Home Sweet Home

How to describe the 28 hours of travel - ten in airport waiting rooms and eighteen in a plane - with a confused, traumatized, raging six year old boy? It's something that must be experienced to be understood. Suffice it to say that I've given it a lot of thought and I think that it was the single most difficult 28 hours of my life. Yes, more difficult than labor. Without drugs.

But we're home! And oh, so wonderful to be home! Despite waking up at 1:30 am (technically 7:30 Lesotho time, but this after only six hours of sleep for Paul and five hours for me) we had a great day. Paul thoroughly explored the house. I thought our house was pretty well childproofed. Ha, ha, ha silly me! But there was so much to see and do that the distraction technique worked beautifully. We are definitely choosing our battles because we as parents must win those control battles through loving, patient, nurturing firmness. Not an easy task on five hours of sleep in the last 36 hours!

We started off on a good note with the booster seat and seatbelt rule. He thinks it's AMAZING that we have two cars. (And really, it IS amazing. Never will I take that for granted.) This morning he wanted to ride in "Mama's car" so, so much. So I showed him his special seat and showed him the seatbelt and told him it was a rule in America to wear seatbelts. I said my car wouldn't go unless everyone wore a seatbelt. He complied. First we took a drive around the block. No problems. Then he wanted to come to the grocery store with me. (The grocery was our regular outing in Lesotho. The sight of so much food seems to reassure him.) When we left our neighborhood he pointed to the back of my station wagon and unclicked his seatbelt. I pulled over and stopped the car. "Oh, bummer! My car won't go. We'll have to go home." He put the seatbelt on in a hurry!

He rode in the little car attached to the cart at the grocery. I didn't quite realize how much JUNK marketers put down there right at six-year-old eye level. Paul asked for a few things that we did get (sippy cup, yogurt, juice) and a few things that we didn't get (Buzz Lightyear fruit snacks, cherry bombs (SERIOUSLY?)). I was prepared for a showdown, but he didn't pout or fuss AT ALL. Sam, and her candy-nabbing-stick-it-in-the-cart-when-Mom's-not-looking ways, might need a few lessons.

Trent and I have never laughed so hard than with some of Paul's antics and expressions! He obviously finds this whole new world amazing (guitar and scooter and Peyton-the-wonder-dog. Enough said!) but I know he also thinks it's crazy. We told him we were going to walk the dogs, and he busted into hysterical laughter when we put a LEASH on the dogs! Bah, hah, hah - what is wrong with you people? And THEN...to top off the crazy, dogs-on-a-leash-walking Americans, I PICKED UP the dog doo in a grocery bag! HIS FACE! "MAMA! What the heck are you going to do with THAT?" I wish I had it on video.

He played hard all day. He rode the scooter and played with Peyton and tried to catch the goldfish in the pond and played in the sprinkler and jumped on the mini-trampoline and zoomed his cars and played the guitar and watered the plants (FINALLY! A gardener in the family!) and threw the ball to Peyton and on and on. Then, as I was carrying him upstairs for his bath, he fell sound asleep on my shoulder. So, he's sweaty and stinky but sleeping!

No pictures because Sam took my phone to the softball game. GO CAL!

Coming home?

Just when everything was going like clockwork, the gears ground down. Our flight from Jo'burg is delayed. Estimated departure time now 1:30 am. That's 7:30 KY time, so perhaps this is a good way to jolt us back into the correct time zone. Of course, this means we miss our connecting flight in Atlanta, so now we have no idea when we'll be home. Preparing for a long 24 to 48 hours. Poor Trent has to be back to work on Tuesday, with a conference in Las Vegas the following week. Anyone have tips to avoid jet lag/lack of sleep?

Besides that, we've enjoyed our final days in Africa. Yesterday (Friday) we went to a crocodile farm. Palamang didn't want anything to do with holding the snakes, baby crocodiles, lizards, and I can't say I blame him! Sam made a couple new friends, though.


Our guide said if he could move to the US, he'd like to move to Kentucky. Perhaps the horses, the bourbon, the chicken (KFC is wildly popular here in Southern Africa) the scenery, the low cost of living? Nope, he was keen on the liberal gun laws. Great.

In spite of (or because of) the massive numbers of crocodiles secured in several large enclosures, the farm was a peaceful, fun place to relax and play. Palamang played on the playground (he is GREAT swinger, can already push himself), chased the bunnies, fed the bunnies, touched the bunnies. He laughed and played and talked. We all enjoyed being part of a family!


Last night Trent and Paul had a pillow fight. So much fun! Palamang snuck up on Trent, walloped him with a pillow, then screamed "Mom!" and tried to hide behind my back. We all ended up giggling in heaps, surrounded by pillows.

My heart has grown in southern Africa. There is much to think and write about this journey, but it's still too fresh. And we're busy trying to figure out how and when to get home.

Blessings,



Trent, Kristi, Sam and Palamang

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Visa!

I haven't updated our sleep status lately, and I'm sure you've been desperately wondering how we're sleeping. Palamang usually goes to sleep around 7:30 pm. He's experimenting with some stall techniques - water, toilet, sucker (as if!), play - but once he's in bed with stories read he falls asleep quickly. We read a bit and try to check mail if we have MB left, then we go to sleep shortly thereafter.

Paul wakes up anywhere between 2:30 am and 5:30 am. This morning it was 2:30 needing to use the bathroom and crying. He crawled in bed with us and fell back asleep. We tried to sleep, but not easy with a squirming, flailing boy in the middle. Then he was up again at 4:30. Finally, at 5:30, I let him watch Toy Story with earbuds on the ipad. This usually occupies him for about 30 minutes, then he played a couple of games. Around 6:30 Paul and I took a walk and got breakfast while Trent and Sam tried to get a little more sleep. That's usually the gist of our morning. We're all (except Paul) getting a little tired and testy. Hopefully once we're home Sam can stay asleep in the privacy of her room while Trent and I tag-team mornings. And some day he may sleep in!

Wednesday's visa appointment was an interesting process. First we had to get the TB test read. Paul got a little nervous when we walked back into the doctor's waiting room, but he did great. There are only two doctors in all of South Africa - one in Johannesburg and one in Cape Town - who can do the immigration physicals. Dr. Cobb, in Johannesburg, is so friendly and kind. I think in other circumstances Paul might have liked him! Paul passed his physical (powerful lungs, very strong) and we waited for the paperwork. Then we went to the Consulate.

The security let me through with the kids, then I had to wait in another area while they screened Trent. They take ALL electronics, so we waited without the benefit of music or iphone games. But Paul was great. I bet over a hundred people were waiting for immigration visas. They called number after number. Two hundred thirty-seven, window seven, etc. We were the only ones waiting on an adoption visa, so we had a special window. They took all our paperwork, then we waited, waited, waited. Then the consular officer talked with us (through a little window. Awkward). It was hard to hear, especially as I was trying to keep Paul from climbing the counter, but it seemed everything was in order. Trent swore an oath and signed his part of the paperwork, then we got an appointment to pick up the visa at 2 pm on Thursday. Hoorah!

I don't propose to know God's plans and processes. His ways our not our ways. Why a year wait between being matched with Paul and finally meeting him? Why such an easy process with US immigration once we did get him, in spite of the fact that his passport hadn't even been started when we arrived? Trent trusted that the dates would line up perfectly, and that God was in complete control. I knew, too, that God was in compete control, but I also know that God being in control doesn't mean that things will go the way we want or the way that's most comfortable. I know too many godly Christians who have struggled and who have faced obstacle after obstacle. It doesn't mean that God has left them or is not blessing them. He is still there, and we must still trust. I'm enormously grateful that we can fly home as scheduled (even though everyone is tired of Jo'burg and wants to come home now!), and I majorly thank God for that. But I hope I would still trust him and thank him if we had faced obstacles. Even our struggles are a blessing because struggle produces perseverance and perseverance character and character hope.

