An Awesome Day!

Today was an AWESOME day. I really had my doubts after what happened last night...
Our older son decided to challenge Darin's authority at bedtime which ended in an hour-long test-of-the-wills. Of course Darin won, but we were both a bit concerned that he might decide to run away in the middle of the night. So, needless to say, I slept lightly. But this morning we were rewarded with the confirmation that the lesson sunk in when he asked me to read the chapter in his story Bible based on the commandment "children obey your parents..."

This afternoon we went back to the orphanage for a meeting with the entire staff. This included the social worker, medical doctor, psychologist, and the boys' school teachers. They gave us every piece of information they have on the boys past and every detail of their lives since coming to the orphanage. We got their school records, medical records, shot records, dental and eye exam reports...They have been EXTREMELY well cared for while living there. They all love the boys dearly and got teary-eyed when giving their reports. We are so grateful for the love they all gave the boys over the past four years. They answered all of our questions. We shared many stories from the past 12 days and they were all very much convinced that the boys would excel in our family. Then they showed us around the orphanage. We saw the boys' rooms, lockers, showers, dining area, play area, and classroom. We also went through the baby area which caused quite a delay on our tour because we had to play with all the babies:) We also got to meet all of the boys' friends. They were all very excited to meet us asking, "Are you the Mama?" to each of the girls. They liked to touch our hair and hug us all. They all seemed very happy for the boys. I think all of the girls decided that they want to come back next year for more!!:) We get to go back on Friday to throw a "Good-bye" party complete with brownies, candy, and pop. The hardest part for me was looking into each of those precious faces and wondering if they thought, "Why can't you be my Mama?"

And now they are sleeping peacefully in the other room, so I'd better do the same.