Parenting

Today was a wonderful day. It started out with a little free time, and we found a nearby cafe for breakfast and got to walk in the snow. Then Natasha and Alexander (Sasha) picked us up and took us to pick up the kids and take care of some paperwork. Before we even made it out of the hotel, Natasha told us she needed the middle names we had picked out for the kids. The only problem with that was that we HADN’T yet picked out middle names for the kids. We had decided that we would give them ‘American’ names, or names MORE common in America, as middle names, in case they wanted to use them, but we didn’t think we would need them until the second trip.

Natasha really did need the names right then, so we had to think FAST, not Karen’s specialty. We had considered the name Desirae for Darya’s (Dasha’s) middle name, and we decided on that with that spelling so we wouldn’t have to bother with the French character in the usual spelling. We like it partly because it means “desired”, and we desperately want Dasha to know she is wanted and loved. So Darya Desirae Miller it is, or will be (Dasha is the informal form of Darya.)

We had not even THOUGHT about a middle name for Dima. We threw out just a couple ideas and didn’t agree, then Karen started looking around in desperation and exclaimed, “Alexander”, pointing to our driver. We both liked Dimitry (Dima) Alexander, so we went with it. It also has some nice historical reference here in Russia. We haven’t even looked to see what it means yet.

Then we had to notarize/apostille paper work for the court and take care of some adoption business that took longer than expected, but we were able to take the kids out to a late lunch and to St. Isaac's Cathedral. The time with Dima was quality time - he laughed and enjoyed using the video camera. He is a very smart boy. He was able to figure out most of the camera functions. We feel more bonded to him after our visit. He is very respectful and enthusiastic. He opened doors for everyone and even helped Karen out of the back seat of the van on his own initiative. We enjoyed watching him and Dasha interacting together. He is very protective of his little sister as a big brother should be. He kept a good eye on her in the crowds and while crossing the street.

We have officially accepted the referral for him as well! We believe that the Lord does not want these kids separated. So now Dima gets to decide. Please continue to pray for Dima and God’s direction for him so he will make the correct decision to be in God’s will.

As for Dasha, Wow, what can we say! Karen and I are ecstatic and overjoyed! We Love her! We don’t have the words to say how much we already care for her. It really does bring tears of joy to our eyes! The orphanage has allowed her to spend the night. We have laughed, played Uno, colored in coloring books, and directed bath time. What an amazing experience! We are having so much fun!!! Right now Karen is showing her how to use the blow dryer. I don’t think she has ever used one before. We have asked permission from #46 orphanage to see if Dima can stay over tomorrow night. It is not customary at all, but Dima would like to do it, so we pray that we do get permission.

Dasha is now trying to sleep (after too much Pepsi and just a little excitement), so we will sign off for now. We had a nice ‘first prayer time’ with her and over her, and she seemed to understand and respond to what was going on.

Praise God for adoption and His amazing blessing of children. There is nothing like this...

And we praise Him for you, too, the way you are supporting us. Have a blessed day-
Bob and Karen