Dear Aidan: Day 4

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Dear Aidan,

Merry Christmas!  Today finally arrived and we were able to celebrate your very first Christmas with you!  What a fantastic day and memory!  It will always be a Christmas that Dad and I will never forget!  I know- you won't remember, but we have great pictures, video and stories to share with you as you grow!

To start the day, Dad and I went on another walk this morning.  It was a brisk morning, about 50 degrees, but clear skies.  We left the guest house around 7AM, as usual.  I slept a little better last night, or at least, Dad did, which meant I didn't wake up as much!  During our walk, we explored the neighborhood again, taking the same route that we did yesterday.  Although it is the Western Christmas, Ethiopians don't celebrate Christmas until January 7th.  Therefore, everyone still had work and school.  Dad and I enjoyed our walk up and down steep hills.  I slowly feel that I'm not so out-of-breath as I was on our first walk!  There is a large elevation change compared to Chiang Mai!  While walking, we continued to say, 'Salam" to everybody!  

 

This morning, I said "Salam" to an older lady who was walking slowly, barefoot.  Once I said hello, she stopped and smiled!  Her smile kept getting bigger and bigger until she was laughing!  She barely had any teeth and had skin worn with age.  As she was laughing, she reached out to shake Dad's hand.  I stuck my hand out to shake her hand after Dad, but she pulled me in for a very big hug!  She kept exclaiming things in Amharic, but what they were, we don't know.  Soon, Dad and I were smiling just as much as she was!  Meeting her was the perfect start to our Christmas- warm smiles, hugs and love!

We also found a group of boys playing soccer on a hill on their way to school.  They let me join in their game for a little bit, which was so much fun!  It's amazing and wonderful at how athletic and active people here are!

Back at the guest house, everybody else was already up!  Dad and I got ready in our Christmas outfits we had brought for your very special day.  I haven't talked much about the guest house, so I will now.

The guest house has 3 true stories.  Outside, there is a large brown gate and there is always a guard (there are 2 that rotate).  They stay outside in a guard hut and are in charge of opening and closing the door.  Once inside, there is a small driveway, just big enough to cram 2 cars in it.  There is a very small yard and some bushes.  Going downstairs, there are a few rooms where some of the staff live.  Once you enter the house, there is a foyer and stairs, as well as a bathroom.  There is a decent kitchen where all of our wonderful meals are made.  Then there is a large room divided into the living room and dining room.  The dining room has a table for 6 people and chairs.  There is also a desk with a laptop, where we can go online.  The living room has a chair, couch and loveseat, as well as a TV and chimney.  There are a few TV channels in English, where we can watch some movies at night.

The 2nd floor has 3 bedrooms.  Rooms 1 and 2 have queen beds, nice wooden furniture and large closets.  There is a shared bathroom and shower/tub for those 2 rooms.  Room 3, where Dad and I are staying, has a queen bed, wooden furniture and its own small bathroom with a shower.  There is also a small balcony.  On the 3rd floor, there is a larger room with 2 beds and a bathroom.  Finally, there is an open rooftop on the "4th" floor, where you can look out below and see all of the stars at night.  The guest house is very nice and homey for everyone!  It is very relaxing after a day exploring and spending with you!

Once we were ready, we had a breakfast of pancakes- YUM!  They were a perfect breakfast and I don't think I could have eaten mine fast enough!  Dad and I collected your 2 Christmas outfits we brought and the rest of your presents.  Off we went to the foster home!

Once at the foster home, all 5 families found places on the floor to play with our babies!  Dad and I quickly changed you into Christmas PJs that I had brought.  Back in August, right before we moved to Thailand, I went to the local thrift store.  I found the PJs, sized 3-6 months with snowmen on them.  They were brand new and still had their original tags.  At first, I walked past, but I returned to purchase them.  I knew it was a long shot that we would be in Ethiopia over Christmas AND that they would fit, but I thought, "Just in case!"  Turns out, I was right!  You wear 3-6 month old children sizes AND we were in Ethiopia over Christmas!  You look unbelievably cute and warm in your PJs! 

 

We let you open your final presents of stuffed animals.  Again, you were more interested in the wrapping paper than the toys!  The other families put Christmas outfits on their little ones for some brief pictures!  Eshatu, our driver, gave you a small wristband of the colors of the Ethiopian flag and the word "LOVE."  You wore it all day and it completed your outfit!

That morning, you loved opening your presents and were as cute and active as ever!  We loved spending our time with you and making you laugh and smile.  It became evident that you were comfortable with us, and we were much more comfortable caring for you!  By the end of the morning, you were dozing again...in MY arms!  I was 2 for 2 now!  Your Dad has competition for nap times!  Once again, the nannies came to get you around noon and we returned to the guest house for lunch.

The Wilcox's and Milams had court today, so they left after lunch.  We wished them luck and finished our meal.  After lunch, Dad and I took a walk around the neighborhood with the Hayes'.  We had a wonderful conversation and it was nice seeing the hustle and bustle of things around the guest house in mid-afternoon.  It looked like the school was having lunch, and Mrs. Hayes and I made lots of friends with the girls!  They were so cute.  Well, they're all beautiful!  When we got back, the Milams had just returned and THEY PASSED COURT!  We were all so excited for both families to have their babies legally theirs!  Dad and I knew that your turn would soon come...we just have to keep waiting a bit longer!

