Meetcha Day!!

We have had a wonderful day!

Jonathan and I both slept through the night and seem to be transitioning well to the time difference. That was a blessing in and of itself since today was such a big day.

After breakfast at the guesthouse we went to the International Evangelical Church in Addis. What a beautiful place to worship – there was such a variety of races, genders, and ages. It was like a small glimpse into heaven, where all nations and tongues will bow down together.

We then ate lunch at a good pizza place – who knew they had pizza in ET – and then, finally headed to the transition home!!!

There was only one other family who had not yet met their child so Jonathan and I were able to go first (they go in alphabetical order) and everyone else watched, videotaped, and took pictures for us : )

She was not so sure about us when she first came out. She gave us both hugs but then began to cry : ( Thank goodness we had been told upfront not to be alarmed if this happened, as it all must be so confusing and scary to her. We were not completely sure how to comfort her, but we were able to go to another area off to the side and give her time to warm up to us. We gave her a small baby doll, which she initially showed little interest in, but eventually decided to give a try (and then carried around with her the remainder of the time).

Probably within 15 minutes, she began to interact more with us – sitting down in a circle and pushing a small car back and forth to one another. We finally began to see her smile - what a joy : )

Eventually we gave her a new outfit and a headband to match and I helped her change into it. She was absolutely beaming in her new clothes and went around showing different people her headband. It was absolutely adorable! She has the most precious smile and laugh.

She also showed real interest in the following:

·        Playing a balloon toss

·        Other babies at the TH

·        Sarah’s sunglasses

·        Looking at books and repeating the words

By the end of our few hours together she gave us hugs and blew us kisses : ) I think it was successful!!!

Thank you, again, for all of your continued support and prayers. They are much felt and appreciated.

Tomorrow we head back to the TH for the entire day! Will keep you posted : )