We just had a morning visit today, as we had a flight to catch, but it was an exciting one. We were taken on a tour of the orphanage and able to see where he spends his days, as well as meet his caretaker.
He is part of a group of 12 kids that are all of similar age. This group of kids eat, sleep, bathe, and play all together in one big room. The room is divided in half, with 12 cribs on one side, and a play area with small tables and chairs on the other where they eat and play. Everything in the room is neat and orderly. To keep everything straight, each kid has a number (his is 4), and that number corresponds to their own towel, washcloth, potty, closet, table, crib, etc. It is a really neat system, and probably one that the caretakers couldn't do without!
It was really amazing to watch him interact with his caretaker and the other kids in the room. You could tell that it was an environment that was familar and comfortable for him.
After our tour, we had some time to play. He was a different kid today, as his cold begins to subside. There were lots of smiles and laughter, but he still likes to cuddle. We both new that it wouldn't be long before someone would come get him for lunch, and it would be time for us to head to the airport. We weren't sure how we would react to the fact that this is the last visit we have for awhile, but after seeing how well adjusted and cared for he is with his group, it eased the inevitable distance we were about to face.
We are both excited to get home, but even more anxious to get him home with us for good. But, in the mean time, he is being well cared for and having a good time with his friends.
So, it isn't "goodbye," it's just "see you later."
So, it isn't "goodbye," it's just "see you later."
Thank you for the BEAUTIFUL pictures and video that helped us experience this with you from the States! I can't wait for Max to be home with you, as I am sure you are feeling as well! This blog was AWESOME! We love you guys!
ReplyDeleteKEN AND SHELL,
ReplyDeleteWHAT A WONDERFUL EXPERIENCE THIS MUST BE, ALTHOUGH IT'S HARD TO GO, WE'LL PRAY FOR HIS SAFETY, AND YOURS, WE CAN'T WAIT TO MEET HIM, BUT THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR KEEPING US POSTED...HE IS AWESOME! HERE'S EMMIE....I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET MY NEW COUSIN, WE CARRY HIS PICTURE EVERYWHERE AND SAY PRAYERS FOR HIM. I LOVE HIM ALREADY
WE LOVE HIM ALREADY....PRAYERS ARE WITH YOU ALL, THANK YOU FOR KEEPING US IN THE LOOP. DAD PRINTED OFF SOME PICS AND TOOK THEM TO G-MA KOONTZ...SHE WAS BEAMING, BUT OF COURSE WISHED YOUR MOM AND G-PA WERE HERE TO SEE HIM. WE'LL BE BLESSED KNOWING THEY WATCH OVER HIM EVERYDAY!! BLESS BOTH OF YOU, THE GIRLS CAN'T WAIT TO MEET HIM, THEY CARRY HIS PIC EVERYWHERE. WHAT AN AWESOME LITTLE GUY!!!
ReplyDeleteKen and Shelly - Thank you for taking the time to talk to me tonight! I'm sure you can tell that the crazy, hyper lady calling is excited to be going to St. Pete. We'll keep our eyes open for your little one and snap some pics/videos if we see him. My email is nitagb@aol.com, and my blog will be russiababybutler.blogstpot. Thanks again. - Anita Butler
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