February 23, 2007
Hi everyone!!
We have arrived in Moscow this morning 7 a.m., and it was below zero and snowing.....soooo cold!!, This was a newer train, and much quieter ride, cleaner. Our driver Dima has a large VW'ish van, which seemed much safer in Moscow traffic, maybe it was too early to have much crazy traffic!!
We were surprised last night before boarding the train that Isaac's grandmother, (his father's mother) was there to meet us at the train. Marina knew this as well as Isaac, and she hadn't told us, thinking we might be angry, but as she said,"you are nice, so I thought you would say OK" . The grandmother wanted "to see him one last time before she died". How could we say no??
It was incredibly sad, sad, sad. She cried and held him tight and asked him to write her and for us to send pictures. She pleaded for us to take care of him well, and to love him as a son and to help him remember her and his parents. She seemed very nice, the quintessential babushka, a heavy lady, with scarf and big coat and gold teeth. I think she loved him enough to sign off for him, even though she didn't have legal rights, as on Monday the orphanage had her write a letter giving her blessing so no legal fight could occur later.
She talked to him a long time, and Joe asked if he could record her on film telling Isaac her thoughts and wishes for him, so she did. Marina said she also told him to respect his new parents and follow(obey) everything that Papa said, to work hard at school, and to grow up to be a fine, respectable young man. It was a touching memory. Isaac was so worried we would be angry at her, so afraid to hurt either his grandma or new parents, bless his heart!! He kept checking with us to see if we still approved him. Matthew, on the other hand, was incredibly hurt/jealous--no one for him to see him off on the train. Oh, my heart broke, for this sweet boy!! Then we took pictures, and promised to mail some to her. Can you imagine her feelings and then to watch the train pull out...........again, something right out of "Dr. Zhivago" only with a grandmother!! Not a dry eye.
Once on the train, the boys played cards, and we talked a long time with Valentina, the inspector, and Marina Hahn, the Lighthouse coordinator on the Russian side. These are 2 really wonderful ladies, fully dedicated with their whole loves to helping children. You cannot imagine how hard Marina has been working with all the paperwork with our case alone.
We are at Marina's lovely flat now in Moscow, very large and wonderful as far as Russia is concerned. A lovely breakfast of blini, cooked by her mother, (with sweet yougert and another kind with beef, onion and garlic, kind of odd for breakfast!) and juice coffee and and tangerines. Our first fresh fruit. Can you say constipated?? Too Much INFORMATION!!
Today (Friday) is a holiday in Russia, sort of Father's Day, and so we cannot do any Embassy or Visa paperwork today, also for the weekend. We will see if Delta office is open today, and if we can change tickets. The Mathes family flew home yesterday! Congratulations!!
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Fantastic News from Russia!
February 21, 2007
Hi all,
Fantastic news from Russia. We are officially the parents legally of Matthew Joseph Valerian Schweigert and Isaac Joseph Denis Schweigert at 3:28 Moscow time!! We also heard the wonderful news that the 10 extra day wait is waived!! We were really blown away, especially after some of the procedings!! (details to follow) But we felt the power and presence of the Holy spirit in that room, and also the prayers of all of you!! Thank you, thank you, a million thanks!!! We love you!!
Today we arrived at court at 9:00am prompt, driven by Sergei, our jolly bear of a driver, we were accompanied by Irene our translator and Valentina, the cheery Inspector (social worker) of Cheboksary Children's Home. Our room for the proceedings was huge, one usually used for big criminal cases, Valentina says. It had huge celings, but furnished austurely, and no lights, although was totally windows. It was all of 55 degrees in the room!! Freezing!! Our judge was young maybe 40-45, but very direct. We began by hearing the rights of the petitioners and then all the others, (both directors from the Cheboksary orphangage and Kanash orphanage, the two homes' social workers, and the prosecutor) had to sign a paper that stated they could never discuss the court procedures or Joe and Nancy could sue. (Yes we'll be looking into that! haha)
Next, we were told of our rights, and reminded it was our job and ours alone to convince the court to grant our petition. Joe began by stating our case, who we were, what brought us to Russia, why we wanted to adopt, why from Russia, about our income, children, home and parenting philosophy. He covered our meeting of the boys and then what we knew about them medically and social history (why they were in orphanage).
Then onto what we were asking of the court, to make them our legal sons, name change and then why we would not want the 10 extra days. Joe did an unbelieveable job, very thorough!! Then it was my turn, I could state I agreed with him and then address each area again from my point of view. The judge and prosecutor could interject questions at any point, and did,
We had brought pictures, and he looked at them throughout the time and then pulled me up to the desk and asked more specific questions. He was most fascinated that Joe's dad was 94, and at the picture of Dan's dairy barn, "What is this BUIDLING??" After I completed, he kind of grilled me over what we would do in discipline situations, and it seemed it went on forever, on and on, checking could I really handle Russian boys?? There was a time when he made a comment and everyone laughed, and the traslator did not translate...can you say uncomfortable??