When we returned to the foster home, the staff was setting up for our Christmas party!  It was a big deal and they went all out to entertain us!  We had thick, yummy bread, popcorn, a coffee ceremony and cake!  There were also bottles of pop for all!  The older children came into the visiting room for the party, so we were crammed, but it was perfect!  The staff had an Ethiopian music video playing on the TV and many of the older children were able to show us their dancing skills.  I firmly believe that all Ethiopians are born knowing how to dance!  Even the young children began moving their shoulders when they heard the music!  Mrs. Bridgette and I, who were both in awe of the dancing skills, were joking with the social worker and said, "In America, there's a saying that white girls can't dance!"  She laughed and said, "I've heard that many times before!"  It seems like we weren't the first moms amazed with the dancing!

Before the coffee ceremony, Mr. Alemu and Mr. Bure gave speeches to the families.  They both thanked us for looking to Ethiopia to find our children and to help Ethiopian children.  They explained that not all American families look to adopt, and that many who adopt do not look outside the United States.  They were truly grateful that we looked beyond the US to Ethiopia and that our hearts found us you!  It was very touching and made all of the families grateful that the Ethiopian staff were just as thankful for us as we were to them!  

After the speeches, it was cake cutting time!  The cake had Pringle chips on it for decoration, and "Merry Christmas" was spelled a little wrong.  But that didn't matter!  It was the thought that counted!  With the cake, we had our freshly roasted, crushed and brewed coffee with A LOT of sugar!  Dad and I actually drank the coffee and believe it or not, it was GOOD!  REALLY GOOD!  That was the first time in my entire life that I enjoyed coffee!  During the rest of the party, the older kids kept dancing and all the families took pictures!  

I was able to take some very cute videos of you wearing a Santa hat that we brought!  You were so playful and were cracking me up!  I loved it!  We also had you wear a shirt that said, "My First Christmas" on it.  You were very handsome! 

 

After we finished eating, the party moved outside to the courtyard.  There, the older kids played soccer and we laughed.  The social worker has an old Beatle Bug car and at least 12 older kids piled into that car to play!  Before long, it was literally shaking from dancing children!  What a site it was!

 Around 5:30, it was time to say good-bye to you.   Dad and I were grateful for the extra 30 minutes we had with you, but were very sad to say good-bye!  Every day with you gets better and better and each good-bye gets harder.  But we know you receive such good care at the foster home and that your nannies love you so very much!  That made everything a bit easier!

Back at the guest house, Dad and I were able to call Papi and Nana, Aunt Erin and Mimah.  We had to quickly wish them a Merry Christmas, but they were all eager to hear much more about you!  They were having wonderful Christmas' back in the US and thought us spending Christmas with you was the best present of all!  After our phone calls, we all ate a delicious Christmas dinner of pasta.  We sat around, laughed, talked and watched movies before going to bed.

For Christmas, Dad and I didn't really give each other presents.  We just gave each other cards.  We didn't really need or want any presents this year.  As I said yesterday, Santa had already given us the greatest present of all- YOU!  When I first decided I wanted to be a Mom through adoption many years ago, you were exactly the baby I put on my Christmas list- happy, healthy, funny, entertaining, energetic, active, PERFECT!  I think that 12 years later, Santa kept track of my wishes and made my Christmas wish come true with you!

Merry Christmas sweet Aidan!  Dad and I couldn't be  more blessed that we were able to spend this day with you!  We cannot wait to help celebrate many more Christmas' with you as you grow!  Christmas is all about love, happiness and family.  We definitely got all 3 this year!  How LUCKY are we!

Sweet dreams little one!  I cannot wait for tomorrow!

All my love,

Mom

Dear Aidan: Day 3

Monday, December 24, 2012

Dear Aidan,

Merry Christmas Eve little one!  I hope you're sleeping well in your bed waiting for Santa to come!  Although the foster home doesn't have a chimney, I'm certain that he'll arrive to bring you and all the other children their presents in the morning!

Today was another fantastic day with you!  Dad and I woke up early again, around 6AM.  We go to bed very early and wake up early!  I think I annoy Dad as I wake up almost every hour to ask him, "What time is it?"  I can't wait for it to be 6AM when we can finally start getting up and moving for the day.  If I wake your Dad up before sunrise, he's not too happy and wants me to go back to sleep, or at least be quiet!  Just like yesterday, we went for a walk this morning around the guest house.  We chose a different route today to explore a bit more, and I'm glad we did!

On our walk, we came across the local well.  There is a man there with a hose who fills up all of the 5-6 gallon water jugs that people carry there.  Once their jug is filled, they load the container on their back and secure it with fabric and ropes like a back pack.  Dad thinks that each container weighs about 30-40 pounds when full!  There was a line of about 30 people waiting for the water.  They walk almost everyday to this well to get their daily water for cooking, drinking and bathing!  Just like yesterday, everyone was so friendly when we walked by and we were able to get some pictures! 

