Doug came home with interesting news today. The executive VP of his workplace was in town today and asked Doug how our adoption was going (the VP and I are big fans of each other, by the way). Doug brought him up to speed, and then the VP mentioned that the company's corporate lawyer also owns an office in St. Petersburg, Russia, and would be happy to assist us while in Russia in case anything unusual occurs. Isn't that great?! Not that we expect anything to happen, but it's always nice to have a connection somewhere. So Doug is going to make one of those "networking contacts" with him, just so they're aware of each other.

Also, I received a phone call after school today informing me that I was approved for a semester leave of absence for adoption. Yay me! The lady confirmed my thoughts on what I was allowed to do, made sure I understood that it was completely unpaid, and I'd also lose half my raise next year. I knew all this. Then she said the formal letter would be forthcoming!

Now that I officially notified people, my principal was finally able to get moving as well. We have a meeting tomorrow morning to discuss possible subs to replace me for the semester. There are 2 being considered. Still won't tell parents until after conferences, I think.

Funny though - the employee lady who called me to confirm - is the mother of one of my students!