It's a rainy, gloomy day in Rockville, Maryland but it is a bright and sunny day in the Knotts household.
Now armed with the magic envelope that makes Alejandro a US Citizen upon arrival into the country, we just had a couple of days until we could go home and make it official. Wednesday was a hot and humid day in Guayaquil. We went to te Malecon, The Warf, and walked along the water. We found a fun playground and tried to cool off with ice cream. After a while, even the kids were too hot to play, so we headed back to the hotel pool. The day before it seemed to be too cold to use, but today, it was just right. We had a blast splashing around, and ordered lunch by the poolside. Two sleepy kids later, we headed back to the room for evening downtime. One more day to go.
Thursday, I decided to just have a quiet day. No running around, no taxis, no stress. I packed us up and we were ready to go. Good thing too because all week long I thought we had a 5:30pm flight through Panama. Come to find out, thankfully, I had a 3:30 flight that LANDED in Panama at 5:30. I discovered this at 1:30pm when I went down to the hotel Business Center to try to check-in online and print out our boarding passes. I had been planning to get to the airport extra early so we could have lunch before the flight. We grabbed a taxi to the airport to find a minimum of 200 in line before us at 2pm. There was no earthly way we were going to make our flight through that long line. The skycab man took us to the front of the Executive line and advised me to look hopeless (not hard at this point) beg for mercy and claim my kids were too hungry to wait on the long line (again, not too hard, and even true).
Thirty minutes to get to the front of the line. We were third in line! Thirty minutes for them to figure out how to check us in since we were leaving the country with an Ecuadorian minor. Thirty minutes left to go pay our exit tax, get lunch to go and make it through security. No problem. At least I knew that they still had to check in all the other people and the plane couldn't leave until then.
We make it to the gate. I went straight to the front of the line with two kids in tow. The airline worker tells me, "You were called back down for an extra security check of your luggage". What??? "Couldn't you bother someone else who isn't traveling with two children and three carry-ons?" I know. The mouth. It runs away with me sometimes. The woman was astonished at my response. Off we were to security. Down stairs! Picture, Annie with a back pack and a bag lunch, baby in a stroller, I'm carrying a heavy backpack of electronics and a second bag with important papers and kid blankets for the plane ride. The lady takes off down the stairs. A little help here please!
Done with that, back through security screening and this time up in the elevator. A novel concept. We made our flight. Surprisingly. I knw the plane wouldn't leave without us. This has happenned to me before in Spain. The kids traveled beautifully. Annie is always a pro loaded with crayons, books and videos. Alejandro gets a little nervous on take-offs, but does well otherwise. No time for real food in the Panama airport either. I'm not sure I would have found any. Not much there except Duty-Free shops. Boarded an hour early and we were closer to being home.
We were last off the plane and last in the Immigration line. Poor Annie was falling apart by now. They had both fallen asleep on the plane. One hour later, after little guy had been processed we were out the other side of the security gate and oh so happy to see Daddy waiting patiently for us. It was 1am. It was cold and rainy outside, but we didn't care. We were home! Safe and sound. My prayers answered.
Alejandro had his homecoming at 1:30am on March 13th, 2010. I had talked to him about the big house we all lived in. His forever house. I described to him his own room, adorably put together by Daddy, Grandma (Lela), Grandpa (Lelo) and Tio Tony. He seemed excited to get there. His first ride in a car seat. He didn't know what to make of the straps. No one uses car seats in Ecuador. They are far too expensive. The ride home felt like a luxury ride in my plush minivan, after riding in the back of old taxis and great big busses. I thought Alejandro would fall asleep on the ride, but he was taking it all in. His great big brown, almond shaped eyes wide open. Annie sat next to him and kept him company, which is why I'm sure he didn't cry at being in the back, in the dark, without being held as he was used to.
We showed him the main level of the house and all around his room. He showed himself all around Annie's room and the living room toy area, both of which he probably recognized from the video we had sent him. I asked him if he liked his new house and he gave an enthusiastic "Si". Wait until he sees it in the daylight. He's still asleep as of this posting.
Jim had our home ready and waiting for us. Warm and welcoming, as always. Small touches that were comforting in my eyes, like fresh flowers, fresh linens, a glass of my favorite wine, and a book called, "That's My Son: How Moms Can Influence Boys to Become Men of Character".
Home Sweet Home.
I love our home, our house, our family, and the independence of being able to take care of things myself again, rather than have to constantly depend on strangers. I love my family, my friends, and the friends that I call family for keeping me going through what was probably one of the most challenging times in our lives. I love them for their emails and quick wit that brought me smiles. I love my husband for being the incredible father he is. I love my daughter for being such an amazing big sister to a child she hardly knows, and who although is always loveable, isn't always likeable. I'm proud of the person she is growing up to be. I pray the same for my son. I love our country, although wrought with it's own problems, I wouldn't want to be from anywhere else in the world. I love our church for keeping us in their warm embrace. And foremost, I love our God for hearing my prayers, for loving me so much that he has given me a family to love and care for, and who do the same for me. I love Him for hearing my soulful, tearful prayers for children. I love Him for allowing us to start our lives now as a family of four. I love Him.
Warm Hearts, Smooches and Snuggles,
Love,
Lisandra
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Our Last Tuesday in Ecuador
I woke up two hours before the kids to complete our packing..."OCD" person that I am. This...after going through the garbage can outside at 1:30am in search for an envelope I've misplaced, with $140 in it. I'm hoping I packed it away somewhere. Our neighbors were sweet to get up early to see us off. Thankfully, there wasn't an encore performance of last night and both kids were in much better moods.
The owner of the apartments volunteered to take us to the airport at 6:30am. Their family and staff has come to really enjoy my kids, and are really going to miss them. The staff left us notes under the door while we were out the previous day, to tell us farewell, best wishes and that they'd miss us. Several of the residents had treated us to breakfast the morning before in the courtyard. It's a cozy, family-friendly place.
We took the first flight to Guayaquil, where the US Consolate office is. Our rep had been in Quito all day yesterday, Monday, to try to get all three family's (sp?) documents that are required in order to step into the US Consolate and get "Get Out of Dodge" final approval documents...aka...VISA for Alejandro...from the "Powers That Be." She could have flown from Quito straight to Guayaquil that morning and met us, but instead opted to fly from Quito back to Cuenca, arriving home after 8pm to see her sleeping kids, and accompany us on our flight from Cuenca to Guayaquil. She figured she could help me onto the flight with the luggage and two kids. Amazing. Thank you. Yes, I thanked her perfusely. It wasn't necessary. I would have made do, but it was certainly helpful, as the plane was small with two seats on each row and Annie sitting across the isle. She would have felt lonely, even though we were only 18 inches away. How dedicated of the rep. Our agency really lucked out with her, and so did I.
We arrived to check in to a five star hotel (more like 3 1/2 to 4) across the street from the US Consolate. The agency recommended it makes things easier...they were right. Love it how they're always right, which is a hard thing to accept. Just ask my hubby...right honey? He takes the 5th.
We bump into the Riobamba family in the lobby doing their own running around for requirements. The kids and I go up to our room and our rep goes into the Consolate to start pleading all our cases, all three families. She was hoping to get the Riobamba and Cuenca families an afternoon appt. The Quito family was still in Quito at this point. NONE of us were hopeful to get a same-day afternoon appt. Afterall...this is Ecuador...where nothing but the Taxi drivers move fast...and certainly not the internet!
The kids and I relaxed in the luke warm Jaccuzzi until we were kicked out...no kids allowed, even though there were NO other patroners to be seen anywhere to be seen and no signs that said, "No Kids Allowed." Annie asked for permission to "tell the man that he's a mean man and he just doesn't like kids". Uuuuummmm. First, she was right, and second, I would have wanted to do the same thing at five, almost six years old. "Go for it, baby". "Really, I can and I won't get in trouble?" "Go for it." And so, she did. A chip off the ole block. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not!
We went back to the room and had lunch. A while later our rep called us...we needed to go to the Consolate, pronto! On our way we were, with nothing but our passports in hand, both the Riobamba family and us. I'm sorry to call them, "The Riobamba Family", but it would be unfair to name them by name in our blog and invade their privacy. They didn't ask to be here but they are part of our adventure now. Poor souls.
The Consolate appt went well. We were there about 30 minutes for both families. The Riobambas were especially happy because they had flights for the next day, Wednesday. We were stuck here until Friday, no thanks to COPA Airlines...they suck. You can buy a $1000 ticket per person to fly anytime, but you can't change your ticket for about 7-10 days. Again, they suck. I bet it doesn't say THAT in their fine print.
I called Jim to tell him we were absolutely done with everything. He was very excited, to say the least. He was very sweet to try everything to get us on an earlier flight home, but...did I happen to mention that COPA Air sucks? I might have forgotten ;-)
We reserved ourselves to being here through the end of the week. We went to the mall to try to get a few last minute gifts. The malls here are so loud with overhead music, that I didn't hear my cell phone. We almost missed our rep. The Quito family had been here and was done with their process and she was free to leave. She was able to get an immediate flight back to Cuenca (obviously, not Copa Air) and had been trying to get a hold of us. I called her, thinking it had been a while since we heard from her, and she was on her way to the airport.
Oh no!!! It couldn't be!! Our last goodbye couldn't be on a crummy connection via cell phone!!! We ran out of the mall and into a taxi, which hauled...ahem...tail to the airport for us. We got there just in time to give her a great big hug and a ginormous THANK YOU for all she had personally done for our family.
I'd ran out of the mall with two confused kids. Nothing less than bribery with Funland and ice cream would do. We went back to the mall and found both. Kiddos had a blast on the kiddie rides and later with ice cream. Annie, once again, took the "Goodbye" hard and cried inconsolably. I looked around and I found a puppy store. What could cheer up a kid more than a puppy? This worked great for both kids, until I had to tell Annie we couldn't get a puppy and we were right back to square-one. Nice job mom...way to go. Sigh of exhaustion. This is going to be a long 2 1/2 days...
Love,
Lisandra
The owner of the apartments volunteered to take us to the airport at 6:30am. Their family and staff has come to really enjoy my kids, and are really going to miss them. The staff left us notes under the door while we were out the previous day, to tell us farewell, best wishes and that they'd miss us. Several of the residents had treated us to breakfast the morning before in the courtyard. It's a cozy, family-friendly place.
We took the first flight to Guayaquil, where the US Consolate office is. Our rep had been in Quito all day yesterday, Monday, to try to get all three family's (sp?) documents that are required in order to step into the US Consolate and get "Get Out of Dodge" final approval documents...aka...VISA for Alejandro...from the "Powers That Be." She could have flown from Quito straight to Guayaquil that morning and met us, but instead opted to fly from Quito back to Cuenca, arriving home after 8pm to see her sleeping kids, and accompany us on our flight from Cuenca to Guayaquil. She figured she could help me onto the flight with the luggage and two kids. Amazing. Thank you. Yes, I thanked her perfusely. It wasn't necessary. I would have made do, but it was certainly helpful, as the plane was small with two seats on each row and Annie sitting across the isle. She would have felt lonely, even though we were only 18 inches away. How dedicated of the rep. Our agency really lucked out with her, and so did I.
We arrived to check in to a five star hotel (more like 3 1/2 to 4) across the street from the US Consolate. The agency recommended it makes things easier...they were right. Love it how they're always right, which is a hard thing to accept. Just ask my hubby...right honey? He takes the 5th.
We bump into the Riobamba family in the lobby doing their own running around for requirements. The kids and I go up to our room and our rep goes into the Consolate to start pleading all our cases, all three families. She was hoping to get the Riobamba and Cuenca families an afternoon appt. The Quito family was still in Quito at this point. NONE of us were hopeful to get a same-day afternoon appt. Afterall...this is Ecuador...where nothing but the Taxi drivers move fast...and certainly not the internet!
The kids and I relaxed in the luke warm Jaccuzzi until we were kicked out...no kids allowed, even though there were NO other patroners to be seen anywhere to be seen and no signs that said, "No Kids Allowed." Annie asked for permission to "tell the man that he's a mean man and he just doesn't like kids". Uuuuummmm. First, she was right, and second, I would have wanted to do the same thing at five, almost six years old. "Go for it, baby". "Really, I can and I won't get in trouble?" "Go for it." And so, she did. A chip off the ole block. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or not!
We went back to the room and had lunch. A while later our rep called us...we needed to go to the Consolate, pronto! On our way we were, with nothing but our passports in hand, both the Riobamba family and us. I'm sorry to call them, "The Riobamba Family", but it would be unfair to name them by name in our blog and invade their privacy. They didn't ask to be here but they are part of our adventure now. Poor souls.
The Consolate appt went well. We were there about 30 minutes for both families. The Riobambas were especially happy because they had flights for the next day, Wednesday. We were stuck here until Friday, no thanks to COPA Airlines...they suck. You can buy a $1000 ticket per person to fly anytime, but you can't change your ticket for about 7-10 days. Again, they suck. I bet it doesn't say THAT in their fine print.
I called Jim to tell him we were absolutely done with everything. He was very excited, to say the least. He was very sweet to try everything to get us on an earlier flight home, but...did I happen to mention that COPA Air sucks? I might have forgotten ;-)
We reserved ourselves to being here through the end of the week. We went to the mall to try to get a few last minute gifts. The malls here are so loud with overhead music, that I didn't hear my cell phone. We almost missed our rep. The Quito family had been here and was done with their process and she was free to leave. She was able to get an immediate flight back to Cuenca (obviously, not Copa Air) and had been trying to get a hold of us. I called her, thinking it had been a while since we heard from her, and she was on her way to the airport.
Oh no!!! It couldn't be!! Our last goodbye couldn't be on a crummy connection via cell phone!!! We ran out of the mall and into a taxi, which hauled...ahem...tail to the airport for us. We got there just in time to give her a great big hug and a ginormous THANK YOU for all she had personally done for our family.
I'd ran out of the mall with two confused kids. Nothing less than bribery with Funland and ice cream would do. We went back to the mall and found both. Kiddos had a blast on the kiddie rides and later with ice cream. Annie, once again, took the "Goodbye" hard and cried inconsolably. I looked around and I found a puppy store. What could cheer up a kid more than a puppy? This worked great for both kids, until I had to tell Annie we couldn't get a puppy and we were right back to square-one. Nice job mom...way to go. Sigh of exhaustion. This is going to be a long 2 1/2 days...
Love,
Lisandra
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
DAy 46- Guayaquil
We're done! We can come home Friday! Alejandro fell alseep through dinner, while still chewing. Annie took less than two minutes to go out. I'm half way there. I'll tell you all about it tomorrow.
Last Day in Cuenca
On our way to Guayaquil in the morning. Today as we rode around in a taxi I looked out the window with differnt eyes than when I first arrived. BTW, Alejandro jumps up and down like a crazy man when I tell him we're going for a taxi ride...he says..."Ta" for taxi. The city looked more beautiful to me today. The colors more vibrant, and the sun shining brighter. I'm going to miss this little city, but we're definitely ready to be home and start the next phase of our lives with our new family addition.
We had a fantastic homemade Thai dinner at the neighbor's. The best I've ever had. Annalise and James traded gifts and then avoided one another and seemed angry at eachother. James' family told us that he had spent the day very sad because his friend Annalisa as he calls her, is leaving. We barely made it through dinner because Annie started to cry. She cried for the better part of the next two hours, and even a phone call from Daddy didn't cheer her up.