Today - Thursday (I'm starting to lose track of the days!) - we visited the Jo'burg Zoo. Palamang was nervous and clingy the first hour, and I was regretting the zoo idea, thinking we should have just stayed holed up in the hotel room. But then he had a little lunch, discovered the monkeys, and had a blast! He ran and jumped and skipped and talked - "Monkey!" "Elephant!" "Sam monkey!" "Tiger ja (eat) Mama!" His energy, activity and fun is so dependant on how comfortable and safe he feels. And it's becoming easier and easier for him to feel comfortable in new situations as long as we're there to encourage him.


Home Sunday!

Love, Trent, Kristi, Sam and Paul

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Lion Park Tuesday

Today was a day for Sam. We went to the Lion Park, which she absolutely loved. Nana - she said she's ready for a full-fledged safari now! Palamang liked oohing and aahing at the lions and cheetahs and zebras from the safety of the truck, but wasn't as into the experience when they got too close - which several did!


After we toured the park from the truck (which was a little like Animal Kingdom at DisneyWorld, if you've ever been there, but with a lot more lions) we were able to pet the lion cubs! I was thinking small, newborn, cuddly lion cubs. These were labrador-sized, four to five month old playful lion cubs! Too cute, but a bit nervous-making, too! Paul didn't want to get too close and took turns clinging to me or Trent. (His best English phrase right now is "Up, please," which he uses ALL the time. Sam had some playtime with the cubs


then fed the giraffe


She's flying high. Today ALMOST made up for being awakened at 6:30 am every morning for the past three weeks! Sharing a small room with a small boy does not allow for teenage sleep time.

Our hotel room in Johannesburg is right next to a mall, too. We're in Africa but we can't get away from the mall! This mall is HUGE and very affluent. Totally overstimulating for Paul. Sam REALLY wants to go window shopping, so we're going to divide and conquer - one of us goes with Sam and one stays with Paul. We're mostly just ready to come home.

Special thoughts and prayers to the CAL 8th graders celebrating crossover tomorrow. We're with you in spirit if not in presence. Sam and I are both a little sad to miss this milestone moment. It's worth it, and we have a gazillion other memories to take its place, but it's still a little sad.

Congratulations 8th graders! Best wishes for a great high school season!

Love,

Kristi, Trent, Sam and Paul

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We made it to Jo'burg

Early morning flight. Paul was a little nervous - picking at his nails - but excited to see the plane.


But PROBLEM when he had to buckle his seatbelt. He hates seatbelts. So keeping the seatbelt on him during takeoff and landing took a bit of ju-jitsu action on my part. But not nearly as much as it took to hold him down for his TB test once we got to Jo'burg. Whew! Thanks to Wellstone and Louisville Martial Arts Academy for teaching me effective holds. The nurse even spoke Sesotho, but it didn't help. We just had to hold him down while he screamed bloody murder. I was seriously wondering if we were doing him harm by adopting him and retraumatizing him this way. Gah, it's so hard!

But one ice cream cone and the wonders of a hotel room later and he's happy as can be! He's talking a lot - more than ever - in English, too. To bad we have to go back to the dr. Wed. to have the test read. We'll just have to enjoy tomorrow at the Lion Park!


Just got email - consulate appt Wed at 11! Please pray it goes well and we can get our visa Thurs! We're ready to come home. Small hotel room and small seriously overstimulated boy = no. Does Jo'burg have a park? A playground? A patch of grass? I'm eyeing the college soccer pitch across the road as desirable play space. If it weren't for the 8' fence and razor wire I might give it a go.

Love, Kristi, Trent, Sam and Paul

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Saturday & Sunday

Paul was definitely testing boundaries Saturday! First he wanted to throw rocks in the fountain. Trent told him no. So he snuck around to the back of the fountain to grab more rocks. Trent said no, picked him and carried him away. Paul got his pouty face on, but then the taxi arrived (we did a little souvenir shopping) so he was distracted from the upset.

Sat afternoon he started banging the flashlight. I told him no, he looked at me and kept banging. (And I know he understands, little booger! No isn't a tough word to learn in any language!) I took the flashlight away and he got MAD. Trent and I worked together to stick to the boundaries and keep him from hurting himself or others. We have to teach him to trust that: 1) we love him no matter his behavior; 2) he can't use anger to control us or others; 3) it's ok to be mad but not OK to hurt.

He eventually calmed and cuddled. Every moment of love in the face of trauma and fear is one step closer to healing.

Sunday = Last day in Lesotho! We attended church and were blessed with the prayers of the pastors for our travel and safety and bonding. Paul wanted to try children's church with me staying, but after fifteen minutes wanted to find Daddy. So we let him listen to the ipod in church again. I know he looks like a sullen American teen with his headphones and sunglasses, but it seems calming. Pick your battles, you know?


Sunday is also my birthday! We're having lunch with Mahlapane and packing. Lots of political rallies today, so lots of noise and honking. Glad we're leaving before elections.

Last night for dinner at our little table with our shrimp forks.


Blessings to you! Kristi

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Friday in Maseru

Please pray today for Cathy Nagy, who has been in Ghana since JANUARY to adopt her son Jonathan. They are hoping to get his passport today and need the US Consulate in Accra to issue his visa so they can come home to America. After two weeks in Africa (and it has been a wonderful two weeks, don't get me wrong!), I completely understand how more-than-ready she must to see her daughter, son, husband, friends, family, home and church.

There is a huge element of spiritual warfare in adoption. Satan doesn't easily release children from the bondage of poverty and loneliness to the nurture and shelter and love of a family who will train them in the ways of the Lord. It's a battle not against flesh and blood (although sometimes it seems like that, with certain officials and individuals), but a battle against the powers and principalities of the spiritual realm. We have definitely seen obstacles thrown in our path, but we've also seen how the prayers of God's people knock down those obstacles. Cathy has and is facing huge obstacles, so please keep her adoption process and the rest of our adoption process in your prayers.

We spent a laid-back Friday hanging around the chalet, skyping at the mall, doing laundry and playing. Paul is really starting to come out of his shell. He talks now - still in whispers - but actual words in English and Sesotho. For those of you who asked how we would communicate with him - it's lots of points and gasps and oohs and aahs and raspberries and nods and head shakes. He is the most communicative non-verbal child I know!

He LOVES to be carried. He CAN walk and run and jump and climb (he's playing a lot, now, and will race back and forth after the soccer ball), but he prefers to hitch a ride on someone's back if at all possible. I can't say I blame him! We don't mind too much - it's good for bonding - but the little booger can get heavy! Shelley tried to tie him to Sam in the traditional way African women carry their babies. He's a wee bit big for that, and I can't say he was overly thrilled with the idea. He wants to ride, but he also wants to let us know that he is NOT a baby!


It's been an overwhelming, exhausting and amazing two weeks in Lesotho. We're ready to head to Johannesburg for phase two of our adventure, but I for one will miss Lesotho. For one, our hotel room is WAY cheaper. Plus, we've gotten to know some amazing people, and I'm going to miss them. But no need to get sentimental and emotional just yet. We still have two more days!

