Mishka

Who is the girl wearing the purple jacket in this picture? I can hardly believe it is 

the same girl with the long wavy hair and big toothy smile!! My how she has grown! 

Notice the soft teddy bear in her arms in the first picture? She called him "Mishka" when she was here on the hosting trip. Generous friends gave us this soft teddy bear to give to her so she would have something to snuggle with at night. Last January when she travelled back to Ukraine Mishka went along with her. When we learned she would get to bring NOTHING with her to the states upon adoption, those same friends were quick to get a replacement Mishka. 

This photo is from her very first night as Irina Smith. She was so delighted to have a new Mishka. She still calls him Mishka, but she talks about how Mishka's "brat" (brother) is still in Ukraine. Some nights she uses Mishka's sadness over his brother being left behind as a stall tactic for bedtime. Other nights, Mishka will stall bedtime because he needs one more "butterfly kix" (kiss), needs to use the "toilet" or get a "drink of vater." (water)  Mishka is also very spiritual. He sings "Jesus Loves Me" LOUDLY every night and prays every night. You should see him with his hands folded and eyes covered. His latest consistent prayer is "Mishka prayed that boys listen Mommy." Last night Mishka even prayed that "Irina listen Mommy." I'm glad she has this snuggly teddy bear to love. I'm hoping Mishka's prayers are answered quickly! ;)