Monday, October 5, 2009

Meeting the Foster Family





Today we got up real early due to someone in our group AKA Joe not quite being adjusted to the time change. It really is a bummer when you can't go back to sleep at 5 A.M. We were able to take Petch today with the Social Workers to a big shopping store and buy some toys for him and his foster brothers. He seemed pretty relaxed to be with his big brothers and was full of smiles.

After lunch we were taken back to the hotel where we had a little free time just with Petch with no interpreter for the first time, WOW!!!!! we really don't know any Thai to speak of, it's a good thing that kids have a language that is universal. Joe, Gabe, and Petch played together as if they had been together for a long time it was neat to see them playing soccer in the hall of the Hotel just a laughing and giggling on like no other strangers that I'd have ever seen before.

In the afternoon the Social workers drove our family to see Petch's school and his Foster family house. It was very emotional seeing where he has attended school for so long and being able to say goodbye to his teachers, and student friends that were there waiting for us. His friends were quite happy to see cameras. We were able to talk to his current teacher and see how he has been and what his strong suits are, by looking at his homework tablets i know our kids could get a lesson in penmanship from him.

After seeing his school we walked to his house and were able to sit down and talk with his Foster Mom. All of his Foster siblings were also there, it was very important to us to get to see where he has been growing up and see what kind of family life he has had. It is tough to think about him saying goodbye tomorrow morning to his Mom and siblings that he has for so many years and jumping into our life full time. What a jump it is going to be! We can't wait!!!!!!

Tonight is our last night without Petch, something we have been waiting and praying for so long. Here are a few pics from today of him with his teacher and of his school and his amazing smile.

On our way home from his house today our Social workers gave us a snack that they really liked and thought we should try. I think they probably should come up with a better name because the name sweet hair doesn't have that appetizing of a name, although it did taste better than it looked.

7 comments:

Sharon said...

What an emotional day, and an emotional story! (tissues needed again)! Petch seems like such a happy, easy going and sweet boy. How blessed you all are to have each other I Love that beautiful smile of his, it is contagious. I know you must be overwhelmed with joy, and ecstaticly happy to finally have this special boy with you forever in just a matter of hours now. Congratulations to you all! Our prayers for Petch and you all will continue. Thank you for sharing your amazing story with us Hollie.
(((hugs)) Sharon.

Jessica said...

Congratulations! How amazing that you got to visit his school and learn so much about his life/friends/etc... I'm sure tomorrow will be an emotional day for all involved. Keeping you in my prayers. Have a continued wonderful trip.
-- Jessica (from the Holt board)

Melissa Ens said...

: ) Finally, finally, finally! Thanks for sharing this amazing journey with us... Petch looks like he's doing so well. I'm sure reality will hit eventually, but praise God for such a great start... and for BROTHERS!!! : )

Amy said...

I'm so happy for you guys! Just caught up on your entire blog this morning, had'nt checked in for quite a while. Petch sounds awesome, and how great that the boys could come with you to help this transition be easier for him. Have a safe trip home, I'll look forward to meeting him when I am in Brookings next. Amy

Donna said...

Stopped by the office to get your blog address from Heather. I am days behind in stalking you. Petch looks like he fits in with the family wonderfully. I am so happy that you are finally getting him. Can't wait to meet him.

hirallysantiago@gmail.com said...

SOOOOO AMAZING!!!! Tomorrow will be quite emotional (but you know that), keep you in my thoughts!!!

Megan said...

The language of children really is quite amazing!! I enjoyed seeing the classroom pic, that was one thing we didn't get to see for Jet. I never even thought to ask to, duh. I completely agree on the penmanship, too!! I am so happy for you guys!!