the old 'fake it 'til you make it'. Be real! If you're not happy where you are, what you're doing, etc., take stock. Figure out what's working, how you've been blessed, and then assess what could use some improving and make changes. And don't be afraid to let others around you know how they can help. Make it obvious (like me walking into a crowded subway with little kids)! Let people act on God's commandment to Love Your Neighbor! If no one knows, then how can they help, right? It also makes it impossible for others to be blessed by helping others. And who knows, if everyone were to act like that, can you imagine what an amazing world we would be living in?!
Ok, those are my random thoughts (my philosophical rant, possibly) for the day. Hope you're all having a wonderful weekend. Missing friends and family, especially the ones I have been blessed by who keep it Real! :D And yes, I am smiling for real. I promise not to even type a smile that isn't real! Ha ha! That's an easy enough way for anyone to start, right?
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Optimism and effort bring positive outcomes and is contagious
When we embarked on this adventure to Russia, not even knowing which city we would be living in at first, Vince and I discussed the issue of schooling at length. We both liked the idea of immersing our children into a learning environment where Russian was spoken, believing that they would be able to pick up the language. However, even with the commonality of language, each learning environment can be very different. We heard mixed reviews and just about every Russian person we were in contact with (some living in the USA and others via e-mail) had an entirely different perspective on education in Moscow. We came to the conclusion that it was normal for everyone to have their own opinion and for them to all have significant variation.
Given the great variety and range of opinion about my children going to a Russian school, there was a common-thread, that they did not think it would be very possible for our kids to get in. After all, they don't know Russian! In anticipation of and preparation for our children attending a Russian school, we began teaching our children the language at home. We purchased books, Russian building blocks, educational software, etc. They were learning slowly as best we could teach them. It wasn't until we were finally allowed to 'try out' the local Russian school in West Lafayette, Indiana that meets on Saturdays that our kids began to really learn Russian. Doors were opened from then on as we were introduced to a Russian tutor who came into our home to teach our children one-on-one and as a group. They learned to read, print and write the entire Russian alphabet script. Basic communication skills were acquired to prepare them for interactions with teachers and such. My children were primed for the transition to Moscow.
So as the time grew near for our departure, housing and schooling decisions weren't falling into place. Having been told by numerous people how difficult, if not impossible it would be to get our kids into a Russian school, we told the realtor (who makes their commission equal to a month of rent) that we would only rent if our kids could go to the local school. After weeks of no progress and us being in a different country with no physical influence over the direction things were taking, we decided it would be best to untether the rental and school issue and have Vince and the boys travel ahead of us to make some progress.
In the 11 days we spent separated, they worked with 2 competing realtors to find an apartment that would present us with the best potential for a good schooling situation for schooling options. They found an apartment in "Victory Park" - a park with monuments an a museum commemorating the Russian victory over Napoleon. Turns out that it's a highly desirable location in Moscow and that spots in the schools are highly sought after. The owner of the apartment liked the idea of a family of 5 children from the USA living in his home and said he was our new best friend who would help get our children into school. With that hope, we rented the apartment only to have weeks go by with no progress, being told by him and MANY other people how it can take many months for a local child to get into a school. We were discouraged and ready to begin homeschooling when the boxes arrive, believing it could take months to figure things out.
Behind the scenes, my sleep-deprived genius husband searched, google-translated Russian webstites, researched schools, drafted and sent e-mails in Russian addressing principals in the 2 best local schools. We walked altogether with the goal of finding these schools and speaking with the principals. The first trip out, we couldn't even find the closest school, as if it weren't on the map (later discovering it had been torn down and is being rebuilt and expanded). Discouraged by no reply from principals, Vince followed up with Ivan (landlord) to discover that he was able to set up an appointment with the school his kids attend (4 subway stations Northwest of us). The kids did great and were very excited about having been accepted into school (Thanksgiving day).
As it turns out, door-to-door commute time is more than 1 hour to get to that school. I wasn't happy with or at peace with them being so far away. I wanted to know more about our local schools! From what I'd experienced so far in my adventures to Moscow, people eventually open up and do the right thing (sometimes even go above and beyond the fair thing) to accommodate uncommon circumstances. Everything about us being here, our family size, educational needs, etc., are way beyond normal circumstances! I believed that something good would come of it and asked Vince to bring an interpreter with us to the local schools to speak with the principals. If it didn't go well, then at least there was the back-up plan 1 hour away school.
So, as we were waiting more than 15 minutes in a crowded subway station waiting for our translator to meet us before beginning what turned out to be more than 3 hours of walking and meetings, we psyched ourselves up for what was or was not going to happen. But we had to know before having them start school at the other school Monday. Walking around feeling completely lost before discovering that the huge block of cleared land WAS one of the schools (the closest one), we shifted our focus to the final feasible option (2 bus spots east). Thankful to find the building with relative ease, we walked into the door to be greeted by a less than pleased principal.
She had the sternest look about her and I was VERY thankful for our interpreter who could break the ice rather than have the language barrier create additional stress. We were there in the entry of this school for 2 hours before walking out with happy faces all around (yes, even the principal and head teachers who joined the mix). They were impressed by my children and what my family is doing. It's rare to say the least. And this school is a WONDERFUL school! We are blessed! Apparently, this pricipal is in a tough position where she is often offered bribes and such by parents pushing to get their child into the school. She had her guard up for more of the same, only to discover us - turned out to be a pleasant surprise, especially since my kids know how to read and write in Russian. Comprehension will come.
