Midnight Train to Kiev, Part 1

Exactly five years ago, we were in Ukraine, in the home stretch of our five-week adventure for Masha’s adoption. For a few more days, I’m posting excerpts and a photo or two from each day. Sometimes funny, and sometimes proof of how naive we were, I hope you’ll enjoy our little trip down memory lane…

Tuesday, 12 June, 2007 – The Midnight Train To Kiev (part 1)

We got up bright and early.  The hot water was still out in our building, so we filled the tub with four inches of cold water, and then boiled four big stockpots of water and dumped it in. Made for a decent emergency bath.

Once we no longer smelled like homeless people, we finished packing and loaded up the car at about 9:30…The Director inscribed a very nice book for Masha, and then called her in to say goodbye.  Many hugs and kisses later, we were in the car and on the road.

Once we got on the highway, I called Northwest to arrange our flights.  WE ARE GOING HOME ON FRIDAY!!!!!!

Before we knew it, it was time to head for the train station.  Sveta and our driver helped us get our luggage up into the cabin, and Sveta gave Masha instructions to help us and be good.

Mark and I were both wondering how the first full day away from the orphanage with our daughter would be.  Would she be happy?  Would she be sad?  Would she be some of both?  We were both very happy by the end of the day to see that Masha was happy and content.  We both reflected on how this experience has been one of the most wonderful and life changing experiences in both of our lives!

What do you think Masha was really feeling?  Leave a comment…