Sorry, it has taken me so long to update the blog. We were able to get Olivia's passport on Thursday, May 7th. Herbert flew in to Kiev on Thursday, the 7th and the American Embassy allowed us to begin the visa paperwork so we could have her passport on Friday, the 8th. We told them how much we wanted to go home and they definitely understood and helped us out.
I faxed them the documents while I was in Vinnitsa(American spelling) so they could start processing the visa because it takes 2 days. Alla, Olivia and I left on Thursday on the train in route for Kiev. Olivia did great on her 1st train ride which was 3 1/2 hours. We arrived in Kiev and headed for the apartment to see Herbert. I was very happy that he had arrived. We spent the evening in Kiev walking around the city with Olivia. To our surprise she did great considering we had removed her from her small world. On Friday we went to the American Embassy to complete the documents for the visa and they informed us that the visa would be ready that afternoon. We then took Olivia for her exit medical exam that is required by the American Embassy. When finished with the exam we returned to the embassy to finalize the process. We had to wait for about 30 minutes and then we received her visa. Yes, I was so happy. We changed our plane tickets for the first available flight which was Saturday, May 9th at 10:50 a.m.
The flight home was a success. Olivia did great considering that her whole world was drastically changed. We had a few upset moments, but with reason due to being tired and exhausted.
We arrived home at 2:00 a.m. on Sunday morning. Drew, Gabrielle and Ethan were waiting outside when we arrived. They were happy to have us home, finally!! I was beyond happy to finally be back home!! It was a long process, but worth it in the end!
Olivia has joined right in with our family. She has already experienced her first swim in the pool and loves the water. She seems to be enjoying the freedom that she is now experiencing. We are looking forward to watching her as she grows in her new world.
Thanks to everyone who supported us during our journey. We appreciate all the prayers and thoughts from all our family and friends.
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