Back IN Kazakhstan

We're back in Petropavlovsk and we have our girl!

Our KLM flight to Amsterdam went very smoothly. We loved the airport! We found a lounge near the meditation center on the upper floor and took a nap. After a little window shopping, and lunch at McDonald's, it was time for our flight to Almaty. That flight also was very smooth. Having flown both Lufthansa and KLM now, I think I prefer KLM.

After clearing passport and customs, we walked over to the hotel airport. We checked in a little after 2:00 a.m. We set the alarm for 6:00 a.m. so we'd have time for showers before going back to the airport at 8:00 a.m. We didn't get very much sleep as it sounded like jets were taking off over our heads the entire time!

We had a slightly bumpy flight to Petropavlovsk, but a smooth landing. We met a lady visiting her inlaws in Kokshetau, who is from Florida. It was interesting speaking with her.

Marina and Sergei were waiting for us at the airport. They whisked us away to the Birth Certificate office for Katya's BC and adoption certificate. Then we had to get documents notarized. Then finally, we were on our way to the Shelter.

When we arrived, I could see Katya waving to us from the upstairs window. She was just as beautiful as she was two weeks ago. We hugged, and hugged and kissed. We brought in the suitcase so we could get her a change of clothing and get the gifts out for the children.

I think Katya enjoyed handing out the gifts, toy cars, watches, purfume sets, and Polly Pockets.

We said our goodbyes and headed back for the hotel. It was a little after 5:00 p.m. by that time and we had to wait until 6:00 p.m. for dinner. Tom and I were quite hungry as we'd only had 2 breakfast bars all day long.

Finally, a little after six, we headed downstairs and had dinner with Marina. After supper, we went back to our room and an early bedtime. Mama and Papa were exhausted!

We set up the sofa bed for Katya in the living room, and we slept in the bedroom. That was some good sleep!

We're now getting ready for breakfast. Here's hoping there are blineys on the menu!

Today's itinerary calls for a return to the Shelter to hand out more gifts, a visit to the amusement park and dinner at the red brick restaurant.

My upload program is down right now, so I can't upload any photos. I took a few of the airport hotel and handing out gifts.

Paka paka!