Then all the parties spoke their side of the story, from what has happened to these children that they are orphans, and how long they have been in their respective spots. It was very sad information!! At this point the boys were not present; they would come right before lunch.
This all went on for awhile, we broke for 15 min. "because the room was cold" and then back again. This time the boys were brought in and made to stand behind a podium and answer questions. They were so adorable!! (Those suits fit both perfectly, thanks Geyers!!) They then had to tell how we met and what they thought of us and our family. They were asked to state what their new name was be, and if they agreed to this. Then they signed a paper that contained all this info in front of the judge. They were dismissed, and the prosecutor had a few questions for us, one being if we would show any favorites in the family. Also what Taylor thought of the boys and if there was really a bond between them.
We broke for lunch at 12:15-13:30, ate a delicious lunch in the hotel nearby, with Marina, Irene and all of the directors. Vickie Pappas was also there, yesterday she did not get the 10 days off with the same judge, and at this point we were feeling very much that he would do the same. Very hard questioning. After lunch, the boys went back to Peter and Luda's and were met with all parties in the judge's office, much warmer!! But again very hard questions. They went over every single paper in our dossier, and somehow, focused on the part of the homestudy stating that Joe has a gun collection," why so many guns, they do not all shoot, are they locked up??" Then he went "like a hound" as Irene the translator would say, when he asked if Taylor shoots, and Joe answered truthfully. "How is this leagl in the United States, why are you exposing him to ?, etc, etc, etc." The home study had docused positively on his gun ownership, safety and firearm permit, so he couldn't touch that, but he went after Taylor and did we have proof it was legal?? By some act of the Lord, Joe had removed most everything from his wallet, but for some reason kept his license, and a few cards. Wouldn't you know, they were the 2 needed ones, Taylor's firearm license and a certificate for completing a safety course by the State of IL. Phew!! That argument took about 1/2 hour, Joe did so well.
They again went through everyone's recommendation re:the adoption, and all parties spoke so positively in our behalf. The directors both stated the boys came back form USA a different boy, one with hope!! God is so huge!! Even the prosecutor stated the Schweigert home seems to be " a bright spot for a life to achieve and thrive". We then had to state our petition again, and Nancy was asked to stand again, and went over a few more quesitons, intimidating. We broke for his decision at 2:50.
We were told by Irene, if he comes back and speaks briefly, usually the 10 days is imposed, This is exactly what happened, and she translated briefly, the judge left the room, and everyone started being excited, and saying congratulations. We still didn't get it!! Irene had failed to translate the final sentence, she was so stunned, too!! We all started crying, even Irene, very moved. "What just happened?", she said "I have never seen it so!" We knew what had just happened, the Lord moved. Just like in the Psalms: "God directs the heart of the king like a watercourse.." When God moves, it is moved!! Hallelujah!! We know that this is all God's doing, all praise goes to HIM!!
Thank you for tolerating the length of this, I write for my own rememberance. This means our schedule will be altered; we go to Moscow tomorrow night on the train. More detailws to folow!!
Love you,
The Schweigerts
Hi all,
Fantastic news from Russia. We are officially the parents legally of Matthew Joseph Valerian Schweigert and Isaac Joseph Denis Schweigert at 3:28 Moscow time!! We also heard the wonderful news that the 10 extra day wait is waived!! We were really blown away, especially after some of the procedings!! (details to follow) But we felt the power and presence of the Holy spirit in that room, and also the prayers of all of you!! Thank you, thank you, a million thanks!!! We love you!!
Today we arrived at court at 9:00am prompt, driven by Sergei, our jolly bear of a driver, we were accompanied by Irene our translator and Valentina, the cheery Inspector (social worker) of Cheboksary Children's Home. Our room for the proceedings was huge, one usually used for big criminal cases, Valentina says. It had huge celings, but furnished austurely, and no lights, although was totally windows. It was all of 55 degrees in the room!! Freezing!! Our judge was young maybe 40-45, but very direct. We began by hearing the rights of the petitioners and then all the others, (both directors from the Cheboksary orphangage and Kanash orphanage, the two homes' social workers, and the prosecutor) had to sign a paper that stated they could never discuss the court procedures or Joe and Nancy could sue. (Yes we'll be looking into that! haha)
Next, we were told of our rights, and reminded it was our job and ours alone to convince the court to grant our petition. Joe began by stating our case, who we were, what brought us to Russia, why we wanted to adopt, why from Russia, about our income, children, home and parenting philosophy. He covered our meeting of the boys and then what we knew about them medically and social history (why they were in orphanage).
