Jen Here. After Steve had his run and went to mass, we spent a gorgeous, warm day (6 above Celsius) at the parks - first Andre took us to the Family Park to play on the tanks, and then we were on to Gorky Park to see the zoo. Benjamin Aidos (who is currrently driving me crazy - How can a child go from being an orphan to needing constant attention from both parents in only one week?!) loved playing in the snow. But the big highlight was the rides! We had a very brisk sleigh ride through Gorky Park - there was one hill that I didn't think the horse would make - we came to a stop just at the top but he managed to get us over the hump - Steve was ready to jump out and push. The horse was decked out in bells to accompany my singing. But even better were the camels! Mary Lou and I both went for a ride. The best thing about riding a camel is that you are up very high, and that is also the scariest thing about riding a camel (that and the fact that camels are stubborn and loudly express their displeasure by bellowing). But they are warm and soft and very fuzzy - Fuma had two humps, so I fit in between them - how does one ride a camel with only one hump - does one sit behind, in front, or on top?

Steve here.  We only have one more full day in Kazakhstan.  Tomorrow we have an exit interview with the WPA people here in Almaty, then we have an appointment at the US embassy.  We're told that it should be pretty routine, just some more processing and gathering of paperwork related to Ben's passport and Social Security registration.  It will be a pretty busy day too.  We've done a good job making the apartment here into a temporary home and there's a lot to pack up.  Fortunately, we have three tickets home and that will make concerns about weight restrictions moot :-)  Tonight we're starting out on our refrigerator emptying task.  We've got three bags of palmeenie (meat-filled dough, like Chinese "pot stickers") in the freezer to eat.  Steve will be up to the task. 

It's been an amazing, emotional trip, and we are ready to go home.  While we have created a powerful bond with our new son, we have also left a wonderful four-year old at home, and we miss him more and more each day.  It's time for us to join together as a complete family.  Jen's parents sent us a short video clip of Joe singing "Jingle Bells", while the rest of those present sang "We wish you a Merry Christmas."  It was hilarious and so very Joe.  We've watched it many times.  We can't wait to see him again.