Monday, October 06, 2008

Question time

Here is question time. You can ask me any question about the adoption or anything else. If you're an adoption pro - ask me questions to make sure I know what I'm doing. If you're just beginning an adoption - ask me about the process. If you're just here for fun - ask me what my favorite color is. ;o)

6 comments:

Diana said...

I know you're planning to adopt Nick. Are you still planning to adopt other children in addition and are you traveling blind on these referrals?

Why did you decide to leave your daughter home rather than taking her to Ukraine with you?

How long are you planning to be in Ukraine? Are you taking at least $3,000 more than you think you'll need?

How do you feel about snowy, cold, wet weather?

How do you feel about being judged negatively because of your nationality and religious affilitaton? How do you feel about answering questions in court directly relating to these issues...and defending them as well?

How do you feel about having the most incredible experience of your life in spite of it?

That's probably enough fun for now. :-)

Jill said...

Hi Diana,

Yes, we're planning to adopt Nick (4 1/2 years-old). Since his twin sister was adopted already, we hope to adopt a younger girl, around 2 or so (if possible).

I have a fear of someone stealing my daughter. I went to Taiwan back in 2004 and I didn't take her with me then, either. I have read so many reports on young girls being sold to brothels - it's more than I can take to think of something like that happening to my daughter. Perhaps when she is older I will consider it.

I plan to be there 4-5 weeks long. I think that we have secured enough money (hopefully) for our needs while there.

I LOVE the cold weather! I prefer snow to rain - but, I like the cold. I like having a reason to be all bundled up in a blanket.

I did not know that I would be judged negatively for my nationality or religion. Is that commonplace? I trust in God that he will bless me to answer any and all questions the way that he would want me to answer them.

I'm ready for this experience! I cannot wait to get there and to see what good I can do and be to the Ukrainian people.

Julie said...

While you are in Ukraine... will you take some updated pictures of our precious Daisy for us? : )

Also, If you don't mind, once there and everything is over and done with, can you share your experience with me since I'll be following your steps in just a few weeks/months?

Julie
RR

Winnie said...

Yes I would be prepared for questions about your religion from the judge. We were not asked anything, however our homestudy stated that we are non-denominational. I know your Latter Day Saint and honestly the only religion that accepted there is orthodox (though there are other religions)

Take more money or be able to have it wired to you than planned.

Pack washcloths

Don't pack tons of clothes, really three sets and a few extra undies are all you need, EVERYONE wears clothes a couple to three times before they are washed.

Be prepared for it take longer than planned. Have back up plans for care for your daugther, extend your husband's leave or be prepared to come home alone as you never know how long it will take.

If they tell you they will waive the 10 days don't get your hopes up until you have the court document in your hand and it's read COMPLETELY by your translator, e-mail if you want more details.

Winnie

Jill said...

Hi Julie,

Yes, of course! I can take some pictures of you daughter, Daisy! She is SUCH a cutie! I'd be happy to share my experience with you once we've returned. Thanks for asking! :o)

Hi Winnie,

Thanks for the tips! I appreciate it! :o) Did you get your 10 days waived? Did the process take you longer than expected? My hubby can only stay for 3 weeks, so I hope we can get to court within those days!

Blaine said...

Blaine here, Diana's husband. Yes, religion and country play a part when you are in Ukraine.

Americans are becoming less liked (well a year ago and from what I hear) over there as the political scene changes and as many are anti-NATO in Ukraine.

We were politely asked a little bit about our political preferences by our translator. We were asked about America in general by the judge.

Our religion played into things where many misunderstand and only hear clips of misinformation in the media. Hey, people in the US misunderstand too.

There also seemed to be (for us anyway) a general air of distrust of these foreigners in a small town. Don't get me wrong the people of Ukraine are wonderful, caring people. Everyone we met and got to KNOW was this way.

However, the stranger on the street that you pass by knows you're an American, knows you're there to adopt, knows you're in their small town, and there is natural "unknown" suspicion there. We were followed and shadowed intensely every time we set foot in a store-- probably because we spent a lot of $ or were "rich Americans" or distrusted?