Then onto what we were asking of the court, to make them our legal sons, name change and then why we would not want the 10 extra days. Joe did an unbelieveable job, very thorough!! Then it was my turn, I could state I agreed with him and then address each area again from my point of view. The judge and prosecutor could interject questions at any point, and did,
We had brought pictures, and he looked at them throughout the time and then pulled me up to the desk and asked more specific questions. He was most fascinated that Joe's dad was 94, and at the picture of Dan's dairy barn, "What is this BUIDLING??" After I completed, he kind of grilled me over what we would do in discipline situations, and it seemed it went on forever, on and on, checking could I really handle Russian boys?? There was a time when he made a comment and everyone laughed, and the traslator did not translate...can you say uncomfortable??
Then all the parties spoke their side of the story, from what has happened to these children that they are orphans, and how long they have been in their respective spots. It was very sad information!! At this point the boys were not present; they would come right before lunch.
This all went on for awhile, we broke for 15 min. "because the room was cold" and then back again. This time the boys were brought in and made to stand behind a podium and answer questions. They were so adorable!! (Those suits fit both perfectly, thanks Geyers!!) They then had to tell how we met and what they thought of us and our family. They were asked to state what their new name was be, and if they agreed to this. Then they signed a paper that contained all this info in front of the judge. They were dismissed, and the prosecutor had a few questions for us, one being if we would show any favorites in the family. Also what Taylor thought of the boys and if there was really a bond between them.
We broke for lunch at 12:15-13:30, ate a delicious lunch in the hotel nearby, with Marina, Irene and all of the directors. Vickie Pappas was also there, yesterday she did not get the 10 days off with the same judge, and at this point we were feeling very much that he would do the same. Very hard questioning. After lunch, the boys went back to Peter and Luda's and were met with all parties in the judge's office, much warmer!! But again very hard questions. They went over every single paper in our dossier, and somehow, focused on the part of the homestudy stating that Joe has a gun collection," why so many guns, they do not all shoot, are they locked up??" Then he went "like a hound" as Irene the translator would say, when he asked if Taylor shoots, and Joe answered truthfully. "How is this leagl in the United States, why are you exposing him to ?, etc, etc, etc." The home study had docused positively on his gun ownership, safety and firearm permit, so he couldn't touch that, but he went after Taylor and did we have proof it was legal?? By some act of the Lord, Joe had removed most everything from his wallet, but for some reason kept his license, and a few cards. Wouldn't you know, they were the 2 needed ones, Taylor's firearm license and a certificate for completing a safety course by the State of IL. Phew!! That argument took about 1/2 hour, Joe did so well.
They again went through everyone's recommendation re:the adoption, and all parties spoke so positively in our behalf. The directors both stated the boys came back form USA a different boy, one with hope!! God is so huge!! Even the prosecutor stated the Schweigert home seems to be " a bright spot for a life to achieve and thrive". We then had to state our petition again, and Nancy was asked to stand again, and went over a few more quesitons, intimidating. We broke for his decision at 2:50.
We were told by Irene, if he comes back and speaks briefly, usually the 10 days is imposed, This is exactly what happened, and she translated briefly, the judge left the room, and everyone started being excited, and saying congratulations. We still didn't get it!! Irene had failed to translate the final sentence, she was so stunned, too!! We all started crying, even Irene, very moved. "What just happened?", she said "I have never seen it so!" We knew what had just happened, the Lord moved. Just like in the Psalms: "God directs the heart of the king like a watercourse.." When God moves, it is moved!! Hallelujah!! We know that this is all God's doing, all praise goes to HIM!!
Thank you for tolerating the length of this, I write for my own rememberance. This means our schedule will be altered; we go to Moscow tomorrow night on the train. More detailws to folow!!
Love you,
The Schweigerts
From Russia With Love
February 20, 2007
Hello everyone!!
We want you to know we arrived safely, our flight arriving at 11:15, we made it through customs without incident, and found our driver, Misha without problem. He was a nice boy, our translator Katya's son, age 19. A very mature young man, skilled at weaving through Moscow rush hour, YIKES!! (It's everything you've heard about and more) No signalling, people cuting you aff with inches to spare, over the center line, no respect of pedestrains, a real video game!!
From the airport, we went to 8 doctor medical exams, in the suburbs, where our contact, Lena, had to argue for us to get us in, "they have and appt.", to a very gruff and Communist looking security guard. Overall, we survived the whole thing just fine. It was more "paperwork" than important or embarrassing exam or questions, and of course since it was a "rush" it was more expensive, surprise, surpise!!
