Yesterday I had an epiphany. I said, "Hey self. Most of the kids at the orphanage are being sent away for the holidays. Why shouldn't Chris be able to stay with us for a few days?" I called George, the Jedi (our great facilitator) and presented this line of thinking. About an hour later, he called back. He had spoken to the powers that be, and they granted Chris a week with us. Praise God, some real time to bond with our son, and him with us.
Last night, we made a frantic visit to the orphanage after we found out that most of the remaining kids would be leaving early Saturday. We took a cab because of the gifts (from Reach Orphans with Hope) that needed to go in the trunk. It was nice to be above ground for this ride so that we could see where things were at the top of all of the metro stops we make everyday. The subway is about 300 yards underground. I think when Jesus comes back, people down there would never have a clue. Anyway, we got there about 7pm. We were not expected, but we were allowed to go into parts of the orphanage that people are not allowed to go; the children's living and common areas. We have no pictures of the inner sanctum, as they are expressly forbidden. Chris wanted to be the guy to hand out all of the gift bags. In the bags, there was a good pair of warm socks, some stickers, candy, gum, and rubber bracelets. I could tell that Chris felt like "the man." His posture was one of confidence and a reminder that giving is better than receiving. All of the children were grateful for the surprise, even though it was small.
This morning I went to get Chris. I took some chocolates (from Reach Orphans with Hope) for the caregivers, teachers and cafeteria workers. The latter group was most touched by this gesture, as it was obvious that nobody ever gives them anything.
Chris was so excited to be coming with me to stay with our family. We had a great time going to the flat. His English is improving and he wants to learn more. We went to the grocery store- the boy loves pineapple! Can you believe that one fresh pineapple costs $25 U.S.? I am not Donald Trump. We bought canned pineapple ($1.25) and pineapple juice.
Tomorrow we will all be able to meet with a local body of believers. We are glad that Chris will be able to see more of this very important part of our family's life.
Until Next Time,
The Underwoods
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Ready, Break!
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10 comments:
That brought tears to my eyes. I'm so thankful that he will have the week to stay with you all, what a special gift!
Glad you had the epiphany ! What a wonderful gift to have and to give....Chris with you and you with him !
Score for the WHOLE Underwood family! What an awesome gift! I am so excited for you guys! Can't wait to hear what this extended time does for your family bonding and for Chris as he learns more about the workings of a family This is an awesome blessing!Here we are gearing up to get there... It is kind of sureal. :)Do you know if O & O got to go anywhere for break or if they are staying at 21? Just wondering. I know big O has a gma like lady that comes to visit.
Love you guys!
M&J
Thank you so much for being the connection for us and delivering the goodies to the orphanage. Especially to the cafeteria workers...So happy that Chris is with you all....Wow...The Hall family
Underwood family, We are so thankful for the successful court date and the upcoming week that you will have with Chris. They must love you (and who wouldn't) to allow Chris to stay with you overnight. I've heard this is not the norm. God is good. Tell all the kids hello. Have a great week. We love and miss you. Love, The Werk Family
Great news!! And $25???? Oh, my. Canned pineapple it is.
Joy
Hey Underwoods,
We were so excited to get caught up on your blog - what great news for all of you. Enjoy your week!! We have been at all the grandparents - no internet or cell phone!! It is amazing how much you miss when you are disconnected. Love the video!! See you soon.
Joan and the family!!
hey! I tried to write Yuriy a letter but i am not sure if he got it because i do not know if he goes to the English lessons. Can you ask him for me? If he has a letter for me can you tell him to give it to the English teacher that we have been using to do letters? thanks you so much! i have had so much fun reading about you guys.I never got to meet Chris in the summer but he seems like a sweet boy! I bet he was so happy to see you guys and i know that you all are having so much fun together!! Thanks for helping me get in touch with Yuriy! We love you guys!
Hey guys,
We are all over joyed that you are all going to have this time with Chris. Please tell Chris we can't wait to meet him. We wish you were all here with us at Mom and Dad's. Connor can't wait for Noah to open his presents from him and Momaw & Papaw. Connor has really missed the male bonding time with Zap & Noah. He's out numbered and playing way too many video games. Raegan, Avery & Sophia wish Lily was here to play. Avery has been very helpful with the baby. Reminds me of Lily when Avery was born. The Chicken & Dumplings were great and we even had a tree this year!! We miss you all and wish you were here.
Happy New Year
We love you all,
Tammy, Jeff, Raegan, Connor, Avery, Dan, Heather, Sophia, Momaw, Mom & Dad
Hello and Happy New Year!!Wow, such a blessing to have Chris for a week. So glad to hear of all that you are being allowed to do and to be such a light for all those who need to experience God's love though you all. Happy to hear of the court being successful, too. Looking forward for your return soon. The Brennans
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