ONLY THE GOOD = ALYSSA

Let's just say that this Russian trip was definitely a HUGE learning adventure! We will do many things differently the next time. The best part of the adventure was spending time with our beautiful new daughter, Alyssa! She was getting very nervous as we were the last Camp Hope family to arrive. So our safe arrival was a huge relief to all of us. We had my 2 favorite aunties as guardian angels helping us thru the challenges. Our newest angel, Aunt Franny protected us with her blessings and love. My Godmother, Armie, kept me warm and secure in her beautiful mink coat - which as a huge hit. No one had ever seen an Americanca arrive in a coat like that!

We went to the Kondo orphanage on our first night in Russia to pick up Alyssa and begin her fairy tale week with her new parents. Danny had never met her, but by the next morning had totally fallen in love with his new daughter. She is very sweet and kind, sharing all her food, and always offering her thanks, hugs and kisses. In between adventures of swimming, shopping, and eating - we spent a lot of time reading english/russian and getting lots of Mama and daughter snuggles -which I needed as much as she did! She is a very detailed child that loves to color and draw, and can entertain herself for hours with her artwork. She has 2 aunties (Pammy & Terese) that will help cultivate that talent. She loves to swim, and will be getting swimming lessons at the new YMCA pool when we bring her home. She learned about all of her new aunties and cousins via pictures and is a bit overwhelmed with all of the people who are waiting to meet her - but she is ready to come home NOW!

The hardest day was bringing her back to the orphanage. We had her loaded with new clothes and presents, but it was still very emotional. Elena, the Director, helped us console her and understand that it would only be a few more months until she can come home with us! Please keep us all in your prayers..........more later in about 2 months for chapter 2 of the Kerwin Russian adventures! xoxoxo

count down to russian trip #1

Well, after 6 months of paperwork, tests and planning....it looks like we are finally traveling on our great Russian adventure to adopt our new daughter, Olesya! We are very excited, and almost ready to go! Our suitcases are full of warm clothes and goodies for everyone! On the way back - they will be full of good Russia vodka! 1 week and counting..........stay tuned! xoxox