Misha was our translator there, and did very well with the difficult medical words. The doctors refused to believe we did not smoke or drink, as everyone practically here does. So we resorted to saying we had tried smoking while in our teens. (Cover you ears, Mama!!) After payment, they invited us for a cup of tea with Lena, so we had tea to be social. It was a welcome boost. We had a good flight, just not much sleep in 24 hrs.
We proceeded to another bout of Moscow's version of the "Fast and the Furious" and arrived at Tatya's flat. She is a middle-aged woman, single in a three room flat. We had a delicious supper with her,showered, (can I have a Hallelujah) and then met Katya, and finally got rid of the fees (part). We were instructed about the train ride departing at 8:45 pm, and were surprised to find no one was travelling with us. We would be alone on the train!! YIKES! She gave us specific instructions, and our tickets, and we braved the traffic again. This time it took 1 1/2 hrs to go 10 miles with many close calls. Joe was sweating in the front!!
It was about 25 degrees yesterday in Moscow. We waited for 30 min. outside and boarded in a hurry. Everything is rush, rush, and I thought I walked fast, wow. We got on the train, and said goodbye, and then Nancy had to cry. Here we are, alone, with not much language skills. This is when we really felt the presence of the prayers of all of you! We prayed, too, and the peace of God was so real!! The train is very much a 1940's version of the Orient Express. Bathrooms however are extremely gross, and empties right out on the tracks. We went right to sleep after a lunch of salami, cheese,crackers, and water provided by Tatya.
This morning at 6:30, we steamed by Kanash, Matthew's town, and saw a school, possibly the orphanage. The most difficult part of the train ride was the arrival inCheboksary, as we had no one to help us with our luggage. We struggled and got off the train with the help of some Russian national who wanted to give us a taxi ride, but we told him "nyet". Then we looked around for Marina, only known by photos. It was a few long minutes of nerves,and Nancy was about to cry again, when we see Matthew with Marina, running Yelling "Mama!! Papa!!" It was like something out of a movie, really indescribable!! He is great, and so happy to see us. He told us he didn't sleep at all Mon. night.
We rode to our home stay, Luda and Peter's a huge and lovely flat, for Russian standards, as Peter works for the Parliment. They are feeding us quite well, blini and ham and cheese for breakfast, with coffee and tea. Then we went to see Isaac at the Cheboksary Childrens home. While something a little Dickensish from the outside, the inside was quite cheery, and they have made a real effort to have it be like home!! We met the Inspector, Valentina a jolly lady, and all of Isaac's caretakers, who are all very nice. When we saw him, he was down the hall, and he immediately ran and hugged and hugged us!1 He was embarrassed he has the chicken pox, so do many others. They didn't want us to touch him, but we told them we had chicken pox already!
We interviewed with several directors, and the mdeical hisotry of Isaac was presented. Matthew then had to sign a document satting he wants to be adopted. Lots of paperwork.
From there we had another meal in the flat, a strogonoff of some kind, and then off to exchange $, and get the boy's passport photos. They were excited for their American Name. They wanted to know right away, and pronounced them over and over. I guess "M"'s are difficult to say in Russian. [poor Matthew)
From there we had a nap, and then supper, exactly the same as breakfast, and then an intense meeting with Irene, the translator about court. We have male judge, and he is tough, 99% chance of additional days, they say, but God can do anything that's on HIS schedule!! Please pray for tomorrow, that we have clear and distinct words, that our appeal will be heard, and that we can come home early. Thanks you Mary, for trying to obtain the letter (just ask Maryann). We received the e-mail that you got ours.
We love you, and the boys are great, they are saying all the itme, "Let's go home, go swimming to the timber" They have asked about all of their siblings!! They say they miss you, so do we!!
We love you- keep praying!!
Joe and Nance
Hello everyone!!
We want you to know we arrived safely, our flight arriving at 11:15, we made it through customs without incident, and found our driver, Misha without problem. He was a nice boy, our translator Katya's son, age 19. A very mature young man, skilled at weaving through Moscow rush hour, YIKES!! (It's everything you've heard about and more) No signalling, people cuting you aff with inches to spare, over the center line, no respect of pedestrains, a real video game!!
From the airport, we went to 8 doctor medical exams, in the suburbs, where our contact, Lena, had to argue for us to get us in, "they have and appt.", to a very gruff and Communist looking security guard. Overall, we survived the whole thing just fine. It was more "paperwork" than important or embarrassing exam or questions, and of course since it was a "rush" it was more expensive, surprise, surpise!!
