Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Visiting the orphanage


We had heard from some that bathtime can be very difficult...not so much for Lilly! She loves being in the bath, but at the same time really scrubs clean all on her own.

We were told that she was the "star" at the ophanage and it really seemed to be the case as we were given a tour and all of the nannies new her and took time to visit with her.



We then spent the afternoon at the park across the street from the hotel. It is a very big and clean park, and we were able to feed the seagulls. Knowing how the seagulls act at the beach, I was not all that crazy about the idea, but these birds actually stay over the water and wait for the bread to be thrown.





This morning was our visit to the orphanage where Lilly spent her first two years before being moved to the foster family. After the heartbreaking good byes Monday, we questioned how hard this visit might be and if it was worth it. Now, we are so glad we did! It was evident that even over the past 4 years that Lilly was known and knew many of the people there. The director and all the people we were introduced to obviously had a very special relationship with Lilly. It ended up being as much a chance for them to say goodbye than for Lilly. It also gives us such peace knowing more about her background and the type of care and love she received.
As we spend more time together, we learn more about each other. Lilly continues to impress us with how quick she learns, and she also has shown us she is used to getting her way most of the time. We are practicing numbers and colors now, she teaches us Ch*nese and sign language for the numbers and we teach her English. I know who is learning the most about life right now, but we can't let her know yet. As we spend time here and watch the daily activities of everyday people, we are so grateful - not for the stuff - but truly for the freedom we have to know and worship our Father and tell others about Him. How lonely to live in a place and not have that freedom, surrounded completely all the time but lonely on the inside.

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Lilly looks so happy (so do mom & dad)! I can see why she would be a bright spot at the orphanage.
I guess there's more shopping to do today.
We miss you all and pray for your safe return.
Love
MOM

Anonymous said...

Dropped the kids at school, drinking my morning coffee (not as good as Jay's cowboy coffee by the campfire) and getting my morning fix of the "Lilly Show". She is beautiful! Sounds like she already acts like her Mom, i.e. wants her own way. HA!HA! Michael Ann and Devin loved looking at the pictures. Thanks for the daily blessing, Monty

Anonymous said...

Loving it! Oh, I cannot wait to see Lilly and her sisters together. Thank you for taking the time to post pictures and give us our daily "Lilly-fix". Enjoy all of the amazing "firsts" with Lilly these next few days. :)

Steve and Tina

Wife of the Pres. said...

So glad you guys are staying at a different hotel! We never got to visit Green Lake as it was so far from our hotel! Interesting take on the orphanage too. I do think they love the children very much. Lily is so beautiful. Isn't it great to finally have her in your arms!?! S. loves baths too; and loved them from the start! She also is serious about her hand-washing and bathtime. I think Dir. Z likes things clean which I like too! Have a good rest of your time in Kunming!

Anonymous said...

We are all excited to see more pictures and have more info. Lilly seems to be enjoying her parents and all the time out and about. All of you look great! Our kids ask every morning before school to read the blog! Love ya

Uncle Beau and Aunt Linda

Anonymous said...

We just looked at your pics and it all looks so exciting. We look forward to meeting Lilly. You will remain in our prayers. We love you, Gary, Caron, Allison and Sidney