What a day! We met Manny... he is awesome. Oddly enough, he is exactly what we expected! He was very happy to see us. I would describe him as quiet, very mature, very sharing, gentle, and definetly a leader. The foster worker described him as their best little helper. He shares with all the children and is very nuturing to the younger ones. He continued to offer us his food and snacks.
He was aware that we would be arriving today and almost immediately began referring to us as "mommy and daddy" - as were all the other kids! This was very heartbreaking!
We were able to hang out all day at the foster home and play with the kids, (by the way, they may say "foster home" but it is definetly an orphanage - roughly 30 kids aged 1-10)! All the kids are incredibly well behaved, and suprisingly neat. The conditions are worse than I anticipated. Flies everywhere, more kids than beds, no furnishings; but they do have adequate care. Nice staff, food, etc.
Also, different developements than we anticipated... he is staying with us at the hotel tonight! This was unexpected (had we known we would have brought a few more important things), but it is so cool to have extra time with him.
There is another couple here going through the process as well. They are adopting three little boys. It has been comforting to have them around.
Not much else to say other than it was an amazing experience today! We will post pictures as soon as we can ge them loaded....
Seven Surprises of the First Christmas
23 hours ago
1 comments:
Wow! We are so proud of you both. God has done and continues to do amazing things in your lives. You are paving the way for so many more who will follow you. Just think, the Raanes name will forever be changed at the end of this thing. We are praying the following for you guys: 1)safety 2)encouragement 3)strong relationship b/w the three of you 4)that Manny will come home on this trip...no harm in asking! Love you both. Adam and Jill
Post a Comment