Who knew?

So we get this inspiration that 10 kids is not enough and we need an 11th. Sounds crazy doesn't it? This is how we got Troy. We go to Ukraine and spend thousands of dollars to bring him home. The journey is rough and the battle hard, but finally - Victory! We have our boy. Remember the saying "No one said it would be easy - they only said it would be worth it"? He is so worth it. What a wonderful son. He is so loving and smart and obedient. A far cry from the boy that we visited at the orphanage. Once he was here and felt safe - he was free to be himself. For those of you who might be thinking of doing something crazy in your life - I say follow your heart, not your head.

One of the lucky ones

Troy was baptized on Christmas Eve. It was the best Christmas Eve I can remember. What a spiritual highlight of the year. We are so proud of his progress. English has come quickly. We love our son. I have received three letters from Troy's orphanage from children seeking homes. How my heart breaks for all of them. Keep them in your prayers. I am posting their pictures.

Come One - Come All

Troy is being baptized on Christmas Eve at 5:30 pm. Our Stake Center is 1570 W. 11400S. South Jordan, Utah. Our number is 302-3399

Who would have guessed?

Well, we have celebrated Troy's 10th birthday and his first Thanksgiving. His english is amazing. He is adjusting so well. It's like he has always been here. We are proud of all of our kids for making him feel so welcome. We put up the Christmas tree and decorations and his eyes nearly popped out of his head. He just ran around smiling. Some things you just can't buy. I am grateful that there was room for one more at our "Inn". All of those of you who supported us should feel a smile in your hearts. Happy Holidays.

And they lived happily ever after......

Troy's adjustment has been amazing. He is loving being here. He's his Mommy's boy and Daddy's too. He is loved by his siblings. Our daughter Krista stayed with her two kids until Troy arrived from Ukraine. My two year old grandson ran around calling for "Uncle Troy". I am very surprised at how quickly he is picking up English. We have very little difficulty communicating. He must have my brains. That's okay - I wasn't using them anyway.
The only thing he didn't like was Primary class and Dave took him kicking and screaming. Once he realized he was safe he was fine. He's already started school and had fun with Halloween parties. This Friday is his 10th birthday. His best friend adopted from Ukraine by the Reynolds is coming to visit. It's great he already has a best friend. Troy has a great sense of humor and keeps us laughing. Dave said we had to fight for Dmytro because he is one of the good ones. He's right.

They're Back!

Two of my favorite men finally made it home on Friday night. Back where they belong. Dmytro "Troy" was happy to see all of his family members at the airport. He is fitting in just like he had never left. We are glad this part of the journey is over.

Green light for Friday!

Vladimir is the Man. He got everything done and the boys will head home on Friday. Dmytro passed his medical with flying colors. See you there. United flight 6683 Denver to SLC 7:22 pm
If anything changes I will post it.