First Flight Preparations

Yesterday we were able to explore outside the hotel. We put Valya into a baby carrier so that Isabel can walk hands-free. Galina pushed her own stroller for a while, but seemed quite comfortable riding in it as well. Our visit took us about three blocks down the street to the best New York Diner in Siberia. Ned joined us. Following a meal of chicken strips and french fries we said goodbye to Ned and went shopping at the grocery store next door. Galina stayed in her stroller and Valya continued to be happy in her carrier. We bought more supplies for the flight to Moscow and then headed home to the hotel.

Today, John spent more than an hour completing immigration paperwork for Moscow. We received Galina's and Valentina's Passports. We also have their adoption certificates and new birth certificates with their new names: Galina Farquhar (aka Galina Farkuar) and Valentina Farquhar (aka Valentina Farkuar). Yesterday we got their photos taken for their visas.

Other than the bureaucratic procedures, we have been having a lovely time bonding with the kids. Galina is full of smiles and laughs. Valentina is extremely attached to her mother and won't let Isabel out of her site without bursting into tears. Valentina appears to be walking much better as her incentive to do so has increased. We occasionally go across the hall to visit our friends Ned, Ann, and Konstantine. This afternoon, we all fly out together on the same flight and will staying at the Courtyard Mariott in Moscow for Thursday and Friday nights.