Stahlke Adoption

Planning

Three years ago, we had only four weeks between submission of the dossier and our appointment date in Ukraine. That was a big surprise to us, since our paperwork was processed faster than anyone else 's who has worked with Ukraine through Lutheran Social Services-New England.

This year, the timing may or may not be fast, but Jonathan and I are planning as though it will be. Yesterday, he and I met to organize all the things we need to be do before traveling. It helps that we've gone to Ukraine before and know a lot about the cities we will visit. But having five children in the house definitely adds a layer of complexity to our work. Just getting them quiet enough yesterday so we could concentrate was a challenge.

Mundane tasks continue, of course. I'd rather be working on travel arrangements, but the van needs a new license plate sticker. And, of course, the ubiquitous dishes and laundry continue without letup. The children are more willing to help now, however, and they're pretty industrious when they work together. I'd be wealthy if I could reliably capture their energy and market it!

posted by Stahlkes @ 12:19 PM