After a long day of travel to get Cole and fly to Kiev....we are here. Cole was very excited to see us and smiled the whole day long. When we went to get airline tickets they were sold out. Sergei called his father-in-law, who called some governmental friends, who called the airline.....and 30 minuted later, we had 3 tickets at a reduced price (it cost about $350 vs. $650). Even Sergei was surprised how well conected his father-in-law was. Cole was on sensory overload by the time we were on the plane (his first time). He had a great time, but his ears really hurt him on the way down to land. Luckily about 5 people sitting near us talked to him and explained how to get his ears to pop. We have never been anywhere (including home) where people are so friendly and helpful. Our apartment is awesome (the best we have had yet). We have an appoint. at the US Embassy at 10:30 tommorow and will try to get Friday tickets home right after.....cross your fingers. Take care and see ya soon.
JP