At the same time, Ando was ready for bed, and he too was needing some snuggling. He didn't want me to leave the bed, but poor Annie needed me too. This is so new for me. I love them both so much. After snuggling Ando for a little while, I went back to Annie and held her for as she cried. I was eventually able to help her see all the good reasons for going home: Daddy, Gramma and Poppa, Gramma's dogs, her best buddy Sasha, sleeping in her own bed, playing with her fun toys. An endless list. She finally cheered up enough to watch a video and go to bed.
The neighbors are stopping by in the morning, and I'm really hoping we don't have a repeat performance. People mean well, but sometimes they don't realize they can make a situation like that worse.
We didn't receive the letter we needed from the official in Quito. We're going to Guayaquil anyway to get Ando's physical done, since we can't leave without that anyway. Our rep spent the entire day in Quito lobbying and waiting, and waiting. She says she never left the office, even to eat. She finally made it to Cuenca and her family at 8pm. She'll accompany us tomorrow to Guayaquil, as she keeps calling Quito for our letters. What an exhaustion.
Hoping things still work out by Friday. We certainly have people working and praying very hard on our part.
Love, Lisandra.
We had a fantastic homemade Thai dinner at the neighbor's. The best I've ever had. Annalise and James traded gifts and then avoided one another and seemed angry at eachother. James' family told us that he had spent the day very sad because his friend Annalisa as he calls her, is leaving. We barely made it through dinner because Annie started to cry. She cried for the better part of the next two hours, and even a phone call from Daddy didn't cheer her up.
At the same time, Ando was ready for bed, and he too was needing some snuggling. He didn't want me to leave the bed, but poor Annie needed me too. This is so new for me. I love them both so much. After snuggling Ando for a little while, I went back to Annie and held her for as she cried. I was eventually able to help her see all the good reasons for going home: Daddy, Gramma and Poppa, Gramma's dogs, her best buddy Sasha, sleeping in her own bed, playing with her fun toys. An endless list. She finally cheered up enough to watch a video and go to bed.
The neighbors are stopping by in the morning, and I'm really hoping we don't have a repeat performance. People mean well, but sometimes they don't realize they can make a situation like that worse.
We didn't receive the letter we needed from the official in Quito. We're going to Guayaquil anyway to get Ando's physical done, since we can't leave without that anyway. Our rep spent the entire day in Quito lobbying and waiting, and waiting. She says she never left the office, even to eat. She finally made it to Cuenca and her family at 8pm. She'll accompany us tomorrow to Guayaquil, as she keeps calling Quito for our letters. What an exhaustion.
Hoping things still work out by Friday. We certainly have people working and praying very hard on our part.
Love, Lisandra.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Day 45- Busy, Busy Days!
So much has happened in the last few days.
Friday was Annie's last day of school in Cuenca. She is very excited about going home, but is very sad to leave her school and apartment friends. Her school planned a great farewell day for her. Alejandro and I went to join in on the festivities. Her teacher planned a going away party in the classroom, and all the kids took turns telling Annie how much they liked her and would miss her. Even the class bully gave her a flower he brought from home.
They gave her a going away scrapbook complete with her picture and a class picture taken that morning. The teacher had the kids make handprints for her, so she would remember them. They all also made cards for her, and the teacher made her a beautiful present, a fairy doll.
That afternoon, we went to Ossitos for our farewell there. It was sad to look around the grounds, the kids, the workers and the apartment Alejandro had known all his life one last time. I'd like to think that we will come back to visit one day, when Ando is older and ready. The faces of the children of course will be different, for our hopes are that their forever familie's will find them soon too.
We were excited to hear that his housemate and buddy, "V" has found a family. She is soooooo beautiful, a real doll-baby, and sooooo smart. Although none of the kids speak much yet at age two, she is the one that catches on to words most quickly. She brought me a book of animals that I could read to her. She repeated the names of most of the animals I said, and always did the sign for them. So cute with her chubby little hands. She has a mild hearing abnormality, but hears conversation very well and annunciates as well as the other two-year-olds. Seriously, I wanted to bring her home too (but I would never have been able to), so I'm very happy to know a family will be so fortunate to call her a daughter.
I told the staff I had met "JA's" Italian family and that he looked to be very well loved and taken care of. I'm sure already knew that, but it's always nice to hear from someone else. JA is already learning to say Italian words. My litlle guy is also starting to bloom with his vocabulary, both English and Spanish. Communication is much easier than it was a month ago. We're going to keep working on it.
Saturday, the Italian family came to the apartment for a brief visit and brought along a second Italian family that they travelled here with, both to complete their adoptions. They all had their Audiencias a week after I did, and are still waiting for the judge to sign the Sentencia. Ugh! I'm glad for the stage we are finally at. It's all relative, because I'd be glad to be home by now too. Ando this time was very happy to see JA and hugged and kissed him. JA looked happy too. Aaaaaawwwwe. We all took a long walk to the town center indoor market and their kids pooped out. We parted with the intention of keeping in touch. We've already traded pictures and emails. V lights up, claps and giggles whenever she sees us visit with Alejandro. I hope her family will be interested in the same ;-)
Annie, Ando and I then continued another two, very crowded and narrow blocks to the indoor craft market to pick up a present for her buddy James here. Ten minutes later I received a call from the family that is completing their adoption from Riobamba. They were only two blocks away from us so we caught up to eachother. Their son is another cutie, school-aged and sharp as a tack! He's learned English at his children's home. It's owned by a Canadian family.
We spent the afternoon outside after Ando's nap, in the play area in our apartments. It was a good rest spot for the dad who had been walking around all day, and frequently carrying his new son. Annie enjoyed having a new play friend and James enjoyed having a boy his age to play with...he's been playing with a girl for the past 6 1/2 weeks. I had told them about the Italian families I had met, and they had only missed them by ten minutes. We all went out for pizza (yes, pizza in Ecuador) with our neighbors, who then drove the other family home to Banos. Very thoughtful of them.
Sunday, I opted for a quiet day at "home". I spent the morning outside, once again, with the kids. Ando likes getting right in there with the other two. In the afternoon, we had a repeat visit from the Riobamba family. Resting was never so exhausting, keeping up with the four kids. Good times, though.
Today, Monday, I've been packing all day. I sent so much stuff home, how is it I still have "stuff"! We're leaving for Guayaquil tomorrow, hopefully with Article 23 letter in hand. There was a delay in receiving it (so what else is new) from the Big Kahoona in Quito. Our rep spent all day Thursday and Friday in Quito, rallying for all three American families to be issued their letters. We need that letter to take with us to the Embassy in Guayaquil to complete the process for his Visa. Presumably, we should have received our letters on Friday.
Luckilly, we have a few days cushion before our flight home. In theory, this should all work out. The reality isn't always the same. Wish us luck, and those of you who pray, please pray for our return home on Friday.
Much Love,
Lisandra.
Friday was Annie's last day of school in Cuenca. She is very excited about going home, but is very sad to leave her school and apartment friends. Her school planned a great farewell day for her. Alejandro and I went to join in on the festivities. Her teacher planned a going away party in the classroom, and all the kids took turns telling Annie how much they liked her and would miss her. Even the class bully gave her a flower he brought from home.
They gave her a going away scrapbook complete with her picture and a class picture taken that morning. The teacher had the kids make handprints for her, so she would remember them. They all also made cards for her, and the teacher made her a beautiful present, a fairy doll.
That afternoon, we went to Ossitos for our farewell there. It was sad to look around the grounds, the kids, the workers and the apartment Alejandro had known all his life one last time. I'd like to think that we will come back to visit one day, when Ando is older and ready. The faces of the children of course will be different, for our hopes are that their forever familie's will find them soon too.
We were excited to hear that his housemate and buddy, "V" has found a family. She is soooooo beautiful, a real doll-baby, and sooooo smart. Although none of the kids speak much yet at age two, she is the one that catches on to words most quickly. She brought me a book of animals that I could read to her. She repeated the names of most of the animals I said, and always did the sign for them. So cute with her chubby little hands. She has a mild hearing abnormality, but hears conversation very well and annunciates as well as the other two-year-olds. Seriously, I wanted to bring her home too (but I would never have been able to), so I'm very happy to know a family will be so fortunate to call her a daughter.
I told the staff I had met "JA's" Italian family and that he looked to be very well loved and taken care of. I'm sure already knew that, but it's always nice to hear from someone else. JA is already learning to say Italian words. My litlle guy is also starting to bloom with his vocabulary, both English and Spanish. Communication is much easier than it was a month ago. We're going to keep working on it.
Saturday, the Italian family came to the apartment for a brief visit and brought along a second Italian family that they travelled here with, both to complete their adoptions. They all had their Audiencias a week after I did, and are still waiting for the judge to sign the Sentencia. Ugh! I'm glad for the stage we are finally at. It's all relative, because I'd be glad to be home by now too. Ando this time was very happy to see JA and hugged and kissed him. JA looked happy too. Aaaaaawwwwe. We all took a long walk to the town center indoor market and their kids pooped out. We parted with the intention of keeping in touch. We've already traded pictures and emails. V lights up, claps and giggles whenever she sees us visit with Alejandro. I hope her family will be interested in the same ;-)
Annie, Ando and I then continued another two, very crowded and narrow blocks to the indoor craft market to pick up a present for her buddy James here. Ten minutes later I received a call from the family that is completing their adoption from Riobamba. They were only two blocks away from us so we caught up to eachother. Their son is another cutie, school-aged and sharp as a tack! He's learned English at his children's home. It's owned by a Canadian family.
We spent the afternoon outside after Ando's nap, in the play area in our apartments. It was a good rest spot for the dad who had been walking around all day, and frequently carrying his new son. Annie enjoyed having a new play friend and James enjoyed having a boy his age to play with...he's been playing with a girl for the past 6 1/2 weeks. I had told them about the Italian families I had met, and they had only missed them by ten minutes. We all went out for pizza (yes, pizza in Ecuador) with our neighbors, who then drove the other family home to Banos. Very thoughtful of them.
Sunday, I opted for a quiet day at "home". I spent the morning outside, once again, with the kids. Ando likes getting right in there with the other two. In the afternoon, we had a repeat visit from the Riobamba family. Resting was never so exhausting, keeping up with the four kids. Good times, though.
Today, Monday, I've been packing all day. I sent so much stuff home, how is it I still have "stuff"! We're leaving for Guayaquil tomorrow, hopefully with Article 23 letter in hand. There was a delay in receiving it (so what else is new) from the Big Kahoona in Quito. Our rep spent all day Thursday and Friday in Quito, rallying for all three American families to be issued their letters. We need that letter to take with us to the Embassy in Guayaquil to complete the process for his Visa. Presumably, we should have received our letters on Friday.
Luckilly, we have a few days cushion before our flight home. In theory, this should all work out. The reality isn't always the same. Wish us luck, and those of you who pray, please pray for our return home on Friday.
Much Love,
Lisandra.
Ando!
I love it! We haven't been able to come up with a nickname for Alejandro. Alex just doesn't seem to fit him. And he definitely doesn't look to me like what Jim wanted to call him (sorry honey ;-D ). Jim had the honor of choosing his given name, Alejandro, which BTW, I think is a very handsome name for a very handsome boy.
I wanted to find a nickname that worked with his given name and still fit with his hispanic heritage. Someone here suggested "Ando". It fits! I wouldn't have come up with that one.
Sorry honey, he's already answering to it! Love you!!! See you soon!
I wanted to find a nickname that worked with his given name and still fit with his hispanic heritage. Someone here suggested "Ando". It fits! I wouldn't have come up with that one.
Sorry honey, he's already answering to it! Love you!!! See you soon!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Day 41, A Wonderfully Fabulous Day
Oh my gosh, but what a beautifully fabulous day, and it's only half over. The weather is gorgeous, about 72 degrees. Yesterday, we went to get Alejandro's Ecuadorian identity card changed to his new last name. Come to find out, no one EVER changes a minor's name on the card in Cuenca, usually only women who marry and change their name. Makes sense. The office had to call the main office in Quito to fly over the appropriate forms on the noon flight so we could get this done. They called our rep at 1:30 to say it was in, and off we were after Annie came home from school at 2pm.
The rep had gone ahead at 1:30pm with Alejandro to the office to get started on the process. She had a 5:30 pm flight booked to Quito so she can complete what process is necessary for us there. She absolutely needed certified color copies of the identity card to take with her. Apparently, there is a Dragon Lady there too, and I did not hear that from the rep, for the record. Fortunately, I don't have to go. She's going to fend that one for me. How do you thank a person like this that does so much for the good of your family? I certainly don't know.
One hour later, we were out of there with the new card, handsome picture inserted and tiny figerprint in the "signature" box. Next, to the Notary Public to complete the "Permission to Leave the Country With a Minor" form. Another hour later, we were out of there and in the middle of Historical Cuenca, a beautiful part of the city. I knew the choice spot for ice cream was and that was our next stop. Annie had been so patient waiting through all this, at least, as patient as a five year old could be. Thank goodness I always pack snacks in my bag, no matter how long or short I think a day will be.
Next, we walked around Parque Calderon, a beautiul square in the center of town. The kids picked flowers, chased birds, awed at dogs, and ran their sillies off. Cab ride home, because although it's about a mile and a half, it would feel like 20 miles carrying a hefty two year old. I love riding in the car in the city. I always enjoy seeing it that way. I wish I had a car here, but without the crazy traffic. Too much to ask?
Today, the second attorney here, the one that represented us at the Audiencia with the judge, picked us up at 7:45 after Annie was off to school...which BTW, she's in trouble...according to my neighbor, she left this morning with a man in a "white SUV" to school. Now, the bus driver owns a white SUV and the bus looks to be on it's last legs, so he could have picked up the kids that way instead. The bus was already 25 minutes late so it was possible. Also, a mom of one of Annie's classmates owns a white SUV and has dropped her daughter off to the front of our apartment so she can pick up the bus with Annie. ??? SO WHO THE H--- DID MY BABY LEAVE WITH THIS MORNING???
I was forced to give it 10 minutes and then call the school to ask, "WTF???". The office lady immediately went to get Annie and within seconds had Annie on the phone for me.
Sooooooo, except for the 10 minutes of sheer terror, IT'S BEEN A BEAUTIFULLY WONDERFUL DAY :-D
Ok, back to the good parts...Immigration office for the passport...soooooo damn happy that the reps know their way around these offices and the beaurocracy. We were first in line, first to be attended, first out of there...again, with cute picture inserted and tiny fingerprint for the signature.
We're done in Cuenca! I'm not sure who was more excited, the rep or me. He was genuinely so happy to see our process here come to an end, and Alejandro go to a good home. He immediately called our primary rep to tell her we were done. She's in Quito as I said, although she lives in Cuenca. She spends a lot of time away from her own family, to help the families of others.
And now for the highlight of my day!!! I'm so excited I don't know where to begin..paused 'cause I couldn't even type...As I mentioned very early in my lengthy blog posts that some of Alejandro's housemates also already had families that were in the process and soon to pick them up. I was elated, and yet sadenned. Elated that some of those beautiful children were also going to have a family soon, and sadenned because Alejandro would likely never see them again.
I asked the social worker at OSSO how would it be possible to be in touch with the other families. I told her to please give my contact info to any of the families that came to pick up their children, if they were interested at all. These kids were Alejandro's first brothers and sisters and who would have the heart to keep them apart, if there were ways possible to know eachother in the future? Certainly, not I.
