Nothing much new

Somehow, things seem much quieter this trip. Mark mentioned that maybe it is because we are not out seeing sites like we did last time. Having Maia with us makes that more challenging. There are a few places that we would like to see while we are here, but will probably wait until our second trip.
Although I just mentioned that having Maia here makes things more challenging, I do think it is for the best that we brought her with us. Her behaviors aren't much different than when we are at home, but she is thriving on the uninterrupted time with Mark and I right now.
Today was pretty uneventful. We stayed at the apartment this morning because the landlady was stopping by. She brought our laundry back and got a new light bulb for our bathroom. There were 4 total and they have burned out one by one since we have been here. The 12 foot ceilings make it impossible for us to change them ourselves.
After lunch, Maia had a nap. Then, she and I went out for a walk. It was an absolutely perfect day. Started with rain this morning, but the sun came out by noon, slight breeze - probably low 70's. Maia wanted to push the stroller so it was a leisurely walk for me. We walked for about 45 minutes, I'm sure it tired the girl out. Olga and Vitaly were waiting when we arrived back at the apartment and they commented on how tired she looked - lol!
Vitaly took us to the orphanage. Wish we'd had a video camera rolling when we got to the groupa. The kids were watching a video and Matthew ran to us with a big smile on his face. First, a hug for me then one for papa. Then, he got down and went up to Maia. They hugged each other and she gave him a kiss. It was pretty sweet. One of our favorite caregivers was there today - it was the first time we have seen her this trip. She was so happy to see Maia and tried to communicate how pleased she was with her progress. Once again, it brought joy to my heart. Went outside for our visit this afternoon. Matthew gets so excited, especially as he is trying to communicate with us. He can be very loud. Although we are limited in what we can do right now, we are trying to model quiet conversation and calm behavior for him as well as giving him some structure for what is appropriate and not.
Interacting with Matthew is a reminder for us of how far Maia has come in the time that she has been home. We don't always see the changes because we live with her every day and their has been gradual progress. Mark was commenting yesterday that some of Matthew's behaviors are similar to what we saw with Maia when we visited her at the orphanage. So, we know that there will be improvement as we guide him and help him to learn what it's like to be part of a family.
On a humorous note... Matthew is definitely a "boy." He is fascinated by snails, doesn't think much about getting dirty, etc. He will love digging for worms for fishing, I'm sure. Anyway, Mark did the "farmer nose blow" and mentioned that he should teach Matthew how to do that. Well, literally just as Mark was saying that, Matthew began copying Mark and trying to blow his nose that way. Mom may have to step in and teach some manners - lol! But, it was pretty funny to see him imitating daddy. He's never had a father figure in his life and I can already see how much he will thrive as he learns what having a daddy is all about.
After our visit, came back home and had dinner on the balcony. Grilled ham/cheese, ramen noodles (they make the BEST ones here) with some orange-chocolate cookies for dessert.

A couple of prayer requests for tomorrow (Wednesday):
- We meet with the local head of the state department at about 1:30pm (5:30am Minnesota time). I remember from last time that this was one of the most intimidating events that we had. He is the person who will give official approval to the SDA which will allow us to request our court date. Please pray that we will find favor with him.
- It will be a long afternoon for Maia. Pray that she will be patient and tolerant as we spend much time waiting and quiet.
- We may or may not get to visit Matthew tomorrow. It depends on how the day progresses. Pray that his heart will not be too hurt if we don't get to see him.
- For continued smooth progress in our journey to bring Matthew home.