This experience reinforces a valuable life lesson we have been truing to teach our children - that we are called to remain hopeful and optimistic, working for good. Hence the title of this blog: "Optimism and effort bring positive outcomes and is contagious"
Now......after the landlord pulling strings to get us a chance at his child's school.....what would you do? I am inclined to request a delay, so as to not rule it out if something goes wrong at the closer school. Reasonable? Cautiously optimistic?
Given the great variety and range of opinion about my children going to a Russian school, there was a common-thread, that they did not think it would be very possible for our kids to get in. After all, they don't know Russian! In anticipation of and preparation for our children attending a Russian school, we began teaching our children the language at home. We purchased books, Russian building blocks, educational software, etc. They were learning slowly as best we could teach them. It wasn't until we were finally allowed to 'try out' the local Russian school in West Lafayette, Indiana that meets on Saturdays that our kids began to really learn Russian. Doors were opened from then on as we were introduced to a Russian tutor who came into our home to teach our children one-on-one and as a group. They learned to read, print and write the entire Russian alphabet script. Basic communication skills were acquired to prepare them for interactions with teachers and such. My children were primed for the transition to Moscow.
So as the time grew near for our departure, housing and schooling decisions weren't falling into place. Having been told by numerous people how difficult, if not impossible it would be to get our kids into a Russian school, we told the realtor (who makes their commission equal to a month of rent) that we would only rent if our kids could go to the local school. After weeks of no progress and us being in a different country with no physical influence over the direction things were taking, we decided it would be best to untether the rental and school issue and have Vince and the boys travel ahead of us to make some progress.
In the 11 days we spent separated, they worked with 2 competing realtors to find an apartment that would present us with the best potential for a good schooling situation for schooling options. They found an apartment in "Victory Park" - a park with monuments an a museum commemorating the Russian victory over Napoleon. Turns out that it's a highly desirable location in Moscow and that spots in the schools are highly sought after. The owner of the apartment liked the idea of a family of 5 children from the USA living in his home and said he was our new best friend who would help get our children into school. With that hope, we rented the apartment only to have weeks go by with no progress, being told by him and MANY other people how it can take many months for a local child to get into a school. We were discouraged and ready to begin homeschooling when the boxes arrive, believing it could take months to figure things out.
Behind the scenes, my sleep-deprived genius husband searched, google-translated Russian webstites, researched schools, drafted and sent e-mails in Russian addressing principals in the 2 best local schools. We walked altogether with the goal of finding these schools and speaking with the principals. The first trip out, we couldn't even find the closest school, as if it weren't on the map (later discovering it had been torn down and is being rebuilt and expanded). Discouraged by no reply from principals, Vince followed up with Ivan (landlord) to discover that he was able to set up an appointment with the school his kids attend (4 subway stations Northwest of us). The kids did great and were very excited about having been accepted into school (Thanksgiving day).
As it turns out, door-to-door commute time is more than 1 hour to get to that school. I wasn't happy with or at peace with them being so far away. I wanted to know more about our local schools! From what I'd experienced so far in my adventures to Moscow, people eventually open up and do the right thing (sometimes even go above and beyond the fair thing) to accommodate uncommon circumstances. Everything about us being here, our family size, educational needs, etc., are way beyond normal circumstances! I believed that something good would come of it and asked Vince to bring an interpreter with us to the local schools to speak with the principals. If it didn't go well, then at least there was the back-up plan 1 hour away school.
So, as we were waiting more than 15 minutes in a crowded subway station waiting for our translator to meet us before beginning what turned out to be more than 3 hours of walking and meetings, we psyched ourselves up for what was or was not going to happen. But we had to know before having them start school at the other school Monday. Walking around feeling completely lost before discovering that the huge block of cleared land WAS one of the schools (the closest one), we shifted our focus to the final feasible option (2 bus spots east). Thankful to find the building with relative ease, we walked into the door to be greeted by a less than pleased principal.
She had the sternest look about her and I was VERY thankful for our interpreter who could break the ice rather than have the language barrier create additional stress. We were there in the entry of this school for 2 hours before walking out with happy faces all around (yes, even the principal and head teachers who joined the mix). They were impressed by my children and what my family is doing. It's rare to say the least. And this school is a WONDERFUL school! We are blessed! Apparently, this pricipal is in a tough position where she is often offered bribes and such by parents pushing to get their child into the school. She had her guard up for more of the same, only to discover us - turned out to be a pleasant surprise, especially since my kids know how to read and write in Russian. Comprehension will come.
This experience reinforces a valuable life lesson we have been truing to teach our children - that we are called to remain hopeful and optimistic, working for good. Hence the title of this blog: "Optimism and effort bring positive outcomes and is contagious"
Now......after the landlord pulling strings to get us a chance at his child's school.....what would you do? I am inclined to request a delay, so as to not rule it out if something goes wrong at the closer school. Reasonable? Cautiously optimistic?
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Thanksgiving Day Festivities
When the Fulbright office contacted Vince, informing him of the invitation by the U.S.Ambassador, John Beyrle, to join him for Thanksgiving dinner, we discussed and decided it would not be something that was planned with children in mind, as it only extended the invitation to Fulbright awardees and their spouses. Sooooo....when the Ambassador's assistant contacted Vince separately inquiring about our 5 children, we surprised to say the very least!
