A Great Visit

Hi All,

We went to visit Masha for what we thought could be the last time before the court date on Friday.  As you remember, when we last left her she was pouting about the iPod.  We weren't sure how she would receive us or interact today.  We needn't have worried.  Today was the best day ever.  She smiled as soon as she saw as and never once asked for the iPod or pouted.  We brought a ball and a few games we found in Russian.  She really enjoyed those.  The only problem we had was when some of the other kids wanted to play with us and she got very possessive.  We had to let her know it was okay for them to play.  She finally accepted it, though she didn't love the idea. It just felt less forced today.  It's so hard when you don't speak each other's language.  I'm sure she thinks we're stupid Americans.  It also was clear for the first time that she understands she is going to America with us and seems happy about it.  Two funny stories.  I was drawing her feet so I can buy her some shoes.  I asked her what kind of shoes she wants.  She got excited, said something in Russian and then went "click, click, click".  She wants heels-just like all the other Ukranian women!  No matter the weather or the types of streets, all Ukranian women wear high heels.  I think I am the only woman wearing tennis shoes.  Won't she be surprised when I bring her some cute flat sandals!!  We also brought along a few articles of clothing to try on for size.  Unfortunately, most are too small for her.  There was one Little Mermaid nightgown that just barely looked like it would fit her.  She grabbed it and ran to her room.  We had told her it was for sleeping but she didn't care.  Within moments she was back wearing the nightgown, which is probably one or two sizes too small.   Of course, we have pictures!  When it was time to go, we thought we would try to squeeze in one more visit for the day after tomorrow.  Brynn asked in Russian.  Masha then started saying, "Zaftra!"  That means tomorrow.  The worker smiled and said to come whenever we wanted.  So we'll go on Wed. and Thurs.  I will have our translator talk to Masha on the phone on Thurs. before we leave in order to explain to her why we won't be back for a few weeks.  We left feeling very positive about how things are going.  Thanks again for the thoughts and prayers.