Much love,

Trent, Kristi, Sam and Paul

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Team Hope Thursday

Adoption is traumatic. The loss of biological parents creates deep wounds. Many psychologists liken adoption to the grafting process in horticulture. I once grafted a rosebush. You cut a growing stem from a plant, insert the stem into a cut on the parent plant, then wrap the grafted section in damp peat moss and plastic. Ideally, the grafted stem will grow into the parent plant, becoming part of the parent plant while maintaining its own unique qualities.

Paul wrestled with some wounds yesterday. We're not sure what triggered it, maybe playing with his MIS friends, maybe a bad dream. He had a rough morning. He refused to eat, which is kind of a big deal. At one point he decided to run away. He gathered his toys in his backpack and walked sadly out the door. Of course, I went with him. Halfway up the walkway he wanted to ride on my back. So I carried him all over the Mohokare property, looking at the chickens and the roses and fountain. The he was ready to come home and had a fun day hugging and laughing and playing and visiting a village.

Shelley and her missionary friend Tom had Team Hope shoeboxes, which is like Operation Christmas Child from Ireland. Tom took them to his church plant in a village in the mountains and we tagged along. Thursday was Ascension Day, which is a holiday in Lesotho. The church we visited celebrated with singing and preaching and singing and preaching. There was a translator, who was as expressive as the preacher, so we were blessed with the message to look up to heaven for our help, to be ready for Jesus's coming again, and to always share the love of the gospel with everyone.

Then we passed out shoeboxes! Merry Christmas! If you've ever put together a shoebox, know that it is opened and inventoried with delight and excitement by kids and their parents.





Paul got one, too, because how do you explain to a recently impoverished six year old that he doesn't NEED a present even though every other child was getting one. He, of course, LOVED it! His favorite items - candy, gloves and a notebook with pencils. The cars were pretty cool, too!

Friday is a stay-close-to-home day. We've had four busy, busy days and need to huddle up, just the four of us.

Blessings, Mama, Daddy, Sam and Paul

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Passport Wednesday!

We got Paul's passport! Christinah delivered it to us at 8:30 am, and we went to our embassy appointment at 10 am! I had never been to an embassy before. The best (only) golf course in Lesotho is next to the embassy.


No marines at this embassy - I was expecting marines - but I guess Lesotho is too peaceful. There were security guards and a metal detector and they took our phones. Once inside, Trent said, "I never thought I would be happy to see pictures of President Obama, VP Biden and Hillary Clinton." We weren't sure exactly what documents the embassy needed, so we took EVERYTHING - our file from Lesotho as well as everything I'd copied from home. They gave us the official list of what they needed and we sorted it all out then waited while they photocopied and checklisted everything. Palamang had a blast playing with his bouncy ball and his cars on the wooden floor. Then Scott from the consular's office came out and chatted with us. He said everything looked to be in order and asked us about our experience and said he'd forward everything to the consulate in Johannesburg. He was super friendly and helpful, which was a relief because I was nervous not knowing exactly what papers we needed and/or whether we had them all! Of course he couldn't tell us when Paul's visa would be issued, but he said he'd try to arrange our appointment for Thursday, May 24th. If ya'll could pray for that date, too, that'd be great!

After two days of traditional, home cooked Lesotho food, we weren't sure what to do with ourselves for lunch, so we treated ourselves to burgers from an American-type restaurant in the mall. And now, tonight, we all have upset stomachs. Seriously. Lesotho food = feeling healthy and full. Hamburgers = feeling totally bleagh. Plus, all we could think about was how many street kids Shelley could feed with the money we spent on the hamburgers that are now churning in our stomachs. We've been ruined. (Palamang didn't like eating the burger with his hands.)


Trent caught a horrible cold (think it was Palamang's cold, actually, because he had a cough when we picked him up), so he planned to stay home while we took Paul to Ministry of Hope for a playdate. But I screwed up and didn't get our hotel reservations for Johannesburg confirmed, so he had to walk back to the mall to get online and take care of that. Good thing, too, because several of the hotels where we wanted to stay are not available for four people. We're hoping the Holiday Inn Rosebank doesn't notice the tall American teenager and the small Basotho boy tagging along with us.

I knew from the pictures that Palamang had to have a sense of humor, and it has really blossomed in the last couple of days! He's a giggler and a tease. He loves to play "Where's Palamang" and then LAUGHS when we catch him and tickle him. He pretends to put his clothes on backwards and then LAUGHS when I gasp. He's discovered the air mattress makes a great landing pad for flips and jumps (I HOPE the air mattress survives through the next week!) When I told him we were going to Ministry of Hope to play with Thabo (bapala Thabo) his face lit up and he said, "KB," who is another friend from MIS. The kids played for almost two hours. Palamang shared his cars and they blew bubbles and they tried to get the lawnmower started (boys!). It was good for him to still have that connection with MIS friends, but in the smaller, safer confines of Ministry of Hope. (Yes, Paul is wearing earmuffs in this picture. I don't know why.)


At four, when our taxi came to collect us, he grabbed my and Sam's hand, said "Bye" and marched us to the car. When he saw the Mohokare gate he said, "Daddy!" then ran to the rondaval to find him.

Tonight, before bed, be grabbed THREE books from the closet (he's becoming quite the staller!) One was the airport book. He said, "Sefofane America!" which means "Airplane America!" Yes! We're getting closer!

Much love,
Trent, Kristi, Sam and Paul


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Tuesday in Mapoteng

Today Julius picked us up at 9:00 and we drove about an hour and a half east to the town of Mapoteng. On the way we passed Kubutseoana, which is where we think Palamang is from, although the village chiefs were not able to find any of his family or any record of his surname. There is a beautiful lake on the way to K., which is fitting because we LOVE lakes!

Today we met another sponsored child, eleven year old Mohaila. We first visited the World Vision office in Mapoteng and met the people who check on and care for the children, ensure they and their families have what they need, advocate for the communities, and collect and distribute our letters and pictures.

We went to Mohaila's house, which has a gorgeous view of the mountains, what looks to be some stellar rock climbing, and a large garden. Mohaila's classmates and teachers came as well and sang for us and prayed the most beautiful prayers. His mother and neighbors cooked a delicious meal. We had no idea we would eat this well on our visits! Trent figured out why Julius was so willing to shuttle sponsors to the various sites, however - he gets some great lunches!

Today's visit was less overwhelming than Monday's (no donkeys! and fewer people), but no less poignant. Leaving them felt a bit like leaving our Mexico families after serving with them. We have Basotho families now. We may not see them again for a long time, perhaps not this side of heaven, but we will meet them again someday and will have a joyous reunion with many traditional Basotho yells!


Shelley was waiting for us back and Mohokare (we were running on African time today. Now I know the reason for "Africa time" - it's because "not far, not far" means not far on the paved road, but another thirty minutes plus to navigate the dirt trails then another "little bit" waiting on friends and classmates and neighbors.). We went with M'e Mamanyane to the Cash and Carry, which is the Lesotho Costco! Very large tub of peanut butter - was bigger than Paul!


Friends who adopted from Lesotho last year donated money for MIS. Shelley and M'e Mamanyane assessed the needs and we bought supplies for the children. LOTS of supplies - food and detergent and washclothes, etc.


We stored it at Ministry of Hope for the time being because Shelley's in the process of moving. The children helped carry in supplies.


At first Palamang acted sheepish and scared with the children, but later he got his toys from his backpack and started showing them off. Then he gave away two of his cars and played with friends.


The last two days were wonderful but also tiring for the little guy, but he has really blossomed. He's laughing and playing A LOT, and teasing and talking. I'm surprised how much he knows. Tonight he counted to six (I'm not sure why - I think he meant to count to three so he could jump to me but got carried away!).