As we were driving down the street from Immigration, we drove by a famiy that struck my eye. They caught my attention because the parents were very blonde, and the child was, obviously, not. He looked like my handsome little guy. So I said to the attorney/rep and his secretary in the car, "Hey, that was an adoptive family too. What are the chances of that?". Our car stopped for a light and I kept peering my head out the window, to the point of a neck cramp to take a look at the cute little guy. I can't pass one up. Fortunately, it was a long light, and I recognized that it was "JA" , one of Alejandro's house mates!!! I started yelling, "Hola JA" which of course got his parent's attention. "HOLA!!!! Aqui esta Alejandro!!! Hola!!!" I waved Alejandro's hand for him, because he had no idea what was going on. The couple recognized the rep (he's their rep too, although they are a family from Italy). They caught on and started waving back and blowing kisses! JA recognized Alejandro and was notably very excited to see him. It was so amazing!
I'm sorry, but what are the chances that they would be on that street, at that moment, where I would notice them? Those of you who know me well know I have a very strong faith in God. This was his hand at work. I had wished and prayed for them, and there they were. Thank you God for loving me, and most importantly, loving my son.
I gave the rep my contact info and asked the rep to give it to them when he next saw them. He gave me their cell phone number...they're not too polititcally correct about that kind of thing here. I called them and they were equally as exctied to hear from me as I was to speak with them. We agreed to meet midmorning at Parque de las Madres (Mother's Park). HOW BEAUTIFUL!
I recognized them instantly, as they were the only other couple with a stroller. Women here carry their children everywhere, for very long distances. Strollers are considered too expensive. I must be seen as whimp because I don't carry my 27 pound two year old for miles at a time. Sometimes, ok, frequently, you see the mom with the child in a sling on her back, then carrying full gigantic bags or baskets in her hands. They all walk with a hunch, and walk very fast. I LOVE my $15, el cheapo umbrella stroller. It's not always easy to use on the cobblestone streets of Cuenca, but it's always easier to use than not. It's also handy for hanging market bags full of fruits and vegetables. But, I digress...
We, the adults, had a wonderful get together. Somewhere between the moderate amount of Spanish they spoke, and the small amount of Italian I remember from being stationed in Aviano for three years, we had a spectacular time. I don't know if you call it "Itangnol" or "Spataliano", but you get the picture. God is good.
Alejandro was none-too-happy to see his little buddy. I don't get it. JA was thrilled to see Alejandro, but not the other way around. My little guy really withdraws when I interact with people he doesn't know. He fluorishes with the people he's gotten to know, like our neighbors and the staff here though. That's promising. It just takes him time. Jim and I always say, "I hate to wish my life away, but...", but I would love to fast forward to one year from now. It's a passing feeling.
I showed them to lunch at the nearby Millenium Mall. They were so interested in keeping in touch with us, that I knew, this had to be the hand of God. We shopped for some presents and caught two cabs home. Alejandro then cried as soon as their cab pulled away. I felt so sorry. It broke my heart, as I'm sure it did his. He actually did want to be near his friend, he just hadn't shown it until then. Ohhhhh.
Well, I didn't mean to put a damper of an end to a beautifully wonderful day. My darling daughter is home right now, and was just in time to speak to Daddy via skype. I'm so lucky. Really.
Life is Good.
Love,
Lisandra
The rep had gone ahead at 1:30pm with Alejandro to the office to get started on the process. She had a 5:30 pm flight booked to Quito so she can complete what process is necessary for us there. She absolutely needed certified color copies of the identity card to take with her. Apparently, there is a Dragon Lady there too, and I did not hear that from the rep, for the record. Fortunately, I don't have to go. She's going to fend that one for me. How do you thank a person like this that does so much for the good of your family? I certainly don't know.
One hour later, we were out of there with the new card, handsome picture inserted and tiny figerprint in the "signature" box. Next, to the Notary Public to complete the "Permission to Leave the Country With a Minor" form. Another hour later, we were out of there and in the middle of Historical Cuenca, a beautiful part of the city. I knew the choice spot for ice cream was and that was our next stop. Annie had been so patient waiting through all this, at least, as patient as a five year old could be. Thank goodness I always pack snacks in my bag, no matter how long or short I think a day will be.
Next, we walked around Parque Calderon, a beautiul square in the center of town. The kids picked flowers, chased birds, awed at dogs, and ran their sillies off. Cab ride home, because although it's about a mile and a half, it would feel like 20 miles carrying a hefty two year old. I love riding in the car in the city. I always enjoy seeing it that way. I wish I had a car here, but without the crazy traffic. Too much to ask?
Today, the second attorney here, the one that represented us at the Audiencia with the judge, picked us up at 7:45 after Annie was off to school...which BTW, she's in trouble...according to my neighbor, she left this morning with a man in a "white SUV" to school. Now, the bus driver owns a white SUV and the bus looks to be on it's last legs, so he could have picked up the kids that way instead. The bus was already 25 minutes late so it was possible. Also, a mom of one of Annie's classmates owns a white SUV and has dropped her daughter off to the front of our apartment so she can pick up the bus with Annie. ??? SO WHO THE H--- DID MY BABY LEAVE WITH THIS MORNING???
I was forced to give it 10 minutes and then call the school to ask, "WTF???". The office lady immediately went to get Annie and within seconds had Annie on the phone for me.
Sooooooo, except for the 10 minutes of sheer terror, IT'S BEEN A BEAUTIFULLY WONDERFUL DAY :-D
Ok, back to the good parts...Immigration office for the passport...soooooo damn happy that the reps know their way around these offices and the beaurocracy. We were first in line, first to be attended, first out of there...again, with cute picture inserted and tiny fingerprint for the signature.
We're done in Cuenca! I'm not sure who was more excited, the rep or me. He was genuinely so happy to see our process here come to an end, and Alejandro go to a good home. He immediately called our primary rep to tell her we were done. She's in Quito as I said, although she lives in Cuenca. She spends a lot of time away from her own family, to help the families of others.
And now for the highlight of my day!!! I'm so excited I don't know where to begin..paused 'cause I couldn't even type...As I mentioned very early in my lengthy blog posts that some of Alejandro's housemates also already had families that were in the process and soon to pick them up. I was elated, and yet sadenned. Elated that some of those beautiful children were also going to have a family soon, and sadenned because Alejandro would likely never see them again.
I asked the social worker at OSSO how would it be possible to be in touch with the other families. I told her to please give my contact info to any of the families that came to pick up their children, if they were interested at all. These kids were Alejandro's first brothers and sisters and who would have the heart to keep them apart, if there were ways possible to know eachother in the future? Certainly, not I.
As we were driving down the street from Immigration, we drove by a famiy that struck my eye. They caught my attention because the parents were very blonde, and the child was, obviously, not. He looked like my handsome little guy. So I said to the attorney/rep and his secretary in the car, "Hey, that was an adoptive family too. What are the chances of that?". Our car stopped for a light and I kept peering my head out the window, to the point of a neck cramp to take a look at the cute little guy. I can't pass one up. Fortunately, it was a long light, and I recognized that it was "JA" , one of Alejandro's house mates!!! I started yelling, "Hola JA" which of course got his parent's attention. "HOLA!!!! Aqui esta Alejandro!!! Hola!!!" I waved Alejandro's hand for him, because he had no idea what was going on. The couple recognized the rep (he's their rep too, although they are a family from Italy). They caught on and started waving back and blowing kisses! JA recognized Alejandro and was notably very excited to see him. It was so amazing!
I'm sorry, but what are the chances that they would be on that street, at that moment, where I would notice them? Those of you who know me well know I have a very strong faith in God. This was his hand at work. I had wished and prayed for them, and there they were. Thank you God for loving me, and most importantly, loving my son.
I gave the rep my contact info and asked the rep to give it to them when he next saw them. He gave me their cell phone number...they're not too polititcally correct about that kind of thing here. I called them and they were equally as exctied to hear from me as I was to speak with them. We agreed to meet midmorning at Parque de las Madres (Mother's Park). HOW BEAUTIFUL!
I recognized them instantly, as they were the only other couple with a stroller. Women here carry their children everywhere, for very long distances. Strollers are considered too expensive. I must be seen as whimp because I don't carry my 27 pound two year old for miles at a time. Sometimes, ok, frequently, you see the mom with the child in a sling on her back, then carrying full gigantic bags or baskets in her hands. They all walk with a hunch, and walk very fast. I LOVE my $15, el cheapo umbrella stroller. It's not always easy to use on the cobblestone streets of Cuenca, but it's always easier to use than not. It's also handy for hanging market bags full of fruits and vegetables. But, I digress...
We, the adults, had a wonderful get together. Somewhere between the moderate amount of Spanish they spoke, and the small amount of Italian I remember from being stationed in Aviano for three years, we had a spectacular time. I don't know if you call it "Itangnol" or "Spataliano", but you get the picture. God is good.
Alejandro was none-too-happy to see his little buddy. I don't get it. JA was thrilled to see Alejandro, but not the other way around. My little guy really withdraws when I interact with people he doesn't know. He fluorishes with the people he's gotten to know, like our neighbors and the staff here though. That's promising. It just takes him time. Jim and I always say, "I hate to wish my life away, but...", but I would love to fast forward to one year from now. It's a passing feeling.
I showed them to lunch at the nearby Millenium Mall. They were so interested in keeping in touch with us, that I knew, this had to be the hand of God. We shopped for some presents and caught two cabs home. Alejandro then cried as soon as their cab pulled away. I felt so sorry. It broke my heart, as I'm sure it did his. He actually did want to be near his friend, he just hadn't shown it until then. Ohhhhh.
Well, I didn't mean to put a damper of an end to a beautifully wonderful day. My darling daughter is home right now, and was just in time to speak to Daddy via skype. I'm so lucky. Really.
Life is Good.
Love,
Lisandra
Monday, March 1, 2010
A Mother's Prayer by Mary A. Loberg.
A Mother's Prayer
Help me dear Lord, as a mother, I pray
And bless these hands folded in prayer today;
May they be ever strong as they guide, as they teach,
Being never too far for a child to reach.
May they never, with selfishness, try to dissuade,
Nor too quickly punish, nor too slowly aid.
May they point out the pleasures in laughter and song,
And may they show, wisely, the right from the wrong,
So that one day I'll know that I've helped all I can
To make her a woman, to make him a man.
Amen
Help me dear Lord, as a mother, I pray
And bless these hands folded in prayer today;
May they be ever strong as they guide, as they teach,
Being never too far for a child to reach.
May they never, with selfishness, try to dissuade,
Nor too quickly punish, nor too slowly aid.
May they point out the pleasures in laughter and song,
And may they show, wisely, the right from the wrong,
So that one day I'll know that I've helped all I can
To make her a woman, to make him a man.
Amen
Day 38- On the Downhill Slide
Yesterday morning I had the best wake-up in as long as I can remember. I had asked Annie if she could play a video and play with Alex in the morning so I could get a few extra minutes of rest. I burn the candle at both ends most nights.
At about 7am, I heard my bedroom door open and then close again. So, I kept one ear awake. After about an hour, I feel a cold little nose on my cheek. Annie was waking me up the way I do her most mornings...with tons of little kisses. It was so awesome. She said, "Mommy, I helped the baby go pee-pee, and I got us two slices of cheese for breakfast, but I can't reach anything else and we're hungry." Well, how could I be mad about that?
The day was gloomy, so we spent it at the mall arcade and moon bounces with her buddy's family from next door. After we were back home, Alex found a box that I received a package in. He sat in it and smiled a huge smile and motioned to be pushed. He knows the box game! It's fun to learn about what he likes and what makes him happy. He and Annie went on to play for an hour with the box, pushing eachother around.
We've had our challenges too this weekend. Annie tries to help him and keep him from getting into things he shouldn't. What he hasn't figured out yet, is that Annie speaks. His housemates at the children's home didn't. He usually waits until I am out of site, and then hits Annie, pinches her or pulls her pig tails. Yesterday, he had my cell phone in his hands. Annie told him it wasn't a toy and he shouldn't have it. I heard the conversation and came in the room to take the phone away. He waited until I was out of the room, then hit Annie. I've told her to come tell me immediately about that kind of behavior so that we can work on correcting it. I don't tolerate it and I don't think Annie needs to either. I scolded him and put him in time-out in his bed. He's used to time-out, I saw the Tia's do it at the home. After, he goes over to Annie and hugs her to "apologize". Hopefully, this will get better.
Today I received some relatively good news. Not only do I not have to go to Quito, but I don't have to go to Sta. Isabella to get his birth certificate either. The storms here have been pretty bad lately, and I suspect they're even worse on the mountain roads. I was going to ask my neighbor to watch Annie after school if we weren't home yet, but the rep is concerned that we may delayed due to washed out roads or something. For the same reason, it's not good to take her with us. The rep called the birth registrar office and received permission to just take a Power of Attorney from me to get the certificate. Great! It's about a two hour drive there and a long wait for the certificate, with a two year old. Not to mention, I would be worried about Annie back here without me. I can't help it. This works out better for everyone, probably even the rep. I'm sure it's easier for her not to have us along with the worries.
Lisandra
At about 7am, I heard my bedroom door open and then close again. So, I kept one ear awake. After about an hour, I feel a cold little nose on my cheek. Annie was waking me up the way I do her most mornings...with tons of little kisses. It was so awesome. She said, "Mommy, I helped the baby go pee-pee, and I got us two slices of cheese for breakfast, but I can't reach anything else and we're hungry." Well, how could I be mad about that?
The day was gloomy, so we spent it at the mall arcade and moon bounces with her buddy's family from next door. After we were back home, Alex found a box that I received a package in. He sat in it and smiled a huge smile and motioned to be pushed. He knows the box game! It's fun to learn about what he likes and what makes him happy. He and Annie went on to play for an hour with the box, pushing eachother around.
We've had our challenges too this weekend. Annie tries to help him and keep him from getting into things he shouldn't. What he hasn't figured out yet, is that Annie speaks. His housemates at the children's home didn't. He usually waits until I am out of site, and then hits Annie, pinches her or pulls her pig tails. Yesterday, he had my cell phone in his hands. Annie told him it wasn't a toy and he shouldn't have it. I heard the conversation and came in the room to take the phone away. He waited until I was out of the room, then hit Annie. I've told her to come tell me immediately about that kind of behavior so that we can work on correcting it. I don't tolerate it and I don't think Annie needs to either. I scolded him and put him in time-out in his bed. He's used to time-out, I saw the Tia's do it at the home. After, he goes over to Annie and hugs her to "apologize". Hopefully, this will get better.
Today I received some relatively good news. Not only do I not have to go to Quito, but I don't have to go to Sta. Isabella to get his birth certificate either. The storms here have been pretty bad lately, and I suspect they're even worse on the mountain roads. I was going to ask my neighbor to watch Annie after school if we weren't home yet, but the rep is concerned that we may delayed due to washed out roads or something. For the same reason, it's not good to take her with us. The rep called the birth registrar office and received permission to just take a Power of Attorney from me to get the certificate. Great! It's about a two hour drive there and a long wait for the certificate, with a two year old. Not to mention, I would be worried about Annie back here without me. I can't help it. This works out better for everyone, probably even the rep. I'm sure it's easier for her not to have us along with the worries.
Lisandra
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Day 34 - Back at Home
Jim here. Well, I know Lisandra and the kids have had a long day. It's been a long day as well here at home. Lots to do to get ready for the arrival. Today's is Saturday, and I am hosting a national conference at work next Tuesday through Sunday. So I have little time to finish getting Alejandro's room ready.
Today was the day to finish cleaning out the room (which is a small bedroom I used to store all my work clothes, get dressed for work, and generally store everything else that can't go outside in the shed).
With the help of Poppa, Grandma, and Uncle Tony we cleaned out everything, repaired drywall, painted the entire room from baseboards to the ceilings, cleaned the carpets, and put together the toddler bed! We're all exhausted, but glad we accomplished so much today.
