Day 28 - Goodbye

It's taken me all week to write this post. I've just been "blah." We all have. This journey has been wonderful and we've all loved every minute. If my family and The Preacher would let me, I would do this again in a heartbeat . . . especially with a kiddo from the same place Denys lives. And we are completely at peace with God's sovereignty and sending him home to the amazing Larysa. But, the fact remains, we miss him. He added something to our home and without him here we're just sad.

Three a.m. came very early Tuesday morning. We had clothes laid out and Denys was packed. A quick shower, everyone dressed and off to the ATL we rode. Surprisingly most everyone remained awake on our trip over. Check-in was a breeze and the NHFC staffer on-site was incredibly helpful. I took a couple of pictures of the crew and it wasn't until I was home that I saw the face.

(Oh, and do you see this? I made sure to get a picture just for all of you who prayed so diligently those last few hours. The bag came in at FIFTY POUNDS - even. Thank you, Jesus!)

I knew he wasn't thrilled about going home, but I was surprised at the pouty face he gave in those last moments. What he couldn't say in words I think he was trying to tell us by his looks. When asked via Google Translate was he ready to return to Ukraine, he always said, "No." But was unable to elaborate on what he was really feeling. But, as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. (Can you see the humor here, too? He's such a funny kid!)

 Then we waited.

At first we were a solemn bunch, but then Denys pulled out the juggle balls (Koosh balls are WONDERFUL for juggling) and he and J quickly began playing. In a short while he caught a glimpse of some of his buddies and was absolutely THRILLED to see those boys. They began talking non-stop and introducing us all to one another. Interestingly, their families had the same things to say about them we had to say about Denys. I believe their director, Larysa, does a fabulous job with her her children. She has taught them to be polite and loving. They are respectful and joyful and love to have fun.

From the time the friends arrived, he was involved with them and then it was time for them to leave. My children were broken hearted. J wept. We thought Jason was going to have to carry him to the vehicle. MG began sobbing also and AR chased Denys down and kept saying, "Bye, Denys." They were certainly a sad crew and it broke this mama's heart to see her babies hurt.

We watched them descend the escalator and turn the corner into security. And that was that.

We headed home and have all be mopey ever since. We know that God is BIG and will have his will accomplished in the life of Denys.

We would love to see Denys find a forever family here, in the USA. And if you're interested in learning more about Ukrainian orphans we would love to help you get into contact with the right people. Also, we have found out that Denys will be available for summer hosting. We have decided to opt out (for now) since we don't want to deprive a family who may be very interesting in having him in their home on a long-term basis. (hint hint) There again, please let us know if you're interested in more information.

Before

After

Denys is a precious 14-year-old Ukrainian boy with a high-wattage ready smile. He is conservative in dress, but very ready to play and have a good time. He is energetic and is a bit of an acrobat and hip/hop dancer. He rides bikes, swims and likes fancy cars. Drawing is a passion for him and he can freehand nearly any illustration he sees. Denys plays well with children of any age and does an amazing job keeping a close watch on the youngest ones; making sure they stay safe and out of harm. He is empathetic and kind to others and animals. He was delighted to spend time with our extended family and loved on them as much as they loved on him. Video games are perhaps his favorite quiet time activity and he is quick to figure out any type of electronic device - even the ones in English. 

Please help us pass the word to anyone you think might be interesting in learning more about Denys or any other older Ukrainian orphan! He is a wonderful kiddo and certainly our favorite Ukrainian!

~Megan

Day 27 - The Final Hours

Solemn. Somber. Rather uneventful. These are the adjectives I would use to describe today. Monday's are always busy here and today was no exception: piano lessons, errands, gymnastics, and any number of other small necessaries that pop up.

Denys opted to stay with Mimi and the girls while I took Jonah to piano lessons early this morning. He has enjoyed playing with this piano during this trip. Were he here any longer we would be talking with Mrs. Sue about piano lessons times two!

Home to begin packing was next on the agenda. I finished all the ironing. We stuffed what we could into Space Bags. Those suckers are great for fitting just a few more things into a very cramped space, but too bad they can't do a thing in the world about weight!

Pouty faces packing 'cases.

And speaking of suitcase weight - Prayer Request - please pray now that his suitcase is not over weight. We got word this morning that the cases were supposed to weigh 44 lbs. That SIX pounds under 50. Six whole pounds. We are mighty close to being right in between those numbers. Please pray Delta's scales are kind in the morning.

He also packed his backpack and it is tight as a tick! A few more people have asked these last few days could they give him something for the return trip. We have been begging them not to give anything. We knew we were close and he doesn't even have an excessive amount of things to take back to Ukraine. I did find a cell phone in his backpack. Those are one of the "contraband" items, but this is one I am pretty sure came over with him. (I don't know where he's had it hidden all this time. I searched diligently for one when he arrived!) I've not seen one of these mp3/slim/flip phone styles in several years so no one I know gave it to him. In that case, it gets to return home!

Before gymnastics this evening we stopped by an auto parts store because Jason needed something for the truck. The kids and I knocked around just to see what was there. Denys found a display of key chains. He asked me to show him a "T" and then he asked for one. Please note that this is the first and ONLY thing he has asked for on this trip. When offered he would accept or decline something and might choose one style over another, but, other than water, he has not, outright, asked for a single solitary thing since arriving. And this "T" key chain was not for himself, but for a friend, Toni. Wow. (And of course it was purchased immediately!)

