Saturday, February 23, 2008

Hurry up and wait...

It's been a frustrating few days. After rushing to get here to Uralsk, we've had nothing but dalays once here. We were finally able to meet with the representatives from the Department of Education and the Office of Guardianship on Friday evening, but of course, it was too late to go visit one of the baby houses. On the weekend, nothing happens, so now we just have to wait until Monday to go and meet our child. We've done some exploring in the area - it's a very nice area, and the buildings are quite pretty to look at.
Dave is practicing his Russian, and was very impressive at getting us a 5 litre bottle of water for our room. He's even taken to watching Russian war movies on tv -but I'm not sure how much he can really understand. We ordered in pizza last night for supper - not too different from at home, and it was only $5.00 for what looked to be a medium sized 4 topping thin crust pizza. In general, the food at the hotel has been really good - nothing too wierd for my tastes yet (surprising, I know!) Our travelling partners are now here at the hotel -right next door to us so we're planning on going to try and find the outdoor market this morning.
Uralsk has a population of about 250,000. We've figured out how to use the bank machine to get tenge (the local currency), and went to a large grocery store to pick up some food. It was a large store, but many of the shelves were empty. The only aisles that were stocked were the alcohol ones - no shortage of vodka there! The people here dress very nicely, and the cars are all newer, and there are also SUV's.
We're still not adjusted to the time change - it's taking longer than I expected. I'm usually tired by 7:30pm, then up by 4:00am. We got a call from my parents yesterday morning, and Dave's parents today - it's so nice to hear familiar voices when we're at the other end of the world!
I'll try and keep everyone posted on our progress as I am able to, based on the hotel's tempremental internet system!

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

good luck and hope things go great for you on monday. dad and i are keeping tabs on you both (soon to be 3!!!!)bart

Unknown said...

Nice to hear you made it safely. Was surprised at how nice the hotel is.
We have said prayers for you on a safe and happy journey, and for your little one's health and happiness.

We will keep checking on your progress. Love Aunty Pat And Brett

Anonymous said...

Hi Guys,
So glad to hear you made it safely - we have been thinking about you(s) constantly!
We have a web cam too, so if we know what time you'll be on maybe we can connect.
Hugs to you,
Scott, Tan and Reece

Anonymous said...

Hey Guys!
We had Taylor's bd on the weekend with my parents and the Bowes. Everyone sends you good luck and warm wishes. I showed mom and dad some of your blog and they can't get over what an adventure this has been so far. My in-laws are excited for you too! Can't wait to get more news! Kelly

Anonymous said...

Stacey and Dave,
Best of luck this week! We love being able to follow along with you on this incredible journey. Thank you for allowing us this priveledge. Can't wait to hear all about your child. Wow this is awesome!
Lisa & Jeff
Braeden and Carter are rooting for team BLUE!

Matthew Ruley said...

I am sure you are anxious to get to meet your child! I cant imagine being so close yet so far... Hope things speed up for you and that you meet your little bundle of joy soon, if not - already!

Karen said...

Hi: How things were going for you? How did it go at the baby house? Hope you found your forever child. We're in the last stages of packing. We leave tomorrow evening and will be in Uralsk on Monday! We'll call you once we get settled in.