Sunday, December 11, 2011

Falling for Heidi

We have had the joy of visiting with Heidi (yes, that will be her name!) several times over the last few days. She is a little doll and we have had such fun getting to know her. She is sweet, quick to laugh, spunky, and curious. I have wondered what she must think of these strangers that have suddenly become a part of her life. The first night, she was happy and enjoyed our play time very much. She would quickly go from staring at us, to a full out laugh when she got tickled. The next morning when we entered the room in her group, she smiled when she saw us and came right to me. We told the nanny that we wanted to go outside, so they dressed her up in a snowsuit (good thing, it is freezing!) and brought her out to us. We were not all ready with our coats on, so the nanny took Heidi's hat off. She was VERY disappointed and instantly burst into tears until we put the hat back on and started for outside! The video below is from that first outing.

We have been able to visit twice a day, and this morning was our best time so far. We spent an hour outside, pushing her in the stroller and letting her explore. Every once in a while, she will look back to make sure we are still around and even motions with her hand for us to follow. When we went in, I gave her the slinky which she loves! She has no interest in "girly" toys, but loves to throw everything- and she has quite an arm! She is very, very small, and does not seem to be talking at all. She is serious much of the time, but if we tickle her, or do something amazing with a toy (like throwing a ball really high) she will just start to really laugh. I love the way her face lights up when she laughs.

When we walked into the room this morning, another of the children in the room saw us and said "Mama! Ludvaba Mama!" (Ludvaba is her given name) It really breaks my heart that she is the only one in the room with a mama. I wish there was someone coming for each of them! The children are very well-behaved, sweet and smiling whenever we see them. The nannies are kind, but how much better would it be to know that it was your mama coming through the door? I am so grateful to God that he has brought us here for her.

I hope you enjoy the videos! We have one more time with her tonight, then we move to the town where the boys live. We will stay there until we find out about our court date. I hate that we may not see Heidi again for a long time! I am excited to get to know the boys better, and I am praying that our court date is soon and we can get these little ones home where they belong!!



18 comments:

  1. Precious! Thank you so much for sharing this joy with us.

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  2. OOOOOMGosh! I love her...she has been given the gift of happiness! THANK YOU for answering Gods call to adopt these sweet children. I have been praying for you all and especially for favor with Heidi (I have a special place in my heart for children with downs syndrome...). Praying that the rest of your trip goes smoothly and that you return safely. Rebecca

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  3. Thanks so much for blogging and posting these videos so that we can follow along with your adventure. Looks like it was an awesome day with sweet, little Heidi...just the first of many, I'm sure!

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  4. Love, love , love it!! She is beautiful!!
    Congrats!!!! Hugs!

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  5. First of all - I love the name! Adorable! And the first video with all the snuggles is so sweet. You've definitely taken us back to a place that we love....praying for you all!

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  6. Brings tears to my eyes :-) Adoption ROCKS!!!

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  7. She's GORGEOUS :)

    Congratulations!!

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  8. Oh April!!! She IS precious!! Praise God for giving her a wonderful family, and you another sweet little one!! SO happy for you!!

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  9. She's very beautiful!

    Anne

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  10. It was such a blessing to watch this video before church. Our family set in front of your family this morning. Gave the girls hugs.. Know that we continue to pray for Gods blessing on your family and your little ones who will soon be here in Kentucky with us. Angela Bishop

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  11. Heidi is precious - she looks like a little Christmas elf in her little red coat and hood! And oh, that infectious little giggle - such a fun daddy to play with, too, and a mama to cuddle and snuggle with - such joy.

    I'm glad there's no snow on the ground yet - that will facilitate traveling from place to place (hope I haven't jinxed the weather by that comment!) Similar weather back home- bright skies but chilly; a bit warmer for the next 48.
    Sending traveling blessings your way...

    Susan in Ky
    Cousin to 2 from EE

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  12. Oh, these videos made me cry! Love that little girl!!

    Could you let me know where you're at with finances. The girls in my class were planning a bake sale for Lucy (Heidi!), but if you no longer need the funds, we'll donate the proceeds to another one of the RR kiddos.

    Blessings,
    Sarah

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  13. What a wonderful, wonderful post...you guys both look so, so happy. Thanks for posting!

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  14. My heart is so full of joy for you ALL!

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  15. Hi Sarah,

    Thank you for your sweet comments!

    We can definitely use the funds! Since our adoption will not complete this year, we will be paying back loans out of our pocket without the benefit of the refundable tax credit. At this point we still have over $20k to pay back. Thank you so much for the offer!

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  16. Oh my goodness, she is adorable! So thankful you will have all 3 home soon. Praying court happens asap!

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  17. She is so sweet! I love that belly laugh she gives in the second video. :)

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  18. I would love to talk with you about the other kids in her orphanage. Could you please email me when you have a chance at herbalgirl3 at gmail dot com. Thank you! :)

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