On to tomorrow -- shampoo the carpets, put shelves back on the walls, hang the picture of a monkey Annie drew for baby brother, and other stuff.
Then I'll write the speech I have to give Monday to a group of 300 . . .
Today was the day to finish cleaning out the room (which is a small bedroom I used to store all my work clothes, get dressed for work, and generally store everything else that can't go outside in the shed).
With the help of Poppa, Grandma, and Uncle Tony we cleaned out everything, repaired drywall, painted the entire room from baseboards to the ceilings, cleaned the carpets, and put together the toddler bed! We're all exhausted, but glad we accomplished so much today.
On to tomorrow -- shampoo the carpets, put shelves back on the walls, hang the picture of a monkey Annie drew for baby brother, and other stuff.
Then I'll write the speech I have to give Monday to a group of 300 . . .
Friday, February 26, 2010
St. John's Lutheran Church, Aspen Hill, MD
How wonderful is this?!?! My mother in law just emailed me that our church said a prayer for our family last Sunday. That must have been the extra special presence in the judge's office on Monday, that made everything go so well.
Thank you my beautiful extended family. I knew we had picked a good "home" with you. I look forward to raising our son to know and Love the Lord, as we have done with our daughter.
Children are but the angels that God lets us borrow.
Love, Lisandra.
Thank you my beautiful extended family. I knew we had picked a good "home" with you. I look forward to raising our son to know and Love the Lord, as we have done with our daughter.
Children are but the angels that God lets us borrow.
Love, Lisandra.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Warm hearts, smooches and snuggles.
Looooooong walk to the post office today, to find out they closed for lunch. It was definitely longer than an mile and a half. I walked around with Alejandro for 45 minutes until they were due to open and picked up a few surprises for Annalise on the way. Back at the post office I waited another 45 minutes until they ACTUALLY openned. This is the only post office in the entire city of over 450,000 people.
We bumped into some of the OSSO volunteers there. They first recognized Alejandro and called him by name. He went from being happy, funny and giggly to very withdrawn when they were cooing over him. I think I just got a glimpse of what our initial time will be like once home in the states. Right after they left, he resumed his happy, funny and giggly self. Now I understand better why it's recommended to stay home and avoid friends and family for about a month after we return home. A good friend told me to expect some regression then too.
At the post office, another friend was great to send me what I needed for the kids, and was so sweet to add some additional goodies for them. I'm so lucky. We took a cab back to the apartment because Alejandro had been very well behaved so far. But, it was past lunch and nap time and I was living on borrowed time. Back home, our yummy delivered lunch was waiting for us. The staff had taken it up to our apartment for me. Lunch. Nap for baby. Annie gets home and gets to enjoy all her goodies from the day. Homework, then playtime.
Today was our first skype call from daddy. The kids have done super with his return back home so far. I'm expecting a melt-down from both of them sometime, though. The best part of my day today was our skype call. Grandma joined in and it was nice to see Jim to be happy home and near his parents. We all miss them very much.
Annalise was more interested in her new...ahem...$1 "unofficial" copy of Barbie and the Three Muskateers. Just one of her surprise goodies today. And, for the record, my friend did NOT send it to me.
Ok, back to the skype call and best part of my day. Jim is on the video screen and Alejandro comes running to the computer. He loves skype calls. Grandma joins Jim and I tell him, "Abuela". He repeats, "Lela" and kisses the screen. I love it!!! He kisses Lela and Daddy over and over again. Aaaaawwwwe. We all had so much fun with that. He was very kissy this evening. He kisses my hand occasionally, like a little gentleman. So sweet. It makes up for the difficult times.
An hour after bedtime Alejandro was still awake in bed when I went in to smooch them both. I wonder what goes through his mind when he lays there quietly. I laid with him a while, holding hands, smooching, staring at his big beautiful brown eyes and carressing him. I don't know how much of that he's had in his life. I'm so glad I get to do it now. He's so worth this terrible ordeal we have been through the last 16 months, and especially the last five weeks.
Warm hearts, smooches and snuggles. Oddly, for some reason it reminds me that I really miss our church.
Goodnight.
Love, Lisandra.
We bumped into some of the OSSO volunteers there. They first recognized Alejandro and called him by name. He went from being happy, funny and giggly to very withdrawn when they were cooing over him. I think I just got a glimpse of what our initial time will be like once home in the states. Right after they left, he resumed his happy, funny and giggly self. Now I understand better why it's recommended to stay home and avoid friends and family for about a month after we return home. A good friend told me to expect some regression then too.
At the post office, another friend was great to send me what I needed for the kids, and was so sweet to add some additional goodies for them. I'm so lucky. We took a cab back to the apartment because Alejandro had been very well behaved so far. But, it was past lunch and nap time and I was living on borrowed time. Back home, our yummy delivered lunch was waiting for us. The staff had taken it up to our apartment for me. Lunch. Nap for baby. Annie gets home and gets to enjoy all her goodies from the day. Homework, then playtime.
Today was our first skype call from daddy. The kids have done super with his return back home so far. I'm expecting a melt-down from both of them sometime, though. The best part of my day today was our skype call. Grandma joined in and it was nice to see Jim to be happy home and near his parents. We all miss them very much.
Annalise was more interested in her new...ahem...$1 "unofficial" copy of Barbie and the Three Muskateers. Just one of her surprise goodies today. And, for the record, my friend did NOT send it to me.
Ok, back to the skype call and best part of my day. Jim is on the video screen and Alejandro comes running to the computer. He loves skype calls. Grandma joins Jim and I tell him, "Abuela". He repeats, "Lela" and kisses the screen. I love it!!! He kisses Lela and Daddy over and over again. Aaaaawwwwe. We all had so much fun with that. He was very kissy this evening. He kisses my hand occasionally, like a little gentleman. So sweet. It makes up for the difficult times.
An hour after bedtime Alejandro was still awake in bed when I went in to smooch them both. I wonder what goes through his mind when he lays there quietly. I laid with him a while, holding hands, smooching, staring at his big beautiful brown eyes and carressing him. I don't know how much of that he's had in his life. I'm so glad I get to do it now. He's so worth this terrible ordeal we have been through the last 16 months, and especially the last five weeks.
Warm hearts, smooches and snuggles. Oddly, for some reason it reminds me that I really miss our church.
Goodnight.
Love, Lisandra.
And she loves her school bus and buddies.
Alejandro and I had a good hearty breakfast of scrambled eggs, bread (he now likes PBJ on it), cereal, milk and watermelon. He wakes up so happy everday. Our rep stopped by this morning to get our POA and go do some legwork on our behalf. Soon, we'll get ready to go to the post office to pick up my package. It's nice to know that you can receive a package here. I think it took about two weeks to arrive. It's about a mile and a half walk to the post office. I think I'll just pack some snacks and stay out for the day. It helps that we bought a cheap local phone so I can be reached by Annie's school or our reps, when needed. He doesn't know it yet but I made his favorite no-bake oatmeal cookies. His face lights up and he claps when he sees them.
Jim arrived home safely last night. Thanks be to God.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Day 33- When it rains, it pours, literally...but then comes the sunshine.
Well, first let me start with some of the great stuff, and there is great stuff. Monday we had our court appearance, and as you know now, it went well. We dressed up. Met a new attorney that was assigned to us. Apparently, our attorney could not represent us for that because she is employed by the agency. Not to worry, though. All the new attorney did was be present. We didn't need him to "do" anything except sign the papers on the dotted line, so to speak. I made sure to ask him the process before we enterred the room, so that I was sure not to repeat our last meeting. The court appointed translator arrived. Everybody smiled, I even detected a small glimpse of a smile on the judge as we concluded.
Alejandro was still feeling a little under the weather either due to the Friday's vaccinations or due to our altitude changes from Cuenca to Quito and back to Cuenca. I know I was feeling very poorly. BTW, I received a package at the post office from my wonderful friend that sent me some over-the-counter children's motrin and sudafed I can't get here. I exhausted my supply with the kids colds, bronchitis and recently, immunizations. THANK YOU!!! You can't find these OTC in Cuenca, local law. I think it's different in Quito, because I saw some ibuprofen there.
Today is a gorgeous day. Absolutely gorgeous. The weather could not be more perfect. We're enjoying it from the apartment grounds because I didn't want to venture far from home...I managed to develop a bad stomach the last two days and I don't know how. Everyone else is fine, once again, and thank goodness.
Another great thing I discovered today is that the apartment owner has food delivered to her daily. She says its very good, freshly made and inexpensive. I jumped on that bandwagon, knowing well that she would know the best place to receive this kind of service from. No cooking, fewer dishes, fresh and yummy? Oh yeah, I'm on it. It was delicious and very geneous too. I thought two portions would be enough for myself and the kiddos, but it's actually too much, so tomorrow I will ask for just one portion. It had a potato and cheese soup called Locro, white rice (always), meatballs stewed in a yummy tomato sauce with fresh peas and carrots, and a banana puff pastry. I shared with the neighbor, Titima, who's Thai. Her son and Annalise have become good buddies, although the boy doesn't speak much English and almost no Spanish. Titima is married to an American and they moved here from Thailand three months ago to buy a pig farm. Wow. Our families have become quite dependent on eachother for support and we will miss them when we leave.
Yesterday, our reps husband came to take Jim to sign a power of attorney giving me permission to complete the rest of the process. From here on, he doesn't have to be present, as long as I have a power of attorney. The two of them went to the notary public and were told they needed to bring an official translator with them, since Jim did not understand 100% of what he was reading or being told. He says he understood about 90%. Sooooooo, what was to be a 15 minute process, took about 4 hours before they could schedule both the translator and the notary public at once. I wasn't allowed to be the translator, because I am the person receiving the POA.
All throughout the day, I worked on getting Jim flights back to home. He has worked so hard trying to manage things from here with poor internet reception, skype and occasionally very expensive phone calls. He's tried everything to do the best he can, more than anyone will be aware of. He really needed to get home. No one here in the process seems to really understand that, because they would be able to take off of work for however long they had to. Crazy Americans, we are.
After hours of my being online and on the phone, Jim had to finally go to the airport to finalize flights. The first available flight out with an exchange ticket would be for March 7th. Oh no! So, we had the privilege of buying a new ticket with a different airline at peak price. Lovely. This awaits me in a couple of weeks.
He had to fly to Quito last night, so he could make a connection today, and praise be, let him get home soundly.
A little while ago, the reps husand dropped off the POA. I told him it was made of gold. He laughed. Along with that we received some bad news, bad to me anyway. Sighhhhh...he just found out I have the "privilege" of going to Quito to be interviewed by some hoop-te-ha before I can go to the embassy in Guayaquil to get the little prince's final get out of dodge papers. This adds another plane trip, another two days (to the 2- 2 1/2 weeks left, and more stress to the process. Originally, we weren't going to have to go to Quito, only the families that were already in Quito were made to go. But, as many things keep changing in this fairly new process in Ecuador, there is now a new hoop-te-ha in that position that wants see everyone.
Lastly, the judge's house had an "emergency" during a HUGE hail storm we had two days ago...so...still waiting on him to sign off on the papers. Literally, when it rains, it pours.
Looking out the window at the beautiful sunshine and awaiting my princess from school any minute. Both reasons to smile, among many. (***I wrote this much earlier today***)
Love, Lisandra
P.S. The photo is of Annalise giving a brother a "haircut"...this could be bad...better hide the real scissors.
Today is a gorgeous day. Absolutely gorgeous. The weather could not be more perfect. We're enjoying it from the apartment grounds because I didn't want to venture far from home...I managed to develop a bad stomach the last two days and I don't know how. Everyone else is fine, once again, and thank goodness.
Another great thing I discovered today is that the apartment owner has food delivered to her daily. She says its very good, freshly made and inexpensive. I jumped on that bandwagon, knowing well that she would know the best place to receive this kind of service from. No cooking, fewer dishes, fresh and yummy? Oh yeah, I'm on it. It was delicious and very geneous too. I thought two portions would be enough for myself and the kiddos, but it's actually too much, so tomorrow I will ask for just one portion. It had a potato and cheese soup called Locro, white rice (always), meatballs stewed in a yummy tomato sauce with fresh peas and carrots, and a banana puff pastry. I shared with the neighbor, Titima, who's Thai. Her son and Annalise have become good buddies, although the boy doesn't speak much English and almost no Spanish. Titima is married to an American and they moved here from Thailand three months ago to buy a pig farm. Wow. Our families have become quite dependent on eachother for support and we will miss them when we leave.
Yesterday, our reps husband came to take Jim to sign a power of attorney giving me permission to complete the rest of the process. From here on, he doesn't have to be present, as long as I have a power of attorney. The two of them went to the notary public and were told they needed to bring an official translator with them, since Jim did not understand 100% of what he was reading or being told. He says he understood about 90%. Sooooooo, what was to be a 15 minute process, took about 4 hours before they could schedule both the translator and the notary public at once. I wasn't allowed to be the translator, because I am the person receiving the POA.
All throughout the day, I worked on getting Jim flights back to home. He has worked so hard trying to manage things from here with poor internet reception, skype and occasionally very expensive phone calls. He's tried everything to do the best he can, more than anyone will be aware of. He really needed to get home. No one here in the process seems to really understand that, because they would be able to take off of work for however long they had to. Crazy Americans, we are.
After hours of my being online and on the phone, Jim had to finally go to the airport to finalize flights. The first available flight out with an exchange ticket would be for March 7th. Oh no! So, we had the privilege of buying a new ticket with a different airline at peak price. Lovely. This awaits me in a couple of weeks.
He had to fly to Quito last night, so he could make a connection today, and praise be, let him get home soundly.
A little while ago, the reps husand dropped off the POA. I told him it was made of gold. He laughed. Along with that we received some bad news, bad to me anyway. Sighhhhh...he just found out I have the "privilege" of going to Quito to be interviewed by some hoop-te-ha before I can go to the embassy in Guayaquil to get the little prince's final get out of dodge papers. This adds another plane trip, another two days (to the 2- 2 1/2 weeks left, and more stress to the process. Originally, we weren't going to have to go to Quito, only the families that were already in Quito were made to go. But, as many things keep changing in this fairly new process in Ecuador, there is now a new hoop-te-ha in that position that wants see everyone.
Lastly, the judge's house had an "emergency" during a HUGE hail storm we had two days ago...so...still waiting on him to sign off on the papers. Literally, when it rains, it pours.
Looking out the window at the beautiful sunshine and awaiting my princess from school any minute. Both reasons to smile, among many. (***I wrote this much earlier today***)
Love, Lisandra
P.S. The photo is of Annalise giving a brother a "haircut"...this could be bad...better hide the real scissors.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Day 31- It's Official!!!
Friday, February 19, 2010
Took my little guy to receive the rest of his two-year old immunizations this morning. He immediately recognized the grounds of the children's home when we enterred the gates and started to whimper. I'm not sure why. It seemed like a sad whimper like he didn't want to be there, but then he saw the grounds keeper, a man who takes wonderful care of the grounds as well as the facility and staff. Alejandro was happy to see him. He was especially happy to see the social worker that he has known all his life. He led her to her office where apparently he always likes to look up at the mountains. Then he turned around and waved at me and said, "Ciao". The little stinker! He thought that was funny.