While we were walking past the well, there were two girls about 12-14 years old carrying a jug of water.  They had attached a long stick to their jug and each had an end of the stick that they were carrying.  It was obvious that the jug was extremely heavy and they were trying to walk as fast as they could home, up a steep hill.  Once they stopped to put down the jug to rest, Dad said he wanted to help them.  When he walked up the to girls, he pointed to the jug, then himself before picking up the jug.  The girls immediately started giggling and Dad pointed forward.  The girls led the way to their house, laughing all the way home!  When we arrived at their house a few hundred yards away, their grandma opened their door and was shocked.  She began laughing as well and the 3 ladies kept thanking Dad.  It was evident he made their day and would be their entertainment for days to come!

From the girls' house, we kept walking and made a large loop around the neighborhood.  On the way back, we discovered an elementary school.  It was around 7:30AM and children were just beginning  to walk to school.  They all had uniforms on: dark pants (black or navy blue) with a maroon sweater.  Many of the sweaters were torn on the sleeves.  The children also had backpacks and carried small metal containers that were their lunch boxes!  No school lunches provided at school here!  They were all as cute as can be and had the biggest smiles!  We had brought some pens with us and were able to pass many out to the children on their in to school, which they loved!  I took a peek inside the school and Dad waited outside, out of respect for their parents.  The classrooms were simple- desks and benches with a large chalk board in the front of the room.  There were some things painted on the walls, such as the alphabet or English words.  But that was it!  It's so different than schools in the United States!

Once we returned to the guest house, we got ready for the day.  There was now 12 people staying at the guest house and our shower went from "pretty warm" to "mildly warm."  I learned to take incredibly fast showers, especially seeing that our room was chilled from the cool night before!

At breakfast, we met another family.  Mrs. Lisa and Mr. Shands arrived with their daughter, Zaela.  They had flown in from LA to meet their new daughter, Amari.  Zaela was as excited as could be to meet her baby sister.  She was adopted from Ethiopia when she was a baby and was thrilled to be back!  She definitely kept us all entertained today and livened up the guest house!  Mrs. Lisa and Mr. Shands were great.  Having them there completed the crew that we would have for the next few days.  It was a full house, but made everything feel homey!

That morning, Mrs. Lisa and Mr. Shands met little Ms. Amari.  She is as cute as can be and itty bitty!  She's very young and was very alert to everything going on!  She is the perfect baby sister for Zaela to have and was extremely tolerant and willing of everything!  The foster home visiting room had 5 families in it, so it was FULL!  Each family took a corner for visiting hours.  We loved the conversations and laughs we shared during those 4 hours of visiting.  It was great to see all of the babies slowly come out of their shells and their true personalities show!

It became evident that each baby was perfect for their new family.  It was almost crazy in how that worked out!  There is a reason each family traveled to Ethiopia to add to or complete their family.  Before meeting you all, something was missing in all of our families.  I know now that you 5 sweet babies have filled the holes in our hearts that we had.  Each one of you were like missing puzzle pieces we all needed!

Our visit with you this morning was fantastic.  It seems that you become more and more lively everyday!  I brought you a cute hat to wear outside to keep the sun out of your eyes, and so we spent much of the morning outside.  I have to say, you're rather handsome in a hat!  Of course, the foster home nannies had you in overalls as well today, which made me melt!  You were incredibly handsome!

Our morning with you flew by.  Like usual, you devoured your bottle.  You then had the "Big Buddha Belly" that you get when you drink your entire bottle!  You're so cute with it.  It seems like your full belly gets in the way sometimes, like when you try to reach forward while sitting, but it makes me happy to see.  I love knowing that you're getting all of the food and nutrition that you need to keep growing so that you're strong and healthy!  By the end of the morning, you had once again fallen asleep in your Dad's arms!  He was 2 for 2 in getting you to fall asleep!  I need practice!!!!

When noon came, it was time for us to leave.  Dad and I ate lunch at the Sheraton today with the Hayes.  We desperately needed Ethiopian birr as we only had Iraqi dinar and Thai baht on us!  One of the only ATMs that accepted MasterCard debit cards was at the Sheraton, which is where the Hayes were staying.  We were able to get money out of the bank there, which was a relief!  We then ate a delicious lunch at the pool-side restaurant.  It was a bright and sunny day and felt wonderful to sit outside!  We loved our time talking to the Hayes and learning about their journey to Harper!  We instantly clicked and had a wonderful time sharing stories and laughs!

When lunch was over, we headed back to the foster home to see you!  You were dressed in an adorable blue sweater outfit that matched!  It was very warm and cozy!  You were a bit tired, but soon woke up and wanted to play!  We loved watching you Army crawl across the floor, play with your rings and look at some books.  We let you open 2 new presents: picture books.  You are definitely more interested in wrapping paper than you are in your actual presents.  We should take note for this for your following Christmas': wrapping paper only, no presents!  Something tells me you'll change when you get a bit older!

Nonetheless, it was great fun watching you explore and play.  

This afternoon, we had three very special treats!  The first was that we were given a tour of the foster home!  We were able to see the kitchen, bathrooms, isolation room and the room where they make your formula.  We the saw the 0-6 month old baby room, where you were for about 2-3 months.  Then, we saw the 6-12 month old baby room, where your bed is now!  It was wonderful seeing your little blue wooden bed- the same one we have been seeing in pictures all this time!  We were able to take pictures of only your bed, not the other children as they have moms and dads!  The other children were all so beautiful!  Dad and I said that we would have taken any one of them home with us in the future (after you're home, that is)!  They were all so happy and healthy!  Each one was bundled up in blankets in their beds.  The small babies had simple toys to play with and it looked like there were 2-3 nannies in the room to play with them and hold them.  It made me so happy knowing you received such good care!

