So it feels like it's been a long couple of days and its only Wed. Serik is feeling better - which is a huge relief. I arrived at the baby house yesterday and he was a giggly little boy again. Phew! Still sounds like he's going to cough up a lung but at least no fever. The docs have been checking him and say he's doing better - so that's good. Yesterday was a lovely sunny day and since we visited the baby house in the morning (it was still their holiday weekend) I had the afternoon to walk around and take pics of the city for those of you who have said you want to see more. I went to the 'Sweet Fairy Cafe' and had a milk cocktail and then Irina made me fish soup. Turns out that I am a specialist at this matchmaking stuff - we introduced her to a local boy (Karina's family) and now they're happily besotted with each other! Who knew we'd come over here and end up introducing two locals. Today was back to morning visits and we took (we being Irina and I) Serik and Kat to the quiet room to play. Those two booked around like race cars - whose engines sounded a bit congested. Serik has gotten quite adept at pulling himself up but is still unsteady when on his feet so no worries about daddy missing his first steps. Counting the days til custody. Hoping to get him on Christmas - will keep you posted.

These pics are of around town: the blue domed one is the museum, happy new year in Russian, and a local house

This is the Eurasian Mall - sight of interesting shopping.