We walked a couple of blocks on the main street to a doctor who sees the children from the homes when needed. Her normal office visit costs $30 but only charges OSSO $3 for their visits. That is so awesome! He took the checkup like a champ. She didn't charge us because she was so glad to see one of the children find a forever family. He's managed to gain some weight while he has been with us, even though I don't feel he eats up to his previous quantities. Obviously, it's enough!We then took a taxi to the health office for immunizations and there were no less than thirty or so families waiting to be seen. Again, the office knows the social workers from the children's homes well and agreed to help us out, and pass us through. Once again, they were so happy to see one of the children with a new mommy, that they were thrilled to let us go ahead of everyone else. They answered all my questions about his immunization status so I can relay the information and documentation to the pediatrician at home accurately. He took one shot like a champ. The second really hurt bad...yellow fever. I told them that one isn't required in the states and asked if we could skip it, but they said it will be required to leave the country. Poor little guy!
We were able to get a flight to Quito in the afternoon and our rep helped us with a recommendation of a place to stay. It's technically a hostal but if it is, it's the nicest hostal I've ever seen. More of a hotel. Looks like it dates back to the 1920's. Great old pics of the city in the hallways from the turn of the century. I always love looking at pictures like those.
Poor little guy started not feeling well during dinner. We can only assume that given he received his shots today and by the way he was crying insessantly. He especially cried when his bottom was touched or he was made to sit down. We figured it out. He's hard to figure out sometimes given that he doesnt' yet have much of a vocabulary. We're working on that. He uses a couple of signs we have taught him in the meantime, the most important one being "bathroom". I couldn't get him to say yes or no to whether or not he was in pain. He just cried. Jim and I felt bad that we hadn't figured it out sooner. I had given him a dose of children's motrin after his shots, but he was due another dose.
We just came back to the hotel, rather than go out for the early evening. We held and rocked him, gave him a juice he had wanted throughout dinner and then I laid with him until he fell asleep. Hopefully he will feel much better tomorrow.
Annie said the greatest thing today, she said, "I thought I would be jealous of my new baby brother but I'm not, I just love him so much." The wisdom of a five year old.
Love, Lisandra
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Hi. We received good news today! Even tho' our "friendly" judge is out of town this week, he apparently left instructions (or whatever one calls that in legal-speak) and we have been put on his schedule for 10:00am Monday morning for finalization of our adoption! Yay!!! Of course, there is much more to happen after that, but this is THE most important step (as far as we know). He helped us out after all. Again, YAY!!! We celebrated with a pizza dinner...I know, not very Ecuadorian, but we went out for a swanky seafood and wine dinner last night...we needed it after the day we had. The kids LOVE pizza, and Annie is "Ecuadorian food-ed" out. All Jim and I cared about was that we received this call. Soooooo, everyone was happy.
We're trying to get a flight to Quito for the weekend so we can enjoy some kid-friendly sights like the zoo and amusement parks. We put the kids to bed and tried calling the airlines. We didn't realize they closed at 8pm and it was 7:55. We were put on hold and well...you get the picture. We'll try again tomorrow.
Unfortunately, we were hoping to meet up with another family that is currently in Quito in the same stages as we are in our adoption, but they will also be enjoying some time out of town. We'll try again another time. The wonderful thing is that they live only 30-40 minutes from us in the states. I belong to a Yahoo support group for Ecuadorian adoptions and I found another three families, besides ourselves that all live about 40 minutes in one direction or another. How nice is that ?!?!
Sooooo, the plan for Monday...lots of smiles, happiness...and kill 'em with kindness, as very trusted and loved friends have advised. They've never steered me wrong in the lifetime I have known them. I'm so blessed. God is good.
Of note, my five year old recited two prayers to me, in Spanish. She says they recite them everyday in school before lunch. How beautiful. She is not in a religious school at all, yet they recite prayers before meals for those who want to participate. That would never happen back home. Those of you who know me well, know that I have a very strong faith that has seen me through life. I'm so happy she gets to experience this which is so different from school in the states. Amen.
Love,
Lisandra.
We're trying to get a flight to Quito for the weekend so we can enjoy some kid-friendly sights like the zoo and amusement parks. We put the kids to bed and tried calling the airlines. We didn't realize they closed at 8pm and it was 7:55. We were put on hold and well...you get the picture. We'll try again tomorrow.
Unfortunately, we were hoping to meet up with another family that is currently in Quito in the same stages as we are in our adoption, but they will also be enjoying some time out of town. We'll try again another time. The wonderful thing is that they live only 30-40 minutes from us in the states. I belong to a Yahoo support group for Ecuadorian adoptions and I found another three families, besides ourselves that all live about 40 minutes in one direction or another. How nice is that ?!?!
Sooooo, the plan for Monday...lots of smiles, happiness...and kill 'em with kindness, as very trusted and loved friends have advised. They've never steered me wrong in the lifetime I have known them. I'm so blessed. God is good.
Of note, my five year old recited two prayers to me, in Spanish. She says they recite them everyday in school before lunch. How beautiful. She is not in a religious school at all, yet they recite prayers before meals for those who want to participate. That would never happen back home. Those of you who know me well, know that I have a very strong faith that has seen me through life. I'm so happy she gets to experience this which is so different from school in the states. Amen.
Love,
Lisandra.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day 26, Court day to verify signatures- And The Fun Begins...
Ok. That did not go as smoothly as it could have. Unfortunately, Jim's and my signatures on our passports did not exactly match our signatures on all the paperwork we have done thus far. Let me 'splain...We were told to sign paperwork as our names are typed. Thus, Christopher James Knotts and Lisandra Rojas-Knotts. HOWEVER...our day to day signatures are abbreviated, i.e. Christopher J. Knotts and LR Knotts Who wants to sign those long names all the time. Sooooooo, this was almost a no-go, because signatures did not match our supporting documents. Who knew? That irritated the judge.
Then...he asked me a question and I answered. Simple enough. Then he asked Jim question. Now let me say that Jim speaks a fair amount of Spanish, more than he gives himself credit for. HOWEVER, the judge spoke too fast and Jim did not understand, so I proceded to translate. OOOOHHHH NOOOOO! Apparently he was trying to figure out how fluent we both were in Spanish and by my translating, I was totally out of line. WELL EXCUSE THE HELL OUT OF ME FOR TRYING TO BE HELPFUL, LIKE I WAS SUPPOSED TO KNOW WHAT THE $#@! HE WAS DOING! The judge then was very nasty to me, even our attorney was taken by surprise. Oh, and this is supposed to be the lenient judge that she favors. Holy hell, thank goodness we didn't get any of the others.
Well, from then on, I think he had to ask me questions twice, because I was never sure when I was supposed to speak and when not. He's irritated we will need a translator for Jim. This is a surprise to a judge? Grrrrrrrrrrr. Hello??? We''re....ummmmm....American?
That did not go smoothly. We were hoping for an audience with the judge by Friday, no chance. Our attorney already asked. This adds another week to our stay. Oh goodie.
Thank God for little smiles, dimples and giggles that melt your heart. Mmmmmm. :-)
Love,
Lisandra
Then...he asked me a question and I answered. Simple enough. Then he asked Jim question. Now let me say that Jim speaks a fair amount of Spanish, more than he gives himself credit for. HOWEVER, the judge spoke too fast and Jim did not understand, so I proceded to translate. OOOOHHHH NOOOOO! Apparently he was trying to figure out how fluent we both were in Spanish and by my translating, I was totally out of line. WELL EXCUSE THE HELL OUT OF ME FOR TRYING TO BE HELPFUL, LIKE I WAS SUPPOSED TO KNOW WHAT THE $#@! HE WAS DOING! The judge then was very nasty to me, even our attorney was taken by surprise. Oh, and this is supposed to be the lenient judge that she favors. Holy hell, thank goodness we didn't get any of the others.
Well, from then on, I think he had to ask me questions twice, because I was never sure when I was supposed to speak and when not. He's irritated we will need a translator for Jim. This is a surprise to a judge? Grrrrrrrrrrr. Hello??? We''re....ummmmm....American?
That did not go smoothly. We were hoping for an audience with the judge by Friday, no chance. Our attorney already asked. This adds another week to our stay. Oh goodie.
Thank God for little smiles, dimples and giggles that melt your heart. Mmmmmm. :-)
Love,
Lisandra
Monday, February 15, 2010
Day 24, Catching Up
Hi everyone...a quick post before Jim has to take off to work with the computer. We've had a fabulous last few days. The weather has been gorgeous and sunny. A few days ago I ventured into the Diez de Agosto market. It's an indoor farmer's market jam packed with fruits, vegetables, grains, cheeses, and people. Then there is the meat and fish area...yikes! Not very appealing so I stuck to the fruits, veggies, cheese and grains. I felt so out of place. It's very crowded and not much room for a stroller. In addition, I don't know some of the local names for the items I want, how much to buy and how much I should be paying for it. I just winged it and I seem to have done Ok. Everything is so much tastier bought fresh from the market, lots more flavor than back home where things are shipped in while still unripe.
I discoverred more things Alejandro likes as he would point and squeel when he saw something yummy he recognized. Lunch that day consisted of Queso Fresco, fresh baked bread, grapes, mangoes, carrots and a peanut nouget that reminds me of Turron from Puerto Rico. All fresh, all yummy. I was really nervous about the cheese because it's sold in the open, unrefrigerated. Oddly, it seemed cold when I got it. I took a leap of faith that we wouldn't get sick and we've done fine. I can't say I'm looking forward to going there again...it was that intimidating for me. But, for fresh yummy goodies, I'l definitely venture it. I'm sure I'll feel better about it the next time since I know where to find what now.
On Saturday, Annie and I had a girls out day. We ventured on the city bus to Rio Mall where there is an arcade, movie theater and food court. We had lunch and went to the arcade, which has with a bunch of huge moon-bounces. For two dollars, she could bounce in there all day! She's gotten so good at climbing, my prissy little girl. After we went to the movies, also at the mall. Annie chose to see, "The Tooth Fairy" and although the movie was dubbed in Spanish and she couldn't understand all of it, she stayed for the whole thing and enjoyed it. Topped off the day with a big cup of ice cream.
We've been fortunate to have been befriended by another family in our apartment complex. The dad and grandma are American. The wife is Thai, and they have a 5 year old boy that mostly speaks Thai. He and Annalise can't understand a word the other says, but the have a ball playing outside and picking cherries to eat off the trees. Yesterday, the family invited us to go to a new park none of us had been to before. They live here permanently and have a large SUV that we were all able to fit in with the kids in the back cargo area playing all the time...scary for me. Ugh.
Parque del Paraiso was gorgeous! It reminded me a little of the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens when I was growing up, only it also had the river than ran through it with paddle boats (closed yesterday), tons of playsets and gigantic rocks for children to play on and climb. There were musicians throughout the park, and most importatntly, ice cream vendors! There were also other food vendors kiosks there, but we don't frequent them. The food looked awesome, and Annie was starving. She had to wait until we could go over to the mall to eat our usual stuff.
Alejandro is doing super. Potty training is going well, save a couple of accidents, both on daddy! Tee-hee. We have gotten into a good routine. Presently, we are in Carnival season, so Annie is off from from school for the next three days. Wednesday, we'll be going to the court to verify signatures. The next step.
Bye for now!
Lisandra.
I discoverred more things Alejandro likes as he would point and squeel when he saw something yummy he recognized. Lunch that day consisted of Queso Fresco, fresh baked bread, grapes, mangoes, carrots and a peanut nouget that reminds me of Turron from Puerto Rico. All fresh, all yummy. I was really nervous about the cheese because it's sold in the open, unrefrigerated. Oddly, it seemed cold when I got it. I took a leap of faith that we wouldn't get sick and we've done fine. I can't say I'm looking forward to going there again...it was that intimidating for me. But, for fresh yummy goodies, I'l definitely venture it. I'm sure I'll feel better about it the next time since I know where to find what now.
On Saturday, Annie and I had a girls out day. We ventured on the city bus to Rio Mall where there is an arcade, movie theater and food court. We had lunch and went to the arcade, which has with a bunch of huge moon-bounces. For two dollars, she could bounce in there all day! She's gotten so good at climbing, my prissy little girl. After we went to the movies, also at the mall. Annie chose to see, "The Tooth Fairy" and although the movie was dubbed in Spanish and she couldn't understand all of it, she stayed for the whole thing and enjoyed it. Topped off the day with a big cup of ice cream.
We've been fortunate to have been befriended by another family in our apartment complex. The dad and grandma are American. The wife is Thai, and they have a 5 year old boy that mostly speaks Thai. He and Annalise can't understand a word the other says, but the have a ball playing outside and picking cherries to eat off the trees. Yesterday, the family invited us to go to a new park none of us had been to before. They live here permanently and have a large SUV that we were all able to fit in with the kids in the back cargo area playing all the time...scary for me. Ugh.
Parque del Paraiso was gorgeous! It reminded me a little of the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens when I was growing up, only it also had the river than ran through it with paddle boats (closed yesterday), tons of playsets and gigantic rocks for children to play on and climb. There were musicians throughout the park, and most importatntly, ice cream vendors! There were also other food vendors kiosks there, but we don't frequent them. The food looked awesome, and Annie was starving. She had to wait until we could go over to the mall to eat our usual stuff.
Alejandro is doing super. Potty training is going well, save a couple of accidents, both on daddy! Tee-hee. We have gotten into a good routine. Presently, we are in Carnival season, so Annie is off from from school for the next three days. Wednesday, we'll be going to the court to verify signatures. The next step.
Bye for now!
Lisandra.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Day 20, A Gorgeous Day
What a beautiful day today. Absolutely corgeous in Cuenca. Annalise woke up happy, peppy and ready for a day at school. They are practicing today for Carnival. Annie's teacher told the kids to bring in noise-makers, so she decided she wanted to take in two pot tops to use as symbols. Whoa! Today is also the day they will celebrate "Frienship Day" in lieu of Valentine's Day and she was eager to share the valentine's she had made for her new friends.
Jim was off to work at his favorite cafe and little guy dove into breakfast...scrambbled eggs, cheddar cheese (crazy sharp here), bread and his vanilla colada. Spent some time potty training, he started showing interest and I bought him a mini-throne yesterday. That's going remarkably well. Remarkable kid! Bribery with M&Ms works too.
Alejandro took a leisurely stroll down the Avenida 12 de Abril, our street. It runs parallel to Rio Riobamba. About two blocks away, the street is fairly well paved and wide. It made for a wonderful stroll because I could walk about 1 1/2 mile along the riverside. There are places to sit alongside the river all the way, with small foot and traffic bridges.
The walk takes you by the local military hospital, museum of medicine (going to check that one out soon), Parque de las Madres and Millenium Mall. I walked as far as I could before I would have to run for dear life around a traffic circle and turned back towards the mall for lunch. KFC has rice, beans, plantains with the, oh, yea, chicken. A meal he will always eat. And oh-by-the-way, he dived into my chicken drum stick. Turns out he just needs the chicken in whole pieces to recognize it. I've been cooking chicken breasts and chicken tenders which he doesn't recognize and spits out. What a relief. Finally a protein other than eggs and cheese he'll eat. Fish is hit or miss.
I took along his favorite oatmeal cookie balls the Tias taught me to make for him. They're easy to make. Milk, butter, brown sugar cocoa and oatmeal on the stove top into a cookie dough consistency. Scoop up the oatmeal balls, refrigerate and I have one really happy boy with huge dimples.
In addition, we received a call from our attorney/rep. We will go to have a "verification of signatures" next Wednesday at the courthouse and possibly have our "audencia" with the judge by next Friday. The audencia date is not final yet. That's our court appearance for finalization of the adoption.