At the end of gymnastics the boys were given the opportunity to jump on the trampolines and into the "Pit" for a few minutes. They enjoyed it, but wanted more time to play. We headed back to Mimi and Pops for dinner. I finally had a chance to fix a Ukrainian-style meal. Well, it wasn't the cabbage rolls I was hoping to fix (btw - if you need some cabbage, I have plenty!), but a nice Kielbasa and veggie "roast" was easy and very good. He ate a plateful and promptly put his dirty plate into the sink. (I'm gonna miss this kid for more reasons than one! lol)

He did not want to leave when it was time to head home, but got into the vehicle anyway. We talked for bit, went through all his photograph and I marked them with people and places as best I could. (I had to explain that The Varsity was not McDonald's!) And he asked again were we leaving at four. I told him, "Yes," and he held up ten fingers and said, "No. Six!"

If my Ukrainian is incorrect just don't even tell me.

I finished up a little goodbye card and sneaked a couple of very small goodies into his backpack for him to find during the day tomorrow. The candy I purchased will not fit, so off to The Preacher's office it goes. We are heavy-hearted, but still holding up well. Prayer for the early a.m. appreciated.

~Meg

Day 26 - Church and Party and Church and Party

We love to spend time with people. Even better, we love to spend time with family. And even better than that we love that Denys loves to spend time with our family. Since today was within 48 hours of his departure, we decided a party was in order.

After church most of the Robinsons, a few of the Hatchetts, and some Griffiths gathered at Gmama's for pizza, salad, and cake. We had a wonderful time visiting and enjoying each other's company. And every single person in attendance had pictures made with the Guest of Honor!

Now, this silly boy gets excited easily, but his thrill was palpable when I pulled out the camera. When he arrived he'd already hugged everyone in the room. (He discovered early on this is way we greet each other in our world!) But the wattage of his smile was amped up immeasurably for these photos. I wish there were room to post every single one of these, because they are precious.

This is how we roll.

I know I can tell you all day how much fun we have together and how close we are, but I had a chance to grab a picture that sort-of explains this "Robinson Phenomenon" in a way words cannot. See, even Daddy Mac was in on the action!

The kiddos played like crazy in the yard and were completely filthy. MG was in such bad shape she had to have a shower before she could leave Gmama's. Jason then took her and the boys home for showers before church began - Because NO ONE wanted to sit and sniff "stinky boy" during the service. (I'm not sure anyone loves The Preacher that much.)

AR is still a bit puny so I let her finish her nap and then headed to church a bit late. But seeing as how I brought pizza and cake for dinner after the service, no one seemed to mind my tardiness.

So we ate and talked and just enjoyed each other's company. (Did I mention that we love to spend time with folks?) Of course, the kids were bored with pizza rather quickly and went to wreak havoc on one of the Sunday School rooms. Amazingly enough, when time came to clean up, the mess had not been made by a single one of my children! Too bad for them; they had to clean it up anyway.

Dad wins again.

We came home and, as I'm trying to get the kiddos settled in, I hear a roar coming from J's room. Apparently Dad and the boys had decided a little wrestle mania was in order. I think Jason whipped them all pretty soundly, but they returned again and again. Yes, Mom just stayed on the outskirts and watched and managed to avoid being dragged into the melee.

Monday's are always wild around here. I've got several loads of laundry that need to be finished and a suitcase, looking smaller and smaller, that needs to be packed. We'll also do our usual piano and gymnastics. It's probably a very good thing we'll be rather busy and somewhat distracted since no one is looking forward to Tuesday morning.

~Megan

*There will be no 4 Under $40 this week.

Day 25 - The Final Countdown

ящірка (yeshuka) - lizard

There are 3 days left. THREE DAYS! Where did the time go? I am amazed and delighted that 12 weeks ago I didn't not even know there was a Denys in the world and now I feel about him nearly like I feel about my own children. This boy is a precious treasure.

Today we spent time with Uncle Dan - who, if he didn't already have a middle-schooler, would bring Denys back to live with him as soon as possible. The kids rode bikes and came home with the majority of stuff Uncle Dan was cleaning out of his garage (isn't that always the case?!?).

AR is feeling a bit puny today, so she and I stayed home while The Preacher took the kids out to Luther Ranch for the afternoon. They caught fish . . .and LIZARDS! I heard a tale that one host kiddo made it home with a lizard in a small aquarium-thing on one NHFC trip, but I didn't share that story because, sure enough, it wouldn't work this time. So, the lizards remained at the ranch and the rest of the dirty crew came home.

Showers and movie time and maybe we'll be in bed before 11pm?!?

Just like I promised, here are some pictures of Denys' artwork. Yes, the "Angel" is copied from a book illustration, but it's a  freehand copy. He sees a picture and he draws it in his sketch book. I happen to love the blowfish (not copied, just drawn). It's a favorite.
I had one downloaded entitled "Soccer Dad."
I'm not sure why "Soccer Dad" won't rotate correctly, but it's sideways . . .and tonight it will just have to stay that way and not make the cut.

Yesterday was also a fun day. Denys had seen my portraits of the kiddos and had expressed interest in them. I asked him if he might like to have some nice pictures made. He indicated that he would, but that he would especially like a photo in a frame. I had a "Picture People" coupon (those things are GREAT) and so we had portraits made of all the kids together. The nice thing about the "PP" coupon is that it only costs $20 for a about 20 pictures. The down side is that you only get to choose one pose. I let Denys make the final choice of the one he liked best. Of course it's probably the most precious photograph ever made, but then you probably knew that! (he he)

Look at those babies! They are precious and I love them like mad.

I can't believe our time is nearly up. I can't say I'm going to be ready for Denys to leave early, early Tuesday morning. But, we are at peace and trusting God to be as BIG as we know he is. I'll end with a copy of the letter we're sending home in his suitcase. (And there are no words when you're writing a letter to a child that feels like yous that you may never see again.)

~Meg

Dear Denys,

We are so excited that you came to visit with us this year. We could not have asked for a young man with better manners or who played so well with our other children. We will miss you and thank God you came into our lives. 

We believe that God has a great plan for your life and we cannot wait to see how it unfolds. Be encouraged that you were created intentionally and with great purpose and the God who already inhabits the future will continue to protect you.

