Thanks so much for visiting us during our journey, Charles, Terri, Dalen and Annalei!
March 23, 2006
O.K., I am just going to get it out of the way now - I bought the suitcase! I couldn't get the small suitcase, not the medium, not even the large, I, in true American form, had to super size it! Yes, I got the jumbo suitcase! Let me rewind 15 hours. We woke at around 6:30 am. It was raining heavily. My first thought was "Yes!", limited shopping today. Little did I know how the drive of a woman works. When we are at home and Terri has a "girls day out" to shop, it's an all day adventure and she comes home with a modest bounty. Well, were you aware that when there are time constraints put into place, such as a delay due to rain, that a woman's shopping efficiency increases exponentially! If not, I can attest to this phenomenon, not to mention my wallet and my legs! It was as if we were operating as a well oiled machine. I am truly amazed, impressed and somewhat in awe of the spectacle. Those shop owners did not have a chance and neither did our bank account!! (before I get into to much trouble, I must mention that I am being a bit sarcastic, just a bit mind you!). Regardless, the shopping is a bit unreal. When you walk into a shop, it is a like "you want what, for that--OK!). The prices are typically remarkably cheap compared to the US. For example, our new jumbo Polo suitcase (and I am sure it's authentic!) was $15 US, with rollers (otherwise we would not be able to move it!). So, anyway, it has been fun to shop (OK guys, I really did not say that, but Terri is now looking over my shoulder). We have, hopefully, purchased many things that will both help Annalei remain somewhat in touch with her heritage as well as help Dalen to understand it as well. Time will tell.
Many in the group have been missing western food, so tonight I suggested we go to the 2nd Avenue restaurant. I had heard great revues. For the first time, most of our group attended together. The restaurant was great. They prepare everything near your table. The chef actually wheels his cart close to your table and prepares everything right there. I was in great need of a steak, as were many of us, so I ordered the filet mignon -$12 US, can't beat it. When the chef came over to prepare it, he had a skillet. I thought, wait a minute, I'm an old charcoal griller from way back and this guy's going to cook my fillet on a skillet - I don't think so! Well, he did, and it was absolutely awesome! So, if you know me, I have something new to try once we get home. I will probably ruin a few steaks and might possibly burn the house down, but I will figure out how that guy cooked my fillet in a skillet and made it taste so incredible. Anyway, after dinner, we decided to relieve a little stress. They have quite the game room in the hotel. Jordan has been wanting us to head down there the last couple days, so we decided tonight would be a great time to unwind. She had been challenging me all day to a game of air hockey. I was a little easy on her the first game and she won. After that I decided it was time to school the twelve year old. After she absolutely smoked me the next four consecutive games, I decided she had learned her lesson for the day and it was time for me to head to the room! Actually I want to make a comment about Jordan. She is probably the most conscience twelve year old I know. On numerous occasions she has made me step back in awe just out of her sincere kindness and generosity. For example, today she bought some gifts for Debbie and Jenna (if you remember Jenna was the baby that has been very sick and Debbie is her mother, but what is more amazing is that Jordan's sister is the one who was found to be hearing impaired). So here you have this twelve year old girl who has a lot on her mind, but yet has enough thoughtfulness to be considerate of others pain and suffering. I believe we could all learn a little from her, eh! Her mom dad are fortunate to have raised such a considerate child.
Let's talk about Annalei. She is continuing to blossom. I know that sounds a bit corny, but it is true. These children that come from the orphanages have been mostly deprived of personal or at least one-on-one contact. Therefore they are mostly behind developmentally. However, once they begin to receive this attention, they begin to blossom as a flower would with the proper soil and moisture. We, as biological parents, expect to see development of our children proceed at a relatively measured pace - you know, crawling at this age, talking at this age, walking at this age, etc. However, with children like Annalei, they need to play catch up. That is why it seems as if she is progressing at some magical pace. That by no means is the case. It is just, that since coming to us, we have helped her unlock some of the potential that has been there all along. It just took some personal attention, love and nurturing. We do have a long way to go. Annalei is definitely not at a nine month old's level as far as development is concerned, but we are confident she will catch up quickly. Besides, before long she will have her older brother to help her along the way, and I can think of no better mentor! It is simply amazing to watch her personality develop on a daily basis. It simultaneously brings a smile to your face and tears to your eyes. What a lesson in life she is teaching us.
Tomorrow we are off to the US Consultants Office. As of my next update, Annalei will be a US Citizen!! Can't wait. Talk to you tomorrow.
