Dedication/ Praise Celebration

On Saturday April 19th, we had a baby dedication/praise celebration to honor God for the blessing He brought into our lives. Family and friends from near and far came to share in our joy. The youth choir, girls and boys praise dancers, T.B. who sang and C.S. who performed a praise dance participated in the program. Afterwards we had a reception for about 100 friends and family members. It was really more like a family reunion and our little guy enjoyed meeting everyone!

Special thanks to Andre Wade (www.adwphotos4U.com )for the photography!!!

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

Our School Visit

Before I left for Ethiopia I told my class that I would probably not be back this school year. I did promise them that I would come back and introduce them to my son. On Friday, they hosted a Welcome Back party for us. It was great to see them! I couldn't believe how big they had grown. They were so excited to see the baby and he was excited to meet them! They each wrote me a letter and several brought gifts for the baby. My substitute, G.W., baked cakes and the kids brought in treats. The baby and I had a great day! The class can't wait for us to come back for another visit.

Welcome Home Shower

Today we attended a Welcome Home Shower! Of course our little man was the star of the event! Thanks to the T. Family for hosting! He received lots of great gifts. When we got home we played with the musical fish bowl and the penguin bowling. It was like Christmas! We continue to be grateful for the blessings our friends and family are bestowing upon us.

My Little Bunny

My family and friends know I am a holiday person. I have socks and shirts/sweaters for practically every holiday. Most of my holiday outfits scream- I am an elementary school teacher! Not only do I have the clothes but I also have the decorations. (In case you didn't notice the bunnies in the background of the picture)
Today my poor son had to endure a day in an outfit plastered with bunnies. (He was so cute though!) Since he is a boy I can only dress him in these holiday outfits while he is young. So I'll have fun while I can!

First Doctor's Visit in the US

On Tuesday March 18, we had our first pediatrician's visit. Our little guy was a champ. The doctor was amazed by his pleasant disposition. He listened attentively while the doctor talked to him but he wasn't too happy about the examination or the shots. Since he had not been immunized he had to get 4 shots. Good thing a kiss from Mommy made it all better!

Reflections on the Journey

My thoughts and feelings about this journey cannot be expressed in words.
So instead I thought this montage provided a small glimpse of my thoughts. The people of Ethiopia are beautiful inside and out. Despite the poverty that many of them face, they are a proud people who possess a strong spirit. After visiting a developing nation you truly realize how blessed we are to live in the United States and the many things we take for granted.

Make an on-line slideshow at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We're Home!!!!

We arrived at Dulles on March 7, 2008 after flying for approx. 18 hours. Our little guy was a champ. He didn't fuss much during the flight but he didn't like riding home in the car seat too much since it was his first time in a car seat. While we were in Ethiopia and on the flight back every told us we had a dream baby. But God knew what we would have to do once we arrived back in the states.

While we were in Africa, Herb's mom passed away. As a matter of fact she died the day we met our son's birth mother. As soon as we arrived home we had to repack and drive 5 hours to his parent's house to prepare for the funeral the next day. I don't even think the baby spent more than 10 minutes in his room.
God's word is true...Ecclesiastes states to everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die...A time to weep and a time to laugh...a time to mourn and a time to dance...
During the course of the weekend we experienced all of the this. The funeral services truly reflected the sweet spirit Herb's mom had and we all believe that her spirit guided us safely home.