Misha was our translator there, and did very well with the difficult medical words. The doctors refused to believe we did not smoke or drink, as everyone practically here does. So we resorted to saying we had tried smoking while in our teens. (Cover you ears, Mama!!) After payment, they invited us for a cup of tea with Lena, so we had tea to be social. It was a welcome boost. We had a good flight, just not much sleep in 24 hrs.
We proceeded to another bout of Moscow's version of the "Fast and the Furious" and arrived at Tatya's flat. She is a middle-aged woman, single in a three room flat. We had a delicious supper with her,showered, (can I have a Hallelujah) and then met Katya, and finally got rid of the fees (part). We were instructed about the train ride departing at 8:45 pm, and were surprised to find no one was travelling with us. We would be alone on the train!! YIKES! She gave us specific instructions, and our tickets, and we braved the traffic again. This time it took 1 1/2 hrs to go 10 miles with many close calls. Joe was sweating in the front!!
It was about 25 degrees yesterday in Moscow. We waited for 30 min. outside and boarded in a hurry. Everything is rush, rush, and I thought I walked fast, wow. We got on the train, and said goodbye, and then Nancy had to cry. Here we are, alone, with not much language skills. This is when we really felt the presence of the prayers of all of you! We prayed, too, and the peace of God was so real!! The train is very much a 1940's version of the Orient Express. Bathrooms however are extremely gross, and empties right out on the tracks. We went right to sleep after a lunch of salami, cheese,crackers, and water provided by Tatya.
This morning at 6:30, we steamed by Kanash, Matthew's town, and saw a school, possibly the orphanage. The most difficult part of the train ride was the arrival inCheboksary, as we had no one to help us with our luggage. We struggled and got off the train with the help of some Russian national who wanted to give us a taxi ride, but we told him "nyet". Then we looked around for Marina, only known by photos. It was a few long minutes of nerves,and Nancy was about to cry again, when we see Matthew with Marina, running Yelling "Mama!! Papa!!" It was like something out of a movie, really indescribable!! He is great, and so happy to see us. He told us he didn't sleep at all Mon. night.
We rode to our home stay, Luda and Peter's a huge and lovely flat, for Russian standards, as Peter works for the Parliment. They are feeding us quite well, blini and ham and cheese for breakfast, with coffee and tea. Then we went to see Isaac at the Cheboksary Childrens home. While something a little Dickensish from the outside, the inside was quite cheery, and they have made a real effort to have it be like home!! We met the Inspector, Valentina a jolly lady, and all of Isaac's caretakers, who are all very nice. When we saw him, he was down the hall, and he immediately ran and hugged and hugged us!1 He was embarrassed he has the chicken pox, so do many others. They didn't want us to touch him, but we told them we had chicken pox already!
We interviewed with several directors, and the mdeical hisotry of Isaac was presented. Matthew then had to sign a document satting he wants to be adopted. Lots of paperwork.
From there we had another meal in the flat, a strogonoff of some kind, and then off to exchange $, and get the boy's passport photos. They were excited for their American Name. They wanted to know right away, and pronounced them over and over. I guess "M"'s are difficult to say in Russian. [poor Matthew)
From there we had a nap, and then supper, exactly the same as breakfast, and then an intense meeting with Irene, the translator about court. We have male judge, and he is tough, 99% chance of additional days, they say, but God can do anything that's on HIS schedule!! Please pray for tomorrow, that we have clear and distinct words, that our appeal will be heard, and that we can come home early. Thanks you Mary, for trying to obtain the letter (just ask Maryann). We received the e-mail that you got ours.
We love you, and the boys are great, they are saying all the itme, "Let's go home, go swimming to the timber" They have asked about all of their siblings!! They say they miss you, so do we!!
We love you- keep praying!!
Joe and Nance
Sunday, February 18, 2007
We're Off!
The splendor of the King, clothed in majesty
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in Light,
and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One
Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Name above all names
Worthy of all praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God!
And so it begins... continue with us in prayer.
Love,
The Schweigerts
Let all the earth rejoice
All the earth rejoice
He wraps himself in Light,
and darkness tries to hide
And trembles at His voice
Trembles at His voice
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Age to age He stands
And time is in His hands
Beginning and the end
Beginning and the end
The Godhead Three in One
Father Spirit Son
The Lion and the Lamb
The Lion and the Lamb
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God
Name above all names
Worthy of all praise
My heart will sing
How great is our God
How great is our God, sing with me
How great is our God, and all will see
How great, how great is our God!
And so it begins... continue with us in prayer.
Love,
The Schweigerts
Friday, February 16, 2007
News from the Russian Front
"When I am afraid, I will trust in you.
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust;
I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?" Psalm 52:3&4
OK, good and not so good news.........
