We arrived in Mariupol at eight in the morning on Friday after the longest train ride of lives. Fortunately, we brought lots of food to eat and had four relatively comfortable beds to sleep on. We were ready to meet this five year old boy.
Unlike our first meeting, everything on Friday went perfectly well. First, the district social worker met with us on time. He then, unlike most people in his position, escorted us to the orphanage. When we arrived at the orphanage, he quickly walked us into the orphanage director’s office. After the director and her staff gave us a briefing about the child, we met our son for the first time.
I can tell you that the moment Tami and I saw D, we knew he was right for our family. He has a contagious smile and a charming personality. Our first two days together have been a pleasure. He even looks like a little Armstrong.
I must say, I was not expecting to have such a strong emotional reaction when he walked into the office. It was beyond words. I can think of no better way to explain this other than to say he is the answer to our prayers.
Today, we had a chance to not only visit D a second time, but offer him a small snack. Even though we have been warned about the eating habits of orphans, it is hilarious to watch him eat for the first time. His first course was a banana. He quickly unpeeled it and proceeded to devour the piece of fruit in three large gulps. While we watched each bite, I worried that he was going to choke because he shoved the banana so deeply into his mouth. Tami quickly grabbed the peel because she thought he was going to eat it also. His next course was a box of juice. He took a deep breath and drank ten ounces of juice in one continuous sip. He then tilted the juice box multiple times to see if perhaps a slightly different angle might get him more juice. We now know precisely why the directly told us in no uncertain terms not to give him too much to eat during snack time.
Thanks for checking in. We’ve been so busy that Tami hasn’t had time to blog, but you can expect to hear from her soon.
4 comments:
We join you in being thankful! It is so wonderful that you felt the immediate connection that we have been praying for. Can't wait to hear more...
It is so nice to hear read your emails and blogs. We feel encouraged and lifted up each time we hear from you. We will have lots to talk about when we see you in a few weeks.
It truly is "a very good day"! We were so excited to read today that God has blessed you with a son! We'll be praying for all the details that need to happen and for the relationships that are beginning to form as a family of 5!
Our little nephew if beautiful! And yes he does look like an Armstrong (or maybe even Papa as a young boy). We are so excited for you and will continue to pray as all the details unfold.
Hurry home, we miss you!
The Millers
Post a Comment