Can anyone out there tell me how to prepare 5 children ages 10 and under for a Thasnksgiving dinner with someone like the Ambassador? Maybe I should have blogged about this 2 days ago when I found out we are all encouraged to attend. I probably do have someone reading this who has some useful tips for success.
Anyway, we decided that any children who can sit respectfully through an Eastern Orthodox Mass 2 Sundays in a row. not understanding any of the spoken language, are capable of behaving themselves are 2.5 hours with food and guests who can speak English. I sure hope we were right. Here we go. Please say a prayer for us. Thanks!
Happy Thanksgiving! I''m thankful for this wonderful opportunity and for all of my family and friends around the world!
Can anyone out there tell me how to prepare 5 children ages 10 and under for a Thasnksgiving dinner with someone like the Ambassador? Maybe I should have blogged about this 2 days ago when I found out we are all encouraged to attend. I probably do have someone reading this who has some useful tips for success.
Anyway, we decided that any children who can sit respectfully through an Eastern Orthodox Mass 2 Sundays in a row. not understanding any of the spoken language, are capable of behaving themselves are 2.5 hours with food and guests who can speak English. I sure hope we were right. Here we go. Please say a prayer for us. Thanks!
Happy Thanksgiving! I''m thankful for this wonderful opportunity and for all of my family and friends around the world!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
What I have learned so far....
I've learned a few things from being away from home, settling into a furnished 3 bedroom apartment on the other side of the world. 1. Danimal/Activia (drinkable yogurt) containers make great cups. 2. Microwave dinner packaging (you know, the paper plate/dish that holds your food) makes great plates when washed and reused). and 3. Plastic yogurt containers make nice little bowls for cereal! Who knew!
I was happy and surprised to find how well my guys had managed without me. Laundry was all caught up on (10 days worth). The dishes were clean and grocery shopping had been done. Boys were clean and healthy. They learned their way around the city by metro (subway) and the main area on foot. They even scoped out a location so I could watch the new Twilight movie when it came out last Friday!
I am very proud of them and thrilled to find them functioning so well! I must be doing some things very right for them to be growing up to be self-sufficient, highly functioning boys. But I must also admit that it felt weird to be walking into a home that I didn't have any part in making. They had their own ways of doing things (obviously) which were very resourceful and creative. It made the transition from the the long, tiring journey here much easier for the girls and me. They were the ones who made this easier....that was a switch I wasn't really prepared for.
I'm the one who is used to taking care of everyone else. It was a VERY strange feeling to be looked out for and taken care of by my thoughtful children. This is a good thing. But it also means that they're growing up, and rather quickly I might add. Gavin's now wearing only 1/2 size smaller shoe than his father. I'm trying to just cherish these moments and take the time to praise and admire each step of their miraculous transformation from babies to contributing members of this world. They're pre-programmed to grow up...I know that. And I'm so happy to be a part of that process, giving the input, love, and support they need in life. Being a parent is the toughest job you'll ever love. I just never imagined that I would be on the receiving end of their talents so soon.
P.S. It was a good thing I had the foresight to pack sheets, blankets and a few touches of home. Turns out they really did miss Mommy and we've since been on adventures to local grocery stores, home stores, and recently to find one of the 3 IKEAs in Moscow. Yes, 3! Amazing!
We now have metal spoons, forks, and knives proudly functioning alongside the plastic spoons the boys saved and reused from Kartouska (a very small restaurant that serves soup, salad, goriachi pie and drinks) near our apartment just outside the metro. It was a bitter-sweet feeling to let go of the microwave dinner plates and reused danimal cups when we found a set of dishes. But everyone was very happy to celebrate our fruitful journey to IKEA when we sat down and were able to eat all together (not in shifts, washing in between) on our newly purchased set of clear blue glass plates, bowls, and cups. Everyone helped select them, along with other kitchen and home goodies that we take for granted on a daily basis: like a dust pan, dish towels, can opener, scissors, paper, glue, place mats, pot holders, pots and pans, strainer, mixing bowl, toaster, chopping board, etc.
The benefits of starting with a blank slate in the kitchen were there....perspective! What do I really need and use frequently? Good question to ask when trying to prioritize purchasing. I try to do this at home, but I'm obviously not very good at it. Maybe I should gut my kitchen when I return and only put back the things I know I will use every day. If I do that, and paint the cabinets a lighter color to make it brighter, perhaps I won't find any need to remodel in the near future (to those who have been in my kitchen: you know that this is a huge breakthrough for me).
We celebrated with scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for breakfast the morning after our big shopping adventure. Simple joys of home, in our new home.
P.S.S. The shopping center where IKEA is has a place called Ashan (spelling may not be right, I'll look it up later) that is like a Sam's Club and Super Walmart combined, only it's about 3 times as big. No joking! There were no less than 80 check outs and they were all full, waiting at least 10 minutes line. The prices were pretty good (much to our surprise). It was so full in there that I think the entire population of West Lafayette could have been inside shopping at the same time we were there. I cannot find the words to express what a very strange feeling that was....very, very small and very humbled. I thought the U.S. had the biggest and best, most options, etc. Having traveled a bit prior to this current adventure, I have come to understand once again that I don't know as much as I thought I did! And that's what life's all about - learning. What have you learned today?
