Sunday, December 21, 2008

opening and closing doors

We arrived in Lugansk after we decided to meet two boys here. I had prayed God would open windows and close doors. My facilitator inquired about the other two siblings we looked at and those doors were quickly shut for various health reasons. So it was on to Lugansk to meet R and V (abbreviated names for privacy).

Nick and I have met with them three times now and find them endearing. R and V are very opposite in personality. R is calm obedient and thoughtful. V is high energy and already testing us to see who is boss. Both children are unbelievably small and can easily pass for two years younger then their birth age. Institutionalization does delay their physical social and emotional development but the studies show that a loving family and proper nutrition catches them up remarkably fast, although not always 100%.

I wish I could send you a pictures of their smiles when they see us coming. Their eyes looked like saucers when we handed them lego kits at first meeting. R wouldn't put it down during playground time because he worried the box would get dirty. V reminds me of the Road Runner - "beep beep zip tang"! They are a package deal, so I must be sure that I have enough energy in me to properly parent both these boys. Please pray for our decision.

love to all
Nancy

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

всево хорошего
Hey y'll. Had to but a little southern in there. Okay, I went from English to Czech to Russian, but basically a casual hello to friends.

I haven't read all of your entries, just the most recent, and look at all of the photos. It looks cold. I cannot help you with the hot water device near the stove, the Czech was modern - or at least what I had been exposed to. Of course, outside of being former Soviet puppet states, they have little in common.

It sounds as if you are staying busy and I hate to ask, but how is the final decision made as to whom?

As for Charlotte, it has warmed back up so no white Christmas here. Maybe you will have one there.

I know nothing of Ukraine Christmas traditions, I know that the Czechs celebrate it on Christmas Eve and wait for Baby Jesus to bring the gifts after dinner. Christmas Day is for caroling, not gifts or the big dinner. I would be interested in hearing any cultural holiday info that you might pick up.

Our best to all of you.

The Newbanks

Nancy Fisher said...

I am reminded of God's promise...
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6
What an incredible journey you are on. I am grateful you can clearly see God opening and closing doors.
You are not alone!

Anonymous said...

Were in Marion babysitting Lily Thur and Friday, then went to WV for the weekend. Sunday PM and we are home, reading your Blog for the first time. Sounds like you are having a great adventure and bearing up well. The boys you describe sound like they might be a handfull but you are very brave. Praying for you to make the right choice, and that includes turning down any children who might prove to be too much as well. YOu have a wonderful family!
The exchange rate sounds favorable. Don't worry too much about how it affects them, actually it doesn't too much unless they buy lots of imports or exchange money.
Wonder if you have more luck with hot water in the AM rather than PM showers. In Germany many pensions would turn off heat and hot water at night. Love, Connie/Mom and Henry

Unknown said...

Proper nutrition does wonders! We grew about 4" in the first 6 months! We enjoy reading your blog. Can't wait to read more! Enjoy getting to know R and V it is a very special time!

Blessings,
Helen and Mike
Rock Hill, SC

Anonymous said...

Got a bad cold today and feeling rotten. I always get sick for Christmas.
Colin's posting sounds like he likes the boys. They sound wonderful, lively, will liven up the family for sure!
Got e-mail from your Mom & Dad saying they were leaving for Barbara's at "0 dark 30" this morning. Glad we are back home. Love, Connie and Henry