Elona let us know that the package I sent Greta has arrived in Lithuania. I hope that someone will take pictures of Greta as she gets her gifts and sees her photo album for the first time. Elona also sent a copy of the petition that will be filed with the court. They are asking to have the second court date waived. I know I won't know that until I get there. I'm waiting for that court date!

With all of the paperwork done, waiting for the court date is next. And planning for travel. I really want to go to Lithuania prepared to stay until I can bring her home. With Lithuania, that could be a couple of weeks (if the second court date is waived) or a couple of months (if it's not). As I looked at the financial piece last night, I'm not sure I can afford to stay in Lithuania for the 40 day wait period between hearings. But I can't imagine having Greta with me then having to leave her behind in the orphanage. I know other families have been through this and it's all been okay. I'm applying for adoption grants. If they come through it will make staying much more financially feasible.
I keep telling myself...One step at a time.

I797C received and forwarded to Michelle!
DS230 scanned and sent to Michelle to send to Elona in Lithuania!
I800 and I864W to USCIS in Texas!
Now on to completing grant applications! I just love paperwork! But keeping a picture of Greta in front of me reminds me that it's all worthwhile.
Still hoping and praying to be home by Christmas!

I have USCIS approval again! The first time was for Rachel/Austeja. Now I send off the I800 as soon as I get the needed documents - which are in the mail. Another step closer to knowing when I travel. Is there a chance I'll actually have Greta home by Christmas? I hope so!

I sent Greta her first presents from me and Robert - a backpack filled with goodies! A stuffed animal, a baby doll that giggles, a quilt made mostly by Chris with a little help from me, and a photo album to introduce her to her new family, friends, and home. I sent a disposable camera in hopes that someone at the orphanage will take pictures of her as she is getting her package. Robert set up her crib in my room last night. I'm getting anxious to go get her!

I received update info! Greta was seen by a cardiologist in September. Although she still has a functional systolic heart murmur, she is doing well and observation and further consultation in 2 years is all that has been recommended. She also was seen by a neurologist who did not find any problems. The eye doctor has diagnosed her as being farsighted with astigmatism. She and Robert really are siblings! The best news: The doctors think that Greta's positive reaction to the hepatitis test was due to the antibodies from her mother. Her liver is healthy! She does not have the diagnosis of hepatitis! They did express concern about another issue - she sucks her finger. :-) They clarified that this is not a problem, only a habit. If that's the biggest problem we have, we are in great shape!

Greta is 34.6 lbs and 3 feet tall. I'm eagerly (anxiously? definitely not patiently!) waiting to find out when court will be.

David

I thought I should introduce all my children. Here's David. I wish he were here.

Robert

This is Robert and Rocky. Robert is 19 (almost 2o but I don't want to talk about that!). He is working at Angel Heart Farms. He is learning to rehabilitate horses.

Greta Rose

Here's my Greta! She is currently in an orphanage in Lithuania. She will be 3 years old on February 20, 2010. Robert says she has our cheeks. We are very excited about adding her to our family.