I was happy and surprised to find how well my guys had managed without me. Laundry was all caught up on (10 days worth). The dishes were clean and grocery shopping had been done. Boys were clean and healthy. They learned their way around the city by metro (subway) and the main area on foot. They even scoped out a location so I could watch the new Twilight movie when it came out last Friday!
I am very proud of them and thrilled to find them functioning so well! I must be doing some things very right for them to be growing up to be self-sufficient, highly functioning boys. But I must also admit that it felt weird to be walking into a home that I didn't have any part in making. They had their own ways of doing things (obviously) which were very resourceful and creative. It made the transition from the the long, tiring journey here much easier for the girls and me. They were the ones who made this easier....that was a switch I wasn't really prepared for.
I'm the one who is used to taking care of everyone else. It was a VERY strange feeling to be looked out for and taken care of by my thoughtful children. This is a good thing. But it also means that they're growing up, and rather quickly I might add. Gavin's now wearing only 1/2 size smaller shoe than his father. I'm trying to just cherish these moments and take the time to praise and admire each step of their miraculous transformation from babies to contributing members of this world. They're pre-programmed to grow up...I know that. And I'm so happy to be a part of that process, giving the input, love, and support they need in life. Being a parent is the toughest job you'll ever love. I just never imagined that I would be on the receiving end of their talents so soon.
P.S. It was a good thing I had the foresight to pack sheets, blankets and a few touches of home. Turns out they really did miss Mommy and we've since been on adventures to local grocery stores, home stores, and recently to find one of the 3 IKEAs in Moscow. Yes, 3! Amazing!
We now have metal spoons, forks, and knives proudly functioning alongside the plastic spoons the boys saved and reused from Kartouska (a very small restaurant that serves soup, salad, goriachi pie and drinks) near our apartment just outside the metro. It was a bitter-sweet feeling to let go of the microwave dinner plates and reused danimal cups when we found a set of dishes. But everyone was very happy to celebrate our fruitful journey to IKEA when we sat down and were able to eat all together (not in shifts, washing in between) on our newly purchased set of clear blue glass plates, bowls, and cups. Everyone helped select them, along with other kitchen and home goodies that we take for granted on a daily basis: like a dust pan, dish towels, can opener, scissors, paper, glue, place mats, pot holders, pots and pans, strainer, mixing bowl, toaster, chopping board, etc.
The benefits of starting with a blank slate in the kitchen were there....perspective! What do I really need and use frequently? Good question to ask when trying to prioritize purchasing. I try to do this at home, but I'm obviously not very good at it. Maybe I should gut my kitchen when I return and only put back the things I know I will use every day. If I do that, and paint the cabinets a lighter color to make it brighter, perhaps I won't find any need to remodel in the near future (to those who have been in my kitchen: you know that this is a huge breakthrough for me).
We celebrated with scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for breakfast the morning after our big shopping adventure. Simple joys of home, in our new home.
P.S.S. The shopping center where IKEA is has a place called Ashan (spelling may not be right, I'll look it up later) that is like a Sam's Club and Super Walmart combined, only it's about 3 times as big. No joking! There were no less than 80 check outs and they were all full, waiting at least 10 minutes line. The prices were pretty good (much to our surprise). It was so full in there that I think the entire population of West Lafayette could have been inside shopping at the same time we were there. I cannot find the words to express what a very strange feeling that was....very, very small and very humbled. I thought the U.S. had the biggest and best, most options, etc. Having traveled a bit prior to this current adventure, I have come to understand once again that I don't know as much as I thought I did! And that's what life's all about - learning. What have you learned today?
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Finally in Moscow
The trip to Moscow was guided by angels all the way. Two wonderful family members accompanied and followed us to the airport so my van would not be stranded in the Indianapolis International Airport for a year or so. They helped us get our 4 checked bags, 2 checked boxes, 4 carry-on baggage, double stroller, 3 children and 3 backpacks to the gate. The airline check-in person (though obviously irritated at the number of bags we had at first) softened when she discovered that I was traveling alone with 3 children ages 6 and under to Russia to meet my husband and 2 sons who went ahead of us by 10 days in order to get us an apartment because the first one fell through, after a delay from a dermatological emergency of sorts. Sooo....she softened, gave my accompanying help gate passes to help us all the way to the plane (through security), and even smiled. Imagine that! :D Since 9/11, I thought it was impossible to get a gate pass if you weren't a ticketed passenger. Cat's out of the bag now!
