Many Prayers are NEEDED

As I mentioned, all is well with the process for the girls. However, we have followed the same exact procedures for Nikolas and have been denied. Our side recites the law and officials recite another clause in the law. Unfortunately, the law is VERY vague. It basically states a child under guardianship can be separated from an older sibling (one who has 'graduated' from the orphanage) if there are unusual and extreme circumstances. (I am paraphrasing) However, no examples are cited, thereby, allowing all kinds of interpretation. In addition, government officials in charge are newly elected and do not have power of authority until the 25th of this month. (yes, sounds crazy!) So we must wait!

We are confident our team will make inroads and provide good news soon due to the power of prayer! In the interim, Nikolas sits in a 'hospital' bored to tears. We visit him daily. He is a quick learner and loves problem solving. As soon as he understands the alphabet and phonics, he will easily adjust to his grade level. (Jennifer- if you are reading this, I am sure your hosting and teaching helped greatly!)

The picture I posted should make you laugh. Kateryna (Katya) has a wonderful personality. She is a talker! (if we could only understand what she says...hopefully US doctors will help) We are teaching her how to draw and count to 10. She is smart. As an example, we drew a smiley face and she pointed to her eyelashes to remind us we forgot to include these, along with hair. Once we made these adjustments, she then copied our drawing to the best of her ability. It was also her first time to view a "pop up" book. Each time she turned the page, her response was a joyous gasp of excitement. (It didn't matter how many times she turned the page.)

Sveta continually asks for reassurance that she is coming home with us. The delay is causing some anxiety. Keep in mind, her life experiences, thus far, are not equal to an American teenager. She is about poise and harmony. One of our focuses with her is for her to understand she does not need to parent the younger kids.

Today, we wait and spend time with the all three!