We heard very late last night that Bob and Susan Mathes' court date went very well. They had a very kind judge, a woman, and although it was a grueling 5 hour time, she waived the 10 day extra stay!! Apparently, everyone on the Russian side was shocked, but God really moved on their behalf!! Keep praying for our court date, and all the same details.
Speaking of which, in a move which sort of boggles our brains, we were also told our court date was changed to the 21st, which I suppose is good- earlier date rather than later. However, this changes our itinerary to look something like this:
Feb. 19th- 11:00am, fly into Moscow
picked up by driver (non-English speaking)
Taken immediately to Russian medical appts.
Meet our guide, Katya at undisclosed time
4:00pm Moscow time- board train for Cheboksary
Overnight 13hr. train ride to region
Feb.2oth- 6 or 7 am. arrive in Cheboksary. We will meet the boys some time today.
We will be extensively briefed for court, and go to our host home.
Feb, 21- Court date- time not known, the rest of our time line/schedule depends on the outcome in court. If the 10 days is not waived, we leave for Moscow night of 21st. Otherwise, we stay an extra day securing passport/visa stuff for kids, and depart for Moscow the evening for the 22nd.
The results of our time in court will shape our Moscow/St. Petersburg plans.
For someone who likes to know all the details, all of the time, this is stretching (especially Nancy) us.
Please pray: 1 )That we will not be overcome with fear- ( we will now have to take all of our mon$ey with us to the medical appts.) Our driver does not speak English, ("He will have a sign for you in the Moscow airport.")
2.)We do not know when and when we are to meet Katya,
and I quote:"She will find you."
3.)That we would not be too overwhelmed with jet lag so we can function and speak properly in court.
4.)That we could be flexible in the ever-changing Russian schedule.
5.)And that we could see God moving, even when the Light seems dim.
Communication will be limited with you all , at least initially- so just pray!
And really, that's the best thing we could ever do anyway.
"I will lie down and and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."
Psalm 4:8
In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust;
I will not be afraid.
What can mortal man do to me?" Psalm 52:3&4
OK, good and not so good news.........
We heard very late last night that Bob and Susan Mathes' court date went very well. They had a very kind judge, a woman, and although it was a grueling 5 hour time, she waived the 10 day extra stay!! Apparently, everyone on the Russian side was shocked, but God really moved on their behalf!! Keep praying for our court date, and all the same details.
Speaking of which, in a move which sort of boggles our brains, we were also told our court date was changed to the 21st, which I suppose is good- earlier date rather than later. However, this changes our itinerary to look something like this:
Feb. 19th- 11:00am, fly into Moscow
picked up by driver (non-English speaking)
Taken immediately to Russian medical appts.
Meet our guide, Katya at undisclosed time
4:00pm Moscow time- board train for Cheboksary
Overnight 13hr. train ride to region
Feb.2oth- 6 or 7 am. arrive in Cheboksary. We will meet the boys some time today.
We will be extensively briefed for court, and go to our host home.
Feb, 21- Court date- time not known, the rest of our time line/schedule depends on the outcome in court. If the 10 days is not waived, we leave for Moscow night of 21st. Otherwise, we stay an extra day securing passport/visa stuff for kids, and depart for Moscow the evening for the 22nd.
The results of our time in court will shape our Moscow/St. Petersburg plans.
For someone who likes to know all the details, all of the time, this is stretching (especially Nancy) us.
Please pray: 1 )That we will not be overcome with fear- ( we will now have to take all of our mon$ey with us to the medical appts.) Our driver does not speak English, ("He will have a sign for you in the Moscow airport.")
2.)We do not know when and when we are to meet Katya,
and I quote:"She will find you."
3.)That we would not be too overwhelmed with jet lag so we can function and speak properly in court.
4.)That we could be flexible in the ever-changing Russian schedule.
5.)And that we could see God moving, even when the Light seems dim.
Communication will be limited with you all , at least initially- so just pray!
And really, that's the best thing we could ever do anyway.
"I will lie down and and sleep in peace, for You alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety."
Psalm 4:8
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Top Ten
In the spirit of David Letterman, I submit the
Top 10 Reasons We Need to Get to Russia Soon:
10.We have fixed our washer, replaced broken telephone/answering machine, and some electrical items gone defunct in spare bedroom.
9. Now our van is making a weird noise, and it's probably "not under warranty"
8. We believe other small appliances in our home have formed an alliance and will soon require appalling maintenance fees or replacement.
7. Joe has finished the basement shelving unit for games,videos, etc. he started two and 1/2 years ago.
6. There are no stylish, yet warm size 9 ladies black boots in the Tri-county area.
5.Nancy has convinced Joe that wearing anything camo in Russsia might make a 'military statement', and right now, he's buying it!