In your room, there were many children on the ground crawling around or sitting up playing!  They were all so cute!  It was amazing to see how much stimulation you receive, even for being in a foster home!  There were lots of toys and 2 nannies in the room.  I know you receive wonderful care!  It makes me happy to know that you'll continue to mature, develop and grow when it's time for us to leave in in a few weeks!  

Behind the foster home is a school.  Here are some pictures of the area around the foster home!

The second surprise was that we received a happy ending to part of your story!  When you were first referred to us, you came with the name, "Kimaya."  Your orphanage had accidentally sent the wrong paperwork with your file.  As such, you were sent with "Kimaya's" papers.  For 2 months, we received updates and believed your name to be "Kimaya."  The area you were born and your age were also different.  But then in November, we were told of the mistake and that your real name is "Bedassa" and that you have a different story.  The mistake was realized when "Kimaya" was referred a family but didn't have paperwork.  Your orphanage is very well-run, but without an electronic computer system, mix-ups like this can easily happen.  Kimaya is a little girl, believe it or not!  Well, we talked to the staff at the foster home and they said we could see Kimaya!  Little Kimaya, who is about your age, was sitting on the floor playing!  I know you two must be playmates!  It made me so happy that this little girl has a loving family who is also adopting a baby boy!  So Kimaya has a brother, too!  Seeing her play, holding you in my arms, and hearing the whole story wrapped up the loose ends to part of your story!  We are so grateful that you are Bedassa.  We love who you are and where you are from!  We wouldn't change any part of your story or our adoption journey for the world!  But I'm glad you, Bedassa, AND Kimaya, both have happy endings!

I was holding you throughout the tour and by the end of it....wait for it....wait....wait....YOU WERE ASLEEP in my arms!  Yep!  I was finally able to rock to you to sleep and let you rest!  I was a very, very, very proud Mama!  Putting you to bed is in incredibly important skill to have and I learned how to do it!  I can't stay still OR sit down.  I have to be standing, gently rocking you.  When I lay you down in my arms, you have to be facing outward first, and then I can slowly rotate you!  If you're facing me and I try to lay you down, you fuss and fuss!  After 3 days, I finally learned!  I really, truly felt like your Mom today!

When you sleep, you sometimes snore!  You're still very congested, so it's understandable why!  But it's still very cute!  You also don't suck your thumb, but your index finger!  You need to fall asleep sucking your finger!  And sometimes, you're sucking so hard that your mouth makes clicking sounds!  Dad and I laugh to ourselves hearing and watching you!  But when you sleep, you are a precious angel!  I love watching you sleep as I know you're comfortable with us and that sleep helps you grow and maintain your health!

The last surprise was that we were able to meet with Adoption Avenues social worker at the end of the day!  She had part of your file and was able to go through everything with us!  We saw your regional MOWA letter and our adoption decrees!  Your picture and our names were on everything!  You also seemed very interested as you kept trying to grab the papers!  It was very cute!  We were told we would learn even more about your history and past as we approached our court date!  We hoped so!  But the social worker is amazing!  She is kind, gentle and has a genuine heart.  She is yet another employee at Adoption Avenues who touched our hearts!

When 5PM came, it was time for us to say good-bye!  We kissed you good-night and wished you a very Merry Christmas and hoped that Santa would come!  Back at the guest house, dinner was ready for us when we arrived!  The food was always delicious, but we could tell the chef was a bit strained cooking for all 14 people at once!  I don't blame her!  After dinner, we sat around the table and laughed and told stories.  The Wilcox's and Milams had their court date the next day, and they were busy getting all of their paperwork ready to submit to Embassy!  Dad and I took careful notes for what we would have to do when our day finally came!  We had a delicious dessert of Snickers candy bars that hit the spot!  Before long, we all retired to our rooms to go to bed!

Tomorrow is Christmas and I cannot wait to spend your very FIRST Christmas with you!  Your Dad and I wouldn't have missed this day for the entire world!  That's why we chose to fly to Ethiopia to meet you early, even without having a court date!  We knew that we may need to come back 2 more times instead of just 1, but that was something we were more than willing to do.  We really wanted to spend your first Christmas with you to make it extra special.  When we realized your court date wouldn't match up, we decided to come to Ethiopia anyways to FINALLY be a family!

I hope you sleep well, my little elf! Above everything else, Santa brought you an early Christmas present this year- your Mom and Dad.  More importantly, Santa gave Dad and I the present of a lifetime- YOU!  I cannot wait for tomorrow and another amazing day with you in my arms!

I love you!!!!

