Back in the Homeland

We made it! This trip seemed much more difficult for whatever reason. I'm completely spent from hours upon hours of flying and layovers. I'm hoping the headache I've had for the last several hours (or has it been a day...?) goes away before tomorrow morning. Nevertheless, nothing is going to stop me from showing my excitement to see our kiddos tomorrow!

Our driver/translator was waiting for us just outside of the St. Petersburg airport's customs area with a huge hug and a "So glad to have you back!" We just love him. He hustled us outside into the bitter cold Russian air and into his compact car. He drives just as wild well in a foot of snow as he did back in October.

St. Petersburg is absolutely beautiful during this time of year! I'm afraid I'm too tired and out of it to do the city justice in my description at the moment, but believe me—it's magical. Of course, the fact that B and C currently live here add to the "magic!" What we Americans would consider Christmas decorations are up: decorated pine trees, tall fake trees waiting for the finishing touches before being lit, icicle lights twinkling on the sides of buildings. However, all of this is done in celebration of the "New Year," according to our driver. I can’t wait to better appreciate it when I’m more awake!

Our driver will pick us up just after 9:00 a.m. tomorrow to take us to see our babies (first one, then the other). It would be fantastic if they remember us, but even if they don’t it will be such a blessed reunion! Possible happy or frightened tears and all!

Good night friends! (Or, good afternoon to you in the states!)