One Week Down... Three to Go

It's Thursday morning in Kras. Today is a city holiday, so we won't get to visit the kids. Outside our hotel is a sort of town square. We can see a carnival being set up and it looks like there may be a parade later. It's one big party around here!

We've now had 2 visits with the kids.
The first time we saw Justin, he literally ran to Scott and jumped in his lap. He hugged his neck and didn't let go. Justin gives great hugs :) Our time with him has been fun, very interactive. We play ball, sit and color together. Yesterday, he put on a little recital for us, playing an accordian, horn, and guitar. In fact, when we came in, it was music time. About 25 little boys and girls, sitting in rows of chairs watching a sing along on TV. When Justin saw us, he sat up a little straighter, sang a little louder, and was very intent on showing us what a good boy he was. Every now and then he'd steal a glance in our direction. He got the cutest little grin on his face, but was soon back to showing off. It was really cute.

During court, Justin's orphanage director spoke about him and the 4 months since we've seen him. She said he always spoke of us and told the other children that he had parents that were coming back for him. She said, even when the other children scoffed and told him no one would come for him, he insisted that he had a mama and papa. He said,"Now I have a father who will protect me." I KNOW!!!

Our time with the girls has been good, but with a few more challenges. They definitely know we are mama and papa, and that we are there for them. Natalie, however, is a tough little cookie. She starts off very independent, not even making eye contact, not very responsive to us. However, as the visit progressed, she warms up and plays and talks to us. It is very clear, though, that she likes to be in charge. I just keep thinking how this poor little thing has built up a wall to protect herself. As long as she dictates how things are going, she's fine. Otherwise, she starts to withdraw. There's lot of glimmers of light though. She lets go a little... laughs, relaxes. We look forward to seeing what the upcoming visits bring.

Lexi has really relaxed and is much less shy than on our first visit. She's generally happy. Still a little wary of Scott if he moves too fast. You should have seen the outfit they had on her yesterday... Bright yellow bow (giant size, of course) purple dress that barely covered her belly, bright green tights that were much too small (they kept falling down, revealing her little tushy), and bright red and yellow sandals. Yikes! "What have you done to my baby!?" I thought :)

The girls are very sweet to each other and love to play and tease. I love that they have that bond. I hope they will allow us in soon.

I better be going. We LOVE getting your comments and emails. Please keep them coming. It encourages us and helps us feel a little less homesick. One week down... 3 more to go!