The writing of this book is an act of memory, and when limitations were met, they were replaced by an act of creativity. Producing a worthy portrayal of events but also a captivating story for the reader, time has been condensed where appropriate and expanded to highlight significant parts of the experience. To preserve the privacy of the Americans involved in this adoption, names have been altered. As far as the Russian identities, the first names are authentic and only one last name is used. While the story seems to take many odd twists and turns, I assure you the fundamentals of this tale were journaled in the year 1994, mainly in the months of November and December. Using the journal as documentation, it is only the passage of time that could fragment any of the details, but what remains steadfast is the emotional veracity of the story. To Pavel Grigorovich Klimkin Christian Agosta Without you, I would not be complete. and To Mila Alexandra and Emma Pavel In hope that you will carry this story forward for the ages. Stephanie’s Memories...