Monday, October 19, 2009

We are not the heroes in this story

I've been thinking about how strange it feels when people say things like..."What a wonderful thing you have done," or "What a difference you are making," or "I wish I could do that." Though I appreciate the sentiment, it feels very uncomfortable and I've figured out why. We are not the heroes in this story. Our boys and their first families are. We have not suffered loss and heartache forcing us to make difficult choices. We have not lost everything we've known because of a lack of basic resources. It is humbling to have been entrusted these precious lives (all six of them) and we will strive to make a difference in each of their worlds, but we are no heroes.

Life with Eyob is dreamy....though I'm not dreaming much




Eyob is the sweetest baby. He is amazing all that he has endured and still has a smile on his face. Many people have invested in him along the way and it shows. Now everyone in this family has picked up the torch and loves him in their own special way. Brianna loves to tickle him and make him laugh. Noah can't resist a smooch or two or three. Simone is now ready to hold him as much as I am willing. Ahni notices all the things he does. Abel brings him toys and sits in his bouncy seat (when Eyob's not in it, thankfully). Eyob lights up when Dan comes into view, but Dan has been sick so that's been limited. I love caring for him. He's so sweet-natured and after a long nap, I can't wait to hold him again. Nights aren't filled with much sleep, but we are all adjusting well. I am so grateful to God for his hand in all of this. I am a blessed woman.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Saturday, October 10, 2009

an inspirational story

http://www.good.is/post/african-dynamo/?GT1=48001

Mixed Emotions

I got word today that Dan and Brianna are going to be able to fly North to visit the town where Eyob was born. This is wonderful news. Dan has done a stellar job putting forth the effort to piece together Eyob's story from various sources. As you can imagine, this is crucial for adopted kids. I must admit, my first response was a selfish one. If the visa comes before then, will they really stay there longer and delay our reunion?? Even though I really just want them home NOW, this makes the wait well worth it. It will be a wonderful experience, especially for Brianna, as she hasn't been able to leave the city yet and see the beauty of the countryside. They are two very different worlds.

Eyob is getting more and more active and comfortable with them every day. Today I got to hear him babbling on the phone. What a joyful moment! He is eating well and I'm sure has gained weight since being in their care. Brianna and Dan make a good team, changing shifts in the night. It will be another big adjustment for Eyob to have me as his primary special person. It is amazing what children can endure. Despite all that he's been through, he is still a smiley guy!

I am enjoying a visit with Dan's brother and son. They scheduled a trip before they knew that Dan would be in Ethiopia. It's been a wonderful distraction. Next week my mom will come to visit. I am so blessed!

Monday, October 5, 2009

AHOPE for Children