Wednesday, January 23, 2008

Day 8 Together


We took the morning slow and didn't go out until 11:20 to go to some nearby shops. Our trip was brief and then we came back for lunch and naps. We took the afternoon easy with coloring books that the kids enjoyed very much. Then we went back out before dinner to an area in Cali with a nice river and a bunch of decorated cats - kind of like the painted cows in Chicago. Here's our family portrait from today!

We have had lots of ups and downs today and the girls behavior was totally disappointing to put it quite mildly. They were moody and totally disrespectful at dinner and that was really discouraging to Mami especially. After we washed up, brushed teeth & put pj's on, we all watched a Veggie Tale Video (thanks Monica!) for entertainment and to help the kids settle down before bed (rather than letting them play with legos, etc. which just provides opportunity for them to get riled up). Then we put a lullaby CD in and took the kids into the room to read our excellent Spanish Kid's Bible that the girls really like (thanks Lisa!) Mami broke down crying right in front of the kids who were finally attentive and somewhat tender when reading portions to them about God's great love for His creation and telling them that He loves Anji, Claudia, Andres, Mami & Papi and the whole world so, so, so much. We prayed with the kids. The kids didn't seem scared, just curious as to what was going on. It gave us special moments together to tell them that we will love them mucho, mucho, mucho & always. We rubbed their backs and faces and it was a special time. To wrap up, Anji was so happy to confirm with us that we are indeed muy contento with our ninos and we exclaimed YES and then she told her sister this information with a huge, satisfied smile on her face and peacefully flopped down on her stomach and fell asleep: our 1st night without a massive battle at bedtime. Mami & Papi will sleep well too, I am sure. Good Night!

8 comments:

NiNi said...

Not only to love but to know that you are loved...it is a miracle....God's miracle. Love NiNi

Amy said...

Isn't the Lord so good to bring us tender, teachable moments. What an encouragement that must have been for you all.

Praying for a good night's sleep.

Anonymous said...

Glad to hear you had a special time together to end your day. And an answer to prayer about bedtime as well. :) You guys are doing great! Praying for a good tomorrow!

Anonymous said...

What a sweet way to end the day! What a blessing! Just looking at your photo album from yesterday looks like you all had a good day and I was thinking that you all looked so natural and at ease together like you've been a family for much longer than just 8 days! I know that God will bless you as you serve Him as parents to these precious ninos - even the tough times He can turn to blessings in the end!

Love you all, Teresa

Anonymous said...

Thanks for sharing your "ups" and your "downs," it helps us to pray more specifically each day for your needs and also reminds us to praise Him for what He is doing in your family's lives. I was reminded Sunday of how adoption brings glory to God as so many were praising Him for what He has done through the adoption ministry. Be sure to carve out that time each day to be in the Word, for there you will find wisdom and strength. We love you guys... you are doing great as new parents!

Kathryn said...

So glad to hear that bedtime went much better! Also, I always try to use Vicks also for mosquito bites. It does seem to help, even if it is only in my mind; whatever it takes to keep the itching down.

Anonymous said...

What a blessed ending to your day - God is so good - His Word is so encouraging and comforting. Praying tonight went well again. Love your family photo! Good night,
Nicole

Anonymous said...

Que momento tan lindo y perfecto con tus hijos. What a beautiful and perfect moment with your kids. Thank you for sharing these moments! It brought tears to my eyes thinking of how your little Anji finally understood that your love is unconditional.

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