We found out today that Annie doesn't have school next Mon, Tue, Wed due to the Carnival holiday. At least she's not missing as much as she would have back home due to snow storms. OMG...it's crazy over there. We're hoping to do some traveling and or sight-seeing. It will be difficult to do that last-minute due to the holiday. At the very least, we'll go back to Hosteria Duran to the thermal pools.
Anyway, gorgeous day. Sunny. I actually got a sunburn, inadvertedly. Alejandro was under the stroller canopy so he was ok. We came across a small festival the culinary school had outdoors. I got to taste their coconut carmel cream. Yum! They had live music. Very nice.
Just a great day!
Love, Lisandra
Jim was off to work at his favorite cafe and little guy dove into breakfast...scrambbled eggs, cheddar cheese (crazy sharp here), bread and his vanilla colada. Spent some time potty training, he started showing interest and I bought him a mini-throne yesterday. That's going remarkably well. Remarkable kid! Bribery with M&Ms works too.
Alejandro took a leisurely stroll down the Avenida 12 de Abril, our street. It runs parallel to Rio Riobamba. About two blocks away, the street is fairly well paved and wide. It made for a wonderful stroll because I could walk about 1 1/2 mile along the riverside. There are places to sit alongside the river all the way, with small foot and traffic bridges.
The walk takes you by the local military hospital, museum of medicine (going to check that one out soon), Parque de las Madres and Millenium Mall. I walked as far as I could before I would have to run for dear life around a traffic circle and turned back towards the mall for lunch. KFC has rice, beans, plantains with the, oh, yea, chicken. A meal he will always eat. And oh-by-the-way, he dived into my chicken drum stick. Turns out he just needs the chicken in whole pieces to recognize it. I've been cooking chicken breasts and chicken tenders which he doesn't recognize and spits out. What a relief. Finally a protein other than eggs and cheese he'll eat. Fish is hit or miss.
I took along his favorite oatmeal cookie balls the Tias taught me to make for him. They're easy to make. Milk, butter, brown sugar cocoa and oatmeal on the stove top into a cookie dough consistency. Scoop up the oatmeal balls, refrigerate and I have one really happy boy with huge dimples.
In addition, we received a call from our attorney/rep. We will go to have a "verification of signatures" next Wednesday at the courthouse and possibly have our "audencia" with the judge by next Friday. The audencia date is not final yet. That's our court appearance for finalization of the adoption.
We found out today that Annie doesn't have school next Mon, Tue, Wed due to the Carnival holiday. At least she's not missing as much as she would have back home due to snow storms. OMG...it's crazy over there. We're hoping to do some traveling and or sight-seeing. It will be difficult to do that last-minute due to the holiday. At the very least, we'll go back to Hosteria Duran to the thermal pools.
Anyway, gorgeous day. Sunny. I actually got a sunburn, inadvertedly. Alejandro was under the stroller canopy so he was ok. We came across a small festival the culinary school had outdoors. I got to taste their coconut carmel cream. Yum! They had live music. Very nice.
Just a great day!
Love, Lisandra
Monday, February 8, 2010
Annalise and Alejandro have been bonding well. She looks well after her little brother and he follows her around wanting to mimick what she's doing.
Saturday we went to a park about 10 minutes away called Parque de las Madres, Mother's Park. It has a beautiful statue of a mother with her two kids. Annie and Alex enjoyed the slides, swings and monkey bars. Jim and I almost had a heart attack because the ground is rocky underneath the play sets.
Yesterday we went to the town of Banos, Baths. It is known for it's hot springs that hotels and spas pipe in to their clients. We ventured on to the city bus that stops right outside our apartments. Twenty five cents per adult and kids are free. The Cholas on the bus found Annalise very amusing, with her red streaks in her curly hair. Neither of which you see here. We went to a day resort called Duran. It has two large identical pools, each with a shallow end for kids. The water was bath-water warm! It's changed out twice a week. We bought a few pool toys at a store we call, "Target", named Coral. Most things there are pretty inexpensive, as compared to the mall stores.
People stared at us a lot because Annie has become such a good swimmer, and jumps off the side into the pool. Kids there didn't seem to know how to swim. Annie felt so proud. She can't wait to go back. Also, we were the only ones with pool toys. We saw families tie balloons onto the kids bathing suits to help them float. Kids hugged on to them also. I kept waiting for one to pop!
Alex had a blast in the pool too. He was a little nervous at first, but then got into the water play quickly. Loves to splash and float (with us holding him) and eventaully signalled his little finger that he too wanted to jump off the side like big sister. After all, he can't let a girl show him up.
The weather was about mid 70's. Pretty chilly when you step out of the water into the wind, but enjoyable none-the-less. We ate there because we were told by several apartment residents that the food was good. They were right. Jim and I had a dish that had stewed beef, saffron rice, french fries, sweet plantains and salad. All yummy! Annie had a hot dog and fries. Alex had a cheeze empanada and anything off of our plates.
Once home, we had dinner. Finally something he really liked...noodles with fish. Had to hide the fish because he doesn't like to eat chuncks of meat or fish. Immediately after dinner, he fell asleep in daddy's arms. I changed him and he was asleep in bed by 6pm! He was pooped out! Annie went to bed an hour early too. That place needs to be closer!
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Day 14
To say that it's been a challenge to keep up online would be the understatement of the century. We write this blog as much for ourselves, as for our friends and families. It helps us to keep a journal of our time here and our early days with Alejandro, as well as keeps us in contact with everyone else we hold dear and important.
Our internet connection, via WiFi is barely faster than dial-up. It's this way throughout the city, anywhere we go. There are internet cafes everywhere. Small hole in the wall places with computers set up, and phone booths for calls. I can't exactly go trecking in there with two kids. I'd never get anything accomplished. Jim can't exactly hold his work conference calls there, he would have no privacy. In addition, in speaking English out loud would certainly peg him as American, and possibly invite trouble. Instead he has been going to a popular cafe/hostal about a mile's walk away that has mostly foreigners, to do his work. The connection there is not much better, and his work calls are frequently dropped. We Skype as much as we can, to keep international phone call costs down.
As for me, I mostly get online at night after Jim is done with his work. That's if we can get a connection. Today, Saturday, I tried to buy something online that I really need and can't find locally. After an hour, I finally gave up. Who has time for that??? I don't know how Jim does it. I would have gone batshit by now.
So, I left off where we were at Ossitos last Wednesday to sign custody papers. Alejandro develops a fever while we are there. Just what we needed. They gave him to us well, and now we return a week later with him sick. They gave me some children's anti-pyretic that I don't recognize, but they use regularly. We came back home. Little guy took a nap and the fever was back after 4 hours. A URI, courtesy of his sister. By the next day, he wasn't better, so we called our trusty little house-call doctor again. He just has an ear infection. We all decided to go ahead and treat it, since the doctor understands the position we are in in keeping him well. One dose of amoxicillin later, a new little guy.
Friday was the first day I have been able to venture out to explore the city a little. Once Annie was off to school, Jim, Alejandro and I went to Jim's favorite little hangout, El Cafecito, and had a marvelous breakfast. It's a good thing it's about a mile walk through heavy car traffic, narrow cobblestone streets, or I would have breakfast there every morning. Not good for the waistline! Alejandro ate more than I did. He's obviously feeling better. My favorite part of the breakfast was fresh watermellon-papaya juice. Mmmmm. The coffee was crazy strong. I love strong coffee, but this was too much, even for me. No amount of milk changed the color of the coffee. Next time I'll ask for about an inch-worth of coffee, and then add the milk.
Jim stayed behind and Alejandro and I left to find the post office. Not an easy thing to do. There is only one post office in the entire city of 467,000 people! I needed to mail something back to work. They have no idea what I had to go through to mail that back. Geeze. I know how to find it next time, though!
I then had a leasurely rest of the morning, pushing Alejandro in his stroller. He loves it! I guess he's so enthralled at all the new sites and smells, that he hasn't protested yet. We found markets, bakeries, parks and a parade. I wonder if he'd ever seen a parade before? We made it back home in time for his nap. I was pooped out. Annie would be home in 45 minutes from school. I dare say my face got sunburned for the mid-70's weather. Sorry northeast-coasters!
We've been worried that Alejandro would fall off the bed at night, even though his bed is against the wall. He in fact, has already fallen off twice during the day. It scared him more than anything. He wasn't hurt, but we finally figured out to put the kids mattresses on the floor. Much shorter way to fall off. Now, we can all get some sleep because both Jim and I were sleeping poorly so we could keep checking on him. Annalise doesn't fall off the bed, but she wants to sleep right next to her brother. The apartment staff doesn't seem to mind. They are great about looking after the children in the complex. One day, while Dragon Lady was here, Annalise was outside and started screaming. She apparently saw a bug that was ten feet tall and was about to eat her...no not really, but you'd think so with all her screaming. All the staff and a grandmother that lives downstairs came out to see if she was OK. The owner, Lola, told Annalise to call her Auntie and to go to her for anything she needs. Very sweet. Just what you need when you are away from home.
Today, Saturday, we woke up early due to our two little alarm clocks. We went back to El Cafecito for breakfast and a walk in their garden. We found mint, oregano and lavender. Annalise was unfortunately not on her best behavior. Another thing to work on while we're out here. She's taken to back-talking me all the time. This isn't new. It started when we were back home. She's having a hard lesson to learn, because I'm not having it. Let's see...no cartoons, no outside play...torturous for her. Works like a charm.
Aftrer breakfast we went to a park called Parque de la Madre, Mother's Park. It has a running path around it, and playground equipment. I cringe everytime Annalise gets on the swings, slide or see-saw. The ground below is full of large rocks. My gray hairs have definitely multiplied. We discoverred the local mall, Millenium Mall. It's small but as up-to-date as a mall can be. Nothing that fits our needs except a food court, and well, we Knotts' love food.
We're home now. Baby boy is napping. Big boy is napping. Annalise had some quiet time with a video, then we did homework. I'm so glad her USA teacher sent along some work for her. She doesn't get much homework here. She wrote in her school journal. She drew a picture and wrote about a "cholita", a tradtional Cuenca girl that wears very colorful clothing,.
Tomorrow we might try to find the outdoor produce market that opens Sunday mornings in Parque del Paraiso, Paradise Park. Or, we might just go to the nearby town of Banos, Baths. It has thermal water sites, and hotels channel the waters into the pools. I think the kids would love that.
Bye for now!
Lisandra.
Our internet connection, via WiFi is barely faster than dial-up. It's this way throughout the city, anywhere we go. There are internet cafes everywhere. Small hole in the wall places with computers set up, and phone booths for calls. I can't exactly go trecking in there with two kids. I'd never get anything accomplished. Jim can't exactly hold his work conference calls there, he would have no privacy. In addition, in speaking English out loud would certainly peg him as American, and possibly invite trouble. Instead he has been going to a popular cafe/hostal about a mile's walk away that has mostly foreigners, to do his work. The connection there is not much better, and his work calls are frequently dropped. We Skype as much as we can, to keep international phone call costs down.
As for me, I mostly get online at night after Jim is done with his work. That's if we can get a connection. Today, Saturday, I tried to buy something online that I really need and can't find locally. After an hour, I finally gave up. Who has time for that??? I don't know how Jim does it. I would have gone batshit by now.
So, I left off where we were at Ossitos last Wednesday to sign custody papers. Alejandro develops a fever while we are there. Just what we needed. They gave him to us well, and now we return a week later with him sick. They gave me some children's anti-pyretic that I don't recognize, but they use regularly. We came back home. Little guy took a nap and the fever was back after 4 hours. A URI, courtesy of his sister. By the next day, he wasn't better, so we called our trusty little house-call doctor again. He just has an ear infection. We all decided to go ahead and treat it, since the doctor understands the position we are in in keeping him well. One dose of amoxicillin later, a new little guy.
Friday was the first day I have been able to venture out to explore the city a little. Once Annie was off to school, Jim, Alejandro and I went to Jim's favorite little hangout, El Cafecito, and had a marvelous breakfast. It's a good thing it's about a mile walk through heavy car traffic, narrow cobblestone streets, or I would have breakfast there every morning. Not good for the waistline! Alejandro ate more than I did. He's obviously feeling better. My favorite part of the breakfast was fresh watermellon-papaya juice. Mmmmm. The coffee was crazy strong. I love strong coffee, but this was too much, even for me. No amount of milk changed the color of the coffee. Next time I'll ask for about an inch-worth of coffee, and then add the milk.
Jim stayed behind and Alejandro and I left to find the post office. Not an easy thing to do. There is only one post office in the entire city of 467,000 people! I needed to mail something back to work. They have no idea what I had to go through to mail that back. Geeze. I know how to find it next time, though!
I then had a leasurely rest of the morning, pushing Alejandro in his stroller. He loves it! I guess he's so enthralled at all the new sites and smells, that he hasn't protested yet. We found markets, bakeries, parks and a parade. I wonder if he'd ever seen a parade before? We made it back home in time for his nap. I was pooped out. Annie would be home in 45 minutes from school. I dare say my face got sunburned for the mid-70's weather. Sorry northeast-coasters!
We've been worried that Alejandro would fall off the bed at night, even though his bed is against the wall. He in fact, has already fallen off twice during the day. It scared him more than anything. He wasn't hurt, but we finally figured out to put the kids mattresses on the floor. Much shorter way to fall off. Now, we can all get some sleep because both Jim and I were sleeping poorly so we could keep checking on him. Annalise doesn't fall off the bed, but she wants to sleep right next to her brother. The apartment staff doesn't seem to mind. They are great about looking after the children in the complex. One day, while Dragon Lady was here, Annalise was outside and started screaming. She apparently saw a bug that was ten feet tall and was about to eat her...no not really, but you'd think so with all her screaming. All the staff and a grandmother that lives downstairs came out to see if she was OK. The owner, Lola, told Annalise to call her Auntie and to go to her for anything she needs. Very sweet. Just what you need when you are away from home.
Today, Saturday, we woke up early due to our two little alarm clocks. We went back to El Cafecito for breakfast and a walk in their garden. We found mint, oregano and lavender. Annalise was unfortunately not on her best behavior. Another thing to work on while we're out here. She's taken to back-talking me all the time. This isn't new. It started when we were back home. She's having a hard lesson to learn, because I'm not having it. Let's see...no cartoons, no outside play...torturous for her. Works like a charm.
Aftrer breakfast we went to a park called Parque de la Madre, Mother's Park. It has a running path around it, and playground equipment. I cringe everytime Annalise gets on the swings, slide or see-saw. The ground below is full of large rocks. My gray hairs have definitely multiplied. We discoverred the local mall, Millenium Mall. It's small but as up-to-date as a mall can be. Nothing that fits our needs except a food court, and well, we Knotts' love food.
We're home now. Baby boy is napping. Big boy is napping. Annalise had some quiet time with a video, then we did homework. I'm so glad her USA teacher sent along some work for her. She doesn't get much homework here. She wrote in her school journal. She drew a picture and wrote about a "cholita", a tradtional Cuenca girl that wears very colorful clothing,.
Tomorrow we might try to find the outdoor produce market that opens Sunday mornings in Parque del Paraiso, Paradise Park. Or, we might just go to the nearby town of Banos, Baths. It has thermal water sites, and hotels channel the waters into the pools. I think the kids would love that.
Bye for now!
Lisandra.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Jim's recap of Week One
How Alejandro Came To Us
When we were ready to have another child, we looked at all options. We could have tried to have a birth child again, but we both felt that God was leading us toward adoption. There are so many little kids who needed a family, and we have such a good one. We knew that an adopted child would be every bit a part of our family as Annalise. And Annalise lobbied for almost two years for a baby brother or baby sister! She was a great big sister even before we came to Ecuador. She helped arrange his room, picked toys she was going to pass on to him, and even helped pick out his name.
