today's update

The office is still not open but they accepted our paperwork. The "machine" that they need operational to get the passports is turned off for inspection so there's no begging that will get it done. But Sasha has an appointment at 10am on Monday to do something (have no clue what - that was lost in translation - but it's something they need to process passport) The lady at office "promised" we would have passport at 7pm on Tuesday. We'd then go to Embassy first thing Wed for fingerprints, then to medical center for medicals, then back to embassy to apply for visa. Often they can get this all done in one day, but it is kinda pushing it. If we can get it done - we'll get home on THursday. If we have to go back to Embassy on TH to finish up, we can come home on Friday. If there's a delay - we're sunk, cause the US Embassy is closed on Friday and Monday for a Ukraine holiday (they close for US and Ukrainian holidays).

Like I've said before I've told Sasha she could stay at orphanage as long as she wants, but she called Ilona today and asked if it was okay if she spent the weekend with me. Ilona said "of course, she's your mom." She was very excited when she got here. We went out for pizza and a little walk, then have been hanging at the apartment. We skyped with Wes and Rachel - she thought that was fun. Talked about cars she likes. WE saw a car like Mark's and she pointed that out as Mark's car. So I said "I miss Mark" - then fake cried. She said "I miss America - all!" And fake cried too.

SHe's made tentative arrangements to have dinner with the volunteer we met yesterday at orphanage - on Monday. Sasha said she thought she would still be here with me on Monday night.

We're going to play some video games, maybe watch a movie.....

Keep praying for that stinkin passport. I really want to go home next week.