Busy day and a second visit with our little one

This afternoon, we had a meeting with the administrator of the children's authority here in Sevastopol. The medical director from the orphanage was there as well as the social worker. We were asked if we understood the medical issues our little one faces, our ability to provide care for her, if our family/friends knew about her and if they are supportive. We were also asked if her adoption would be kept a secret or if she would be given the opportunity to know about her heritage. There was definitely a serious/somber tone to this meeting, but apparently we answered appropriately because we were given approval to proceed.

Then, Olga had to verify some more paperwork and we headed to the train station to check on the schedule so that our paperwork could be sent to Kyiv tonight and presented to the SDA tomorrow. Because of our approval, she was able to meet with the judge and request our court date. She asked for prayers as she went to meet with the judge and I prayed asking for the power of all our prayers to accompany mine. We got the earliest possible date!!! Court is scheduled for December 13 at 9am!

Afterwards, we were able to go and see our little one. We walked into her groupa and she ran to me. Talk about melting this mommy's heart! I picked her up and felt the tears flow. Spent about 30 minutes with her - that's all that time allowed, and really it was enough without being overwhelming for her. She colored with daddy in the princess coloring book for a little while, too.

It was time for her dinner and we had to get to the train station before 6pm so we left. Then, came home and I made grilled ham/cheese with ramen noodle soup for dinner tonight. We had a nice visit with Olga and now it's time to head for bed.

I cannot say enough about how wonderful Olga has been. She is working tirelessly on our behalf and we can see how much she loves our little one, too - she is truly an advocate for her!

I know I promised pictures and I sure wish that I could share the really important ones, but these will have to hold you over.

These are some homes next to the SDA office.

Apartment building next to the notary

Our apartment (twin beds pushed together)

Living room/bedroom

Kitchen

Prayer requests for tomorrow:
- That a red passport will be available for our little one - this will make a difference in whether we will be able to get her home by the end of the year.
- Continued bonding with her, that she will attach fully and completely to Mark and I (on-going prayer request).
- Safe journey for our paperwork back to Kyiv and that it arrives in the right hands at the SDA.
- Olga will be leaving us at the end of the day to enjoy some time at her home, please pray for safe travels for her.

More tomorrow as the day unfolds!