XOXO-

Mom

Dear Aidan: Day 2

Sunday, December 23, 2012

Dear Aidan,

It’s hard to believe that a day could top the first day meeting you, but believe it or not, each day keeps getting better and better!  Dad and I woke up early this morning to explore the neighborhood where the guesthouse was located.  It’s very urban, but not very developed.  As it was Sunday, the guard at the gate suggested we go to church.  He pointed up a huge hill saying the church was there.  Dad and I spent the next hour wandering around the town, saying, “Salam” (hello) to the locals as we were greeted by huge smiles, waves and “HELLO’s!”  It was wonderful to see how friendly everybody was and they were all very welcoming!  We found the church up the hill on a cobblestone street.  The church was still under construction, but it was surrounded by priests and elders who were devote Orthodox Christians.  All were dressed in white robes and many were holding large crosses and using leaning sticks (it’s not allowed to sit during an Orthodox mass, so many people use the sticks to lean on).  There was a soccer game going on outside the church.  Just as we reached the top of the hill, we were able to watch the final stage of the sunrise above Addis Ababa.  What an amazing site surrounded by the mountains with the city in the valley below!  On the way back down the hill, Dad and I explored a little bit more down small streets.  We couldn't wait to get to know Ethiopia and the place you call home!

When were returned back to the guesthouse, we quickly got ready for the day!  Believe it or not, I think we were even more excited today to see you as we were even more in love with you!  The mornings seemed to take forever waiting for 10AM to arrive so that we could go to the foster home to hold you!  After we were showered and dressed, we picked out a few new Christmas presents for you to open.  Although it was a few days early, we figured that was ok!  We were close enough to Christmas to let you open a few!  We had a delicious breakfast of French toast and hot tea prepared for us when we went downstairs.

Another family had arrived the previous night and they were going to meet their little girl, Keira, today for the first time.  Ms. Bridgette and I became fast friends and Dad and I were so excited for them to meet their daughter that morning!  I had been talking to all of the other moms on an Adoption Avenues Group on Yahoo!  Although we had never met in person, we briefly knew each other's stories and were excited to meet!

Ms. Jill, Eli's Mom, was feeling much better today and she was downstairs.  It was wonderful meeting her and hearing about their journey so far in Ethiopia!  They had been here for almost a week now!

 We had a special treat that morning in that Mr. Alemu, the program director for Adoption Avenues, came to the guesthouse.  Dad and I met outside to discuss your adoption progress and our court dates.  He informed us that there was a slight chance we could have our court date by the time we left Ethiopia in 3 weeks!  I was so excited I hugged him at the possibility of you being legally ours by the time we left Ethiopia!  I knew it was a small chance, but I was hopeful!  He was very kind and helpful.  It was wonderful to know that such amazing people were helping our adoption in Ethiopia.  They wanted you to be a part of our family as much as we did!

FINALLY 10AM arrived and we headed to the foster home.  We rode with Ms. Bridgette and Mr. Matt.  Dad was kind enough to take video for them.  It was amazing to watch them meet their daughter for the first time.  It was almost like we could relive our day meeting you by watching them.  Keira was beautiful and such a happy baby.  She is perfect for Mr. Matt and Ms. Bridgette!  She has the biggest, brownest eyes and some crazy curly hair that makes her even cuter!  Once they met Keira, it was time for you to come on downstairs with your nanny!

Just like the day before, Dad and I waited for “Bedassa!”  Once we saw your nanny carrying you down the stairs, we smiled!  You were so handsome and even more perfect than we had remembered!  You were hungry, and luckily we were given your bottle to feed you.  I think it only took 2-3 minutes for you to finish!  We kept asking the other families, and they kept telling us we should try to burp you, but whenever we tried, you became cranky and immediately grabbed the bottle and put it back in your mouth!  There was no stopping you from eating!

After you were full, it was playtime once more!  You opened your first book, and loved looking at all the pictures of the animals.  I think the giraffes and the hippos were your favorites!  You were so curious!  But soon, you had enough sitting and it was time to move again!

Dad took over playtime and your were army crawling all over the place.  You loved your rings and would go anywhere for them.  In fact, you were so determined to get them that you would crawl over our arms, legs and hands to get them!  You grunted you were trying so hard!  That made Dad proud knowing you were such a hard worker and didn’t let anything stand in your way!  Around 11:30, it seemed you were getting tired (the other 2 babies were sleeping already).  You kept rubbing your eyes and yawning!  Dad brought you outside, which you loved.  After a few minutes of holding you, Dad had you sleeping against his chest.  It was precious to watch!  I joked and called Dad the "baby whisperer" as you seemed like you hated to fall asleep as you didn't want to miss anything  Dad continued to hold you until it was time for us to go.  The nannies gently took you away to let you keep sleeping!

At lunch, we loved talking with the other 2 families!  It was fascinating to hear their stories and how similar our journeys had been.  It was amazing to have an instant connection with others who found their children in Ethiopia!  We shared laughs and tears, and stories of frustration and joy.  Having those families there at the guesthouse with us helped to complete our trip!

Soon, lunch was over and we were back for an afternoon with you!  You started to get a cough that was going around the foster home.  You had a runny nose and I could tell didn’t feel 100%.  I wanted you to rest, so we spent a lot of time cuddling, reading stories and just talking!  Once again, you were hungry for your bottle, which was a good sign.  Hearing your hoarse cough and the congestion in your lungs broke my heart.  All I wanted was for you to breathe normally!  The nurse said that you were ok and that you just had a cold.  All the babies had it.  We were hopeful that it would pass soon!

