Monday, September 7, 2009

Our Boys

Today was the day we’d been anticipating and praying for. After two full days of travel, some flight delays and some lost luggage, we arrived safely here in Kigali. The city and the people are welcoming and friendly, and after dropping off our belongings, we headed to the orphanage. House of Hope is located around an incredibly steep and curvy hill, with high walls and blue gates. Beyond the gates, the orphanage has lush green gardens, is clean and open. A few of the Sisters and Nganja, our guide, brought out our boys. I knew Zeke instantly and when they handed him to me, he initially cried, but then wrapped himself around me. Etienne when right into Ryan’s arms and pressed his cheek to Ryan’s. Blake and Molly gave lots of hugs and Blake demonstrated how to jump (he’s been saying for months that he is going to teach his brothers how to jump high!). We were able to snuggle the boys and play for awhile, and when either Ryan or I tried to pump either of them down, they would cry immediately to be held. It was our dream come true! Etienne looks exactly like his picture, very serious and his eyelashes are beautiful. Zeke has a sweet, round babyface and is very snuggly. When it was time for us to say goodbye, he cried and cried and reached for me. Of course, this was heartbreaking but also encouraging that maybe he just knows we are his family. Tomorrow we will be able to spend the day with the boys again. Goodnight and thanks for the prayers. Pray that my luggage arrives tomorrow!

9 comments:

  1. I'm so happy for you! I am looking for posts all the time. Thank you for taking the time to write and tell us about your day! I love reading about it.
    Regan

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  2. That was just the best story, I am crying now. I am so happy for you all.
    Rolin

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  3. Your family is complete!! What a happy, joyful time this is! I'm so thankful you've been able to update us on everything. We will definitely pray for your luggage to get there. Have a wonderful time getting to know your newest little boys. We love you!

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  4. There are no words that I can think of to describe the miracle of what your now complete family is living and experiencing. Our God is amazing. Thank you for sharing with us.

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  5. Thank you so much for taking the time to keep us all back in America updated on what you are doing. I sent Paula a Happy Birthday wish so when she gets up on her birthday it will be there. It sounds like the boys were waiting for you and don't want to let you go. I bet that Paula was in tears. Have a continued successful time and I will be thinking about you all.

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  6. Love hearing your stories. Wishing you all the best over there. Don't forget to hug all the babies for us waiting families. xoxo Rebecca

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  7. Blessings on this happiest of days! I remember the first time I held my sweet Emma in China. It is a feeling like no other. Enjoy every second!

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  8. Thank you so much for sharing this moment with us! I'm so happy for your family.

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  9. What an amazing story you have to tell. We are excited for all 6 of you. God's blessings continue as you bond and prepare for you adventure home and for the years of joy that lie ahead.
    Mark and Caryl

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