A Dad's Journey Through International Adoption

I don't know what kind of temperatures you're looking at, but I went to GI JOEs (maybe its Joes Sports now) on Monday and got myself a pair of North Face boots....not so cute, but they'll do the trick. They are waterproof and cold proof to -25 or so. You may want to visit REI, or GI Joes if you have one around. They also had Columbia boots that went down to the same temp, but the North Face ones I can pass off as regular shoes (almost) with my pant leg pulled over them. Hope your court date comes soon!

 

in the Pacific NW so we aren't so snowy here either. Before Trip one we went to Lands End dot com and went to their clearance section. We were able to get coats for Scott and I and boots and hats and gloves for very reasonable prices. Since we don't have much use for cold, cold weather clothes that option worked best for us. Hope you hear about a court date soon.

 

Oh, I know what you mean! I am originally a Jersey girl, so I am totally used to snow and chilly temperatures. I don't worry so much about the cold --- as long as you are dressed right. That is THE most important thing.

What I do worry about (a lot) is driving in snowy conditions (particularly in a place where the drivers are notoriously crazy!) and landing in a plane in snow.

The only upside of all of this is that we get to take advantage of lower airfares and hotel rates this time of year!

I wish I knew how you imbedded the Novo webcam into the blog. I can't figure it out and would like to add it to mine too!

 

How perfect that your first snow experience will be picking up Little A.
Bring; chapstick, lotion for dry hands, toe warmers, thermals. I hear silk thermals are the best and more expensive of course.
Check out LL Bean they have great stuff. Flannel lined jeans and everything.
For sure you want waterproof boots.

 

Well, look at the bright side. You'll feel your baking the sun once you get indoors in Russia!

 

Don't forget that they keep everything super warm inside in Russia. Be sure to layer, or you'll be miserable inside.

Just think of it as a fun adventure -- going to "visit" the snow.

 

Yep, that looks like Russia in winter. My wife and I (also warm weather people) survived the trip in the depths of winter in 2004. You'll be OK. It's not really as bad as it looks; just dress warmly and take down coats. Or, be like me and take only a leather jacket (and freeze your keester off).

 

Aww, come on Steve, y'all will be fine!! Seriously - how exciting that, in your 14 years, the first time you will experience snow together is as a family of 3! Maybe I'm warped (living in a warm climate, dying for snow may warp a person), but in my opinion, that makes this all the more special!

 

Layer, layer, layer. The wind and snow are very cold there but the buildings are HOT. We moved from the Bay Area back to the snow a few years ago. I recommend chemical hand warmers for your pockets. You can buy them in any sporting goods store. They don't take up much room in your suitcase and are easy to use when it's really cold. Also remember to wear a close fitting undershirt. Something close to your body will keep you warmer than even the heaviest sweater if it's a bit roomy. I also love silk long johns and undershirts. They're light weight, easy to pack and not too hot once inside.
Ronda

 

I'm an Arizona/California girl too, and was also scared of the snowy weather. Rhonda has it right - LAYER. Get yourself a nice down coat - it will be light and squishy, so it packs well, and it will keep you warm. Also, be prepared to have a short-sleeve shirt on inside because the buildings really are hot. Thermals under pants are also a bad idea, unless you plan on spending most of your day outside.