By the end of the afternoon, you were feeling a bit better and wanted to play.  You and Dad played peek-a-boo looking out of the door.  You LOVED to explore and were entertaining the other families with your antics!  You had so much energy and always wanted to be doing something!

That day, another family met their little girl!  Harper’s Mom and Dad, Ms. Jess and Mr. Ric, arrived early that morning and made it to the foster home right before lunch to meet her!  She was precious and beautiful!  She has soft curly hair and beautiful brown skin.  Her mom and dad have 3 boys at home, so she’ll be a spoiled baby sister for sure!  Again, it was amazing to watch another family meet their baby for their first time.  Ms. Bridgette, Ms. Jill and I all shared tears of joy with Ms. Jess.  4 Moms with 4 new babies- it was wonderful!

Today, Dad and I felt even more comfortable with you.  Although you were still new, we felt that you were more comfortable with us.  You were no longer a child that came to life from pictures, but our little boy.  I think having that made our time together even more enjoyable!

After saying good-bye to you that evening, Dad and I went back to the guesthouse.  It was getting full with families, but was so cozy!  Dad was able to study Thai in the evenings and I was able to talk with the other families!  I was also able to send e-mails and post pictures on Facebook.  EVERYONE loved seeing the 3 of us- you, Dad and I, together as a family.  It made for the best early Christmas present!  Before long, Dad and I were exhausted again!  We were still jet-lagged from our travels just the day before.  We were fast asleep by 9PM, hoping the morning and our time with you would arrive quickly!

I hope you sleep well, Aidan Bedassa!  I cannot wait for another fun-filled day with you tomorrow and for the chance to fall even more in love with you!

Love Always, 

Mom

Dear Aidan: Day 1

In celebration of meeting our son, hopefully becoming his legal parents in the next few days, and in following the purpose of this blog, my next several posts (21 posts to be exact) will take on a new form: “Dear Aidan.”  These posts will be an account of our journey in Ethiopia for 21 days and of meeting Aidan for the first time.  Everyday, I will post a new blog from a journal I kept in the hopes that the wait between now and bringing Aidan home goes by that much faster.  These past 21 days have been some of the best days of our lives and our travels throughout Ethiopia have been life changing.  I hope to one day put these letters in a book for Aidan to have forever!

Saturday, December 22, 2012

Dear Aidan,

It’s me, your brand new Mom!  Can you believe that?  I can't either!  But I can FINALLY say that!  Today was by far the greatest day of your Dad's and my life- it was the day we met you for the first time, held you in our arms, kissed you a thousand times and told you how much we love you.  It was quite the journey but every single minute of waiting was all worth it in the end.  You and your precious smile, perfect laugh and hilarious personality made everything worth the wait!

The day started at midnight.  Dad and I boarded our plane from Cairo to Addis Ababa.  Knowing that was the last leg of our journey before we met you was unbelievable.  Although we were exhausted, we were beyond excited!  People on the plane thought we were kind of crazy when we asked them to take lots of pictures of us and the signs that actually said, "Addis Ababa!"  Once on the plane, we both desperately tried to sleep.  Around 3:30AM, we started our descent to land.  The plane tracker on the TV screen showed the plane above Addis Ababa.  It was incredible to see that we were FINALLY IN ETHIOPIA!  Once we landed, we were greeted with Ethiopia’s brisk winter nights.  The air was so fresh and the sky was full of stars.  We quickly grabbed our suitcases, obtained our Ethiopian traveler visas and cleared customs.  Outside the airport, our driver, Eshatu, was waiting for us.  We loaded into the tiny Toyota Corolla and were driven to the Adoption Avenues Guest House in northwest Addis Ababa.  We were fascinated by the drive, especially at the number of people that were up early that morning running!  I'm not sure your dad would have been able to keep up!

Once we arrived at the Guest House, we dragged our tired selves upstairs and collapsed.  We set the alarm for 8AM- only 2 hours before we could meet you!  We immediately fell asleep under the sea of warm blankets!  Once the alarm went off, our eyes sprung open!  It was FINALLY the day we could meet you!  We took our showers, got ready, and prepared your bag of goodies.  We needed to make sure that we had all of your toys, books and stuffed animals.  The cameras were charged and we were ready!  That morning the guesthouse served egg rolls for breakfast, but I was so excited, I couldn’t even eat! I think I had 1/2 of a cup of tea, and that's it!

There was another family staying at the guesthouse that day- the Wilcox’s.  They had been there for a week and were adopting Eli, another little boy.  The Wilcox’s were very excited for us and our “Metcha Day.”  They went to the foster home, where you were living, first.  Then Eshatu came back to pick Dad and I up.  The drive to the foster home seemed to take FOREVER, although it was only 2-3 miles away.  As we pulled up to the gate, we saw “Adoption Avenues Agency Office” on the door.  Our hearts jumped.  This was it!   You were just behind these doors!  Once the car entered, we saw the foster home- a 2-storey building where the children lived.  Outside, the courtyard was covered in clothes and diapers hanging to dry.  There was also the family visiting house and the kitchen in the compound.

