Lake Varavoi

We had a very nice visit today. I was left to entertain both Tucker and Mia as Linda went to the local orphanage (kids 4 through 18 years of age) to take some pictures. (We were asked to take some pictures using our camera today, and of course Linda was curious...)

Bacha was very sweet. She's starting to repeat English words pretty easily -- especially when she wants something: "Mama push" and "Cooookie" are two of her favorites. She has yet to use an English word unsolicited, though.

In general, she seems much more "grounded." Also, she didn't do her little spitting ritual today, though she did try to throw something as a tester at one point. Also, when our visit was over and it was time for her to go play with her group instead of us, for the first time she made a pouty face and said "Ne Hocheesh" -- "I don't want to." Yes!

After our visit, we went to Lake Varavoi. The village of Shchuchinsk is actually the "gateway" village to Lake Varavoi -- it's what puts it "on the map," so to speak. The town of Varavoi itself is essentially a resort town. The lake and the surrounding terrain is absolutely stunning, and reminded me a lot of Lake Tahoe.

We went to the lake, and on the way stopped at a zoo. The zoo had its depressing parts, like any zoo, but there were some definite highlights. For instance, we got very up-close and personal with a friendly reindeer, saw some beautiful eagles, a great mountain goat (bighorn sheep), and assorted others. I was disappointed that we didn't get close to the wild boars, as they looked to be each about the size of a large refrigerator.

We then drove around the lake, making several stops for picture taking and, in Tucker's case, some fun rock climbing. A year ago, he couldn't climb. Today, he was climbing stuff that scared us several times. It's really fun to watch. See pictures (above) for more details on the lake.

On the way home, we stopped off to buy some take-out soup, with Sveta's assistance. She walked us into the little "cafe" from which she ordered our take-out last time. Turns out that it's right next to the military academy (errr.... "fireman" school) -- it's actually kind of inside the gate. It's not someplace I ever would have ventured into on my own. Really looks like you're going to be frisked on entry or something. It's where they cook for the military academy.

However, the lady there was very friendly and helpful, and the people sitting around eating (looked to be academy staff) were smiley and friendly, too. We walked out with three clay pots of soup -- two pea soups and one borshch -- all for 135 Tenge. Yes, that's about a buck. We have to return the clay pots tomorrow. Also, it turns out that this place is right next door to the "cottage" that the Louca family is staying in. I wonder if they know about it...

So, we have ONE MORE OFFICIAL VISITATION DAY! We won't be seeing Bacha tomorrow (day off for the baby house). Sunday it is. Then Monday is court date. Between now and then, we have a lot to do: put together gifts for the staff, complete several photo albums, complete several other special gifts, and I have to write my speech to the judge. We also have to buy a little potty for Mia (she'll be more comfortable since it's what she's used to), and we'd like to find a little child-sized table for Tucker and Mia to use to eat at. As it is, the table in the kitchen here will be a little hard for Mia to use, and we only have three stools anyway.

Heh... Tucker's taking a bath and is demanding a "Luke story." Tucker's addicted to them. Of course, Linda's taking her crocheting into the bathroom to oblige the little man. Sheesh -- they're both addicted.