Our First Day in Kherson - Friday, September 2

The train pulled into Kherson at 10am this morning and our "in region facilitator" Tonya came to meet us in our cabin.  After a short stop to have a coffee and omelette's (very good by the way), we went straight to the government building that is the equivalent of child services in the US.  We met with the Region Inspector briefly and then headed straight to the orphanage with her.  We met with the Director of the Orphanage along with several others of the staff.  They eventually brought Mariia into the room along with her adoptive brother Kiril (they are not biological siblings...many of you already know the story).  The Inspector asked both children several questions as she had to confirm that Mariia agreed to be adopted by us and Kiril had to agree as well.  (Kiril is being adopted by his host family in New Jersey later this fall - the Charbonneau's.  This is yet another family on a similar journey as ours.  We plan on staying family friends with them in an effort to keep Mariia and Kiril close.)

We ended the meeting sharing coffee and chocolates at the conference table.  We have to return to his office on Monday to continue the process.

Kelly and I have checked into a room in a mission house a few blocks from the kids.  The facility is actually used mainly as the church office for what we believe is a non-denominational church here in Kherson.  The pastor and his staff have been extremely nice and accommodating.  I will post pictures of this building at a later point.

The highlight of our trip so far came when we returned to the orphanage around 4pm and spent a few hours with Mariia and all the children.  Many were actually familiar faces from the hosting lists we have viewed over the last year.  We met several children whose adoptive parents are soon to follow us in the process.  Mariia took us around and showed us where she lives.  We went to the playground / ball fields and hung out with the kids as well.  We attended a meeting that the Director called with all the children to discuss updates and issues - no idea what he said, but all 250 kids were very attentive!
The buildings they live in are old, however very well maintained.  This facility is known as one of the best in the state, however please realize it is still very far from having a home.

Several pictures are posted below of Mariia and many of the kids we met today...

We got to speak to our kids at home via phone again tonight so the day was very complete.  We are sad to miss their activities this week and weekend but know they are in great hands!  Jake, Mark, Nicholas and Brooke we love you very much!  Thank you for the phone calls, emails and facebook posts...keep them coming because Mommy and Daddy miss you more than you know!