Monday May 12th - Meeting Eyob

We were up bright and early Monday morning. Almaz was meeting us at 9:00am to go over paperwork and then we were going to meet the kids. We were told not to be late so we were at breakfast at 7:00 am. Almaz showed up right on time and we were all extremely honored to meet her. The paperwork went smoothly and quickly and before we knew it, Almaz said "Let's go meet the kids." We were all filled with nervous excitment as we walked the block to Hanna's Hope. When we walked in the toddlers and babies were already out, so we all went to see the babies, because everyone loves babies. Then Almaz sent the older kids out. We turned around and there was Eyob standing at the end ot the walk way with his hands behind his back and a nervous smile. We gave him the soccer bear the kids made him, matchbox cars and a lollipop (because they said bring candy). He took FOREVER to eat that lollipop. When he was finished, we played some soccer and then it was time to go back to the hotel for lunch. Almaz felt it was better for the older kids to eat lunch at Hanna's Hope and then come with Danny, the driver, to the hotel for the trip to the embassy. When Eyob got to the hotel he ran right into Kevin's arms and gave him a big hug. The embassy apponitment was quick and painless. We got Eyob's passport, visa, birth certificate and court documents. We returned to the hotel for dinner. Eyob had one teary moment when we first got to the hotel but otherwise did well with all the transitions. Eyob LOVED his bath that night and showed us how to use the "Ethiopian shower" and fell right to sleep which was a blessing. I can't say I did the same because now I had something else to worry about, meeting Eyob's birth mother on Wednesday.

Eyob eating his lollipop

The main house at Hanna's Hope

Eyob playing soccer with his friends