A quick update from Mariupol

We are waiting (the theme of 2011) for the SDA to give us approval for court. We were originally told we would have court on December 30, but the last time I spoke with Nina, she said she imagined that would not be possible and that January 3 was more likely. We are patient as we have learned the benefits of God's timing.
If we had been given an SDA referral back in November, as we had hoped, Andrey would be in the orphanage for our entire time here. But because of God's timing, we are able to spend everyday with him here at the TLC because he has a holiday pass to be with his brother and their temporary guardian. Due to this blessing, we have enjoyed many days with both our boys playing video games, poker, watching movies, going to the market, watching Ruslan play soccer, drinking coffee, eating chocolate and riding the bus over and over again. This is a very unique situation for adoptive parents to be in. We feel God's hand here- there is no doubt. 
Some highlights that will stay in my heart forever:
-goodnight hugs
-FIFA soccer matches on the iPhone " Manchester United- girls!"
-brotherly behavior, me- "you are so mean to him!", Ruslan- "Andrey like."
-learning to share the laptop, me- "Tomorrow Andrey gets it first.", Andrey- "ha!"
-our tour guide/translator/son Ruslan
-watching Andrey "skate" on the ice all through town
-awkward morning reconnections (2 steps forward, 1 step back)
-cooking Mexican food for the kids at the TLC and then watching my boys inhale two plates each
-watching Elf (our favorite holiday movie) dubbed in Russian
-the first I love you in Russian from Andrey
 Although it is difficult for this American girl to be in Ukraine for over two weeks now, I am grateful for the opportunity to be here with them. I have to tell you that perhaps my favorite moments are times when I can care for them/clean up after them; general mothering moments. Today, Ruslan went out with a friend. We had the first "where are you going- when are you going to be back" talk. He teased us that maybe he would be back tomorrow or the next day. We asked if he needed any money. No. Then a quick "love you" and a hug. It's small, but significant- and yet, felt very natural at this point. All signs point to family.
We are asking you to continue to pray for our situation- quick court date, favorable outcome, safe travel and smooth family adjustment. Thank you for your continued support.