So, we make our way though security with extra graces from those personnel as well, all the way to the gate where the gate personnel worked to get us seated together (we were in 3 different rows spread out with many rows in-between). Doubtful at first that she could do so in a short time period, within 5 minutes, they announced a delay of 30 minutes because the plane hadn't arrived yet. What luck! She began calling up a few passengers and within minutes, she'd secured the back row of the plane, right next to the bathroom. If I were single or newly married, I may have been peeved about the location. But, with 3 children, it was a gift from God! After gifting me with new seat assignments, she inquired about our flights from Washington Dulles to Moscow (the LONG flight), letting me know that they were separated as well. I wasn't aware of this until that point and was very thankful for her foresight. Right then and there, she went to work and it was work, like watching a rat in a maze, encountering a road-block (exit row....no kids, only 2 together, wrong class of ticket), going back, trying a different way, over and over again for several minutes. Then she got an unforgettable gleam in her eyes, paused in thought, and then started typing with renewed energy. Have you guessed what she did...? Did you guess UPGRADE? A mom, with 3 kids, traveling solo for a 10 hour flight? What would you do? First class and she'd lose her job for sure! LOL! Business class = same result. Economy Plus....yes! Extra leg room for me, closer to the front of the plane (I could smell the mimosas from business class justs 4 rows ahead of me separated by the golden (actually blue) curtain. With a huge smile on her face, she handed me 4 tickets with grace and satisfaction for a good deed done well. I had no idea what she had done until we were on the plane to Moscow 6 hours later. I think that totally counts for Pay it Forward!
The flight to Washington Dulles was pretty short and uneventful, but the de-planing was interesting. We had to go down steps to the pavement of the airport which was wet with recent rain, which had only paused momentarily (for us to deplane I'm sure). We were obviously last off (sitting in the back row) and when we finally made it down the wet steps to the pavement, we were greeted by 2 baggage personnel who had undecipherable expressions. One man asked in a tone of disbelief, "Are you the last ones on the plane?" I smiled and said, "Yes. Where do we go from here?" He pointed to a set of steps up to the gate at the terminal that was about 50 feet away. He asked me if the 4 gate-checked bags were mine, as I was getting my youngest daughters into the stroller. I said yes, he sighed, and time stood still. It seemed like minutes, but could only have been seconds, because how long can they have civilians standing around on the airport taxi area, really? LOL! A lightbulb turned on and he beamed the same gleam in his eyes as the gate attendent earlier and exclaimed, "Come with me and follow closely!" He navigated past vehicles with luggage, pulling ours on his big cart and we shadowed him until he reached a loading area that was signed "Staff Only." He was mumbling over and over under his breath, "I can get in so much trouble for this; I shouldn't be doing this; I could get fired for this; Who left these guys in this situation?; I could get in big trouble for this, but they need my help....etc....etc....." I felt like I was witnessing a verbal battle between the devil himself and the angel on his shoulders. You know what I mean, right? - That battle where one goes back and forth with the pros and cons of doing the right or wrong thing. Well, the angel won out and he overcame the fear, got us through to the staff elevator, took us upstairs, unloaded our bags, and told me I was on my own from here, continuing the internal battle of mumbling about how he could get fired, etc...because he felt badly about leaving me there alone to figure out how to get around with 4 rolling carry-on luggage pieces, 2 girls in a stroller, 3 backpacks, and who knows how far to the next gate (Dulles is a HUGE airport). He turned to walk away and then stopped in his tracks, turned back around and said, "Where are you flying to?" I had to laugh...it was soooo funny! His torment wasn't funny, just watching the whole process was very funny. I know I've felt torn like he was before, but had no idea how it might look to others. Very funny! LOL! I told him we were flying to Moscow and he sighed again, explaining that it is usually on the other side of the airport and could require me to walk down the hall (as far as I could see) to take a shuttle to a different area, where'd have to walk a long way to get to my gate. He walked with me a short distance to the board where gates are posted. We were both shocked to find that the flight to Moscow was directly across from the elevator he brought us up. Seriously! He laughed and was on his way, shining his halo (in my mind). He is a good man, named Matt. I said, "God bless you, Matt." He said,"I could still get in trouble for this..." Ha ha!
So, if you were at the airport, had 4 hours to spend, were at the gate you were going to fly out of and didn't want to move an inch because of the massive amount of precious cargo you had with you, what would you do? Exactly. We found a set of seats along the wall that had a plug for the computer and watched NetFlix, played games on the iPad, and had some 'FaceTime' with brothers and Daddy who were eagerly anticipating our arrival in Moscow. Thankfully a sandwich place was just down the hall within sight of our seats, so we could have lunch without having to move our things with us as Ashlynn stood at the helm. The time flew by and we were on our plane in no time. We discovered our gift from the Indianapolis gate attendant (did I mention her name is Rene?). My legs were VERY thankful for the extra space! The flight was awesome in every way (yes, the food was quite good too). The unknown of immigration and baggage claim was in the forefront of my mind, but given the start we had, I was amazingly calm and sure that all would fall into place.
De-planing was easier this time and my stroller was there waiting for me at the ramp. We made our way through the tunnel and discovered a long set of stairs. I looked at the flight personnel who was sitting in a chair watching the process with detachment and asked if there was an elevator. She flatly replied, "No." This is where I put on my big girl panties and started taking the girls out of the stroller, asked Ashlynn to stay with sisters while I took her rolling carry-on and the backpacks to the bottom of the stairs, made my way back to the top of the steps to find a kind man offering to help me get the stroller down the stairs (which then prompted lazy flight personnel to get up off her rear to offer her help as well). The kind man and newly non-lazy flight personnel carried the stroller down the steps while I held carried Meghan and held Caitrin's hand down the steep flight of steps. After thanking them both and resituating the youngest into the stroller, I made my way to Immigration/Passport Control. A young Russian mother that we met at the gate in Dulles and on the plane (Meghan and her son Timothy played together so sweetly) was coming up just behind me, touched my shoulder and motioned for me to follow her. She went to the front of the very long line and stood there, motioning for me to go in front of her. She pointed at the children and me and for us to go next and that she would go after us. Amazingly enough, there was no riot and we got to go next. :D Yay!!!!