You have been a blessing to us. Jonah feels you are one of the very best friends he has ever had. Millie loved receiving the piggy back rides you were always willing to give. And even though she doesn’t understand it, we are grateful for the protection you always showed to Anna - watching out for her and keeping her safely out of trouble. 

In the future choose your friends wisely and strive to make good decisions that will keep you from harm. You can always ask God for help and protection and he will certainly guide you. Continue to read your Bible, especially the book of John. It will help you understand exactly who God is and precisely how he feels about you. 

We are sorry we did not finish your care package before you left, but we wanted to make sure you received these letters from all of us in it’s place.

We love you and we will miss you. We are so glad that we can call you friend. 

Love, 
Jason & Megan

Day 23 - A Heavy Heart

NOTE: This blog has been edited and changed from it's original content. Denys has expressed an interest in viewing the blog once at home and we want to make sure he enjoys it 100%!

We had another busy, busy day. I headed off to see our pediatrician this morning for the girls' annual well-checks. They both got Mary Poppins reports (Practically Perfect in Every Way)! Yay! AR does have a bit of a sinus infection, but amoxicillin should clear that right up. The boys did some more wood hunting with Dad, who commented that Denys is a "Great Wood Hauler." I suppose in The Preacher's world that is a high compliment. I'm not sure it's resume worthy, but Jason was impressed. I was worried when they walked back into the house this afternoon because I noticed right away J had worn his "new" tennis shoes (a "no no" for wood hunting). Fortunately he didn't get out of the truck so his shoes remained in decent condition . . . lucky for him and his dad!

We all ate an early dinner at Mimi's (thank goodness for Mimi and fried chicken), left AR in her care and headed to the University of West Georgia basketball game, courtesy of our good friends from church, The Grays.

Because we are those people, we made sure we were at the game plenty early enough to get the free t-shirts on free t-shirt night. And yes, they are wearable. And yes, you will see us in them again. Denys refused to put his on, he suddenly decided he was a Valdosta State Blazers fan - as much to drive J bananas as anything else - but the rest of us Hatchett's donned ours immediately.

The games were good - big fat "W's" for both the gals and the guys. It was also a record setter being the most highly attended basketball game ever in Gulf-South Conference history. Our highlight was a special trip made by Wolfie, the mascot, particularly to see us! When we got home J decided he was going to draw a picture for Wolfie and send it to him. I told him I thought that was a wonderful idea.

And now we're home and it's 11pm, again, and all children are so wired from snacks and Cokes and another late night that they're having trouble falling asleep. Surprising? Nope.

~Meg

Day 22 - The Preacher Blogs

My apologies before you read for the lack of eloquence tonight as my wife has given me (Jason) this responsibility for day 22.

Today began early with a return trip to Southern Dental in Carrollton.  Our appointment was for 7am so we arrived about 6:45 and waited in the lobby with my now new friend from Cuba- who introduced himself as follows:

"Hey!  Do you speaka da englas?  Well Me very little!  I from Cuba- my wife over dere- she Spani- You probably never understand me"

So it was me, a Cuban his Spaniard wife and a Ukrainian in the Lobby at 6:45- At this point I'm thinking I should have been more on time!  Denys was mostly asleep and my Cuban friend was sharing his disgust with Obama (that I understood as it crosses all language barriers).  As everyone arrived I was invited to go back with Denys and sit right in front of his chair.  I love Denys and was glad to be there with him...however I am not a fan of dentist office noises- especially the drill!  I've never seen it from that angle however and am almost certain that I will not cry the next time I sit in the chair now that I realize it is not an 18 volt Dewalt with a 3/8 in bit

I do still here the noise in my mind and it creeps me out.

Denys however could not have been more calm.  Two cavities filled and one old filling fixed with no Novocaine!  Way to go Denys.  (I asked for some and was rejected)

Thanks be to our God for His servants!  The Doctors Mr. and Mrs. Drew donated their time and service for Denys.  That's right- no cost!  I tried to pay and expressed that people had given us money for this expense however I was told to spend the money on Denys and to keep them informed as to Denys' future. THANK YOU DREW FAMILY!!!

Let me say if you are looking for a dentist- try this place.  If you are not looking for a dentist try this place.  Yes they blessed us and Denys, but more importantly they loved on Denys as well as provided extremely professional service (not to mention they are in a really cool historical house!)

The rest of the day included a trip to MiMi's for chicken dumplings (everybody say Yeah!) and ice cream, oatmeal pies, apple pies, rice crispy treats..... the list goes on and on- it was MiMi's

It was so good to see Mamaw up and about showing glimpses of her old self again.  Thanks for your prayers on her behalf.

The afternoon featured bicycle riding in the yard and a special appearance by Papa Jim who carried Jonah, Millie and Denys across the road to ride the bikes on the track.  They loved it- however Denys was a bit disobedient on the way back across the street and rode his bike instead of pushing as instructed by Papa (and did not look for cars).  I understand that a death threat from Papa Jim translates to most any language including Ukrainian so he got the message never to do that again.

Next Tuesday is looming- pray for us but mostly pray for the will of the Almighty in Denys' life.  We want him to know Christ and live out his purpose.  We want him to have a forever family

Day 21 - Less Than a Week to Go

I promised the kids a surprise this morning when they woke up . . . at nearly 10am! (Did I mention we know how to wear some children out?!?) They had to pick up their rooms and make their beds, but I promised to tell them the secret after I was ready to go. The big surprise . . . SWIMMING!