Bedtime was a little later (Rio was on television, you see). Paul ran and got the story we've been reading. At the end, when we say "God loves Palamang" he pointed to himself, then he pointed to me and Trent and Sam as if to remind us to say, "And Mama loves Palamang, and Daddy loves Palamang, and Sam loves Palamang." Big grins and goodnight hugs and kisses.

Blessings,

Kristi, Trent, Sam and Paul

ps - Passport is finished! We should get it tomorrow before our US Embassy appointment at 10 am our time!

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Monday in Mpharang

Mother's Day was delightful! They celebrate Mother's Day in Lesotho as well, so the preacher (from Sri Lanka this week) spoke on Proverbs 31. I can't say Paul was thrilled about sitting in church - he gave us the "Seriously? THIS is the big adventure" look, but he did a fabulous job during the hour-and-a-half service, helped in part by the ipod. A little Lecrae "Hallelujah" with which to worship!

Paul was such a joy all day on Sunday! Really, my only Mother's Day requirement is for my children not to make me cry. (Ask Sam why I have that rule.) No tears today. He had me laughing all day long. He was nonstop giggles and playing and oohing and aahing. We bought bubbles at the grocery store. BEST PARENTS EVER! He is a bubbles pro - they must have had some bubble parties at MIS - and he takes super good care of the bottle. I figured it would spill after two minutes - but he still has half a bottle left AND he knows how to make more with the bubble bath. (Forty-five minute bath/swim/hide in the bubbles time.) He really is so fastidious about his clothes and toys and hygiene. I'm sure that will change as he gets more comfortable, but I'm enjoying how eager he is to help with chores and clean up after himself!


blowing bubbles



playing in the "yard" after helping wring laundry.

Monday, Julius from World Vision picked us up at 8:30. He has been working for World Vision for 13 years, after having participated in a WV program as a child. He is one of the country coordinators, so gets to visit all the Lesotho programs.

Before I describe our day, I must first say that if you aren't already sponsoring a child, do it right now! And if you ever have the opportunity to visit your sponsored child, grab it! It's truly an overwhelming and life changing experience. Tukiso's family is now my family, and my prayers for and letter to her will be as for my own child.

Julius drove us to Mpharane district, about three hours south. As we left Maseru, the city gave way to field of corn and grass, surrounded by mountains, rocks, streams and crevices. Shepherds in traditional Basotho blankets grazed their cows in the fields, herding them through the villages' grazing lands. Small houses and traditional rondavals of stone dotted the hillsides. So beautiful. You'd have thought we were on a safari the way Paul oohed and aahed over every cow, dog, sheep, horse and donkey.

We turned off the main, two-lane highway onto an unpaved road which turned and jostled and climbed for a long time before it turned into what Trent described as a donkey trail. But we didn't much notice the jouncing because children riding donkeys raced toward us, surrounded the truck, and accompanied us toward the school.


Soon dozens then hundreds of children greeted us. This program has never had a visit from a sponsor, so EVERYONE from the surrounding village came for the celebration!


The principal of the school greeted us and told us about the school and community. Then we went into a classroom of about 40 children, grades 4 and 5, and I had to pick out Tukiso, the girl we sponsor! (I only have one picture of her and didn't want to embarrass her by getting it wrong!) But I found her. She was so shy and excited to be the center of attention.

The children and the teachers put on a show for us with traditional dances and songs. I even joined in one of the women's songs, which had everyone rolling with laughter. I decided to take the laughter as a compliment! (Paul seemed content during all of this, but firmly settled in Trent's arms and not budging.)

After the celebration at the school, we walked to Tukiso's house for a feast! ALL the neighbors were there as well as all her family - grandparents, aunts, uncles, parents. There are five children in the family. They have a very small house that has one bed, a table, and a small area for cooking, (I have NO idea how they produced so much food from such a small cooking area - no electricity, either!) and a small, probably 12 foot in diameter, rondaval where the children sleep. World Vision provided the family with chickens, which they have since passed on chicks to another family, safe drinking water, blankets, agricultural training, schooling and Christian discipleship.

They served us chicken (really delicious. We MUST get the recipe), pumpkin, carrots, rice, a sorghum/bean mixture, and joala, which is a traditional drink made from sorghum and corn, I think. It was so good, and such an honor to share with the family. Palamang ate the chicken, but wouldn't eat or drink anything else. He wanted the peanut butter sandwich we'd packed!

After eating with the family a storm rolled in with huge cracks of lightning. The family viewed the rain as a good omen because this area of the country is dry. Pula - rain - is a blessing. But I suddenly remembered reading about deaths by lightning strikes in Lesotho! Julius made us say hasty farewells and we jostled away from the village just as it began to rain. We survived the rainy dip and climb back to the main road and were rewarded with a huge, beautiful double rainbow. (Sam got it on her camera.)

Our family with our Lesotho family in Christ.


Blessings,

Kristi, Trent, Sam and Paul

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Happy Mother's Day!

Just want to give a big shout out to my mom and Trent's mom! We love you and wish you a happy mother's day!




We won't be able to post the next couple of days because we going into the mountains to meet our world vision kids! Love, love,

Mama, Daddy, Sam and Paul

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Saturday

Today was a great day all around. After a morning of snuggling and playing and washing a bit of laundry (yep, more laundry in the tub) we walked to the mall. Paul discovered Trent's ipod last night, and LOVES music, so he had the earbuds in and the backpack on during the trek. We've already Americanized the poor child. But not too much - he wanted to stop to watch the cows with their nine-year-old shepherd trek down the highway past our hotel toward the mall, too!


We were ready to try our regular internet spot again because the place across the street was closed, but then - (cue heavenly music) - we noticed an out-of-the-way computer store upstairs with a tiny sign that read "internet". It was a Chinese-owned business (quite a few Chinese in Maseru - they own the textile mills and have a HUGE embassy) and the internet WORKED! It was fast, too! Thanks for the prayers for wifi! God says "If you ask for anything in My name...and apparently He means wifi, too!)

While Trent checked his messages, Paul got to ride (palama) the toy pony. He loved the pony. He'll definitely need a bike when we get home!



The computer/internet store closes at 2 pm, unfortunately, which is 8 am ET, but hopefully we can Skype our family tomorrow after we go to church and before they go to church. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY! We love you!

Paul really started to come out of his shell this afternoon. We played fort (Trent made a cool fort with the clean sheets - yes, they found our laundry, too!), cars, hide and seek, tickle monster. Paul would walk out the door, looking back the entire time, then knock on the window. I'd wander outside and say, "O kae Palamang? Where is Paul?" Then he'd giggle and I'd chase him and swing him in the air and kiss him all over. Great fun!

Busy, busy guy ALL day (Sam was starting to need some teen time, I think) until about 4 pm. Then he tried to pour water in the garbage can. Trent told him no in English and Sesotho. He gave Trent this look, like "you can't tell me what to do. I'm the prince of this place!" and deliberately poured the water in the garbage can. Trent took the can away from him and put it up high. Paul glared at him and knocked the dish pan off the counter. We told him to pick it up. He glared at us and shook his head. Well. Now it's a stand off. He's in "time in" with Mommy until he picks up the pan (like time out only right next to me to keep that attachment going.) He knew EXACTLY what he needed to do, too, 'cuz he'd glare at the dish pan and try to kick it away. He tried to escape and pounded on the door and screamed. He called Trent a name in Sesotho. Sounded like "Sucker!" But nothing worked - he had too stay in time in until he picked up that stupid dish pan! This ain't our first rodeo, buster. He eventually fell asleep - standing up! Being the loving and concerned mom I am I ... took a picture.


