The last two days with Kyra have been really challenging. She screams and throws a tantrum at the beginning of each visit, and it takes about 20 minutes to calm her down. It could be the language barrier (we haven't had a translator in the room with us for the last few weeks, and communication is down to gestures and sounds). It could be that her friend, Alexandra, was adopted and left for the U.S. this week. It could simply be that she's two and is going through a phase. After she calms down, we are able to play (in this photo, Michael is teaching her how to play Blackjack), but I think her transition to our family will take some time.As many of you know, two of my husband's passions are cards and caffeine. He's already located every casino in Taraz, and yesterday he sniffed out the only restaurant in town with a cappuccino machine. We were in espresso heaven! We drank so much that we couldn't sleep for most of the night. It was worth it. I've been having serious White Mocha withdrawals, and this will get me through until we're home. As soon as we land in LA, I'm heading to the first Starbucks! (Does anyone know where I can find one close to LAX?)
Earlier today, we went to the mausoleum of a Muslim warrior from the 10th century. (Our translator told us his name, but there's no way I'm going to attempt to spell it in English.) We had to take our shoes off (even though it was snowing outside) and go inside a cold, dark room that was about 20 x 20 feet. In the middle of the room was a coffin, which was covered with white silk with gold embroidery. There were no lights, no candles...the only illumination was through small openings in the brick walls. A large Muslim man, who seemed to be keeping watch over the coffin, motioned for us to kneel on the mats that lined the edge of the room. As soon as we did, he locked the door and then started chanting from the Koran. At this point, our translator told us we could make a wish and it would come true. I don't know if I believe that, but it was an interesting experience. After ten minutes--and 200 tenge (we actually had to "tip" the guy)--we were back out in the snow and, you guessed it, heading to our favorite pizza place.
Earlier today, we went to the mausoleum of a Muslim warrior from the 10th century. (Our translator told us his name, but there's no way I'm going to attempt to spell it in English.) We had to take our shoes off (even though it was snowing outside) and go inside a cold, dark room that was about 20 x 20 feet. In the middle of the room was a coffin, which was covered with white silk with gold embroidery. There were no lights, no candles...the only illumination was through small openings in the brick walls. A large Muslim man, who seemed to be keeping watch over the coffin, motioned for us to kneel on the mats that lined the edge of the room. As soon as we did, he locked the door and then started chanting from the Koran. At this point, our translator told us we could make a wish and it would come true. I don't know if I believe that, but it was an interesting experience. After ten minutes--and 200 tenge (we actually had to "tip" the guy)--we were back out in the snow and, you guessed it, heading to our favorite pizza place.
1 comment:
Holly and Michael-
As tough as it is please know that our 17 month old throws lots of tantrums so try and not take it personally. In years from now you will look back and it will be just blurr. You all have a whole lifetime ahead of you, keep the faith what your doing is right for everyone.
Big breakout of head lice at Serra! They have even closed the school for tomorrow. Now it is a four day weekend. Seems like we were just on Christmas break. Evertyhing is going fine at school. I miss not having you if I need you!
Remember, that which does not kill us makes us stronger. I'm sure there is a Starbucks right after you get off the plane!
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