Last Night in St. Pete's (for now)

It's Defender of the Fatherland Day in Russia - a holiday. It marks the day in 1918 during the Russian Civial War, when the Red Army had it's first major draft. I seriously would like to read a really good book on Russian history. (Next stop: Amazon) Even though it was "Defender's Day", we still got to visit. Yea!

Another fabulous day with the Soup Master. He's seriously such a good, calm boy. One of the calmest babies I have ever seen. (Everyone, quick, drop what you're doing and please knock on wood for me - that was a serious jinx move I just pulled) I think he's cutting some teeth - from evidence of the teeth just poking through in his mouth in the back and sides, and the runny nose occasionally. Today he seemed a little sleepy. But instead of showing the sleepy side in cranky, whiny baby-hood, he was really cuddley and lovey. He rested his head on my shoulder and sucked his thumb. And... to be EVEN MORE CUTE, when he sucks his thumb, he rubs his nose with his fingers. So beyond precious.

They have had him the same outfit all 3 days, I know - totally shocking, right? It's a 6 to 9 months, but it's a little small. I suspect he's in 9 months or 12 months. So that's my shopping plan. The challenge may be a winter coat. Even though there is still snow on the ground at home, most of the stores have moved into bathing suits already. Even the clearance is well picked over. But... I love a challenge!

We said good-bye for now and while it was bittersweet, I really wasn't sad. It's time to get busy at home. I am NOT ready for him. I have MUCH to do. This time around, the bedroom was put on hold. During Tatiana's adoption, EVERYTHING was done before she came home. And I mean everything. Some of my friends will witness this as they received BOXES of boy clothes (hand me overs -- not downs, really). With nothing to do between trips #1 and #2, I was restless (translation = CRAZY). It was hard staring into that empty room. It needed a little one. This time around, I have made minor preparations. However, it seemed like everything I did jinxed the road to "Soup". When I received referral #1, I bought a car seat during a super sale. Rhonda now refers to it as the "Cursed Car Seat". Well, now we can call it the "Formerly Cursed Car Seat", cause it's here to stay! The office needs to move to the basement (ooooohhhh Jenni.... I have a project for you!) and the office needs to turn into a bedroom (here's where you come in Tina... I need a couple more custom canvases. Think blocks.). And SHOPPING. Yes, we'll be busy. 4 to 6 weeks will FLY by.

After we left baby home #6 today we convinced Nadia to take us shopping. She took us to a Department Store that also has Russian souveniers on the main floor. We scored some great finds but alas, no updated Russian dresses (sorry Tamara, next time!). When we got home we wandered out again on the icy streets to a local store and restaurant. Exciting last night, haha!

Tomorrow we head home and we'll arrive before most of you are home from work! Paka from Russia.