Then I moved him to the chair. Still right next to me, but less of a danger of toppling over. :) He stayed asleep until dinner (about 20 minutes or so), then I woke him up. He put the dishpan back on the counter without complaint, ate dinner, and had a wonderful evening. He played the Sesotho game on the ipad (which is meant to teach me Sesotho, but instead is a game that he can finally understand!) He asked me (with points and a whispery "pease") to rub in his lotion after his bath. (Eucerin Aquaphor, for anyone else adopting from Africa, makes his skin SO soft and feels wonderful.) He even mouthed a few of the words to "Jesus Loves Me" during our song time. (And said something in Sesotho, I don't know what. I just smiled and gave him a kiss.) So, while it wasn't our first stand-off and certainly won't be the last, it ended well.

Trent and Sam went to Shelley's house for game night. This shows you how in need of other-than-family interaction Sam is. My introvert couldn't WAIT to go to someone's house whom she barely knows to play games with other people she doesn't know at all. She misses her friends!

I stayed home with Palamang. Just too late and too overwhelming to drag him over there. Tomorrow we're going to try to go to church then Skype our moms! Can't wait. Love and blessings,

Mama, Daddy, Ausi (Sister) Sam and Paul

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Freaky Friday

So my family is making fun of me for continuing to write the blog because we haven't been able to get enough wireless internet to post for the last three days. BUT I'm going to write anyway because it helps me think.

After yesterday's long day of waiting for passport papers, Paul had a tough bedtime, which we'd expected but which hadn't happened yet (so far he falls right to sleep and sleeps like a rock.) Counselor me thought it was nighttime trauma, which isn't unusual for children who have spent time in institutional care or who have broken biological attachment. Turns out, Palamang didn't like the underwear we gave him to put on after his bath! After thirty minutes of tears we finally figured out that's what was wrong. So, fine, change your underwear, dude. He did and fell asleep immediately. OK, then.

We had a delightful morning, snuggling in bed and playing with the ipad, quietly so not to wake Samantha. After breakfast, we were getting ready to go to the mall. Palamang said, "Ice cream." I was so happy to hear him speak (he has been talking more, some in English, even, like please, thank you, ball, car), so I said "Yes, but later. And no tears" in English and Sesotho. I don't know if he misunderstood or if something got lost in translation but he started sobbing. Which turned into a full on tantrum. Two of the Mohokare staff tried to ask him what was wrong, but he wouldn't tell them in Sesotho, either. We went from time in to holding to just letting him scream it out. He finally fell asleep on the floor. Then I started making lunch, he sort of woke up, Trent asked him, "Ja?" which means "Eat?" He grinned, hopped up, got dressed (long story), and ate. We had a wonderful afternoon and evening. He took a bath (he has the BEST hygiene skills!) and snuggled and listened to music and traced the alphabet and colored and at bedtime had a story and a song and then fell asleep. Like many six year old boys, when he's in a good mood he's just a delight. When he's not, whew! We just have to love him through it. Language barriers and attachment trauma add to the difficulty on both sides. But we just love the little booger!

We're starting to feel the strain of living in a small room with very limited communication with friends and family back home. Sam and I had to make a supreme effort not to lose it when the wireless internet wouldn't work again today at the internet cafe. We probably got spoiled Monday and Tuesday when it worked so well. We figured we'd be able to post and send pictures and skype with no problem. But ugh! It takes FOREVER just to load facebook, and another forever to post a status update. Forget about pictures or skype. It's only about 50 cents for 30 minutes of wifi, which we thought was a great deal when it was working. Now I'd gladly pay more just to get it to connect to my iphone. Yes, we are spoiled Americans. Part of me hates that I'm so attached to these creature comforts, the other part just wants to email my mom!

We took a few things to the drop-off laundry in the mall, things that are too large (like the sheets for the air mattresses) or would take too long to dry to hand wash. They lost our items. Yep. Trent made a special trip to pick up the laundry, and they handed him someone else's. Had no idea what happened to ours. So...Palamang currently has one sweatshirt and one pair of pants that are clean and dry. The others are either hanging in the bathroom or lost. (Little boys crawl on their knees and scoot under cars after lost balls and spill food on themselves!) Tomorrow we get to try to track it down. Or go shopping.

We're trying to maintain normalcy of meal time together. We have the cutest little bistro table around which we crowd. And the oddest assortment of dishes - one huge plate, one normal plate and two saucers. Three shrimp forks and two ladles. It makes the three Americans laugh. Palamang doesn't seem to mind at all. He just eats. Whatever we put in front of him! I took a picture - but with the other camera. I'll post it someday.

Tomorrow we may have a playdate at Ministry of Hope. Palamang knows the kids there. As long as M'e Mamanyana can explain he's just visiting to play and not staying, it could be fun for him to have some playtime with friends. Will let you know - if we can ever get internet.

Blessings,

Trent, Kristi, Sam and Paul




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Freaky Friday

So my family is making fun of me for continuing to write the blog because we haven't been able to get enough wireless internet to post for the last three days. BUT I'm going to write anyway because it helps me think.

After yesterday's long day of waiting for passport papers, Paul had a tough bedtime, which we'd expected but which hadn't happened yet (so far he falls right to sleep and sleeps like a rock.) Counselor me thought it was nighttime trauma, which isn't unusual for children who have spent time in institutional care or who have broken biological attachment. Turns out, Palamang didn't like the underwear we gave him to put on after his bath! After thirty minutes of tears we finally figured out that's what was wrong. So, fine, change your underwear, dude. He did and fell asleep immediately. OK, then.

We had a delightful morning, snuggling in bed and playing with the ipad, quietly so not to wake Samantha. After breakfast, we were getting ready to go to the mall. Palamang said, "Ice cream." I was so happy to hear him speak (he has been talking more, some in English, even, like please, thank you, ball, car), so I said "Yes, but later. No tears," in English and Sesotho. I don't know if he misunderstood or if something got lost in translation but he started sobbing. Which turned into a full on tantrum. Two of the Mohokare staff tried to ask him what was wrong, but he wouldn't tell them in Sesotho, either. We went from time in to holding to just letting him scream it out. He finally fell asleep on the floor. Then I started making lunch, he sort of woke up, Trent asked him, "Ja?" which means "Eat?" He grinned, hopped up, got dressed (long story), and ate. We had a wonderful afternoon and evening. He took a bath (he has the BEST hygiene skills!) and snuggled and listened to music and traced the alphabet and colored and at bedtime had a story and a song and then fell asleep. Like many six year old boys, when he's in a good mood he's just a delight. When he's not, whew! We just have to love him through it. Language barriers and attachment trauma add to the difficulty on both sides. But we just love the little booger!

We're starting to feel the strain of living in a small room with very limited communication with friends and family back home. Sam and I had to make a supreme effort not to lose it when the wireless internet wouldn't work again today at the internet cafe. We probably got spoiled Monday and Tuesday when it worked so well. We figured we'd be able to post and send pictures and skype with no problem. But ugh! It takes FOREVER just to load facebook, and another forever to post a status update. Forget about pictures or skype. It's only about 50 cents US for 30 minutes of wifi, which we thought was a great deal when it was working. Now I'd gladly pay more just to get it to connect to my iphone. Yes, we are spoiled Americans. Part of me hates that I'm so attached to these creature comforts, the other part just wants to email my mom!

