After 3 days, the score is Sam 1 and the highchair 1 in the running feud over who will submit. Yesterday, Sam pushed the chair across the room as it went crashing down - Sam 1. This morning, during the prolonged, funny and messy breakfast, the chair struck back. Sam was doing the head bob thing and went a little low. Striking his mouth with 2 upper teeth resulted in a small laceration to the lower lip - chair 1. No stitches required today. Seeing a little blood made us very aware we have a real boy on our hands. A little ice an all was good!
This morning was the Coffee ceremony. Every child at the foster care center as a "special mother" - the caregiver who really attaches to each child. The Coffee ceremony is a time that allows for the special mother to say goodbye to each child who has been placed. Ethiopia is a huge coffee producer. The coffee beans are roasted, ground by hand and serve as hot coffee while you wait for your child to be brought to you by his/her special mother dressed in traditional clothing.
To our amazement (concerned about bonding and confusion issues), Sam went back into his toddler room and was greeted by most of the kids who yelled his Ethiopian nickname and wanted to hug him. One guy (with special needs) planted a kiss on him and started leading him around. He was a celebrity of sorts and everyone seemed to miss him. We then took him upstairs to his special mother where he responded with gratitude to see all the care givers who had taken care of him for months - with no bonding or attachment issues. God is good as he prepared this time.
I was able to meet the the full time Gladney pediatrician today and pass on some meds and supplies to him. He works full time for Gladney and is a great guy.
Lastly, we had a great time with the other families delivering care packages and taking pictures for "expecting" families back home. How some of the kids have changed in 4 short weeks. You can ask any care giver and they know exactly where in given child is in the 3 houses - their care is abundant!
All is well and we are ready to finish the week. Our last 2 official items are to get Sam's visa and papers tomorrow and meet Sam's birth family Friday.
Thank you for you prayers as always.
AB/JB
Sounds like an eventful day. It is so good to hear such positive comments about the care in the center, it makes my heart full. Thank you again for giving our girl her package. Have a safe trip back.
ReplyDeleteAs with your first trip we've loved following you on your second with stories about Sam! We're glad that he seems to be adjusting so well and will send good thoughts for a safe and easy trip home for you. We're dying to hear if you were able to see our girls - very excited I have to admit!! Enjoy your last couple of days and all they bring.
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