(There’s a lot of history behind the name. When Lisandra and I were pregnant with Annalise, we went through the baby name book. She kept coming up with boy names, and I kept coming up with girl names. We decided if it was a boy, we'd use her pick, and if a girl we'd use mine. Well, when we found out it was a girl, the first person who asked, I said her name would be Isabella. Lisandra said, "Well, we're not really sure yet." I thought, "OK, we've re-opened negotiations!" As much as Lisandra insisted, I never gave in --- until we were on our way to the hospital. Come on -- she was creating a new human, I knew I wasn't going to win that one. So I told her we could name our daughter Annalise, but I had naming rights on a second child. Pretty shrewd on my part, huh?
At first Annalise insisted we call her brother Nick (after St. Nick), but I explained that Nick Knotts would sound strange. After a couple of days, she suggested we could solve the problem by changing our last name! We wanted to preserve his Spanish heritage, and still reflect his being a part of our family. We considered Diego, which is James in Spanish, my middle name.
So I suggested we name him Donald Diego Knotts. All his life he would be known as Don Diego, and I'd call him Zorro! How cool would that be?! He’d always know what costume to have for Halloween. And when he wanted to do sports? Fencing and horseback riding!
In the end, we settled on Alejandro, with agreement that Annie and I could nickname him Scooter. At leat, Annie and I agreed. Mom hates that nickname. We hope he likes it.)
So we started the adoption process and after countless hours of work by Mom, and after about fifteen months, we were eventually matched with Alejandro. What a great day when we received his file with a little picture! It was our ninth wedding anniversary. What a wonderful present! As many people know, I'm pretty obnoxious about making everyone look at pictures of my kids. I carry lots of pictures, and I started carrying Alejandro's around the minute we got it.
When we arrived in Ecuador late on a Saturday, we were expecting to meet him first thing Monday morning. Then we learned we had to wait for a lady from Child Protective Services. When she arrived that afternoon, she brought us a very special gift Рa book of baby pictures. What a treasure! We thought we would only have pictures from when he was two years and older. The book is thanks to the social worker at the orphanage, Laura and the speech therapist, Marta. The love all the staff have for him pours off of every page. Mommy sobbed with tears of joy. As a rule, I never cry ;-) As we learned, all the people at Peque̱itos de OSSO loved him very much and took such great care of him from the minute he arrived. He is so lucky to have gone through their care.
We met Alejandro for the first time that evening, January 25, 2010. He lived in a “casa” with 5 other kids. The casa was a series of connected rooms, including a large living room with a kitchen in the corner, a playroom filled with toys, a changing room, and bedrooms. He shared a room with 2 other kids. His favorite possessions were a small blanket he carried around like Linus from Charlie Brown, and a book of his new family. Just before Christmas, Mom made a picture book of all the family members and neighbors he would see all the time. The Tias who took care of him taught him who all of the people in the pictures were, and he knew Papa, Mama, and Nyanya (Spanish for Sissy) when we arrived. He was so proud of that book, he carried it around all the time and he would not let anyone else touch it. Annie was so happy to learn he had a nickname for her. It was a great surprise.
He was a fairly quiet and calm baby, slightly shy at first. We were told he was the alpha male of his casa, expecting to get attention first, be fed first, and play with toys first. What seemed to break the ice was a cake. His second birthday was that Thursday, and the Tias had planned a big birthday party for him on Tuesday afternoon, knowing he would be gone by Wednesday or Thursday. The cake they made was sitting on the counter. He was pointing to it, so I picked him up to see it. Then he didn’t want me to put him down!
That Wednesday he came to spend the day with us, and never left.
Alejandro's First Week with Us
It is amazing how quickly he took to us. He cried only a little that first night, but he's been a part of the family from that first moment. In the first week, we’ve gotten to know him a lot more. We can tell he is VERY intelligent. He sees things once, and then he can repeat the actions. He was particularly proud when Mom taught him to spit water after brushing his teeth! He’s learning to blow his nose at 2, when Annalise didn’t figure that out until she was almost 5. (That may not seem like a big deal, but when you have kids you know how bad you feel when your kid is stuffed up and just doesn’t know how to blow their nose. It’s a major developmental milestone, mostly for parents.) He constantly put things in order, like stacking books and magazines. He always puts thing back where they go, which makes him unique in our family.
Alejandro don’t talk much, even though he understands everything we tell him and will do what we ask (let’s hope that continues). We’ve heard him say “papa,” “ma (for mas, or more),” “mama,” “nyanya,” “bu (for bus),” and “no.” He growls every time he sees a dog, and he will spend a half hour looking out the window at the river and especially BUSSES! In the first week he has been with us, he has learned and repeats that cats say “Meow,” cows say “Moo,” and sheep say “Baa.”
His first word in English was “butt.” Annalise was doing something and said “on my butt.” We distinctly heard him repeat “butt!” We can blame his sister . . .
I always wrestled with Annalise, and the two of us have been wrestling with Alejandro. Interestingly enough, he wasn't ticklish when we got him, but after a week of wrestling and playing with Dad and Annalise, he has become ticklish above his knees and inside his hips. He has even start attacking back! I had to trim his fingernails because he cut me when he grabbed my face.
He really surprised Mom when she was doing puzzles with him. He put all the pieces in a pile away from her and then laid on top to hide them, then laughed! He thought that was so funny. So did we. We can tell he's going to be a prankster. But he's also very loving. It made Mom’s year the first time he gave her a besito (kiss) . . .
And Annalise is so thrilled to have a baby brother. She wants to help do everything, from giving him a bath (he LOVES the water) to changing his diaper (even the stinky ones!). She was over the moon when she was sitting beside him at dinner one night and he reached over to hold her hand. She wants to give him kisses every day before she leaves for school. We hope they continued to grow close. We expect the fights, but we also look forward to them taking care of each other as well.
Everyone back home is so anxious to meet him, especially Grandma Knotts. We’ve been doing video calls almost every night, and he comes running every time he hears her voice. He likes to see his picture in the video screen, and even when people take photos he expects to see them on the camera. Grandma and Papa will be his daycare when Mom goes back to work, and being the only Grandson, there is no doubt he will be spoiled!
When we were ready to have another child, we looked at all options. We could have tried to have a birth child again, but we both felt that God was leading us toward adoption. There are so many little kids who needed a family, and we have such a good one. We knew that an adopted child would be every bit a part of our family as Annalise. And Annalise lobbied for almost two years for a baby brother or baby sister! She was a great big sister even before we came to Ecuador. She helped arrange his room, picked toys she was going to pass on to him, and even helped pick out his name.
(There’s a lot of history behind the name. When Lisandra and I were pregnant with Annalise, we went through the baby name book. She kept coming up with boy names, and I kept coming up with girl names. We decided if it was a boy, we'd use her pick, and if a girl we'd use mine. Well, when we found out it was a girl, the first person who asked, I said her name would be Isabella. Lisandra said, "Well, we're not really sure yet." I thought, "OK, we've re-opened negotiations!" As much as Lisandra insisted, I never gave in --- until we were on our way to the hospital. Come on -- she was creating a new human, I knew I wasn't going to win that one. So I told her we could name our daughter Annalise, but I had naming rights on a second child. Pretty shrewd on my part, huh?
At first Annalise insisted we call her brother Nick (after St. Nick), but I explained that Nick Knotts would sound strange. After a couple of days, she suggested we could solve the problem by changing our last name! We wanted to preserve his Spanish heritage, and still reflect his being a part of our family. We considered Diego, which is James in Spanish, my middle name.
So I suggested we name him Donald Diego Knotts. All his life he would be known as Don Diego, and I'd call him Zorro! How cool would that be?! He’d always know what costume to have for Halloween. And when he wanted to do sports? Fencing and horseback riding!
In the end, we settled on Alejandro, with agreement that Annie and I could nickname him Scooter. At leat, Annie and I agreed. Mom hates that nickname. We hope he likes it.)
So we started the adoption process and after countless hours of work by Mom, and after about fifteen months, we were eventually matched with Alejandro. What a great day when we received his file with a little picture! It was our ninth wedding anniversary. What a wonderful present! As many people know, I'm pretty obnoxious about making everyone look at pictures of my kids. I carry lots of pictures, and I started carrying Alejandro's around the minute we got it.
When we arrived in Ecuador late on a Saturday, we were expecting to meet him first thing Monday morning. Then we learned we had to wait for a lady from Child Protective Services. When she arrived that afternoon, she brought us a very special gift Рa book of baby pictures. What a treasure! We thought we would only have pictures from when he was two years and older. The book is thanks to the social worker at the orphanage, Laura and the speech therapist, Marta. The love all the staff have for him pours off of every page. Mommy sobbed with tears of joy. As a rule, I never cry ;-) As we learned, all the people at Peque̱itos de OSSO loved him very much and took such great care of him from the minute he arrived. He is so lucky to have gone through their care.
We met Alejandro for the first time that evening, January 25, 2010. He lived in a “casa” with 5 other kids. The casa was a series of connected rooms, including a large living room with a kitchen in the corner, a playroom filled with toys, a changing room, and bedrooms. He shared a room with 2 other kids. His favorite possessions were a small blanket he carried around like Linus from Charlie Brown, and a book of his new family. Just before Christmas, Mom made a picture book of all the family members and neighbors he would see all the time. The Tias who took care of him taught him who all of the people in the pictures were, and he knew Papa, Mama, and Nyanya (Spanish for Sissy) when we arrived. He was so proud of that book, he carried it around all the time and he would not let anyone else touch it. Annie was so happy to learn he had a nickname for her. It was a great surprise.
He was a fairly quiet and calm baby, slightly shy at first. We were told he was the alpha male of his casa, expecting to get attention first, be fed first, and play with toys first. What seemed to break the ice was a cake. His second birthday was that Thursday, and the Tias had planned a big birthday party for him on Tuesday afternoon, knowing he would be gone by Wednesday or Thursday. The cake they made was sitting on the counter. He was pointing to it, so I picked him up to see it. Then he didn’t want me to put him down!
That Wednesday he came to spend the day with us, and never left.
Alejandro's First Week with Us
It is amazing how quickly he took to us. He cried only a little that first night, but he's been a part of the family from that first moment. In the first week, we’ve gotten to know him a lot more. We can tell he is VERY intelligent. He sees things once, and then he can repeat the actions. He was particularly proud when Mom taught him to spit water after brushing his teeth! He’s learning to blow his nose at 2, when Annalise didn’t figure that out until she was almost 5. (That may not seem like a big deal, but when you have kids you know how bad you feel when your kid is stuffed up and just doesn’t know how to blow their nose. It’s a major developmental milestone, mostly for parents.) He constantly put things in order, like stacking books and magazines. He always puts thing back where they go, which makes him unique in our family.
Alejandro don’t talk much, even though he understands everything we tell him and will do what we ask (let’s hope that continues). We’ve heard him say “papa,” “ma (for mas, or more),” “mama,” “nyanya,” “bu (for bus),” and “no.” He growls every time he sees a dog, and he will spend a half hour looking out the window at the river and especially BUSSES! In the first week he has been with us, he has learned and repeats that cats say “Meow,” cows say “Moo,” and sheep say “Baa.”
His first word in English was “butt.” Annalise was doing something and said “on my butt.” We distinctly heard him repeat “butt!” We can blame his sister . . .
I always wrestled with Annalise, and the two of us have been wrestling with Alejandro. Interestingly enough, he wasn't ticklish when we got him, but after a week of wrestling and playing with Dad and Annalise, he has become ticklish above his knees and inside his hips. He has even start attacking back! I had to trim his fingernails because he cut me when he grabbed my face.
He really surprised Mom when she was doing puzzles with him. He put all the pieces in a pile away from her and then laid on top to hide them, then laughed! He thought that was so funny. So did we. We can tell he's going to be a prankster. But he's also very loving. It made Mom’s year the first time he gave her a besito (kiss) . . .
And Annalise is so thrilled to have a baby brother. She wants to help do everything, from giving him a bath (he LOVES the water) to changing his diaper (even the stinky ones!). She was over the moon when she was sitting beside him at dinner one night and he reached over to hold her hand. She wants to give him kisses every day before she leaves for school. We hope they continued to grow close. We expect the fights, but we also look forward to them taking care of each other as well.
Everyone back home is so anxious to meet him, especially Grandma Knotts. We’ve been doing video calls almost every night, and he comes running every time he hears her voice. He likes to see his picture in the video screen, and even when people take photos he expects to see them on the camera. Grandma and Papa will be his daycare when Mom goes back to work, and being the only Grandson, there is no doubt he will be spoiled!
Day 12 and 12A
Yesterday we went to sign documents at Ossitos. We arrived at 10:30 as expected. I was kind of hoping not to bump into the Tias and kids because I wasn't sure how he would respond. As we were enterring the grounds, he looked confused. I caught on, and stopped to tell him that we were only coming for a visit and he was not going to stay. I assured him he was coming home with us. The Tias probably knew we were coming because they were waiting outside with the kids for us. The Tia's faces lit up as soon as they saw him. It's one thing to be told he is well, but another to see for themselves. Even Tia "C" who had not made eye contact with me before, smiled at me, said hello and gave me a hug.
Alejandro seemed ok with everyone around him. He reached his arms out to them with hesitation. They gave him a hug and snuggles, then handed him back. He was ok with that. One little girl, "V" was so excited to see him. She ran up to us with outstretched arms to greet him. He wasn't phased by it. Typical boy.
I was really happy to learn that at least three of the other toddlers have families in waiting. One boy's family will be here by the end of the week from Italy. He's a trip...all boy. Loves to rough-house and roar. Great kid. "V's" family will be here in a couple of weeks too, also from Italy. She is such a cute little doll-baby. Round cheeks, round thighs, snuggly, sweet, playful. Another great kid. One other girl, "A" has a family through final stages in the states. She has Down's syndrome as is cute as a button. Sharp! No getting over on her. She's the little one of the group, but she can fend for herself well. Giggly, playful, smart. Adorable. All great kids. That leaves two more. It's going to be aweful quiet around there pretty soon. Then, they get to start over with new arrivals. No rest for the weary.
The meeting was held with the Social Worker, Coordinator, Speech Therapist and Health and Nutrition Coordinator. They collectively thanked us for being taking Alejandro to what they are confident will be a better life. They thanked us for being a loving family. I just couldn't thank them enough for taking such good care of him while he was with them. How do you thank someone for that? There just aren't enough words and enough gestures in the world for that.
The Social Worker gave us a folder containing a copy of his records, letters from the entire staff involved with him and a CD of pictures that we did not already have in the baby album they made for us. She also went and got his birthday car the Tias had given him, and a bear, "osso" in Spanish. All the children are given a parting bear from Pequenitos de OSSO. OSSO stands for Orphanage Support Services Organization, and Pequenitos de OSSO (Little Ones of OSSO) is a play on words.
The Speech Therapist gave us a fun folder with work she had done with Alejandro. All the children see the Speech Therapist regularly. Inside the folder was a letter she wrote to him, doodles he'd made and learining tools she'd used to teach him everyday words, foods, items of clothing, body parts, colors, animals...you get the picture. Another treasure!
The Health and Nutrition Coordinator weighed him for us, at my request, so I can know how to dose medications. She gave me some pointers on how to manage his foods. He hasn't eaten much the last two days, at least, nowhere near his usual.
We say a good-bye to the Tias, and one notices him a little feverish. Great.
Jim needs the computer, so more later!