We took a few things to the drop-off laundry in the mall, things that are too large (like the sheets for the air mattresses) or would take too long to dry to hand wash. They lost our items. Yep. Trent made a special trip to pick up the laundry, and they handed him someone else's. Had no idea what happened to ours. So...Palamang currently has one sweatshirt and one pair of pants that are clean and dry. The others are either hanging in the bathroom or lost. (Little boys crawl on their knees and scoot under cars after lost balls and spill food on themselves!) Tomorrow we get to try to track it down. Or go shopping.

We're trying to maintain normalcy of meal time together. We have the cutest little bistro table around which we crowd. And the oddest assortment of dishes - one huge plate, one normal plate and two saucers. Three shrimp forks and two ladles. It makes the three Americans laugh. Palamang doesn't seem to mind at all. He just eats. Whatever we put in front of him! I took a picture - but with the other camera. I'll post it someday.

Tomorrow we may have a playdate at Ministry of Hope. Palamang knows the kids there. As long as M'e Mamanyana can explain he's just visiting to play and not staying, it could be fun for him to have some playtime with friends. Will let you know - if we can ever get internet.

Blessings,

Trent, Kristi, Sam and Paul




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Thursday's passport adventure

I am writing this in a cab in the parking lot of Home Affairs in Maseru. Lest you think we're on an African savannah adventure (Mom) let me disavow you of that notion. Maseru is a city of about 200,000 and the capital of the kingdom of Lesotho. The parliament of Lesotho is here, all the governmental buildings (health, social welfare, traffic, education, home affairs, etc.) plus the several embassies, the king's palace (we passed his motorcade yesterday!), etc. So while it's smaller than Louisville by far, it's still a developed urban center. There is a large disparity between rich and poor. Quite a number of wealthy people (government officials, business owners, foreigners), a small, struggling middle class (taxi drivers, waiters, housekeepers), and the very poor. At times it reminds me of Tijuana - we'll see a large house right next to half-a-dozen shacks. Or ungraded dirt potholed roads jutting off the large main highway. There is a two-story mall with about a dozen stores, a KFC! and a grocery about 1/3 mile from our guesthouse. Our first day a shepherd was grazing his cows in the undeveloped scrub next to the mall. I wish I'd gotten a picture! It showed the contrast that is Maseru. We feel safe walking to the mall and even up to church with Trent, but not without Trent and NOT after dark. After dark we stay home.




So back to why I'm in the parking lot. Today is passport application day! M'e Mahlapane picked us up at 10 am and all day we've shuttled from place to place (then waited) while she worked her connections to get Palamang's passport expedited. Earlier today, around 12, she filled out paperwork with M'e Mavis, the director of MIS. But the person needed to endorse it wasn't there. So we went home for a few minutes and Paul and I came back at 2 with Christinah.

Now it's 3:30 and I'm waiting in the foyer of the home office. Cab got tired of waiting but I'm not really supposed to be here, according to DSW. But Christinah asked me to come because Palamang gets upset when taken from one of us. (As he should.) Not sure what's going on. Lots of rapid (or maybe not so rapid, I don't know) Sesotho and lots of silent prayers that they're saying, "Yes! We will do passport right away! Right now! Hurry!" I will wait upon the Lord (and upon home office) and in Him I will put my trust.

Now it's 4:20 and we're home. Passport might be ready tomorrow, but...well...tomorrow's Friday, so maybe Monday. Oh, happy day!

My Basotho kids!


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Wednesday without Wifi

I'm realizing that I'm updating my sleep status way too much, but nevertheless, I slept GREAT last night. For anyone who cares. :)

Today was an emotional day for Palamang. We knew it was coming, just not when. We had a relaxing morning at the rondaval - tried a little school. He knows A and can trace it with a big grin on his face, so all you Kindergarten teachers are in for a treat. (He's also still super quiet, so another bonus!) School lasted about an hour, then we went outside for recess. 'Cuz I'm a counselor, not a teacher, :) and recess just seemed more therapeutic.

After lunch Christinah, the new AFAA rep, dropped by. Palamang was already tired, and he just stared at her during our visit. We talked a little in English about his passport and America and MIS. I'm not sure what caught his attention, probably MIS and associating her with MIS, but after she left he broke down in tears. Sobbed, while trying not to sob. I just held him and wiped his tears. Trent and I told him we loved him. We've been reading a little book, and at the end we say, "God loves Palamang. Mama loves Palamang. Daddy loves Palamang. Sam loves Palamang." We said that over and over. Once he calmed down Trent taught him how to play Cars on the Leapster. That was definitely therapeutic, and I need to find a way to work that into my counseling practice at school. :)

We walked to the mall for ice cream and our wifi fix. Palamang had a blast spinning on the chairs at the internet cafe. Unfortunately, the wifi wasn't really working. We couldn't upload anything, and even mail and facebook kept cutting in and out. I'm desperate to know what's happening with Cathy in Ghana!




After wifi fail we walked up the street to the photo place to get Palamang's passport and immigration photos. His cheerful mood again disappeared when the woman at the photo place spoke to him in Sesotho. At first she thought he didn't speak Sesotho because he was so uncommunicative. He's processing way more than a little boy should have to process.

Then we walked to the church to meet Shelley. BUT Shelley went to Mohokare to pick us up. I totally got our plans screwed up because it makes WAY MORE sense for Shelley to pick us up. Anyway, we sorted it out and met up to cook for and serve local street children. Palamang saw Shelley and freaked again. He associates her with MIS. Trent put him on his shoulders and he did not budge - he stayed there the entire time we served the meal to the kids. (He looks small, but he is solid! Not light at all.)

The kids we served were fascinated with Samantha, especially the 13 and 14 year olds because she's so much taller than all of them. The street children don't even have the small amount of support an orphanage provides. For some, this was their only substantial meal all week. Please don't take your next meal for granted! Thank God for it, and pray for those who are going without. All the children wanted some love and attention. I got mobbed when I started taking pictures.


Palamang pointed and nearly jumped out of the truck when he saw our rondaval. He had a great evening - giggling and laughing and playing ball with Sam. (Seriously, how can I tell them not to play ball in the house? I just want him to play!) And he proved he is a master of the bedtime stall - one more story, one more song, playing "Where's Paul?" with the covers. I know we'll have to show him again and again that we're forever, that we're not going to abandon him. Today he got his first taste of that truth. God promises us that He will never leave us nor forsake us. This is not an easy promise to understand with the best of childhoods, but truly difficult for a child whose biological attachments have been broken. But it's true. God was with Palamang every moment, and God will redeem His hurt. We are blessed to be a tiny part of that redemption.



Blessings,

Trent, Kristi, Sam and Paul

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Tuesday - our first full day

Palamang slept from 6:45 pm until 6:30 am. He was a tired little guy. Trent and I didn't sleep. All night. It was awful. To all of you who asked me if I had trouble sleeping when I was nervous, and I said, "No. I'm usually a great sleepet," apparently I lied. There were just too many thoughts and emotions running through my head, I guess.

But God gave us energy and to spare to get through the day. We're staying in a bed and breakfast, so we have a wonderful breakfast each morning cooked by Tsipo (spelling?). This morning, I asked Palamang if he wanted mahe - eggs. He gave a tiny little nod. Tsipo told him the menu in Sesotho. In the tiniest little voice Palamang said, "Mahe." That's about the only word he spoke all day. He gives tiny little nods or tiny little head shakes when we ask him a question. (Unless he completely doesn't understand, then he stares blankly.)

After breakfast I did some laundry in the tub. Yes, that's right. Trent is the laundry man at our house, but apparently he's only good for machine washing and drying. The hand stuff is all for me. He did rig up a cool clothesline in the bathroom. At this rate our clothes will be dry early next week.

