We left for Kiev at 3:30 am today with high hopes but a pinch of reality. We arrived first at the medical center in Kiev for examinations of the children. We were first in line and hoped that fast would help us have an advantage at the US Embassy later. It worked to a point. We were first also at the embassy, but as expected things there were typically rough. They were willing to take us on a walk-in basis, but people with appointments had priority. They did review our case in the end and our paperwork was satisfactory. However, a new wrinkle was tossed at us of which no one in our camp was aware. That is, (anyone already cynical about government regulations, prepare to be more so) there is a stipulation that anyone 16 or older appying for a visa be checked for criminal background in the US before being granted a visa. This takes 24-48 hours to accomplish. So, our sweet Jennifer who has never been to the US must undergo this check! We may hear as early as Monday morning that she is clear or it could be Tuesday morning. We must wait for that report. Then we can make firm plans for our return.

So we are settled in our apartment on the left bank of the Dnipro River. It's convenient to the market, transportation and the internet. It has three rooms and sleeps six. Natalie also will be staying with us for the duration.

When I returned from the local Delta office frustrated at trying to look into options for travel next week, Jennifer had made delicious omelets for everyone. She's a gem.

We plan to relax and make the best of being here. It is considerably warmer that Sumy. We plan to do souvenir shopping tomorrow and find some activiy for the children - perhaps the circus.

We miss home, family and friends.