4. This week and last we had more snow and colder temps than Moscow.
3. Taylor is bound and determined to make another Prompt Care visit.
2.In a surprising twist, I am packed early for the first time in my life!
1. Our precious boys are waiting for us!!
"For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins." Col. 1:13 &14
"Miss"- Communication
Many have asked, "...So, have you been taking Russian lessons?", or ,"Can you read Russian yet, I bet you've been practicing a lot!". And the answers to the above statements are: "No", "no" and a definitive "not really."
Because I'm special like that.
There really is not much of an excuse, either. We've had over 7 months since the boys visited this summer, and prior to their arrival I purchased a really great CD online with basic phrases that apply to daily life, especially for children. It was all the rage on all the adoption sites, and you could practice listening then saying the phrases, thanks to linguist Teresa Kelleher, who herself has adopted from Russia.
It even contained matching and practice games for the computer. It had the same CD in reverse (Russian to English), to use in teaching your children once adopted. Taylor caught on really quick. Joe and I, however, will claim the 40th.
You see, once you reach a certain age, I personally believe the nerve synapses are permanently and irrevocably locked in, unable to retrieve even repetitive phrases of foreign language. I believe, as well, that if food was given as a reward for correct usage and pronunciation of said phrases, I would be quite a bit thinner, and Joe.....let's just say the word "cadaver" comes to mind. I do not have scientific proof of these claims, but I have this story:
This summer, in a bold rush to learn one of the most difficult languages in , oh... let's say, 3 weeks; I had that practice CD on constantly.
I began with phrases I knew I must have at the ready for 2 boys, such as: " Stop that, immediately!", and "You may not play in the street!".
Quite pleased with myself, I began to speak to our cat, Stripes, about these matters, addressing her personally.
"Miss Cat, I am pleased to meet you."
"Miss Cat, it's time for breakfast."
"Miss Cat, thank you very much for the ice cream."
On and on it went, until I felt really comfortable with it all.
That is, until Taylor came home from school later that afternoon.
"Uh, Mom do you realize you're not saying 'cat' at all? You're saying......... uhhh...... well, 'dung'!!".
It was true.
HOLY Cat.
I just shook my head.
So last week, in one of my best e-bay auction moments, I won a Russian/English Ectaco electronic translator (About the size of a blackberry) at a superb price!
I'm sure somewhere, Teresa Kehlleher is rolling her eyes.
Yes, pride comes before the fall.
At the very least, I'm sure we'll be entertaining.
A Day of Love
1 Peter 1:22 (NASB)
"Since you have in obedience
"Since you have in obedience
to the truth
purified your souls for a sincere love
of the brethren,
fervently love one another from the heart..."
What a beautiful Valentine's Day..... and it had nothing to do with Hallmark, Martha Stewart or FTD!! May I say it again, God is amazing - amazing in His Sovereignty, Faithfulness and especially His Love . First of all, not one but 2 days off of school- 2 days where we couldn't go anywhere, just sit at home and be with each other. 2 days -as a gift- to be with my kiddos and hubby before all the travel craziness begins! 2 days to pack and weigh suitcases (almost done) uninterrupted by appts & events. Delightful!!
And we were praying these last 2 days, because our visas were on a FedEx vehicle out of Atlanta, coming to the snowy Midwest. Yesterday(14th) morning at 8:00am I received a call from the FedEx dispatch, "Mrs. Schweigert, I have an important looking package, possibly documents. We were unable to deliver yesterday, obviously..... and today, we aren't taking any secondary roads. Could you meet me in town?"
For most of you, this might seem so lame, but if you live on Antioch Rd., you know how the snow fills in quickly, as the road is lower than the fields. The plow had gone by at 6, but no activity since. I could get out of the driveway, but the curve at the dairy farm is always a killer.
But God had inspired our brother-in-law to clean out his driveway at the same time with his end loader, and he did the curve as well! Hallelujah! We have our visas!!
and it just gets better....
Our dear friends Dan and Mary had us over for a delightful pre-trip/Valentine's feast, everything beautifully delicious!
And to top it off, they had invited many of our dear, dear friends from church for dessert afterward! And the very best part, we gathered around and sang praises to the Lord, accompanied by their son, Brian on guitar; and then they all prayed a sending-out prayer- for our safety, travel details , bonding, and just praise to God!! I am still teary thinking about it...
Yes, it was unbelievably humbling and encouraging at the same time- the Body of Christ, loving each other "fervently from the heart".
I believe this will be one of those one of those " top 10 life memories" for Joe and I.
Jesus' love was tangible in every person in that room- thank you all again for your words of encouragement, prayers and faithfulness to the Lord.
An article by John Piper that was incredibly touching to me this week:
Keep on loving each other fervently, from the heart.
