Josiah (11)

I think that adopting Katya will be great.  It will be fun to see her learn new things like English and see if she still keeps her original language, Russian.  I think it would be fun to learn Russian as well.  I think it will be hard too because she's in an orphanage right now where she has to be very protective of anything that's hers, even fight for it.  And that's not the way it is here.  But, sometimes we fight and I don't want her to learn that.  So, I think it will be good for us too as we try to live in a way that will be honoring to God.

One of my favorite times with Katya was the 4th of July.  We were with another family who has adopted several kids from Russia and so they could help us.  She also seemed to really love the fireworks.  Another of my favorite memories was when we were climbing the maple tree together.  Only Katya, Mom, and I were here and we had so much fun.  She's a great climber and I liked having some time with her all by myself.

If Katya stayed in Ukraine, she most likely would end up living on the streets.  Older children don't get adopted as often as younger children so she would probably be there until she turns 15.  She might be able to get a job, but possibly she would be on the street.  Her grandmother is getting older and can't care for her and sadly, probably won't live until Katya leaves the orphanage.

Besides, I think it will be fun to have another little sister and I've always wanted to adopt. And, she is so cute - with her blond hair and brown eyes.  She fits right into our family and would be a great addition.