I have always wanted to be a mother and expected to follow a pretty traditional path to achieve that goal. However, when I was 38, my long-term relationship with a nice man who would not have been a good father ended and I decided to pursue international adoption as a single. After a few false starts, I determined that Adoption Ark's Kazakhstan program was just the right fit. I received consistent and expert advice as I completed the necessary paperwork and generous support as I waited for a possibility of travel.
I travelled to meet my child at the end of June, 2009 and spent four weeks in the region getting to know her. I learned that she loves balloons, loves to make music and loves to walk hand in hand with her mommy. It was so hard to leave her after my court date, but I knew that time would fly and then she'd be home forever.
I picked Dasha up from the Baby House on August 25, 2009. I'll never forget her look of joy as I entered the room or how afraid she was when I put her down. I was just preparing to change her clothes, but she thought I was leaving again. She lit right back up when I pulled out her pretty new dress, shiny shoes and a bow for her hair.
We've been home 18 months now and she has adjusted to her American life beautifully. She loves her family and is well loved by everyone who knows her. She retains her easy smile and has turned out to be quite a comedienne. She is also the most empathetic person I've ever known. She never forgets to consider the feelings of her little friends or even our dogs. It is a joy to care for such a special little girl.
I will always be grateful for AA and for the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan for helping me complete my family.
Best regards,
Jane Arnold,
St. Louis, Missouri