Now that we have WIFI internet (for who knows how long) we thought we'd do a quick blog update. Our time in Vlad is going very well. On Monday we met our boys. The day began with a visit to the Ministry of Education to officially receive our referral. It was quick and painless and we were off to see the boys. We cannot list names or post pictures, but we can briefly tell the story.
The boys are ages 2 and 4 and are at different institutions because of their age difference. Children age 3 and younger are in baby homes and children 4 and older are in orphanages. We went to the baby home first to meet our first son. He is a little sweetie! The meeting was perfect. He did not cry or scream. He smiled. He laughed. He hugged us. What an answer to prayer. We only had thirty minutes with him that first day, but they were thirty wonderful minutes both of us will never forget. He is healthy and happy!
After our time at the baby home we went to the orphanage to meet son #2. He has a much quieter, shy personality than his little brother, but is an extremely sweet and brave boy. We played with him and a bear that we brought him. He hugged us both and smiled at us. I think he has been through a lot in his four short years. He has not seen his little brother for almost a year. He was extremely attached to him. On our second visit we were able to show him pictures from our visit with his brother. You could see the look of sadness in his face at seeing his brother. But we assured him that his brother is happy and healthy.
After reviewing the medical records of both boys, we are committed to adopting them and bringing them home in the months ahead. We will be able to visit the boys more over the next couple of days. Hopefully we will be able to post more. But we wanted you all to know what a blessing this trip has been and how wonderful the boys are. We can't wait till we can show off our sons to all of you! Thanks for your continued prayers. And thanks for the comments you've been leaving us on this blog. Keep 'em coming!
Love,
Clarion & Joel
10 comments:
It's a joy to read your blog and know that soon, 2 little boys will have a wonderful home with 2 loving parents and will get to learn about the God that loves them so much. Give them a hug from us! Steve & Lisa
I am extremely thankful that God has led you two to these little ones who need a loving, Christ-centered family. Jill and I have been keeping you in our prayers and look forward to seeing some more photos, when the time is right. God's blessings and keep bringing on the good news.
Jon and Jill
We are so excited and live the trip with you! Seeing those boys the first time must have been like experiencing a miracle. God has blessed those boys with both of you. May God bless all four of you.
Susan and Aunt Sue
Chris and I are so thrilled for you both and can't wait to hear more!
That's great guys. It sounds like you're going to change both of their lives in a dramatic way. I pray that God would continue to bless and watch over you this trip.
Chris B. in Texas
PS -- sounds like the food there is better than I thought!
Wow! Michelle and I are happy for you guys! We loved the photos and think God is blessing you with a wonderful gift here. We'll keep you in our prayers.
Wade & Michelle Mattsfield
We are all living the experience with you! Thanks for sharing the stories and pictures.
We know sightseeing must be exciting, but can imagine you would both rather spend time with your little boys. We hope and pray the wait will not be long until you can bring them home.
As always, you're in our prayers.
Love, Aunt Jan & Uncle Eddie
Hi,
We adopted our son Owen with CHI from Vladivostok (Artyem) in June (2007). Is your youngest son in the Artyem baby home? We are in touch with a few other families who've adopted little ones from the Vladivostok region and would love to keep in touch with you!
Please give our love to Irina and Lana.
Adrienne
I am so glad that your experience went well. I hope that the next leg of your wait will go quickly. I would love to talk to you off-line about your experience.
waiting42@gmail.com
Hi! I have thoroughly enjoyed reading about your adoption journey...my husband and I are in the very beginning stages of adopting, and what an encouragement it's been to see your cute kids! :) Blessings to you as you continue to seek the Lord for wisdom!
~Rita
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