Friday, April 27, 2007

Out of Matveekva

After all of the preparation yesterday, the final exit was very quick. Cindy met the kids in the early afternoon, after the trip to Meritopol and Vonyents. They went to Larissa's office and first Maria changed from her school uniform to her travelling clothes while Matt waited outside. Then it was Matt's turn. They were out of there quickly and went to their classroom to return their clothes. We did not hear much about that other than Sasha cried.

Larissa told the kids to send greetings from America and quickly helped them into the cab. Cindy and the kids drove away in silence. These kids are so stoic in the face of change in their lives. We will work on them having more joyous occasions.

Cindy has been up from the early morning and has not had anything to eat. They finally has a chance to sit down and have lunch mid-afternoon. The passports will be ready around 3 and they want to leave for the train station at 5 for their 6:40 train to Kyiv.

All the paperwork is done! Larissa made a special trip to come out to say good-bye to the group. It was very emotional for Alonya.

On to Kyiv!

They will arrive in Kyiv around 10 AM and will have to quickly go to their doctor appointment. They are trying to get provisions for the long journey. Cindy sent a message from the train. It is HOT! The trains are either hot or cold. There is no real ventilation and, while the windows cannot open, the insulation is thin and there can be a draft.

Maria and Matthew are now Uhrigs, next we need to get them home. This is going to take most of the next week due to the three days of holidays in Ukraine. They could not get their appoinment at the embassy until Thursday. I hope they appreciate the time in Kyiv and the kids have a chance to really see the capitol city.