We will fly to Kyev, Ukraine in three weeks to finalize the adoption of our daughter. Meanwhile Doug is working nonstop at the 307 Agate Street house restoring the yellow pine woodwork to its original splendor. A friend of ours, Byrd Kramer, is working to repair (smooth) the plaster walls, and also paint the interior of the house. I've been cleaning closets and clearing out the basement. We are hoping to sell or rent the house prior to leaving for Kyev.

As an aside, I asked Jack to help us gather cans and bottles from the basement, with the agreement that he could have the $0.10/bottle or can. He was completely delighted with the prospect of making some money, and wanted to know how much money we thought he'd make, which I estimated to be about 20 bucks. At the end of the day, we pulled $97.40 out of that basement, 1/2 of which Jack put in the bank!

Otherwise, Doug estimates that he'll be done with the woodwork in the next day or two, so he'll get back to work at Tech. I am preparing for classes and adjusting to my new role as dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Finlandia. Noah and Jack are with their Dad and will return home on the 20th of July. Noah is off to Boy Scout camp on the 22nd and Jack and I are planning to take a few golf lessons. My folks are coming in prior to our departure on the 3rd of August and will be with Noah and Jack while we are in the Ukraine.

While there is lots going on in the day to day, Doug and I are excited about the prospect of welcoming our daughter to the family in the next couple of weeks. Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.