Day 4 - Settling in

I think we're finally settling into a routine of some kind. It's still different every day, but you can tell B is trusting us more and that makes for more fun and creative play. We did more of the same things today but also added in silly faces for pictures and she showed Qade some attitude, well tried. She couldn't hold that straight face forever! B LOVES bubbles! She finds all kinds of ways to play with them and places to land them, from the plants to lids to her mouth and more! She also loves taking pictures. Jason and she went around and took pictures of the beautiful flowers at the creche. 

Today was the first warm welcome from B. As soon as she saw me she came running into my arms and held on tight. Such a sweet feeling but so hard knowing we will have to leave her eventually. Today I could see the worry in her eyes when we said good bye. I keep regretting not learning the language, even some of it. We've tried looking up stuff and have said it to her but I'm not sure she even understands us. They have very distinct sounds in certain vowels and it's hard to create that. We will keep trying though. 

As we each take turns playing with B it opens time for the others to relax and take it all in, begin processing in other words. In my 'free' moments my minds wanders to the hearts of the children I see all around. How many have families coming for them? Who has been here for a long time? Who is never leaving? We have seen a few parents pop in and spend time with their kids, well family members anyway. I suppose it could be anyone that knows them. Sometimes families take their kids to the creche (orphanage) for them to get healthy and be taken care of better until they can get on their feet or the kids are old enough to manage on their own. These kids are not able to be adopted. So, as I see each child I just wonder what their situation is, how they are coping and where they've been? One sweet boy has hung around us a bit, very respectful but also curious. Qade has played with him a couple times. I can't help but think I'd love to adopt him as well. Sadly he's older and I wonder if he will every have a family.  If only the process wasn't sooo long and expensive. I guess if God desires it to be then our hearts will know but right now our focus is on B of course. 

Okay, I know some of you are shaking your heads right now! Yea, we all knew I'd come here and fall in love with other kids and have a difficult time leaving them all behind. BUT Jason and I have always known that adopting was a journey, but adoption was just the first part. God is planting more to grow! I'm not sure what that means yet, but Lord carry us away into your will and let us NOT look back! 

We've been told another family will arrive on Monday. They will be picking up there kiddos. It will be nice to have a few others around. We aren't allowed to leave the guest house without a ride and having it all set up ahead of time. We may venture to a hotel next weekend but tomorrow we will rest. No visits on Sunday. 

On more thing, being stuck reminds me of the kids at the creche. They are stuck inside the walls of that place, with very little room to play outside. In my eyes it would feel like prison, but to them it's home and they know very little otherwise I'm guessing. Although, B was not brought there until December of last year so she does know more than I realize. 


Stay Tuned:  I'm hoping the guys will do a small post later this evening!  

Also, I'm hoping to update the process on our blog so everyone can see what the next steps are. Some of you probably think we are coming home with B, but that isn't the case. It will likely be another 10-12 months before she gets to be home with us. 

PS - I spoke too soon about the food. Nothing horrible but last night's dinner was a bit much for me. I'm grateful it was dinner and I had the night here to process it.