Yep, swimming in the middle of January. Around here that is not your usual January activity and although MG has been wanting to swim weekly since the mercury began falling she was a bit panicked when I mentioned a pool. "Mom, it is cold outside." "Mom, you know it's the middle of January." And from Jonah, "Mom, are we going to swim in the creek?" I made them wait and ponder where we might be going and whether or not this would even be fun or merely an exercise in abuse. They continued to question, but obediently put on the summer's swimwear (Denys in his gym shorts and slippers) and we headed out the door. Thankfully Dad decided to go too; we hate for him to miss out on the fun.

Are you an Olympian?
No, but I did "swim" at a Holiday Inn Express.

We headed to our local Holiday Inn Express where the manager had graciously permitted us to swim, today only, without the purchase of the room. (Yes, I pulled the "Ukrainian Orphan" card again, but swimming was an activity we were strongly encouraged by NHFC to do while they children were here.) He asked that we come in between check-out and check-in; working out perfectly with my plan for the day. We arrived. Swam for an hour and half and came home for lunch.

Now, if we were smart and reasonable people the busyness of today would have ended there. An hour and a half is a enough swimming to wear out any kid. But, for some reason we decided we needed to go bowling again. And not only did we need to bowl, but we needed to take friends.

Our favorite dumpy bowling spot is closed on Tuesdays and after a quick Google search, Newnan offered the what appeared to be the most cost friendly option - though I did forget to print off the coupons. Off we rode Mom, Dad, Denys, J, MG, and AR, our friend Matthew, Cousin Jack and Grandmother. Yep, you're right, there is not a family vehicle made to carry a group that size. We commandeered a 15 passenger van and hit the road. Oh, you saw that correctly. My grandmother DID go with us and enjoyed herself and we were so thankful to have her.

There have been many, many times in these past two months we have seen God do some pretty incredible things, but I must confess, it's when He shows up in the common and simple places I am often most humbled and overwhelmed. Tonight, early Tuesday evening, all 8 of us bowled for $21. Yep, it was league night and we were there early, bowled our hearts out for an hour and it cost us no more than $21. Oh yes, dear friends, that is, indeed, a Mighty God in action in my life.

A well-behaved crew at the Olive Garden.

After bowling our boisterous crowd need to eat and Olive Garden sounded goo to us all. I was concerned that our 6 children would not remember their manners. Other than realizing we need to have, yet another, spaghetti pasta lesson, I was very proud of the way each one used their manners. A funny moment - Denys chose broccoli as his side dish. It was delivered to him steamed and he didn't seem to know what it was. With his fingers he ate every piece and seemed to like the flavor. It was a giggle moment for me as I debated whether to correct him or not. Eating steamed broccoli with your fingers is improper, but it is not disgusting and unappetizing to the rest of the party, so I just let it go.

Home again, home again. Jiggity jig. Everyone was dropped at their necessary locales and our kids had showers done in gold medal time. Teeth brushing was going well and Jason had to tell Denys they would leave early in the morning to head back to the dentist. Boo! He remembered what I had told him about repairing his fillings so he doesn't seem too worried about the procedure. Whew.

Prayer for his mouth tomorrow and that Dr. Monicha will be able to do all that needs to be accomplished quickly and without delay. Pray that he will tolerate the procedure well and recover without difficulty.

Your prayers for his continued improvement in communication are being answered. Slowly, but surely, he is opening up and using more English. We are working to memorize Philippians 1 and he repeats everything I say very clearly and, if he doesn't feel the need to be too silly, rather correctly.

Also begin praying for his return and especially for a little seven-year-old boy who will be left here to sleep in his room alone. I'm pretty sure he's going to be devastated.

~Meg

Day 20 - The Dentist

AHHHHH . . . Not the DENTIST!

I never had dentist problems. I grew up seeing Dr. Wylie, in Americus, and he was a friend. At 34 years-old I've still never had a cavity. Jason, on the other hand, hates the dentist (I met his and I may know why . . .). He has pretty good teeth, but abhors the biannual cleanings - they always seem to come up with something wrong.

At some point, Denys has had experience with the dentist. That experience may not have been terrific, but at least he didn't run screaming when we broke the news he was going. And like any good parents, we didn't tell him until we were headed out the door. (No sense worrying over the inevitable, right?)

We arrived at Southern Dental, in Carrollton, 15 minutes early for his appointment, and they took him right in. The hygienist (whose name I am embarrassed to say I have forgotten) was awesome and did her best to make Denys as comfortable as possible. She asked me if he had any mouth pain or problems, and I told her he had not mentioned any, but that I would ask - via Google Translate. He denied any mouth problems. Then she asked me to tell him she would be doing bite-wing x-rays of his teeth. I told him:

"She will take pictures of your teeth. X-rays."

Which translated:

"вона буде знімати ваші зуби. рентгенівських променів."

He freaked out.

Unfortunately, on the Google Translate app you cannot easily double check what had just translated. Once home I tried it again and posted it back from Ukrainian to English and it translated:

"She will remove your teeth. X-rays."

As I'm writing this I am laughing my head off! No wonder he panicked. Poor kiddo! But, together we calmed him down and she showed him on herself first every procedure she was going to perform on him. And the rest of the visit was a breeze. Just like my other kiddos, he thoroughly enjoyed "Mr. Thirsty." (That suction thingy.)

After his cleaning the dentist came in and said that his teeth look really good. He has no new cavities, but . . .

Sidebar: The word "but" is one that I don't often love to hear or to see. The only place it's ever good news is in Biblical prophecy when God is showing his great grace. Otherwise "but" generally leads to a big fat mess.

But, she continued, the four fillings done earlier (in Eastern Europe) were completed with a material that is falling to pieces. There is more decay around the fillings where they are coming loose and one is even leaking. It's not urgent, but these need to be fixed. There are also some orthodontic issues that will need to be addressed in the future, but are fine for the time being.

