We left for the Embassy this morning and got all settled in…only to find out that our appt was rearranged for this afternoon. So, we left and headed for the coffee factory to load up. Between the long wait there and a stuck bus plus 14 crying kids and dirty diapers it was 1:00 already and we were heading back to the Embassy. No lunch and no naps was not a good combination for our 2 hour wait.
Silas had two meltdowns while we were out today. It would be difficult for any 2 year old, but add strangers for parents to the mix and it isn’t a pretty sight. I don’t think that the orphanage told him no very often, so he gets extremely upset when he doesn’t get his way. He cries so hard he starts coughing and goes into hyperventilate mode. On his first one Tony just held him close and let him do his thing. It breaks your heart to see him so upset. Silas finally calmed down and had a cat nap. With each successive meltdown, it seems to be less severe. I don’t know if this is a coincidence or if he is starting to feel some comfort from us. We feel like first time parents all over again because dealing with his emotional abandonment trauma is new territory. How do we extend grace yet be firm and consistent? One day at a time…
I think Silas also has some survival, “scrapper”, instincts from being in the orphanage. He is very territorial with his new things…his toys, his sippy cup, everything. Silas also grabs his food with both fists and just shoves it in as fast as he can. And then he tends to push others and be aggressive to get his way. When he is uncomfortable or scared, however, he turns into a cuddle bug and becomes very shy. This could be good for the plane ride home!
We are very grateful for a great Embassy appointment. Silas’ Visa should be ready by 10:00 tomorrow morning, so we can come home tomorrow evening! Yeah!!!!
Cale and Mya, you are both going to have to be patient as we teach little brother how to share. He is going to need you guys to teach him how to be a part of a family. :) Just a couple more days!
June Highlights
9 years ago
Sounds like your doing great during this learning process. - Seth
ReplyDeleteYes, I agree with Seth. You guys are doing great. Taking a day, an hour, a minute, and the issures one at a time WILL get you there. Reminding you, your family lifts each of you up to our Heavenly Father continuously. Take special care, - - you will be home before you know it. :) Your Uncle Frank & Aunt Candy cv
ReplyDeleteAwesome, awesome, awesome!!!
ReplyDeleteYou guys are doing so very well. The line between understanding and firm discipline is so very tough but your faith in Him and your love for Him and him will get you through this tough time!!
I agree - firm and loving discipline is tough but that may be what Silas really needs to feel secure. We will be praying especially for your sanity and saftey on the trip home, Cale and Mya's first meeting with Silas, and bonding as a whole family. - The Woodersons
ReplyDeleteCalled Carey to find out what was going on w/ you all. Missed the whole leaving for Ethiopia thing. smile You are in my prayers and I know that you will find a way to temper discipline w/ love. I envy your stamina. Will catch up w/ you when you get home and have some time to adjust. Much love, Magda
ReplyDeleteOne of my curent students lived in an orphange and has been with her family for several years (at least) and still steals and hides food and fears not getting enough to eat. The orphanages I saw in Mexico and Ecuador just broke my heart. I'm so thankful Silas has you two!!
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