We made our daily trek to the mall because Palamang desperately needed shoes. He picked out a pair of Ben 10 (cartoon character here - nod to Isaac) despite Trent's attempts to steer him toward the Vans. We grabbed a couple more supplies and got our 15 minute wifi fix, then walked home. Ask me later about the walk home adventure. Some day it will be funny.

After lunch Palamang fell asleep (on Sam's lap - see picture). Trent and Sam went back to the mall to Skype friends and family, while I tried to decide if Palamang was scared or depressed or just really, really quiet. (I know, not supposed to analyze until at least three months home, but I can't help it. I was ready to pull out some art therapy the poor child just looked so sad!) Turns out, what he needed was a nap and a few more TOYS. I pulled out a stash of cars from the closet, and he started playing and smiling and interacting. For several hours we all played cars and ball and Buzz Lightyear rocket ship launcher. We finally saw that smile from the pictures! Such a delight.

The Dimmocks stopped by (before heading back to Atlanta - I am SO SAD to see them go! They've been a HUGE blessing. I can't even tell you how thrilled I am we decided to come early - sans Palamang's passport - so we could meet up with them!) with Mamanyane from Ministry of Hope. She confirmed that Palamang is very quiet and reserved and mostly communicates with little nods. But I see a spark of playfulness there. I know with love and TLC he'll start to open up. He asked me to read a book (nonverbally) and later we all snuggled on the bed to watch Toy Story.

Now it's 8:00 pm and he's fast asleep. The sun goes down at 6:30, and nobody goes out after dark, so it's cozy family nights at the rondaval in the evenings.

Prayers for Frank and Jessie's safe drive back to Jo'burg flight back to Atlanta tomorrow. We'll miss you!

Many blessings,



Kristi, Trent, Sam and Paul


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Monday Morning

I woke up at 3 am with the dream of myself at a giant buffet - only instead of food they were serving emotions. Lots of emotions. Happiness - oh, yes, try some of that. The nervousness is delicious as well, and you must have a side of gut-wrenching panic. Guilt and sadness, too, save some room for those because you know Palamang has been through so much, and please top it all off with an extra serving of excitement. Oh, no, no, you can't be full, please have another slice of anxiety with an extra serving of gratitude and anticipation.

So, emotional? Yes. But after all that, this morning was oddly anticlimactic. M'e Mahlapane picked us up at 8:50 and we went to DSW, where she introduced us to...someone...who asked us how we liked Lesotho and told us to enjoy our next 14 days (gentle reminder not to leave early. As if). Then we were finished there. Christinah, the new AFAA representative, joined us for the trip to MIS. We arrived with great anticipation to find that...they sent Palamang to school! So...we had to reschedule. Mahlapane and I went through the paperwork - there are a few items they still need to get, so she put Christinah on it. There is still an issue with getting his passport, so please keep praying. I talked with the US Embassy this afternoon. They definitely need the passport to process the immigration documents, but said it was no problem to reschedule for Wed. the 17th and they could finish everything for us to leave on Monday. Trent's not anxious. I'm trying not to be anxious - giving it all to God.

We met Frank and Jessie and went to the mall to get on wifi. So you should have gotten updates for Saturday and Sunday. You'll just be a couple of days behind. All the TV shows are a year behind (tomorrow we'll find out who won last year's American Idol), so a couple of days isn't bad.Then we ran into Shelley - small world. She drove us to the Basotho Hat gift shop - local crafts, then home again. Now we're waiting for 2 o'clock so we can try to meet Palamang again.

I want to thank Mexico Family Camp for teaching me how to live on Flexico time, which operates here as well. Believe it or not, I wasn't even upset about the school/Palamang delay. A little disappointed, yes, but we've been rolling with whatever the schedule happens to bring.

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Monday afternoon

M'e Mahlapane arrived right on time and bustled us to MIS. Other children saw us and called for Palamang. He walked shyly around the corner. I recognized him immediately. I think he was scared to death. He looked scared to death. Poor boy - his whole world's been rocked.

Frank and Jessie brought the tubs of gift bags that the Christian Academy students donated to MIS, so we took those to the office for later distribution. (The Ministry of Hope kids got their bags and loved them - thanks CAL kids! so I'll try to post more pictures of that to send back to CAL).

I showed Palamang pictures on my iphone. That got a spark of a smile. He sat in the van and showed the pictures to all the kids outside the van. He was definitely showing off and claiming complete ownership of the iphone.

We came back to Mohokare and tried to get to know each other. We played a soccer naming game - saying everyone's name with each pass. He pointed to each of us but wouldn't talk. After soccer Palamang climbed on the bed to play cars with Trent - first smile we saw sans iphone! We had pasta and a peanut butter sandwich for dinner. Going out felt too overwhelming. He seemed to like my cooking :) so glad to have him on my side!

Bath time then teeth - he has all the basic self care down. He gives little nods when we ask a question or tell him to do something - not sure if he understands or not. We cuddled after bath time and sang, then he crawled under the covers and fell asleep. Too sweet, except it's only 6:45. Guess who's waking up at 5 am (or earlier) tomorrow?




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Sunday - Church and softball

I guess we haven't adjusted to the time change as well as we'd thought. We all fell asleep around 8:30 (it gets dark here at 6:00!) but then we all woke up at midnight! I kept trying to remember the verse in Psalms about sleeping. It's Psalm 3:5 - I will lay down and rest in peace, for the Lord sustains me. We keep telling ourselves that if we get tired enough, we WILL sleep!

We went to church with the Dimmocks at Maseru United Church. The worship songs were so familiar - Yes, Lord, Hallelujah, Amazing Grace - but the accent was way cool. So much diversity in the church - Frank said 22 different nationalities attend. The Church truly is a global body. The pastor is from Zimbabwe. He spoke on Ephesians 1 & 2 - God is a God of purpose, and He created us as His workmanship to do his purpose. He also touched on adoption, and how God brings us all into His family and redeems us because He knows the plans he has for us. Love it! God was talking to me - calming my fears and reminding me that God has big plans for Palamang's life.

We found an internet cafe in the mall close to our hotel - but by the time we got there it was closed. I'm feeling very stupid communication-wise. The phone and the wifi situation is confusing. But I think, if we go during business hours, we can buy wifi time for very little money. And - bonus - Sam showed me how to hook up my iphone to her keyboard. So I don't have to use my thumbs!

We were able to call M'e Mahlapane. We are meeting her tomorrow morning at 8:45 Lesotho time (3:45 am ET) for a 9:00 am meeting with the Department of Social Welfare. I'm casting all my anxieties on the Lord RIGHT NOW. So, hopefully, we'll be able to blog tomorrow afternoon after we have Palamang!

We still need prayers for Palamang's passport. Now M'e Mahlapane can't go for his passport until Tuesday afternoon. She said she can get it in two days, but that means we need to reschedule our Wednesday embassy appointment until Friday. So somehow I need to figure out how to call them! Please pray we can get an appointment Friday morning (with the passport). Honestly though, once we're here I don't feel as nervous about staying IF we have to. But of course I'd rather come home with the entire family on May 26.

The weather here is gorgeous. Think beautiful fall day in Louisville, with piercing blue skies and no humidity, cool nights and warm days. Trent and Sam are taking advantage of the perfect softball weather by...playing softball! I imagine the guest house guards think we're crazy. Sam knocking the wiffle ball in front of our rondaval.




Blessings,

Kristi

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Saturday - Ministry of Hope

Happy Derby Day everyone!