Want to know how much fun it is to tell a kid that you're doing great and have no cavities, but your fillings have to be redone so it's dental work for you?!? Well, it's not. In fact I'm probably going to have to call the translator to explain this one. Great. And not only that, but we have to squeeze this work in this week because he leaves early Tuesday morning. Double Boo! (Insert prayer request - Pray that the dentist is either able to complete all the work early Wednesday morning or that there is another opening this week so the work can be finished before he returns home.)

Before I move on let me just say that Southern Dental was wonderful to us today. They covered the cost of this first visit and gave Denys a great gift by doing so. Their treatment rooms are bright and airy and immaculately clean and their staff all seemed happy to be working. Visiting there ranks as one of the most pleasant dental experiences I have ever had. (We're seeing if they're taking new patients!)

After the Dentist we came home and the kids played for a bit before Jason took them wood chopping. I know, it seems he thinks we live in 1872 in a Little House in the Big Woods. (ha) And yes, Shane Smith, our heat works just fine. But, the man loves a fire and a fire requires wood, so off to the lease to chop down trees it was for him and the kiddos.

I met him later and took J to piano while he continued wood hunting with Denys and MG. We all met up back at the house just in time for me to grab MG and take her to gymnastics. Finally all meeting up at Mimi's to watch the stomping that is the SEC. (Alabama #1. Georgia #2. Thank you very much.)

We introduced him to what our friend, Brent Vohun, refers to as "football food:" buffalo chicken dip, chips, rice krispy treats, fried pies, etc. I left after the first quarter to bring the baby home and put her into the bed, but the word on the street is that he's eaten so much junk he may puke tonight. Great. I told The Preacher that was all him.

I only took one photo today of Denys and didn't love the way it turned out. Instead of pictures tonight I'll leave you with this little jewel of a video.

~Megan

Day 19 - Sunday, Sunday

Another lovely day that did not see too much action - or did it?

A vicious rumor was spreading around the 1st & 2nd grade Sunday School this morning that Denys showed up and brought his "MF" with him, but the teacher denies hearing any such thing so we just let it go and moved on. :o)

I realized during the service I probably should have cracked down early & strongly on behavior during worship. There's lots of talking, too much wiggling, and loud coloring going on, but the worst offender is not Denys, it's my other two! So, it's back to the training grounds where the kids only sit with Mom on Sunday mornings and they learn to sit quietly - whether they like it or not. (And though they think it makes me the worst mom EVER, I can honestly say I'd rather farm them out because then I actually get to to listen to the sermon! However, parenting trumps pleasure every time.)

Dear friends invited us to their home for lunch and it was WONDERFUL! We always enjoy visiting and talking with them. And they have kiddos, too, so we can let the crew play with casual observation and everyone has a great time. Rhonda fixed a simple, but yummy lunch of soup and sandwiches - all recipes from Pintrest. (And yes, I'm still utilizing the last ounces of self-control I have to stay off that web site!)

I don't know if you guys have been lifting up my prayer requests or if I've just been praying a lot, but God chose to show up while Denys was on the trampoline. He wanted Jason to see some of his acrobatic tricks and . . . Breakthrough #1 . . . he began yelling, "Da - dee! Da - dee!" Yay! He acknowledged (at least one of) us and called us by name! It took 19 days, but we both thought that moment was super exciting.

We brought the boys home and let them play video games and watch Sponge Bob. If you remember, I mentioned that Denys was not speaking much English. Well, he does know the entire Sponge Bob song and can name all the characters in his cute Ukrainian accent. That counts? Right?

Then it was back to church. While Dad talked the boys colored. They were going to town and probably went through half a ream of printer paper. Their work turned out very nice and . . . Breakthrough #2 . . . Denys brought me one of these pictures (flowers) just before bed and told me it was for me! He also gave his balloon picture to Jason. He's not done anything like this before and, for me, it makes me feel all oozy and mushy inside.

After church we visited with cousins and had (really expensive - never paying for delivery again) pizza. All 7 kiddos played like they'd known each other forever. Denys showed off his acrobatics again. His amazing one-handed-cartwheel-dodge-ball-throw will probably be marked down in the annals of Hatchett/Sanders family history.

At bedtime all the kids were brushing teeth and getting into bed and Denys appeared upstairs. He usually hops into his bed quickly and we don't see him again once bedtime is announced, but tonight he came upstairs and . . . Breakthrough #3 . . . asked to sleep in Jonah's room. Now, we had wondered in the beginning whether we should put him upstairs with us or downstairs on his own. He was excited to have a place of his own when he got here so we didn't push the matter. I often felt he was too far away and that maybe we were treating him like a very formal guest, but I also felt if he wanted space to be alone then he probably needed that too. No, he didn't ask in English, but there was no doubt from his pantomime what it was he wanted to do.

So tonight, after a quiet day filled with remarkable breakthroughs, all 6 of us a snuggled down and tucked in tightly, together, upstairs in our cozy home. Glory to God.

~Megan

Day 18

I think I woke up with a hangover this morning. A "I had way too much fun yesterday and ate way too much sugar" kind of hangover. I had a headache and didn't want to get out of bed. But, I did and our day progressed nicely.

The kids got up and, with some gentle prodding, went outside to work with Jason. I'm not sure how much "work" was accomplished, but they certainly played hard. This was the filthiest I've seen Jonah and Denys the entire trip.

A new Georgia 'boggin.

A late lunch, some Sponge Bob, and a visit from MaMac and Daddy Mac and our day was about done. (MaMac did bring over some cookies that I am going to be needing the recipe for ASAP - delicious!) Jason worked on dinner while I made a quick trip to the hospital to check on a dear friend. Pork chops, America's Funnies Home Videos, and it's off to bed.

