What happens next

Yesterday was our last day of visits at the baby house, before heading back home. While it is sad to say farewell to little Valeria, it is made easier knowing she is happy and loved at the baby house.

We have enjoyed every minute of our stay in Karaganda, and - of course - every minute with Lera. Later this morning, Vadim will drive us 3 hours north to Astana, where we will spend the afternoon sight-seeing. We are excited to have the chance to see Astana, which has been the capital of Kazakhstan since only 1999 and has a fascinating story, and some amazing architecture, as well. We are happy that our interpreter, Oxana, can join us too - she is not only helpful, she's a blast to hang out with and we find ourselves laughing a lot with her. (We'll post a few pix if we can get wifi access.)

Then, in the middle of the night (4:30am) we'll catch a Lufthansa flight to Frankfurt. Three airplanes and what will likely feel like an eternity later, and we'll be back in Cincinnati on Monday evening.

I'll return to Karaganda mid-June to pick up Valeria...but that will be another story.