Waiting for December and Working on Dossier!

Ok - so during this time we have been working furiously to get all the dossier done. We had some really really good luck and figured out we would probably make our time line of being done before Ira arrives. Also, all during this time we are getting more and more excited about her arrival. Maggie was in Ukraine in Oct. and visited w/ her and took to her a letter we wrote introducing us and our family and also a photo album we sent to her. Maggie was able to e-mail us pictures and a short video clip and we were so very excited to see that!! Maggie also told us that as she looked at our photo album all she could say was "when do we leave, when do we leave"!! We did a little shopping for a few clothes for her and just overall began to prepare - did some Christmas shopping as well. From the middle of Oct. to her arrival Dec. 16 there were a few "blips" as to whether or not hosting would take place. Swine flu was one of the obstacles to overcome as Ukraine shut everything down for 3 weeks and we didn't know if the kids would be allowed to travel. Each "blip" brought a sense of panic and dread - but each one passed and things kept lining up. Also, Tom & I were watching weather like crazy to get out of here (the mountains w/ snow) to go to Dulles in D.C. to pick her up and trying to schedule flights. Finally right at the end all came together and the day was fast approaching for Tom to take me to Charlotte to fly to Dulles to pick her up! We were so so excited and nervous. But that day finally arrived to travel to get her - weather worked out - flights worked out - and yes the dossier was done!!! So on the morning of December 16 - off we went to Charlotte for me to fly to get her! Oh happy days!!!!!!!!!!!