Alejandro seemed ok with everyone around him. He reached his arms out to them with hesitation. They gave him a hug and snuggles, then handed him back. He was ok with that. One little girl, "V" was so excited to see him. She ran up to us with outstretched arms to greet him. He wasn't phased by it. Typical boy.
I was really happy to learn that at least three of the other toddlers have families in waiting. One boy's family will be here by the end of the week from Italy. He's a trip...all boy. Loves to rough-house and roar. Great kid. "V's" family will be here in a couple of weeks too, also from Italy. She is such a cute little doll-baby. Round cheeks, round thighs, snuggly, sweet, playful. Another great kid. One other girl, "A" has a family through final stages in the states. She has Down's syndrome as is cute as a button. Sharp! No getting over on her. She's the little one of the group, but she can fend for herself well. Giggly, playful, smart. Adorable. All great kids. That leaves two more. It's going to be aweful quiet around there pretty soon. Then, they get to start over with new arrivals. No rest for the weary.
The meeting was held with the Social Worker, Coordinator, Speech Therapist and Health and Nutrition Coordinator. They collectively thanked us for being taking Alejandro to what they are confident will be a better life. They thanked us for being a loving family. I just couldn't thank them enough for taking such good care of him while he was with them. How do you thank someone for that? There just aren't enough words and enough gestures in the world for that.
The Social Worker gave us a folder containing a copy of his records, letters from the entire staff involved with him and a CD of pictures that we did not already have in the baby album they made for us. She also went and got his birthday car the Tias had given him, and a bear, "osso" in Spanish. All the children are given a parting bear from Pequenitos de OSSO. OSSO stands for Orphanage Support Services Organization, and Pequenitos de OSSO (Little Ones of OSSO) is a play on words.
The Speech Therapist gave us a fun folder with work she had done with Alejandro. All the children see the Speech Therapist regularly. Inside the folder was a letter she wrote to him, doodles he'd made and learining tools she'd used to teach him everyday words, foods, items of clothing, body parts, colors, animals...you get the picture. Another treasure!
The Health and Nutrition Coordinator weighed him for us, at my request, so I can know how to dose medications. She gave me some pointers on how to manage his foods. He hasn't eaten much the last two days, at least, nowhere near his usual.
We say a good-bye to the Tias, and one notices him a little feverish. Great.
Jim needs the computer, so more later!
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Day 11, Annie's first day on the school bus, and the Return of the Dragon Lady
Annie awoke ready for school today feeling much better. I accompanied on her first school bus ride to kindergarten, ever. I'm glad she has many friends back home that take the school bus to school and s sees them come and go everyday without a problem. I think that gave her the extra courage she needed. However, mommy doesn't have anyone to give HER extra courage, so I accompanied her on her first day, to be sure she would understand the routine. Jim says he's taking a huge leap of faith allowing his baby to take a school bus to school in a foreign country. Sooooo, I'm not the only one. Annie understands Spanish fairly well, but doesn't speak it much, at least not at home. Her teacher at the Burnt Mills Elementary School Spanish Immersion Program may disagree. Annalise probably does better for her than she does for me. At least, I sure hope so.
A yellow minibus ("busetta") pulls up for her at 7:15 and the kids inside are surprised to see me hop on too. The driver jokes and tells them I am their new teacher and they'd better be on their best behavior. They chuckle, a little. I tell them, no, in fact it's my first day of kindergarten and I needed my daughter to accompany me to school so I wouldn't get lost. They cackled hysterically. The driver has his own children on the bus and his wife hops on during one of the stops. This makes me feel very well. Her teacher greets her with a hug and smooch (she greets all the kids like that). There is a boy who is obviously not wanting to go to school, and she brings him inside with a special song than convinces him to be there. He's not too thrilled though. My princess is ecstatic to be back in school. Much as she complains at home (sorry Mrs. daS and Mrs. A, nothing personal I'm sure), she's excited about her new school. Maybe just because it's new. Maybe just because people go out of their way to try to make her comfortable despite the language barrier on both sides. Maybe because it's such a pretty school, or because she gets to wear a uniform and ride a bus. I don't know. Whatever it is, she's happy, which makes both Jim and I very happy.
Have I mentioned that Annalise is in a private school? I don't remember. Who reads these things anyway ;-0 It's a school for what is considered upper middle class here. Whatever. It's called Ausubel School, and my very smart psychology friends will know who the famous Ausubel was. I had no clue. I had to look him up. Her full set of uniforms cost about $60, her books and materials $24 and monthly tuition is $160, which includes a snack and transportation. Yes, $160 a month. I'm sure we pay more than that in gas $$$ driving her back and forth to school in Maryland (it's 40 minutes away) between her grandmother and I. Holy cow, and what a blessing. She not only gets to continue her K education (and not be held back due to absence back home), but she gets to do it in Spanish which is consistent with her immersion program. In addition, there is the added benefit of being immersed in a new culture. Only children can adapt this well. I'm still trying to figure out which way is the center of town! She had a super day.
---------------------
This morning finally felt like a normal day, as normal as one can be away from home. I awoke to make Annie breakfast and pack her a lunch. Woke her up, dressed and groomed her. Made her all cute and spiffy for her first day back after bronchitis. Took her to school, and took a cab ride back home. Alejandro was happy chomping away at breakfast with Daddy. They were both dressed and ready to start the day.
I pack a diaper and goodie bag. Haven't done that in years. I take off to the mall in a cab, about 20 minutes away. It's a fantastic mall. Beautiful. Obviously upscale. How odd that this is where I would fit in. It just feels like an average mall back home. Alejandro loves being wheeled around in his umbrella stroller. Did I mention that the airlines broke a handle and then forced it back together? We didn't notice it until a week later when we finally used it. They don't sell umbrella strollers here, locally. This is an "el-cheapo" version, but at least it does the job well and is light-weight for me.
Before ditching it, we thought maybe we could find someone to weld the broken parts together. But where to find that? Well, yesterday, when Jim came home to give me a break, I took a walk to where he thought he had seen some metal welding places nearby. I asked them if they could fix it and they were up for the job. After working on it diligently for about half an hour, they returned it to me. Almost new condition. I asked what they wanted me to pay for it. He couldn't come up with a sum, and finally asked for $1, embarassed, as though that was too much to ask. Seriously? He just saved me $40 which is what the nearest version of it would cost. I paid him $4. Happiness all around. Awesome.
Food shopping next. Family dinner a challenge. Alejandro isn't happy with the meat selection. He doesn't fuss. He just hands me back the plate as to say, "what else you got?" We muddle through anyway. But I digress.
Back to today.
He loved the stroller ride through the mall. We stocked up on wooden puzzles, a ride-on car for baby boy, and Barbies and other girlie goodies for baby girl (who's not such a baby anymore).
So after the mall run and naptime, we were headed out the door to Ossitos to sign documents giving us temporary official custody of Alejandro. At that moment we receive a call from Dragon Lady. She's at the front door for a visit. She works for INFA, Instituto de la Ninez y Familia. I think it would come closest to our Child Protective Services back home. She is here on official business, to make an unnanounced site visit and check on Alejandro. Ok.
Have you ever seen the Bugs Bunny episode with "Michigan J. Frog"? It's the one where a man has a frog that he swears sings and dances and should be a star. However, when in public, he just sits there, and does nothing. That describes Alejandro during that visit.
She called him by his name, he wouldn't look. She asked him, "Where is mommy?" and "Where is daddy?" Nothing. He didn't want to interact with her. A true judge of character, I'd say. He kept playing on daddy's lap with his new bucket full of Leggos. She took notes. Then she asked us what we knew of him. I asked, what did she specifically mean? Did she mean what we had read on reports, etc? She just responded, just tell me what you know of him. So, after translating for Jim, I responded, something to the effect of:
"In addition to what we (meaning she and I, because she has copies of the same reports we received) know about him on paper, I can tell you that OUR SON, loves the river out back. He loves to stare at it in tranquility. He loves his bathtime and water play, so much, that it's hard to take him away from it. He says words, some of which he only learned today from us. He's quiet and easy going. He likes dogs, busses and car rides. He is very alert and notices even the most minor things around him. And so on, and so on. I filled a half-hour converstation about what we know about him in just six and a half days. That seemed to satisfy her, although she was not happy that we had been given custody after only two and a half days. What can I say. Things went better than anyone expected. The kid is a sound judge of character ;-)
Didn't get to go sign the custody papers. Will go tomorrow instead.
We instead stayed home and enjoyed some family time. We tickled, giggled, played, did homework, and played some more. During Annie's homework time, we gave Alejandro colored pencils and paper and let him have at it. Never too early to instill good study habits. We played with the wooden puzzles. Alejandro especially took joy in hiding the pieces away from me under his blanket on the bed, and then layed on them. He thought that was hilarious. We did too. I tried to mismatch the animals, but he knew where they should go. He's a fast learner. He learned some animal sounds today. He may have known them all along, but hadn't mimicked them yet.
Annie feels like such a big girl when she gets to do something for him, or teach him something. Yesterday, she gave him his bath, with me close by. Today she helped teach animal sounds. He already knows all his body parts. No teaching needed there. This is the fun part. Basking in family time. Thanks for sharing it with us.
BTW, I discovered why the Tias put the baby's footie pajamas on backwards. I checked on him before going to bed last night, and he had unzipped himself and taken his arms out of it. From now on, it goes on backwards.
Love, Lisandra.
A yellow minibus ("busetta") pulls up for her at 7:15 and the kids inside are surprised to see me hop on too. The driver jokes and tells them I am their new teacher and they'd better be on their best behavior. They chuckle, a little. I tell them, no, in fact it's my first day of kindergarten and I needed my daughter to accompany me to school so I wouldn't get lost. They cackled hysterically. The driver has his own children on the bus and his wife hops on during one of the stops. This makes me feel very well. Her teacher greets her with a hug and smooch (she greets all the kids like that). There is a boy who is obviously not wanting to go to school, and she brings him inside with a special song than convinces him to be there. He's not too thrilled though. My princess is ecstatic to be back in school. Much as she complains at home (sorry Mrs. daS and Mrs. A, nothing personal I'm sure), she's excited about her new school. Maybe just because it's new. Maybe just because people go out of their way to try to make her comfortable despite the language barrier on both sides. Maybe because it's such a pretty school, or because she gets to wear a uniform and ride a bus. I don't know. Whatever it is, she's happy, which makes both Jim and I very happy.
Have I mentioned that Annalise is in a private school? I don't remember. Who reads these things anyway ;-0 It's a school for what is considered upper middle class here. Whatever. It's called Ausubel School, and my very smart psychology friends will know who the famous Ausubel was. I had no clue. I had to look him up. Her full set of uniforms cost about $60, her books and materials $24 and monthly tuition is $160, which includes a snack and transportation. Yes, $160 a month. I'm sure we pay more than that in gas $$$ driving her back and forth to school in Maryland (it's 40 minutes away) between her grandmother and I. Holy cow, and what a blessing. She not only gets to continue her K education (and not be held back due to absence back home), but she gets to do it in Spanish which is consistent with her immersion program. In addition, there is the added benefit of being immersed in a new culture. Only children can adapt this well. I'm still trying to figure out which way is the center of town! She had a super day.
---------------------
This morning finally felt like a normal day, as normal as one can be away from home. I awoke to make Annie breakfast and pack her a lunch. Woke her up, dressed and groomed her. Made her all cute and spiffy for her first day back after bronchitis. Took her to school, and took a cab ride back home. Alejandro was happy chomping away at breakfast with Daddy. They were both dressed and ready to start the day.
I pack a diaper and goodie bag. Haven't done that in years. I take off to the mall in a cab, about 20 minutes away. It's a fantastic mall. Beautiful. Obviously upscale. How odd that this is where I would fit in. It just feels like an average mall back home. Alejandro loves being wheeled around in his umbrella stroller. Did I mention that the airlines broke a handle and then forced it back together? We didn't notice it until a week later when we finally used it. They don't sell umbrella strollers here, locally. This is an "el-cheapo" version, but at least it does the job well and is light-weight for me.
Before ditching it, we thought maybe we could find someone to weld the broken parts together. But where to find that? Well, yesterday, when Jim came home to give me a break, I took a walk to where he thought he had seen some metal welding places nearby. I asked them if they could fix it and they were up for the job. After working on it diligently for about half an hour, they returned it to me. Almost new condition. I asked what they wanted me to pay for it. He couldn't come up with a sum, and finally asked for $1, embarassed, as though that was too much to ask. Seriously? He just saved me $40 which is what the nearest version of it would cost. I paid him $4. Happiness all around. Awesome.
Food shopping next. Family dinner a challenge. Alejandro isn't happy with the meat selection. He doesn't fuss. He just hands me back the plate as to say, "what else you got?" We muddle through anyway. But I digress.
Back to today.
He loved the stroller ride through the mall. We stocked up on wooden puzzles, a ride-on car for baby boy, and Barbies and other girlie goodies for baby girl (who's not such a baby anymore).
So after the mall run and naptime, we were headed out the door to Ossitos to sign documents giving us temporary official custody of Alejandro. At that moment we receive a call from Dragon Lady. She's at the front door for a visit. She works for INFA, Instituto de la Ninez y Familia. I think it would come closest to our Child Protective Services back home. She is here on official business, to make an unnanounced site visit and check on Alejandro. Ok.
Have you ever seen the Bugs Bunny episode with "Michigan J. Frog"? It's the one where a man has a frog that he swears sings and dances and should be a star. However, when in public, he just sits there, and does nothing. That describes Alejandro during that visit.
She called him by his name, he wouldn't look. She asked him, "Where is mommy?" and "Where is daddy?" Nothing. He didn't want to interact with her. A true judge of character, I'd say. He kept playing on daddy's lap with his new bucket full of Leggos. She took notes. Then she asked us what we knew of him. I asked, what did she specifically mean? Did she mean what we had read on reports, etc? She just responded, just tell me what you know of him. So, after translating for Jim, I responded, something to the effect of:
"In addition to what we (meaning she and I, because she has copies of the same reports we received) know about him on paper, I can tell you that OUR SON, loves the river out back. He loves to stare at it in tranquility. He loves his bathtime and water play, so much, that it's hard to take him away from it. He says words, some of which he only learned today from us. He's quiet and easy going. He likes dogs, busses and car rides. He is very alert and notices even the most minor things around him. And so on, and so on. I filled a half-hour converstation about what we know about him in just six and a half days. That seemed to satisfy her, although she was not happy that we had been given custody after only two and a half days. What can I say. Things went better than anyone expected. The kid is a sound judge of character ;-)
Didn't get to go sign the custody papers. Will go tomorrow instead.
We instead stayed home and enjoyed some family time. We tickled, giggled, played, did homework, and played some more. During Annie's homework time, we gave Alejandro colored pencils and paper and let him have at it. Never too early to instill good study habits. We played with the wooden puzzles. Alejandro especially took joy in hiding the pieces away from me under his blanket on the bed, and then layed on them. He thought that was hilarious. We did too. I tried to mismatch the animals, but he knew where they should go. He's a fast learner. He learned some animal sounds today. He may have known them all along, but hadn't mimicked them yet.
Annie feels like such a big girl when she gets to do something for him, or teach him something. Yesterday, she gave him his bath, with me close by. Today she helped teach animal sounds. He already knows all his body parts. No teaching needed there. This is the fun part. Basking in family time. Thanks for sharing it with us.
BTW, I discovered why the Tias put the baby's footie pajamas on backwards. I checked on him before going to bed last night, and he had unzipped himself and taken his arms out of it. From now on, it goes on backwards.
Love, Lisandra.
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