When we got out of the car, Eshatu called up to an open window on the 2^nd floor, “Bedassa!”  A nanny stuck her head out of the window for a brief second and disappeared.  This was it!  Eshatu was able to film the morning for us, and Mr. Ronnie was able to take pictures.  We waited for what seemed like hours, waiting for you to be brought outside.  At the edge of the building, a nanny was coming down the stairs with you in her arms.  You were wearing a blue plaid shirt we had seen in previous pictures and blue jeans.  You were PERFECT!  You were beyond perfect.  Your face showed you were so brave the moment you saw us- you didn’t know what to think.  It was so surreal seeing your face- the face we had been looking at in pictures for over 3-months, in real life in front of us.  

The nanny smiled and brought you towards us.  I started to cry and I’m pretty sure your Dad did, too!  We walked up to you and just started talking.  You didn’t cry and just kept looking at us.  I know you were thinking, “Who ARE these people and why are they here?”  After a minute or so, I reached out to hold you.  Holding you for the first time was the best feeling in the world.  Everything seemed whole and complete.  You were exactly what I had hoped for and felt perfect.  You smelled so good, and your skin was so soft.  You just kept looking at me with your handsome eyes, studying me and trying to figure it all out.  Your Dad couldn’t wait to hold you, so soon I passed you to him.  It was then he started to cry.  Can I tell you that after 4 years, I’ve only seen your Dad cry once!  He didn’t even cry at our wedding, but he sure cried seeing you.  You were PERFECT for him, too!

The minutes flew by and we still couldn’t believe that Aidan Lee Bedassa Garberson, YOU, were in our arms and that we were in Ethiopia!  It was breakfast time and so we fed you your bottle, which you guzzled down!  You were so hungry!  About halfway through your bottle, I got your first smile.  Your smile was the most beautiful thing I have ever seen.  It just melted me.  From then on, you were ok with Dad and I.  

You absolutely loved your lion stuffed animal we brought.  Every time we rubbed it against your face, you smiled/laughed and did a face dive into his mane.  You were so happy!  In playing with you, we were able to watch your army crawl for the first time!  You were fast (and made your Dad proud)!  You loved your colored rings and squeaky giraffe.  All you wanted to do was play and explore.  I think you were excited that Dad and I wanted to play and explore with you.  Everything that fascinated you fascinated us!  You were curious, playful and happy.  I’m not sure if I’ve said this yet, but you were PERFECT!

Those 2 hours that morning flew by.  We had to say good-by for lunch and the nannies came to get you for your nap.  We went back to the guesthouse for a delicious meal made by Hereg and the chef.  Dad and I relived that morning and watched the first video with you over and over and over again.  We e-mailed Aunt Erin, Aunt Crystal, Uncle Chris and Aunt T, Nana, Papi, Grandpa and Mimah with the first family pictures.  We couldn’t wait to share our new family with our extended family.

That afternoon, we went back to the foster home for 2 more hours of fun with you!  Although Eli took a nap (3-5PM was your nap time), you DID NOT want anything to do with sleep.  All you wanted to do was eat, play and explore.  You and your Dad became instant friends.  He adored playing with you and helping you learn new things.  He was fascinated with all you could do.  And he was touched that you became his son and that he forever had a father-son bond with you.  What a special moment. 

I loved playing with you, too.  But you soon realized that Dad was more fun to play with and Mom was the best to snuggle with.  You reached out to be held by Dad to play and to me to be held and cuddled with.  And you kept smiling and laughing.  We learned that you are right-handed and are ticklish- especially your feet and belly.  And when I gently blew air on your face, you laughed like crazy.  It was the most precious thing I had ever seen!

Although I tried hard not to cry too much, I did cry multiple times!  I kept telling you over and over again that you were my son and that I would ALWAYS be your Mom.  I would always love you, care for you, play with you, support you and encourage you.  Knowing that I would forever love you and have you as my son has been the most meaningful feeling I have ever felt.  During these crying times, you just looked up at me with your big brown eyes, as if you understood.  Somehow, deep down, I think you realized that I was your Mom and you were my son.

The day flew by!  At 5PM, it was time for us to go.  The sweet nannies once again came to take up upstairs.  Dad and I went back to the guesthouse, elated, but exhausted!  After eating a delicious dinner, we retired to our room.  Once there, we re-watched every video we had taken of you that day.  We hugged and cried some more (I know, we’re pathetic) knowing you were our son.  Before long, we collapsed into bed and quickly fell asleep, eager for our next day with you!

I can't wait to keep documenting our journey with you!  I hope you sleep well, little one!  And I can't wait for another fun-filled day tomorrow!

Love Always,

MOM  (oh, it feels good to say that)!

My Husband

I know this post seems a bit odd considering this blog is all about adopting while living overseas.  But adoption wouldn't be possible (well it would be- but it would be a very different experience) if it wasn't for my husband.

For those of you that know Ron, you probably already know he's pretty awesome! :)  He's the nicest, kindest, warmest, most genuine man I have ever met.  He's also rather intelligent, funny and a bit handsome!  I could go on and on about him...

I knew I really, truly loved Ron while we were dating, engaged, and even when we were first married.  We talked about adoption on our first date and he "knew what he was in for" by sticking around.  He knew from the beginning that I only wanted to adopt- and that I wanted to adopt several children.  Still, he stuck around as he saw the world in the same way that I view it.

Since beginning this adoption process over a year ago (I attended the 1st adoption seminar in January, 2011 while in vet school and Ron was deployed), I have fallen more and more in love with my husband.  I know that sounds cliche and a bit cheesy, but it's true.

