I feel like I’m so scatter-brained these days. There are about a hundred little details swirling in my head constantly and a long to-do list on my desk. We leave for Ethiopia in six days. SIX DAYS! I’m super excited about going, but it’s also a little nerve-wracking, too . . . especially the 15-hour plane ride part . . . ugh! (We’ll actually be on a plane for a total of 21 hours each way. Yikes!)
Our case manager called with some news yesterday that was a little disappointing. When we meet our little guy, he won’t be told that we’re his parents as originally planned. While we’re selfishly a little disappointed, we really do believe that it’s best for him. Basically it comes down to the fact that his little heart has been broken a lot recently, and he’s grieving everything (and everyone) he’s lost. The director at Hannah’s Hope made the decision, and we trust her judgment. She’s holding onto the photo album we made for him, and she’ll give it to him after we’ve officially passed court and are already back home. We truly want what’s best for him, so we’ll just go play with him and his little friends and make the most of our time together. Hopefully when we leave, he’ll miss the fun people that came to play with him for a few days and be excited when they tell him we’re his parents and that we’re coming back for him.
I’m going to miss Riley and Cole so much while we’re gone! We’ve traveled overseas without them before, and there’s just something about us both being in another country away from them that makes me a little uneasy. I guess that comes with the territory, though, and I know they’ll have a great time while we’re gone. I’ve made a little something for them to open each day so that they will hopefully feel as connected to us and what we’re up to as possible. We’ll also try to Skype with them while we’re away. Here’s part of what I’ve put together so far . . .
I hope you all are having a great weekend! Thanks to everyone who has sent donations for us to take to Hannah’s Hope! It’s been fun to get packages in the mail all week and add them to the collection!
5 Comments
that’ll be hard to be there and know that he doesn’t know you’re going to be his mom & dad, but you’re so right to trust A’s judgment… i’ve heard such wonderful things about her! i’ll be praying for his little heart to be so excited when he finds out you’re coming back for him for forever! LOVE everything you’ve put together for Riley and Cole! what a great idea and super cute!
Hi! I just wanted to say “Hi”! On one of your recent AGCI listserve posts, you said that your son is from the Tigray region- so fun! So is our son!! He was born in Mekele, Ethiopia. I was excited to see another boy from the same region! Congratulations- its truly the most amazing trip and experience!!
Praying for you on your journey! I can’t wait to hear all the details about your trip…praying too that your little man will bond with you despite the information he’ll be lacking. Hopefully that will take off some of the “pressure” for him and he can just enjoy you to the max. Say hi to our little man for us! We wouldn’t mind it either if you could get in a few snuggles for us
Jenn
Such a cute and loving idea, Katie to have something for the boys each day! You’re a rockstar! I know they are going to love it and feel as connected as you hope! We are continuing to pray for you guys, all of you, the Dunlap’s that are and the Dunlap that will be!!! God has knit your adoption journey together in such a way that can ONLY bring GLORY to Him – we cannot wait to see what He has in store next for His Glory!
So…Riley & Cole have the COOLEST, most Loving mom ever! And so does “Little Man”-although he doesn’t know just yet (but he will-very SOON!!!) -Why am I even surprised at how awesome the cards are for R & C?!? -I am so excited about the trip & want to hear ALL the details when u get back! I’ll be praying that God keeps you 2 safe & that the long flight will go by quickly w/ no delays. I am also praying for “little man” that his little broken heart begins to heal as soon as he begins spending time with u & Brad. And God allows a special bond to grow between the 3 of you during this trip. Is there any last minute items you have room for & need to take to H.H? Let me know & I can mail them to u first thing Wed. morning. If no room, I’ll just get some things started for the FINAL trip
Love & miss you so much!