Our passports and visas were a breeze, but fitting double stroller through a single stroller-sized gate was not. The immigration personnel was flabbergasted (apparently never having experienced such a situation), talked with a colleague, came out of his special box around to my side and motioned for me to follow him. He took us through a maze, down an elevator, and then through a place where no one else was allowed to go where we saw a handicap sign (the first and only I've see since arriving here). On the other side was baggage claim. After thanking him, we made our way to the last hurdle before meeting Daddy and brothers on the other side. With 2 luggage carts, Ashlynn and I identified and retrieved all 6 of our check luggage (4 bags and 2 boxes). We loaded carts with the 6 checked pieces and 2 of the carry-ons. Ashlynn rolled one carry-on with her heavy backpack draped on top, making it a bit awkward to maneuver, but she persisted like a champ. Caitrin got down from the stroller to roll her backpack, and I put a rolling carry-on in her seat and one on top of the stroller. Carrying my back-pack, pushing the fully loaded stroller and luggage carts, I spotted the customs check 50 feet ahead of me, knowing we'd find the rest of our family on the other side. Determined to make it the final distance, I figured that Ashlynn could push one cart while rolling her unwieldy top-heavy carry-on with backpack combination while I alternated pushing one cart and the stroller. Just as we started to attempt this coordinated feat, another angel swooped in and offered to help push one of the luggage carts. He went ahead of us, talked to the customs people, unloaded the boxes and luggage from the cart, loaded them back on, and the customs people let the girls and I go without having to unload and reload our cart and other baggage in the stroller. What a gift! I was physically tired and determined not to break down until we reached the other side where my amazing husband could pick up the baton.
As we rounded the corner from Customs to the greeting area, I didn't see them first - Meghan did as she shrieked, "Daddy!!!!!" Gavin and Brendan ran past the "line" that was not to be crossed (for the first time I was thankful for their disregard for a rule) and swooped in to relieve our new friend and Ashlynn from pushing the carts as I pushed Meghan in the stroller to meet Daddy. It was a glorious reunion! Vince had arranged for 2 taxis to take us and our luggage (which fit everything perfectly) to our apartment. When we walked outside, we were greeted by beautiful fluffy white snow covering Moscow, making it a glistening jewel for all to behold - Great beginning of our adventure!
So, we make our way though security with extra graces from those personnel as well, all the way to the gate where the gate personnel worked to get us seated together (we were in 3 different rows spread out with many rows in-between). Doubtful at first that she could do so in a short time period, within 5 minutes, they announced a delay of 30 minutes because the plane hadn't arrived yet. What luck! She began calling up a few passengers and within minutes, she'd secured the back row of the plane, right next to the bathroom. If I were single or newly married, I may have been peeved about the location. But, with 3 children, it was a gift from God! After gifting me with new seat assignments, she inquired about our flights from Washington Dulles to Moscow (the LONG flight), letting me know that they were separated as well. I wasn't aware of this until that point and was very thankful for her foresight. Right then and there, she went to work and it was work, like watching a rat in a maze, encountering a road-block (exit row....no kids, only 2 together, wrong class of ticket), going back, trying a different way, over and over again for several minutes. Then she got an unforgettable gleam in her eyes, paused in thought, and then started typing with renewed energy. Have you guessed what she did...? Did you guess UPGRADE? A mom, with 3 kids, traveling solo for a 10 hour flight? What would you do? First class and she'd lose her job for sure! LOL! Business class = same result. Economy Plus....yes! Extra leg room for me, closer to the front of the plane (I could smell the mimosas from business class justs 4 rows ahead of me separated by the golden (actually blue) curtain. With a huge smile on her face, she handed me 4 tickets with grace and satisfaction for a good deed done well. I had no idea what she had done until we were on the plane to Moscow 6 hours later. I think that totally counts for Pay it Forward!
