Another Day

Visit 1 is full of highs and lows.  The week is formatted to provide structure for cultural events, 3 visits to see your child (children) and LOTS of free and explore time.  The weather is cool to cold and wet (either raining or high humidity).  The overall opinion is bring "comfort foods" and things to keep you occupied if your day of exploring is done.

With jet lag, seeing your baby, adjusting to a new culture, meeting other families and COURT - this trip is an emotional rollercoaster!  The first family that has traveled twice is with us this week for placement - they concur this is the case.

Our time with our older kids has been very nice.  They have done great with minimal arguments.  The very essence of Africa and one week in Addis is probably work a semester of education or more.  The judge asked our kids a question during the court proceedings "Do you know about the adoption and have you met your knew brother?"  They smiled and said yes together.  We were proud of them and glad they could be a part of Sam's history of memory of events.  Words fail to describe showing your children an older blind man relinquishing his 9 year son (obviously extreemly poor and from the bush).  Or another father bringing his son with suitcase in hand.  I love our children and are proud of the strength they showed yesterday.

We hope to explore some more today.  The zoo is on the schedule and hopefully a visit to the leprosy hospital.  Tonight is a cultural meal and dance!!

We continue to thank you for your prayers.

AB