Today was a very busy day.
We started out by visiting the orphanage. We first went to Melanie's old room and shared video and pictures of Melanie and some of the other girls who have gone home with their families. The ayi's really enjoyed this and thanked us. The highlight was handing out all the Disney cell phone toys that Melanie and Bella's Nana and Papaw donated. The children LOVED them. We heard the beeping of the toy phones all the way down the hall as we made our way to the fourth floor. The fourth floor is where Bella resided. Her ayi's quickly scooped her up away from mommy to visit in another room. It wasn't long before Bella was asking for her mommy though. We were also able to share with the ayi's on the fourth floor video and pictures of some of the girls who have gone home with theri families. They too were very appreciative as were the children of the toy phones. Bella was able to have lunch one last time with all of her friends and she sat right next to her best friend at the table. As we were leaving we caught a glimpse of several of the children who are potty training sitting on the potty talking on their cell phones. We feel so blessed to have the opportunity to play with these beautiful children, each one a miracle of God.
After our vist to the orphanage we drove to the village Melanie was found in. Since she was so sick when we adopted her there was not time to do it then. The village was very, very small. It was not considered exceptionally poor but more of the norm. We found ourselves overcome with emotion as we looked at the people wondering if they were some of Melanie's biological family. As we walked around the village we wondered if Melanie's birthmother took the same path with Melanie. We so wanted to tell her that Melanie was safe and loved and cherished.
So after an emotionally exhausting day we had Pizza Hut for lunch, we needed some comfort food.
Girls, we miss you and can hardly wait to see you. We are sure that little Micheline has grown a ton since we have beeng gone. We love you.
Christopher, Noah and Melanie we miss you more and more each day. We are counting down the days with you. We love you so very much.
Many blessings,
Jamie, Micheline, and Bella |
