Yippeeee! and Whhhaaa!

Yes, I am very happy that my computer is now fixed and back from Best Buy! Hopefully I can get some regular blog posts going again soon. HOWEVER, the BIGGEST "Yippeeee!" is because David and I are now done with our post-placement visits. I posted this photo of Madeline and me from Madeline's "Gotcha Day", June 25, 2007. As I look at this picture, all the memories of that day on one hand feels just like yesterday but so much has happened since then and so, at the same time, it seems like it was a lifetime ago!

The photo was taken just after we left the baby home. We were sitting on a little swing in the play area on the grounds of the home. We had to buy the hat that Madeline was wearing in the photo. We were told by our coordinator that we would not be able to leave the home without a hat for Madeline so our coordinator took us shopping for a hat the day before. And despite the temperature being in the upper 90's, the Russians surely gave us crazy looks if, after Gotcha Day, Madeline was out and about without a hat on. Gotcha Day was extremely hot and I couldn't wait to get back to the hotel. Despite being poorly air conditioned, the hotel was still a relief from the extreme heat outside. Holding Madeline that day, I had so many thoughts going through my head. First, I couldn't believe that it was official and that we had our daughter, Madeline with us. Secondly, I couldn't believe it was official.....holy crap!! Now what?!?!?!?! I am sure all mothers go through this "Oh My God" moment. And finally, I was sad/mad at the same time because my mom wouldn't be home to great us when we returned to the States. She, just as much as I, couldn't wait for Madeline.

All these thoughts and feelings were going through my head as we climbed into the van of our Russian driver that day. And so David, Madeline and I began our life as a family.....as I clung onto Madeline who rode without a car seat (they don't have them in Russia). And, yes, cling I did....If you ever experienced Russian roads (extremely bumpy) and Russian drivers (crazy, with minimal traffic rules) you'll know that Madeline should feel lucky that she isn't scarred with claw marks from me and that ride.

And sooooo, here we are. We have made it through all 4 (6mos, 1yr, 2yr, & 3yr) of our post-placement visits by or social worker. An update and photos are off to Russia to arrive before the third anniversary of our court date (6/14/07) and we are done. Although I am happy, I once again have mixed emotions. I now am a bit sad too because, not only do I love our social worker and it is sad that she will no longer visit, I am sad that this means our Maddie is 3 years older. She has lost her "baby look" and looks more like a little girl....no longer a baby. She is getting so big, so quickly and this milestone is a reminder of how fast she is growing up. Slow down, girl!