The Journey Begins

Yesterday morning we said a sad goodbye to our Ukrainian daughter! It was a really hard day for our family. On the way to the airport The Mr turned to see O with her sunglasses on looking away from everyone because she was crying. That started the sadness off. It was a very somber ride all the rest of the way despite the Mr and I trying hard to cheer everyone up.
When we finally reached the airport (we were the first family to arrive) things had settled down a little and we prepared for her departure.

O, M and C sadly sitting around waiting for everyone to join us.

O, L, M, C and T.

After a few minutes the large group of kids and host families started pouring in and the crying and hugging began again.
I felt overwhelmed by peoples generosity, especially people I know that donated, when I saw the many, many bags of clothing that was to be sent back to the Ukraine. 

Thank you to all that donated clothing and suitcases. The orphanages that will receive these things will be very grateful!

We stood around for a what seemed like a long time, while the people in charge of this large group got everything ready and everyone checked in. There were many opportunities for more hugs and more pictures and especially laughing and crying.

me and our beautiful girl

Checking in

waiting

Some of the group arriving.

M clearly unhappy to see her friend/sister leave

sadness all around!

After standing around we were lead upstairs so they could all go through security. This was were we had to all say our final good bye. The kids were all really upset, they didn't yet know that we had decided to adopt O, but we told them about it when we got home. They were all very excited to think of ways to help us get money.

 As sad as the Mr and I were to see our daughter leave us, I felt a very strong feeling of peace knowing that we would see her again. It may take us a while and it will definitely take all the money we have, but I know she will come home and be part of our family once more. She is in our prayers every night and I hope that things will go smoothly for us along this journey so we can have our whole family together again.

Yes there were better pictures but I thought this accurately showed you C!