This is dedicated to our beautiful translator Maria Grinchuk

We have been home with Quinn for 11 months today!
It is hard to believe that he came from a place so far, far away from here.
It has been an incredible time of learning for all of us. We have taught Quinn so much, but in turn he has taught us! He has completely forgotten his native tongue. We tried to keep a few words...but Quinn wants nothing to do with it. He likes to speak English he has said. We have a photo album of memories from Kazakhstan that he looks at from time to time. Every time he points to our former translator Maria...he says "I like her" and he smiles!
So in honor of Maria I dedicate this blog! She so deserves so much more! We truly could not have done our adoption without her love, kindness, friendship and commitment to us. She made all the difference in the world. She explained to us the customs, the area and the people of Ust-Kamenogorsk and most importantly she helped us talk to our son Quinn. There were times when we cried over various parts in our journey. She would truly be there for us. We are so completely GRATEFUL to a young girl...wise beyond her 21 years...helping us through a very emotional time in our lives. So Maria...We thank you and LOVE YOU and miss you very much! You will never be forgotten from our hearts!! Thank you, your second family!