I am SO excited to go back to Kazakhstan that I can't even express it! It's so wild to even imagine that a few years ago, I had never even HEARD of the country of Kazakhstan, and now, it's FOREVER etched in my heart, as not only is it the birthplace of my daughter, but the children I met while spending 11 weeks in country adopting Leeza changed our perspective forever.

I still vividly remember flying out of Kostanai with Leeza on my lap and Joe at my side, after 10 weeks in country, our daughter LEGALLY ours forever. As we ascended into the air, I could not stop the huge tears from flowing. Tears of relief, of gratitude, and such incredible emotions,wondering if I'd ever get to go back. I had always hoped we could go back when Leeza was older, and show her the beautiful country of her birth, but once this mission trip was announced, I couldn't stop thinking about it.

I am so excited to embark on this excellent adventure with Sean. He was amazing in country. The staff at the Delphin baby house loved him, because he truly loved all the kids. We were so fortunate in that we were allowed to interact with the other children in Leeza's group. When Joe and I would walk our daily MANY laps around the baby house with Leeza, Sean would hang out "at the hut" with the kids and play with them. He is so excited to go back and play with the children and experience Kazakhstan again. It's good for a middle school boy to be reminded that there is life outside their world. :)

This trip is the opportunity of a lifetime, and while it will be life changing, and heart wrenching, it's also going to be some hard work! We will be helping to install a playground that was funded by generous donations to 2 Hearts for Hope. We will be digging (by hand) 40 two feet holes, and hauling a lot of sand and gravel. We will be visiting the baby houses and spending time playing with the kids too.

The trip to Kazakhstan and the experiencing of adoption has changed and affected our family more than I could have EVER ever imagined. I have a new network of friends, as the Kaz adoptive community is like none other. I certainly had no idea that meeting our daughter would have resulted in enriching my friendship network, and changing my perspective on EVERYTHING.

I am thrilled for this opportunity for Sean and myself to help give back to the country who gave us the incredible gift of Leeza. We appreciate any donation you are able to make to help us fund, what is hopefully, the first of many trips back to incredible country of Kazakhstan. Big kudos to my sweetie, Joe, who has given us his blessing,and my dear friend Laura, who is loving Leeza for the week we are gone. Please help us make a difference!

Sincerely,
The Serra family :)
http://ouradventurestomeetbabykaz.blogspot.com/