Smitten

In the past few weeks, I've had the opportunity to hang out with two children who were adopted from Ethiopia. I am completely in love! They weren't the first Ethiopian adoptees I've met here in Maine (there have been three other families Nate and I have had the chance to get to know), and each of the children has been just amazing!

I got together with Jack and his mommy Kate. Jack just turned one. He has these chubby little cheeks that were just designed for kissing, and he's "cruising" -- learning to walk by going from one piece of furniture to the next. Jack was adopted through the same agency we're using (CHSFS), and the advice and insight that his mom was able to provide was invaluable. And Jack is totally irresistable! He's just the size of a hug!

On Sunday, Nate and I met up with a couple who lives in our hometown, Dan and Tiffany. They adopted a three-year-old through another agency. We were head-over-heels for Petros. He's only been here in the US for a little more than six months, but he's already fluent in English and can count over 300! We were at a breakfast place, and he took a look at the bill and told us how many items were on it -- twelve (which was correct). He's also as cute as can be (I'm telling you, every child I've met from Ethiopia is gorgeous!) and inquisitive, well behaved, and really sweet! Petros' parents are clearly doing a remarkable job with him, but he's also just a great kid!

Kate, Dan and Tiffany are so very lucky to have these wonderful children in their lives, and Nate and I are fortunate to be able to learn from their experiences -- and to get to know their children, too. It makes me feel really good to know that once we bring home our children, they will have the chance to know other children from Ethiopia.

Every time we meet another child adopted from Ethiopia, it just affirms to us that we are taking the right path for us. I would never presume that it's the right path for everyone, but I have never been more excited about anything in my life!

Oh, quick update on my dad: the treatment for his cancer is really taking a toll on him. He's exhausted and depressed. I'm hoping that once he's been on it a bit longer, the side effects won't impact him as much, but I would truly appreciate your prayers and positive thoughts for him.