Each day we're getting closer to being able to go home. I am so excited about that.
Today we didn't have any paperwork or appointments so we took a bus ride to Shaiman Island where we did some shopping (the Stanleys did all their buying in one little store since we're not big shoppers). We learned from another family that's done this before that Shaiman Island is where the Europeans settled and primarily where adoptive families stayed in the past. Much of that has changed now and many of the shops have closed. We still had fun and ate (well, sort of) at a place called Lucy's where most of the adoptive families like to eat because there is some Western food there. I had one of those "we can do this" moments when just after we sat down for lunch, we realized that Jake had just gone poop. I asked one of the families where the bathroom was and his raised eyes and "there isn't really one" told me right away that this was going to be interesting (squatty potties are very interesting). I was up for the challenge. Kids primarily go in the street in their split pants and it's not unusual to see lots of "private parts" if you know what I mean, so that wasn't the issue. Somehow the staff got wind of our "need" and showed me to where the babies get changed. I was so curious how this was going to work out. She took me out the back of the restaurant and brought out what looked like one of those tray holders that they use in restaurants when they bring out your food. She folded it out and I thought, "yeah, this will work". With a quick wipedown of the cloth and scooping Jake up and in, he was changed and we were on our way. I will tell you though that I had a back-up plan which involved a bench (I had forgotten our "changing pad" which is a blanket because it's been a while since we've had a baby in the house) and, hmmm, that's about it. I just can feel the Lord's protection on our health so all is well.
All three of these families we are traveling with are still adjusting. And we all will be for many years to come I think. It's so fascinating to watch it all unfold. I can see us all being shaped. We all feel so blessed. Still there are so many questions, so many looks. We are loving the least. I don't think it makes sense to them. I don't know though...maybe I'm wrong. I don't think it's me that's doing something great. I think I have been selfish at times wanting to love on and have the blessing of a child. They are such blessings!! But I think it's Him! God's love for them is SO amazing.
My vertigo is slowing getting better. Thank you for praying.
Tomorrow is another slow day. Nothing is ever simple though with the food issues and we are nearly out of gluten-free mashed potatoes. We will go on some sort of river boat cruise with dinner tomorrow night. This will probably prove to be very interesting. We thought about not going because we are struggling with the food, but it will be some sort of buffet so at least the girls can have steamed rice. So far I don't think that they have gotten any big hit of gluten which is great. But it hasn't been easy. I am sorry to be so whiny. I just wish that they could enjoy the food part a little more. But all is well. And as Jeff says "it is what it is". That just means to accept it and move on. This involves some contentment in the situation and trust and faith and I appreciate that reminder.
Thursday is our CA. Friday we are waiting on Jake's visa and moving back to Hong Kong for departure on Saturday. I think I might have laid this out before. Can you tell I'm ready to go home?
No comments:
Post a Comment