On the upside we are hearing Denys using some English phrases like, "Millie, stop." "Anna, no." and "Jonah, don't do that." He's calling the kids by their names which is great to hear. (I'm not sure he's addressed either Jason or me with or names during the entire visit.) The down side is that is all the English we are hearing from him. He will repeat after me if I demand it, but is taking no initiative to try on his own. I'm sure he's learning - being stuck slap in the middle of American culture for 3 weeks. (And yes, before you ask, we work on our Ukrainian and repeat phrases after him; it's not a one-way street.) After watching him closely this week it really does seem to be a lack of desire. He still prattles on to us in Ukrainian hoping we figure it out. I'm glad he's comfortable enough to talk. Maybe we all just wish we could better understand each other.

It was a quiet day, but a pleasant one. If you say a prayer for us tonight begin praying for the dentist appointment on Monday and that he won't have significant problems that can't be fixed. Also pray that whatever barrier is keeping him from wanting to speak English with us be broken and we are able to learn something about what's really in this fella's heart.

~Megan

*And if you're interested in joining some friends and I in a challenge this year we are attempting to memorize the book of Philippians in (generally) 2 verses a week. Email me (RemarkablyWhole@gmail.com) for a pdf of the outline/note cards we'll be using.

Day 17 - The Very Best Day

Today has been an AMAZING day. It didn't necessarily begin that way . . . I had a bunch of late sleepers who decided that if they slept in they wouldn't have to do chores before we left on our adventure. However, I quickly informed them they were going nowhere if the house was not in decent order. I probably wasn't as nice as I could have been, but when time is short Mama's patience is short. Fortunately that did not stop us from fun the rest of the day.

We met my mom and dad, Honey and Papa, at the Georgia Aquarium just after lunch. It had been several years since I had been and my parents had never been. None of us were disappointed. The place is AMAZING and it's not too far from home - we were there in under an hour. We got there just in time for the aquarium staff to tell us we were too late to get tickets to the dolphin show. Boo! But, as we began to stick our fingers into the first touch pool (the one with the sting rays that don't sting and sharks that don't bite . . . How much more fun would it be if . . . ) one of the staff people came over to explain to Denys he was doing it wrong. He looked at her like she was nuts and we tried to explain he didn't really understand English and that we were having a difficult enough time keeping his body out of the pool. She asked if we were going to see the dolphin show and we said, "Nope." She told us to get in line anyway. So we did.

We nominated Papa as our spokesperson and stood in line to see what fate would have in store. When we got to the front the guy wasn't going to let us in and Papa asked, "What if we have a Ukrainian orphan?" The gate keeper was then interested in our story and, well, we got to see the show, Dolphin Tales! Not only were the dolphins AMAZING, but we actually played the "Ukrainian Orphan" card. Seriously, how many chances in life to you get to do that?!?!

 Did I mention how much we all enjoyed today? AR didn't even have a chance to get fussy without a nap. I think everyone had their favorites: J liked the penguins and rivers, MG enjoyed the slides, AR hit it off with the piranha (weird kid), and as I mentioned early Denys LOVED the touch pools. My favorite moment was this one -

Blue Silhouette

I had been looking forward to this moment all day, because if you're doing 1000 Gifts then you know one of today's gifts was "Blue." I knew I wanted to sit in the under sea observation room and be blue and see what I could see. What I found was three littles absolutely absorbed in their smallness and the sea's enormity. This was a moment of celebrating God in his Bigness. I will treasure this moment for a long time.

Purple Jellies

All Smiles after the Dolphin Show.

We scurried and scoured every other corner of the aquarium and soon I will write a post on jellyfish - my "new" gift of the day. What an AMAZING God we serve!

After the aquarium it was off to The Varsity - "What'll Ya Have?" I remember I was petrified the first time I went as I child. I couldn't understand why all those people were yelling at me. Now, I love it! It makes me smile to see a place where folks truly seem to enjoy their jobs . . maybe because they CAN yell at customers?!?

We introduced the kids to Varsity Orange drinks as well as Frosted Oranges - an AMAZING mix of orange sherbert and Dreamsicle. Yum! We couldn't leave until everyone got Varsity hats. (I think I forgot to send myself those pictures from Mom's phone.) And we couldn't leave Atlanta until we stopped by Krispy Kreme. Besides, we were less than 2 miles away!

Fascinated with the donut process.

I believe Denys was enamored with the entire donut process. He stared at the conveyor belt for a long time. We weren't there too long and, surprise of surprises, in walk some of our missionary friends. The Dye family are church planters in the Metro area. They are originally from Kentucky, but felt God calling them South. So they packed up their bags and moved to . . . Atlanta. We had a great time visiting with them, meeting their ministry partners, and introducing everyone to each other. It was also fun to be out with other families who have international flair - 3 Ethiopians between them. (Though ours is short-term theirs is of the more permanent variety!)

We decided once J & Denys began slapping one another and AR was acting as a dry floor mop and MG was whining to beat the band that it was time to head for The 'Poosa. We passed hugs around several times, pottied, changed diapers, hugged some more, and finally headed for home. Denys' English improved enough to tell J to "STOP!" (pestering him) a couple of times and before we were out of town good most of the peeps were sound asleep.

Home. Teeth. Bed. Blog. It was a long day for our crew, but it was worth every moment of effort and anxiety getting there. Thanks Mom & Dad for an AMAZING day. We all had a wonderful time - and I think our little Ukrainian made some memories he'll never forget.

~Meg

Day 16 - The Ups and Downs of Being Far From Home

Today began a bit roughly and ended rather that way too. But in the mean time we had a wonderful day and lots of fun and I believe it was a banner day for the entire visit.

We had to drag Denys out of bed this morning. And is the remarkably abnormal for him. He's usually up & playing video games before the rest of us get downstairs. Today he wandered into the kitchen and declined breakfast. Even with use of Google Translate I couldn't find anything he was interested in eating. So, a talk with the translator it was. I explained the problem to Sergiy - Denys is beginning to skip multiple meals and doesn't want to even sit with the family at the table. Sergiy spoke with him and he grunted a few responses. He told me Denys claimed to be fine and that he liked the food, he was just not very interested in eating. Sergiy also informed him that he must sit at the table at meal times whether he wanted to eat or not. Denys agreed to do so and that was the end of that.