Thursday, February 8, 2007
A Series of Fortunate Events
"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." Galatians 6:10
When the boys were here this summer, our sweet friend from church, Mrs. Vera Demeter, helped translate at Dr. and dentist appointments. She came over the first day they were here after breakfast, and we had a "Q&A" session, back and forth with what we all wanted to know about each other.
She would call and ask if there was anything she could translate for us, which was great when we were trying to explain the concept of going "tubing" with our Russian dictionary and it was going something like this: "You will be pulled by a rope behind a motor boat. It is fun."
Strange and fearful Looks.
What a blessing she is, and to think she lives just 1 mile from our house!
There was mutual admiration, (who can resist a good source of "confeyati"--candy?
When they inquired about her perfect Russian, Vera explained she was from the Ukraine, and taught Russian in the school system while living in Ohio. They discussed what was new in Russian culture and lifestyle (well, as much as an 11 year old will discuss). And like the quintessential Russian babushka, she corrected their grammar and use of slang. "Oh, these young kids today, they ruin the poetry of the Russian language, " she would sigh.
Like. totally.
Yesterday, she translated 2 letters for the boys that Bob and Susan Mathes will hand deliver next Tues or Wed. when they travel to pick up their 2 sons in Cheboksary !! She took such delight in helping, and we are ever grateful! God has such an amazing way of using the Body!
Here is an outstanding article well worth your time:
http://www.adoptionsbygladney.com/html/whatsnew/index.shtml#press Go to "A Series of Fortunate Events. Dec.26, 2004.
We met the director from Shumerly orphange this summer.
Other Praises:
We heard yesterday that our visas are in the Russian Consulate. Please pray they will be approved quickly and FedExed next week.
Our bank has found all the new bills they were looking for!
***Thanks to the Body for praying!!**
A huge thank you to those who have loaned us suitcases, money belts, etc., brought food, and given monetarily. We are deeply humbled.
We love you all so much!!
the Schweigerts
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
Like a Shepherd
"I will lead the blind by ways they have not known,
along unfamiliar paths I will guide them;
I will turn the darkness into light before them and make the rough places smooth.
These are the things I will do; I will not forsake them."
Isaiah 42:16
We have been extremely busy the last few days. Visa applications mailed off, tickets purchased, US Embassy paperwork printed off, etc. I am working on a home stay connection in St. Petersburg, which, Lord willing, we may get to visit if the extra 10 day wait is imposed. All adoptive families are required to be in country for 10 days, and the judge (very often I'm told in this region) has the power to impose an extra 10 days.
I haven't ever gotten a really good answer as to why. Most think it is to continue to supplement the Russian economy, thankyouverymuch.
We have been extremely busy the last few days. Visa applications mailed off, tickets purchased, US Embassy paperwork printed off, etc. I am working on a home stay connection in St. Petersburg, which, Lord willing, we may get to visit if the extra 10 day wait is imposed. All adoptive families are required to be in country for 10 days, and the judge (very often I'm told in this region) has the power to impose an extra 10 days.
I haven't ever gotten a really good answer as to why. Most think it is to continue to supplement the Russian economy, thankyouverymuch.
We can, of course, see as much or little of the Russian countryside during this time as we want, and within the last year, officials have been allowing the children to travel with you. It's not really like you could get on a plane with them anyway, as their visa and passports are held until the 10 days are up.
I'm told St. Petersburg http://www.petersburg-russia.com/ , formerly Leningrad, is the "crown jewel of Russia", with amazing architecture, the summer palaces of the Czars, and the Hermitage museum (Russia's equivalent of the Smithsonian).
It all sounds very exciting, but definitely unknown territory!! Our agency is helpful with suggestions, but it is up to us to make the arrangements and schedule.
Again this week, we are being asked to put our faith into actions. Please pray for us on several matters:
--First, that our visas will indeed return in the "8 work day" time frame they were promised.
--For our court date to go extremely smoothly (more about that later) and that the judge would be gracious in dismissing the extra 10 day wait.
--If he does not, that we would have wisdom, safety and travel mercies as we travel by train to St. Petersburg and then to Moscow. It may be just the way God would have us bond in a new way with our sons.
--Please pray for our banks to find enough new bills for us to take the required cash amount- it is an astonishing number!( they have had to start looking out of state). And for safety in transport of said cash. (Only one or two places take credit card, and no traveler's check s are honored.)
--That we could trust Jesus more and more to "make the rough places smooth".
This verse couldn't have been more personal to me today, as I sat in on the District Spelling Bee and watched the challenges of the English language unfold.
My lips and fingers started to lose feeling.
"Lord, how will my boys ever learn English, let alone how to spell it?"
And then He reminded me.........He's bigger than all that.
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