After a good night's sleep at the Baptist Guest House, which was a great deal at $35 US, we left for Lesotho at 9:30 am. I got a lesson in Afrikaaners by a store clerk at a pit stop who chatted with me, presuming I knew the language until it was obvious I did not! All I remember is Danke for thank you, but I only remember that because it sounds German.

The scenery at first reminded me of Indiana in late October (only warmer) with acres of corn ready to harvest, bales of hay dotting the fields, and cows grazing in the stubble. Fields of sunflowers reminded me of rows of women wrapped in shawls looking at the ground. Then hills appeared and finally the mountains of Lesotho! We saw ostrich, gazelle and zebra.

We arrived at the border crossing around 2:30. There was a long queue (South African word for line) so we walked across with Jessie while Frank stayed with the car. Sam was excited to get several stamps in her passport.

We're staying at Mohokare Chalet, which is a rondaval. Sam said, "We get to stay in a round house!" It's adorable. I expected to rough it a bit more, but it's well equipped with no bugs and lots of running water.

We were invited to the Dimmocks/Ministry of Hope for dinner. MoH supports single moms and also works with MIS, caring for children who need extra tlc. They had a houseful of 10 children. We played balloon volleyball and they giggled at their pictures on my iphone. M'e Manyana helped with Palamang's background check, so she knows him and was so pleased he'll have a family. She has a gentle spirit and a huge heart for the children. Also a delightful laugh! We'll meet Palamang on Monday. It's hard to wait, but also a blessing to acclimate and get to know the area and the people first.

Dinner was traditional Lesotho fare of papas (like thick grits), pumpkin, spinach and chicken. Delicious!

This morning I read Psalm 37. My verse yesterday was Psalm 37:4 - Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desire of your heart. This verse goes so far beyond God giving us whatever we want. It reaches into us knowing and loving God so much that He changes our hearts into wanting what He wants for us. This chapter also speaks to God's love and care for the righteous in the midst of evil times, which rings true with Ministry of Hope, where sick and abandoned children are loved and nursed back to health.

Pix of MoH children.



Blessings,

Kristi


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South Africa

We made it! We boarded our flight in Atlanta at 7:30 pm on Thursday and arrived in Johannesburg at 5:30 pm Friday. Kind of surreal. I'm not sure where I am in time and space. I sat next to a lovely woman from South Africa who works for a cruise line. She gave me the lowdown on avoiding jet lag (don't know how effective it is yet.) We were hoping the seat next to me would stay empty (Trent and Sam would in the next section over) but a man from Botswana rushed in at the last second. Ah well. I'd never met anyone from Botswana before I did have to jump over him at one point, which was very nimble of me. Fortunately he didn't wake up! It was a LONG flight and none of us slept well, but it honestly wasn't as bad as I'd anticipated. God's blessings or low expectations?

We got through baggage and customs with no problems! They even put all the MIS totes on a trolley for us. I was surprised how quiet the airport was - until we reached the rotunda. Then there was singing and drumming and dancing! That's when my excitement ramped up! Sam said, "we're in Africa!" Frank and Jessee met us in the rotunda, we loaded ALL our luggage in the rental van, then we drove to the Baptist Guest House where we're spending the night. We had a great pizza dinner with a fizzy apple drink and now we're ready to sleep!

Psalm 37:4 Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Blessings,

Kristi


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South Africa

We made it! We boarded our flight in Atlanta at 7:30 pm on Thursday and arrived in Johannesburg at 5:30 pm Friday. Kind of surreal. I'm not sure where I am in time and space. I sat next to a lovely woman from South Africa who works for a cruise line. She gave me the lowdown on avoiding jet lag (don't know how effective it is yet.) We were hoping the seat next to me would stay empty (Trent and Sam would in the next section over) but a man from Botswana rushed in at the last second. Ah well. I'd never met anyone from Botswana before I did have to jump over him at one point, which was very nimble of me. Fortunately he didn't wake up! It was a LONG flight and none of us slept well, but it honestly wasn't as bad as I'd anticipated. God's blessings or low expectations?

We got through baggage and customs with no problems! They even put all the MIS totes on a trolley for us. I was surprised how quiet the airport was - until we reached the rotunda. Then there was singing and drumming and dancing! That's when my excitement ramped up! Sam said, "we're in Africa!" Frank and Jessee met us in the rotunda, we loaded ALL our luggage in the rental van, then we drove to the Baptist Guest House where we're spending the night. We had a great pizza dinner with a fizzy apple drink and now we're ready to sleep!

Psalm 37:4 Delight in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart.

Blessings,

Kristi


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And we're off!

Now that we're through check-in (which went surprisingly well considering our three 50 lb bags and three 50 lb totes!) and through security, my frantic stress has ebbed to excitement. At 2 pm I was seriously reconsidering this whole thing and thinking of becoming a hermit who never left home. But now I'm wondering why I was so freaked out. Don't get me wrong, I'm sure I'll freak again (customs with all those bags, driving through Jo'burg with all those bags, driving to the orphanage...) but right now I feel the peace of all those prayers.

Thank you again for the prayers. I remember as a kid hearing people talk about coveting prayers and I didn't understand what they meant. (Cuz isn't coveting a sin?) But now I totally get how God uses the prayers of his people to move mountains, to set the lonely in families, to bring peace that passes understanding.

Lots of Derby action at the airport - women with big hatboxes and high heels, huge bouquets of roses, and row upon row of private jets. And I'm not coveting any of that. (I wouldn't say NO to the private jet, though, if anyone's offering.) Those prayers are way more valuable. Silver and gold are the words from the Lord.

Have fun at Derby all you horse racing fans! Love you all! Will check in when we reach Jo'burg and find wifi again.

Blessings,

Kristi

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Lasts

Since I'm going to miss Sam's official last week of school, along with Crossover and awards and the 8th grade party, I decided to go ahead and get weepy this week. Seems a good use of emotional energy just now.

All week I've been alerting my family to all the lasts we're experiencing. They're enjoying it, I can tell.

Saturday - last Saturday night church service and dinner after as a threesome. Next time we head to Saturday night church at Southeast we'll have a six year old in tow. And we'll probably have to eat somewhere with a play place.

Sunday - last 8th grade Lift group for Sam. They'll shift over to high school groups on June 3rd. HIGH SCHOOL GROUPS! AAAAHHH! It was also my last Sunday as a 6th grade Lift leader, a milestone we recognized by eating donuts (Krispy Kreme - still warm).

Monday - last Monday morning of 8th grade. Sam's mood was definitely more grumpy than celebratory. My mood, consequently, was more annoyed than nostalgic. So, anyway, that's behind us now.

Monday was also the last CAL middle school softball game for Trent and for Sam (and for me, too, I suppose, herding the girls after school and keeping the book). Those two have put in a ton of time together on that field, growing the team from Sam's sixth grade year when half the girls had never played softball before but were conscripted so they could have a team to this year, currently in third place in the A division in a city that boasts nationally-ranked high school programs. I fully expected to bawl unashamedly after the game.

It was all rather anti-climactic. A huge storm hovered on the radar screen, grabbing everyone's attention (including mine). It finally struck after the second inning, delaying then calling the game and sending everyone home. Well, hunh. Sam did score on a Leah Jessee RBI, which seemed fitting since those two have been tag-teaming at the plate for three years now.

I know we'll soon be experiencing some amazing firsts - first 16 hour plane flight, first trip to Africa, first visit with our World Vision kids, first hug with Pacman, and first time being a mom/dad/big sister to an amazing six-year-old boy. I'm already anticipating the emotional impact of all of that. But right now, I'm going to cherish these final few lasts with my baby who is growing up so fast.

Eighth graders and team captains - Sam, Hannah, Leah