Past Posting - An original version of this post was written on 8/16/05.

For a week or so we've had a countdown on the calendar. I drew an airplane on the 17th, and we cross off each day before heading upstairs to read books before bed. I've come to hate that little drawing of an airplane - just looking at it brings tears to my eyes. But, I felt it was important for Peanut to know when he was going back to Russia.

My plan was to keep the day before he left as normal as possible. Alas, it wasn't meant to be. After massive amounts of conflicting statements and confusion I ended up caving in and having the kid's escort come and stay with me for a night. Turns out she was writing a report about each of the host families. In retrospect, I wish I hadn't been so stubborn and had just invited her here earlier. But, my little home doesn't make it convenient and, frankly, I was being selfish about my time with Peanut.

So, on his last morning here Peanut (as is his routine) asked for ice cream and potato chips for breakfast. Indulgent as I can be, never once did I allow him that type of junk for breakfast. He always asks, and when I say nyet he goes for fruit, yogurt, or dry cereal. But, with Mrs. Escort Lady here he reacted a whole different way. Crying, pouting, and clenched fists punching the couch ensued. Great way to make a positive impression, Peanut! Sticking to my guns, I set out several things that I knew he liked. But, Mrs. Escort Lady decided that he should have chips. Grrr! After giving him chips he was happy as a clam and soon selected a cherry yogurt to mix in with his chips. (I think it's an unwritten law that 8-year-old boys have to be disgusting!)

As soon as it was polite, I brought Mrs. Escort Lady back. Then, Peanut and I had a great day. We went swimming, played at the park, and visited family.

Packing his bag was miserable. I tried to use a larger roller-bag so he could take more things home with him. But he could barely carry it and I was worried about that. So we packed his small backpack to the brim with Power Rangers, matchbox cars, his photo album, and little stuffed animals. He really wanted to bring Misha, his stuffed bear, but Misha's huge. So, we made a big ritual out of making a "home" here in America for Misha. I'm not moving that bear until Peanut comes home.

He's finally asleep now. I'm absolutely dreading tomorrow.