July 29, 2007

Astana Adventures

So it was another Sunday here in beautiful Astana, Kazakhstan. We did not get to see Taylor today so we enjoyed being able to see the sights yet again. This afternoon Baheet and Gulsana came by to prep us for court tomorrow. Turns out that there is a lot that goes into it! We were briefed and are preparing this evening for our adventures tomorrow. We leave at 9:15am for court and should be done around 11am.
We walked around the park today, up to the East-West restaurant and saw some new things. The yellow building is a French restaurant located in Central Park and we are told that it is very expensive. When Tony tried to take the picture we were told by the gate keeper that we were not allowed to but he snuck this shot in on the way back.

In Central Park there is an amusement park with lots of rides including 2 Ferris wheels, a roller coaster, a water park and a zoo. We plan to see the "zoo" before we go.
The lion with the wings stands at the bridge by the Ramstore and is the "guardian" of the city of Astana. Across from him is another lion with cubs. They are very beautiful statues.

Along the pathway to East-West there is a nice walk through of a park. It was very pretty and a nice break from the shade! We didn't think it would be as hot as it was today but once we got in the sun, it was sweltering!

We went to dinner this evening at a restaurant on the river with the other couples that are here with us. We had a good time. Tony and Marwan ordered the horse dish. I know it sounds rather nasty, but it was actually delicious! Tasted a lot like pork roast! We chatted for a while and then went our separate ways. Overall it was a nice day. We go to court in the morning, so keep us in your prayers!
(from left to right - Tony, Maegan, Maren, Jennifer, Mike, Peter, Marwan, & Annette).

This is the kitty that we found along our walk. He really made us miss our furrballs! He had coloring kinda of like Kody, with Tommy's eyes, and Mom's cat Louie's claws!

4 comments:

Jaimie, Gena and Berik said...

Don't forget your camera when you go to court so you can take the ceremonial picture with the jugde afterwards. We forgot ours. and good luck and try not to be nervous, good luck on that one. The winged panther is cool, that is Jaimies tattoo for Berik. Tell Baheet and Gulsana that for us and tell them hello too please. Just a while longer and she will be all yours!!!!!!!!!!!! She is sooo adorable and you'll look great together! Gena, Jaimie and Berik

Debbie said...

The pictures are beautiful and I especailly enjoyed the picture of you and all the other adoptive parents. You will be in my thoughts and prayers tonight and og course tomorrow but I am sure all will go well. Hugs
Debbie

Snoopy 1 said...

wow the picture are increidle! Now comes the waiting tell court in the morning, oh it is early morning for you now, I hope you are getting enough sleep! I have faith that all will go well and you all can get back home when you are cleared to leave. But for now let's get through court. The Best Of Luck, Gods Bless!! Hugs and Love

THE SCHAEFERS said...

Wow, court in just a few hours! Best of luck - you are in our prayers for a smoothe day. Can't wait to read your update in the morning. Following you journey has been such a blessing for us as we wait for our LOI.