Marshmallow Brownies ready
for the oven.

Several minutes later Jonah walked into the room and said, "Mom, I think Denys is homesick." (Have I introduced you to my prophet-child?) I thought this was rather insightful and figured I needed to drop my plans and get fully engaged in the kids today. So we began:

Brownie making was first on the agenda. We added marshmallows just for fun. And while they baked into an interesting texture they were delicious to the palate.

I fixed lunch while the brownies were baking and decided on Kraft Macaroni & Cheese. If the blue box can't fix his eating problem then nothing will! And that, my friends, was the genius move of the day. Three helpings later (and some chicken salad), Denys claimed he was full. Of course, all three still managed to find room for the fantastic brownies that were finally done.

Showing off their washer necklaces.

I put AR down for a nap and we finished our washer necklaces (see yesterday's post). They turned out super-cute in spite of the fact Dad laid something across MG's before it had dried. The kids loved them and wore them all day. In fact, I didn't check to make sure they were removed before baths.

Jason and I had also decided some family fun might be in order. Christmas had been so busy and things had stopped rather abruptly after the holiday. We needed an outing to get the grumps gone and smiles on everyone's faces. Bowling? Sure. Why not? So off we headed to Hiram and decided we are VERY thankful for the (genius) inventor of lane bumpers! Wahoo! I did manage 2 strikes, but got stomped pretty heartily by both Jason AND Denys - who happens to be a remarkable, though wild, bowler . . . especially with bumpers.

I have to confess that J and MG made the night. They cheered every time someone knocked down any pins. It was hysterical and frankly encouraged me. They didn't care they didn't get strikes. They were just thrilled that anyone was knocking down pins. It was a blessing and a memory I will cherish. I've included pictures of the kids making their bowling debuts. And I couldn't resist the one one of AR cheesing for the camera! It doesn't get any cuter than that!

Two games was certainly enough for this crowd and after a dinner at Zaxby's and a quick trip through Academy Sports (The Preacher's new favorite store), we headed for home. Now on the way home things began to get a little hairy. You see, I thought earlier today that I head Denys use the "MF" phrase. I attempted to address it mildly and didn't hear it again - until we were nearly home. And then he thought it was funny to say it over and over and over. Um, not funny. You see, I can handle it when he doesn't know what he's saying is wrong and we can have a chat and fix the problem. But tonight he was not interested in fixing the problem. He thought he was being funny. Yeah, so funny he nearly got yanked from the vehicle by two parents who were not about to let a goosey Ukrainian kiddo teach that vulgarity to their kids. Thankfully, he got the message. He and Dad still had a chat once we were home, but I'm hoping that little phrase is going the way of the other and we will not hear it again.

Tomorrow I'll post photos of his art work. He loves to copy illustrations from books and he is rather good. I'm glad we gave him a sketch book and colored pencils for Christmas. I'll close with a picture of the whole crew at the bowling alley. Now that is a cute bunch, if I do say so myself.

~Megan

Day 1 - Conquered

Glory! Hallelujah! And pass the offering plate. We have everyone in the bed and it's 9:30p. I'm so excited (and ready for bed myself) I can't hardly stand it.

Let me begin by getting all you late arrivals up to speed on what is happening. We are NOT adopting. We are HOSTING. New Horizons for Children (NHFC) is an orphan hosting program that brings Eastern European kiddos to the states twice a year - during the summer and during Christmas. (They are also opening a China hosting program and that crew will come for the first time in Feb. Yay!) And before you get worried, let me explain that these kids would be travelling during these seasons anyway and going on some sort of holiday. Coming to the States is just in place of another institution, camp, or European destination. Now Denys (our handsome fella) is available for adoption and if you are interested in that please talk with us and let us know, but under NO circumstances is anyone to say anything to him regarding the "A Word." It's off limits. Period.

*Just checked on this awesome kid and he is snoozing! Yay! I told him lights out & video games off at 9:30p and he complied! Wow!*

If you saw my earlier post I want to explain that I in no way meant anything negative towards NHFC. They have done a fabulous job putting this program together and because of international flight delays, that were completely out of there control, have nearly 230 eastern Europeans at their expected destinations (among nearly as many families) in under 24 hours. That's outstanding work! My intent was merely to share how overwhelmed I was feeling. NHFC has done a superb job preparing us; there's just no way to not be overwhelmed when a 14-year-old who speaks no English joins your family!

The good news is that he's eaten everything I put in front of him thus far. He did choose the pizza (fresh deli pizza) for lunch. Dinner was BBQ chicken (NC style) with roasted potatoes, peas/broccoli, and bread. He also had some Southern sweet tea! He cleaned his plate and, when offered, did not choose seconds.

Funny food story - I was teaching him to put his plate in the sink when finished eating and he thought I meant for him to wash it!

As far as the kiddos go, Jonah, Millie Grace, and Anna Ruth love him already. AR follows him around saying, "Hey, Denys. Hey, Denys. Hey, Denys." The highlight of my day was to the oldest 3 in a Nerf gun battle all over the yard (anyone want to donate Nerf bullets??) They had a BLAST. Even when MaMac (my grandmother) came to visit she was "talking" with Denys and suddenly Nerf bullets started flying. He light up like a Christmas tree and ran off to find his gun and fire back!

And just in case you didn't know, 14-year-old boys from Ukraine smell much like 14-year-old boys from the States! He has not been nearly as excited about the American underwear I bought him as he is about his new (in the package) underwear he brought from home. I put it in his drawer anyway. I hope by the time the 3 pair he brought get dirty he'll figure out that the others are necessary. He was, however, excited about American deodorant. (Yay.)