For starters, there is some crazy way that men are raised that makes them feel they "must" produce one of their own.  I'm going to argue against this being a primal instinct, but something that's actually based out of nurture.  To many men, and women, having biological children is the most important thing a couple could do and the only main way to have a family.  But not to Ron (or me).  Ron saw adoption as a way to significantly impact an innocent life in a positive way.  It's a way for Ron and I to devote ourselves to someone the world has essentially lost or forgotten.  It's a way not to make a life, but to save a life.  In that sense, Ron saw adoption as the most important way to have a family (music to my ears)!  There are days when I catch myself just looking at Ron thinking, "How on earth are you the way you are?"  I know he's seen a lot, especially with the military, but there's something else that let's us share in our view of family.  I have yet to figure that one out!

Ron is understanding- VERY understanding.  As I have never been pregnant, I'm not familiar with the wait and hormonal changes that occur in that process.  However, I have been a part of this adoption process, and I can say, it's not easy.  During our Dossier and HomeStudy, I was just a bit stressed out- which, added together with the wonderful weather found in Washington, made me not the most pleasant of all people.  But Ron understood and kept loving me!  During these past 3 months of waiting for a court date since our referral, Ron has watched me cry as often as everyday.  Mind you, this wasn't simple crying- it was very often crying fits as I was tired of waiting, not knowing and not having any control of our situation.  But Ron was there, understandingly wiping my tears away.  Ron convinced me not to fly suddenly to Ethiopia on 2 occasions.  He hasn't been mean, but is always honest.  And he's there for me!

Ron also trusts me.  When we were discussing adopting from Ethiopia for the first time in the spring of 2011, he never asked about the costs or anything.  Although we both work on our finances, I do the Garberson budget.  Ron knew this and figured that I wouldn't mention something we couldn't afford.  I don't think he's ever blinked at the cost of the adoption or has ever questioned/struggled with writing one of our hefty checks.  I honestly cannot say I know of any other man that could be so trusting and open.  He also trusted me to work on saving enough to afford the adoption without effecting our other expenses.  You know a man loves you and your life together so much that he's willing to sacrifice re-allocate the amount of money for a new car for an international adoption.  Again, I often find myself looking at Ron and just asking, "How?"  or "Why?"  But then I know...Ron doesn't see the adoption to having a price tag, but rather being a father as priceless.

Ron also knows me.  He truly knows me.  He knows when I'm on the verge of an emotional break-down and works to make everything ok.  He knows if I'm becoming impatient and finds ways to explain, re-explain, or re-re-explain the wait!  He knows when I want to go the orphanage to play with babies just by the look on my face.  He knows if I'm going to do a not-so-attractive happy dance whenever we hear good news about the adoption (he has actually taken some pictures of these secret moments).  He knows when to fight- for example, not letting me fly to Ethiopia a month ago and reasoning with me.  And he knows when to let go- like realizing me crying everyday wasn't healthy for either of us.  As a result, we'll be in Ethiopia with Aidan over Christmas.  Since the day our tickets were booked, I have had this immense sense of calm where I'm not longer sad, worried or scared as I know everything will be ok once we're together in Ethiopia where we can work on things there.  Ron knew that this would be the best thing for me and for us, and he made it happen!

Ron will also make one heck of an amazing dad!  When we first met, Ron didn't know much about kids at all!  I even remember him telling me a story about seeing a baby in a "baby cage" (otherwise known as a play yard).  Although he knew babies didn't go in cages, I'm not sure he knew much beyond that :).  Well, besides Ron having a calm, easy-going yet determined, patient personality, he has shown what an amazing father he will be.  He literally becomes larger than life with kids.  He will tell anyone here in Chiang Mai that his favorite thing to do on weekends is to go the orphanage and then the walking street afterwards for dinner (some crazy, fun Saturday night, I know- but luckily, that's my favorite, too)!  The first few days at the orphanage were interesting as we were learning our place and stride with the children.  However, now when we go, Ron is attacked by children who sprint up to him screaming, "PAPA!" He wrestles with them, carries them, plays with them, makes up stories for them, teaches them and cuddles them.  It is truly remarkable to watch your husband love and care for orphans.  I know the baby thing gets a lot of women- but try the baby thing when it's not his biological child.  WOW!  My favorite picture is of Ron lying on a bean bag in the nursery with a 10-month old girl he was able to rock/back-scratch to sleep.  And that's where he stayed for the next 2-hours...with a little girl who just needed him to be her dad for awhile since she doesn't have one of her own.

Ron knows this since I tell him a lot, but I really, truly, whole-heartily love him.  I have seen new sides to him and I am grateful they exist.  And I have seen him respond to me in ways that couldn't be written or performed any better, even for a romantic movie.  There aren't many men that would willingly adopt over having biological children, or chose to spend their Saturday loving on some orphans.  There are a lot of great men out there, but I think I got lucky- VERY lucky!

Ron- these next few weeks and months will be some of the best of our lives.  They'll also be the most emotional, scariest, nerve-wracking weeks as well.  There isn't a single person I would rather experience this crazy ride of adoption, family and marriage with and I am eternally grateful for you as my partner!!!!!  I LOVE YOU!