We're going home!!!!!!

This hike was (apparently) exhausting for Nate.

The ski resort outside of Almaty- makes me wish we were here in the winter!

The view from our 18th floor apartment window in Almaty.

I know I keep saying this, but it is so hard to believe we are REALLY going  home!  I have been in Kazakhstan for 9 weeks; it's hard to believe home still exists just the way I remember it.   And now that Nate and I have confirmed dates to fly back home, the reality of flying 25 hours alone, with a baby, is hitting me.  I didn't really think about the challenge I signed up for, it's just something I needed to do to get Nate home.  Up until last week, my travel partners were scheduled to fly back from Almaty to Frankfort with me and even though they would have their hands full with their 2 1/2 year old twins, I took comfort in knowing they will be with me.  And now (YIKES!) they are not!!!!

Don't worry, I'm not chickening out- I WILL BE HOME ON 7/24.  I'm just a little anxious.  I have been packing and repacking my carry-on bags every single night making sure I'm prepared for anything that comes my way.  The problem is, being prepared = heavy carry-on bags!  Not to mention carrying a rapidly growing baby boy (I swear he's gaining a pound/day!).  

Other than the stressful nights of planning for our journey home, we have been having a great time in Almaty.  All of our appointments have gone smoothly and we have all our documents ready.  I got Nate's Kaz passport the other day... it's adorable.  His passport picture was taken in the beginning of our trip (about 2 months ago) and his visa photo in his passport is current- it is amazing how much he has already grown.  We went to the SOS clinic for a physical exam by a very friendly South African MD; we spent most of the visit chatting about South Africa!  He gave Nate a clean bill of health and was full of compliments. 

These were the last days Nate and I had with our travel partners and their twins.  We said our goodbyes but I know we will see each other again.  It will be so weird not seeing someone you have seen daily for the last 9 weeks.   I guess everyone and everything I miss from home will be transferred in to missing them when I get home.

 I know there will be parts of living in Kazakhstan that I will miss as well.  My life has never been so simplified and quiet.  This journey has taught me the value of simplicity and I hope to carry that into our life back home.  I can't control the traffic, noise, and congestion of CA but I can live with a lot less "things" that I often think I need.  

Having said that, I need to get back to packing all the things Nate needs for the last leg of this wonderful journey.  If feels so good to know that we made it.... Nate is ours now and I get the honor of bringing him home to his Papa and our family and friends that are eagerly waiting for us in California.  

Thank you everyone for your love and support and I can't wait to see you all and introduce you to our Nate.  

See you tomorrow!

Linda and Nate