The flight to Washington Dulles was pretty short and uneventful, but the de-planing was interesting. We had to go down steps to the pavement of the airport which was wet with recent rain, which had only paused momentarily (for us to deplane I'm sure). We were obviously last off (sitting in the back row) and when we finally made it down the wet steps to the pavement, we were greeted by 2 baggage personnel who had undecipherable expressions. One man asked in a tone of disbelief, "Are you the last ones on the plane?" I smiled and said, "Yes. Where do we go from here?" He pointed to a set of steps up to the gate at the terminal that was about 50 feet away. He asked me if the 4 gate-checked bags were mine, as I was getting my youngest daughters into the stroller. I said yes, he sighed, and time stood still. It seemed like minutes, but could only have been seconds, because how long can they have civilians standing around on the airport taxi area, really? LOL! A lightbulb turned on and he beamed the same gleam in his eyes as the gate attendent earlier and exclaimed, "Come with me and follow closely!" He navigated past vehicles with luggage, pulling ours on his big cart and we shadowed him until he reached a loading area that was signed "Staff Only." He was mumbling over and over under his breath, "I can get in so much trouble for this; I shouldn't be doing this; I could get fired for this; Who left these guys in this situation?; I could get in big trouble for this, but they need my help....etc....etc....." I felt like I was witnessing a verbal battle between the devil himself and the angel on his shoulders. You know what I mean, right? - That battle where one goes back and forth with the pros and cons of doing the right or wrong thing. Well, the angel won out and he overcame the fear, got us through to the staff elevator, took us upstairs, unloaded our bags, and told me I was on my own from here, continuing the internal battle of mumbling about how he could get fired, etc...because he felt badly about leaving me there alone to figure out how to get around with 4 rolling carry-on luggage pieces, 2 girls in a stroller, 3 backpacks, and who knows how far to the next gate (Dulles is a HUGE airport). He turned to walk away and then stopped in his tracks, turned back around and said, "Where are you flying to?" I had to laugh...it was soooo funny! His torment wasn't funny, just watching the whole process was very funny. I know I've felt torn like he was before, but had no idea how it might look to others. Very funny! LOL! I told him we were flying to Moscow and he sighed again, explaining that it is usually on the other side of the airport and could require me to walk down the hall (as far as I could see) to take a shuttle to a different area, where'd have to walk a long way to get to my gate. He walked with me a short distance to the board where gates are posted. We were both shocked to find that the flight to Moscow was directly across from the elevator he brought us up. Seriously! He laughed and was on his way, shining his halo (in my mind). He is a good man, named Matt. I said, "God bless you, Matt." He said,"I could still get in trouble for this..." Ha ha!
So, if you were at the airport, had 4 hours to spend, were at the gate you were going to fly out of and didn't want to move an inch because of the massive amount of precious cargo you had with you, what would you do? Exactly. We found a set of seats along the wall that had a plug for the computer and watched NetFlix, played games on the iPad, and had some 'FaceTime' with brothers and Daddy who were eagerly anticipating our arrival in Moscow. Thankfully a sandwich place was just down the hall within sight of our seats, so we could have lunch without having to move our things with us as Ashlynn stood at the helm. The time flew by and we were on our plane in no time. We discovered our gift from the Indianapolis gate attendant (did I mention her name is Rene?). My legs were VERY thankful for the extra space! The flight was awesome in every way (yes, the food was quite good too). The unknown of immigration and baggage claim was in the forefront of my mind, but given the start we had, I was amazingly calm and sure that all would fall into place.
De-planing was easier this time and my stroller was there waiting for me at the ramp. We made our way through the tunnel and discovered a long set of stairs. I looked at the flight personnel who was sitting in a chair watching the process with detachment and asked if there was an elevator. She flatly replied, "No." This is where I put on my big girl panties and started taking the girls out of the stroller, asked Ashlynn to stay with sisters while I took her rolling carry-on and the backpacks to the bottom of the stairs, made my way back to the top of the steps to find a kind man offering to help me get the stroller down the stairs (which then prompted lazy flight personnel to get up off her rear to offer her help as well). The kind man and newly non-lazy flight personnel carried the stroller down the steps while I held carried Meghan and held Caitrin's hand down the steep flight of steps. After thanking them both and resituating the youngest into the stroller, I made my way to Immigration/Passport Control. A young Russian mother that we met at the gate in Dulles and on the plane (Meghan and her son Timothy played together so sweetly) was coming up just behind me, touched my shoulder and motioned for me to follow her. She went to the front of the very long line and stood there, motioning for me to go in front of her. She pointed at the children and me and for us to go next and that she would go after us. Amazingly enough, there was no riot and we got to go next. :D Yay!!!!
Our passports and visas were a breeze, but fitting double stroller through a single stroller-sized gate was not. The immigration personnel was flabbergasted (apparently never having experienced such a situation), talked with a colleague, came out of his special box around to my side and motioned for me to follow him. He took us through a maze, down an elevator, and then through a place where no one else was allowed to go where we saw a handicap sign (the first and only I've see since arriving here). On the other side was baggage claim. After thanking him, we made our way to the last hurdle before meeting Daddy and brothers on the other side. With 2 luggage carts, Ashlynn and I identified and retrieved all 6 of our check luggage (4 bags and 2 boxes). We loaded carts with the 6 checked pieces and 2 of the carry-ons. Ashlynn rolled one carry-on with her heavy backpack draped on top, making it a bit awkward to maneuver, but she persisted like a champ. Caitrin got down from the stroller to roll her backpack, and I put a rolling carry-on in her seat and one on top of the stroller. Carrying my back-pack, pushing the fully loaded stroller and luggage carts, I spotted the customs check 50 feet ahead of me, knowing we'd find the rest of our family on the other side. Determined to make it the final distance, I figured that Ashlynn could push one cart while rolling her unwieldy top-heavy carry-on with backpack combination while I alternated pushing one cart and the stroller. Just as we started to attempt this coordinated feat, another angel swooped in and offered to help push one of the luggage carts. He went ahead of us, talked to the customs people, unloaded the boxes and luggage from the cart, loaded them back on, and the customs people let the girls and I go without having to unload and reload our cart and other baggage in the stroller. What a gift! I was physically tired and determined not to break down until we reached the other side where my amazing husband could pick up the baton.