Oh, did I mention we decorated the tree? It was fun and Denys never missed a beat - getting the back of the tree covered as nicely as the front. And we only suffered one ornament casualty in the melee!

As of now he's not used to lots of hugging, but between the 5 of us and FBC Tallapoosa he'll get over that pretty soon. Family story time seemed a little awkward for him as well, but he sat patiently while I read about Mike Huckabee opening all his Christmas presents early.

The best God-moment of the day was when I sent the kids to check the mail and Jonah came in with a package. I had ordered a Richard Scarry book in Ukrainian/English from a publisher in Canada several weeks ago. He mailed it ahead of receiving my check payment and it came today! A small event orchestrated wonderfully to coincide with Denys' arrival. Thanks to this silly little book we won't have to run to the computer every time we need to say something. It has also given me the chance to make sure my kids hear words in Ukrainian and he hears lots of specific words in English.

Whew. I think that's enough for tonight. Tomorrow is a new day and I have another 17 hours or so I've got to figure out how to fill for a house full of kiddos. Keep us in your prayers. Pray specifically that we have peace in our home, that our communication grows stronger and easier, and that God graces us all with a special love for each other.

~Meg

Today is the Day . . .

There are no words to express the anxious excitement we are all feeling today. I haven't slept well in two nights; poor Jason has had to suffer through my tossing and turning. I had big plans yesterday. I was going to get the house all cleaned up and just hit Ingles today and relax. Um, didn't happen. I left home at 9am and got home nearly 12 hours later. I have a list a mile long of things that need to be accomplished before this evening. My tummy is rumbling with butterflies and I'm praying the kids are so tired they sleep until noon.

And then I take a deep breath and I sing -
                                       
                                       I cast all my cares upon you.

I lay all of my burdens down at your feet.

Anytime I don't know what to do,

I will cast all my cares upon you. 

I think I learned that song from Psalty the Singing Songbook over 20 years ago, but it pops into my head often these days. I don't know that this is a Psalm; I Peter 5:7 is most likely the closest literal translation. Anyone? But, it is certainly a sound way to approach the the day and the worries of my little world.

I am gently reminded that Denys (who is flying over Europe as I type this) does not care all my floors are mopped or that the kiddos drawers are all neat or even that the laundry is all done. God has not prepared our home for him as an example of perfect tidiness. Truthfully, he probably comes from a much neater home than I have to offer him.

I am to afford him a palace of love. Yes, by keeping the floors swept, and the laundry done, and the toilets wiped down I will show him a great deal of love - the same as I do for all the other wild hooligans that abide here. Stressing about these things will rob me of the energy and the joy needed to love him and his time here will become burdensome. And that does not seem like a very good trade.

Today, with much prayer and thanksgiving and intentional joy, I will do what I can and leave off what must wait. I will be ready when our Ukrainian arrives. I will smile and laugh and love and sleep like a log whenever bedtime finally arrives tonight. I will cast all my cares on Him.

Our Plan for Christmas

Tomorrow we'll get to 4 Under $40. Today I felt it was time to let the world know (he he) our plans for Christmas.

Yes, we'll still be at home. Yes, we'll still go to the half-dozen Christmas parties we can't avoid. And yes, we are still getting our babies Christmas presents (we've not totally lost our minds).

But this year, Christmas won't just be about us. This year Christmas at our house will be about Denys, too.

Denys is our new friend who will be with our family over the Christmas Holidays. He will come all the way from Ukraine (that's Eastern Europe), arrive on December 18th and return home January 15th. Whether or not he's orphaned in the truest sense of the word, he lives in an institution and will be experiencing Christmas in America this year.

And no, we are not adopting Denys. We are hosting Denys. In January he will return home.

Last summer I randomly came across the name of the group New Horizons for Children (NHFC) on Facebook. I "liked" their page which meant I began to receive their feeds on my news page and discovered what this group was doing. I found out that twice a year they visit Eastern European institutions and interview kiddos and the institution workers to see which kids might benefit from a trip to the US and would fit well into a family environment during that time. As I followed these posts I thought, "Wow. That's a really cool idea. I'm glad someone thought of it". And, "Good for these families."

Fast forward six months and on my news feed pops up this photo of a super cute kiddo - Denys - who is in need of a host family for the Dec/Jan trip. I show the pic to The Preacher and read him the 4 sentence bio. He says, "Call and check on it." I do. And Denys has already been spoken for. The NHFC staff encourages us to look at the photo-listing for other kids and . . . well, we don't. We're not really interested in other kids. Fast forward another few weeks and his photo pops up again. His initial host family has fallen through and he's available. The Preacher says, "Call and check it out."

I call again and get a little more information and discover Denys is a bit older than we thought he was from his photo. I tell the gal we'll think about and I'll let her know. Two days later we receive a phone call from another NHFC worker who tells us that not only is Denys available, but he has a scholarship and his hosting fees are half-price!

Did I mention that part of hosting is footing the bill for getting him here, flights, documentation, room and board, and getting him home?

I look over at The Preacher and tell him. He says, "Let's do it."

Because God is big, he had seen fit to provide. The Sunday before Denys became available again our church family had blessed us and honored us in an amazing way. Thanks to their generosity and some side jobs The Preacher had recently completed, when the opportunity came to say "yes" to Denys, we were able to do so with much freedom and peace.

At the risk of boring you or adding more typos that you can bear to read I'll stop here for the night. I'll add more about Denys in the coming days; let you know how he does while he's here and what we're up to with him. I'll even fill you in how completely nuts our families think we are (of course, they were headed down that path anyway!). If you have any questions, feel free to ask and I'll answer them as best I can. Also, check out the NHFC website and the New Horizons Facebook page and see who they are and the ministry they do. It really is super-neat.

~Megan