As we rounded the corner from Customs to the greeting area, I didn't see them first - Meghan did as she shrieked, "Daddy!!!!!" Gavin and Brendan ran past the "line" that was not to be crossed (for the first time I was thankful for their disregard for a rule) and swooped in to relieve our new friend and Ashlynn from pushing the carts as I pushed Meghan in the stroller to meet Daddy. It was a glorious reunion! Vince had arranged for 2 taxis to take us and our luggage (which fit everything perfectly) to our apartment. When we walked outside, we were greeted by beautiful fluffy white snow covering Moscow, making it a glistening jewel for all to behold - Great beginning of our adventure!
Sunday, November 13, 2011
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Exercise
I'm exhausted from daily exercise of my patience. Don't worry - my children's safety is not being compromised in the process. You see, it's like a friend of mine said not too long ago, "don't pray for patience or God will give you something to help you exercise the patience you have!" Seriously though, I don't think of myself as an impatient person and I am feeling some fatigue here. My kids are great, things are slowly but surely falling into place with regard to the trip to Moscow, and life at home without Vince and my boys is going smoother than I anticipated. I am just sooooo ready for the apartment selection process to become fruitful very soon, so I can begin to plan. I have had to restrain my innate desire and need for planning and anticipating the future....how? - by exercising patience. All in God's time, which I've come to embrace. I just long to know what my address will be (so I can print out address labels for Christmas cards before I go instead of writing them a gazillion times because I doubt we'll have our own printer in the apartment anytime soon). See....there goes the planning/anticipating thing again.
Instead of wallowing in self pity, I'm looking inward, searching for the lesson to be learned from this experience. And I think I may have found it! While Vince and my boys are away, I'm exercising my 'here and now' focus (in addition to taking out the garbage!). Since I can't plan for and anticipate things there with much accuracy beyond the preparations I've already made, I'm shifting my focus on being engaged and immersed in the present - my girls! It's been a ball to shift emphasis on the younger ones in my home. It's amazing how quickly homework and chores get done! Seriously! It's freed up time and attention to invest in doing nails, clothes shopping, reading more books, playing dress-up and having tea parties, watching girl movies, and just cuddling more. Only one of my girls has even mentioned missing their brothers and that was during mealtime when she was looking for someone to join her in being goofy at the table. ;) It's been a nice shift so far, but it's only day #2 of the guys being away.
For those who haven't heard the low-down on things from me personally, here's a cliff's notes version: The last minute delay of my family's departure to Moscow on Oct. 11th has resulted in a situation where my darling hubby and 2 sons have had to go ahead of me and the girls to find an apartment (the one we thought was going to work out fell through) and figure out the lay of the land. The next available flight that has the price and routing we can work with is on Nov. 10th. I'm hoping and praying that everything comes together soon so I can set that date (so I can get back to my planning of course, like will the apartment be furnished, or will I be packing and shipping a few things from here before I go!). :D
Instead of wallowing in self pity, I'm looking inward, searching for the lesson to be learned from this experience. And I think I may have found it! While Vince and my boys are away, I'm exercising my 'here and now' focus (in addition to taking out the garbage!). Since I can't plan for and anticipate things there with much accuracy beyond the preparations I've already made, I'm shifting my focus on being engaged and immersed in the present - my girls! It's been a ball to shift emphasis on the younger ones in my home. It's amazing how quickly homework and chores get done! Seriously! It's freed up time and attention to invest in doing nails, clothes shopping, reading more books, playing dress-up and having tea parties, watching girl movies, and just cuddling more. Only one of my girls has even mentioned missing their brothers and that was during mealtime when she was looking for someone to join her in being goofy at the table. ;) It's been a nice shift so far, but it's only day #2 of the guys being away.
For those who haven't heard the low-down on things from me personally, here's a cliff's notes version: The last minute delay of my family's departure to Moscow on Oct. 11th has resulted in a situation where my darling hubby and 2 sons have had to go ahead of me and the girls to find an apartment (the one we thought was going to work out fell through) and figure out the lay of the land. The next available flight that has the price and routing we can work with is on Nov. 10th. I'm hoping and praying that everything comes together soon so I can set that date (so I can get back to my planning of course, like will the apartment be furnished, or will I be packing and shipping a few things from here before I go!). :D
Monday, October 10, 2011
God's timing.......Rocks!
It's amazing how things work out sometimes! Yesterday, I was praying for winter to come by Tuesday mid-morning so I could avoid packing bulky winter gear and have my family wear it all to the plane. That would make room for my favorite pillow and possibly comforter as well if I sucked all the air out of them in a handy space bag. However, that would rob my friends and family members in Indiana from the lovely Indian Summer we've been enjoying. It would have been a completely selfish request. Did I get snow this morning? No, but I did get a minor unavoidable delay!
Sunday, October 9, 2011
2 more nights....
As I prepare to lay down my head tonight, I realize that I only have two more nights that I can rest in my own bed, with my favorite pillow and blanket before traveling half way across the world to sleep in a place that has yet to be determined. This is my life for the moment. And somehow, with all the packing and preparations to be done before flying out Tuesday afternoon, I am already beginning to morn my bed and sleeping comforts. As I begin to wallow in self-pity, it becomes very clear to me how much I NEED this trip to Moscow. I am spoiled rotten! I take so many simple things for granted in my daily living. Simple joys/chores like laundry and private transportation are soon going to be major changes for me any my family of 7. The adventure is about to begin. And for tonight, I am going to relish my sleeping environment. If only tomorrow were a holiday so I could sleep in, instead of getting children up from their cozy beds and ready for their last day of school!
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