Curt's Dedication

"first Christmas"

Wow - it is amazing we have been dreaming and wondering what today would be like officially for 2 years and it finally arrived. In reality I've been dreaming and wondering about today for probably 5 or 6 years! The first Christmas as a family of 4! Well today FINALLY arrived and I have to say - it was perfect. Yeah - we missed our angels in heaven - life will never be the same without our grandparents, however my dad, step mom and step sister were here. And it has been 2 years since I saw my sister Nisha! I was so happy to finally have her back and to also for her to meet and hold Curt. So having Curt FINALLY here - at last was wonderful! Last year we had just gotten back a few weeks before from holding Curt - so this year he was HOME! Wow that boy is full of energy - he's amazing And Sunday we were also blessed to have him dedicated in our church - it was a great weekend. So last night was Christmas eve - and we had a jam packed day - to get home with lots of snow. The first REAL snow fall Curt's seen. wow that little spit fire got out of the van and ran around the whole front yard (it isn't big) but touching and kicking and running through the snow! It was wonderful to watch. Then this morning after Santa arrived - and with Nate! I am truly blessed with these two boys! Nate got his Skylander's Giants (not working as we'd hoped) and a Red Rider BB Gun! Yikes - hope he doesn't shoot his eye out - and Curt well - bath time toys and anything Thomas the train! And other cars! All perfect for him. It was just a perfect day. I'm hoping we can post the video of the dedication here as well. Our day was fun. II hope everyone was able to spend time thinking about the miracle of today's main Birthday - the birth of Jesus! I feel like he's been doing a LOT through our lives. Thanks for following. Merry Christmas, Love Gail

Nate's Dedication Letter

We read the following letter to Nate at Christmas Dinner in 2012.  Nate was dedicated when he was an infant, at the First Baptist Church in Howell, Michigan.  They used a more scripted approach to the dedication, and we thought it would be great to capture our thoughts for Nate when we were writing the letter for Curtis:

December 23, 2012

Dear Nate,

Son, you may not understand this now, but someday you’ll realize how much love and prayer came before your birth.  Your dad and I wanted you so badly and went to the ends of the world to make that happen.  As I say, you are my fertility miracle and we love you just so very much.

You are such an amazing boy and we know you are so smart, loving and kind.  Being so creative with such a warm and loving personality you can go so far in this world.    Be it designing video games or writing comics, we will be proud of you for all you do. 

Just as we committed to teach Curtis about Jesus today, we made that same commitment to you when you were a baby.  We did this at the church that Mommy grew up in, and we’re so happy that you’ve already learned so much about Jesus and how his love for us will allow us to be with Him forever.  We’re really excited for the day that you choose to be baptized in His name making that visible act to confirm what you already believe in your heart that Jesus died for our sins. 

Remember these few things and you will have the life we dreamed for you before we held you in our arms.

1 - No matter what you will always be loved and honored by us and the rest of your family.  You will always have your special angels in heaven guiding you and watching out for you when you are in need.  Never forget the love they have for you, before you were even born, they adored you so much!  All you have to do is look at the sky and find a star shining bright!  They are up there guiding your way.

2 – You should pursue  whatever you want in life.  As long as you follow your heart and being a Christian you can’t go wrong.  Be the BACKUS man we know you already are.  Live your life with integrity and in Christ and you will go far! 

3 – Love like you won’t see tomorrow.  Fall for the person of your dreams.  Love them like they are only here for a day.  Your heart is so big and will only grow bigger allowing more dreams and people to be touched. 

4 – be faithful in your heart.  God will always get you through even the toughest of times.  He will be the ever constant in your life above all.  Become a strong Christian man and maintain this in your life. 

No matter what – remember how much you have been loved and longed for many years before you were born.  As your name says, you ARE a Gift from God!  We love you so much.

Mom and Dad!

Curt's Dedication Letter

We read the following letter to Curt when he was dedicated at Genesis: The Church on December 23, 2013.  It is our hope that he chooses to follow Christ one day, and he will be baptized in His savings waters:

Dearest Curt,

You were born into a life and family that loved you half way across the world.  Your birth family made the greatest sacrifice in May of 2011 by their actions and love just for you.  Not knowing then, we dreamed of you for many months and finally saw your beautiful little face in August 2011.  Soon after, we learned of your smile and personality even as a small baby.  You were a bright spot in many lives in Addis at the Engida Orphanage, loving so many and being loved till we could become a forever family earlier this year.

You have already survived many things in your little life that many of us will never understand.  Yet you are still smiling, laughing, singing and dancing all around.  You have brought such joy to our lives and home.  You have completed us and we are truly a family of 4 at last.  Many say you are lucky for everything that’s happened, but dear son, YOU ARE the blessing to our family.  Thank you for your carefree and happy personality.

It is our hope that you come to follow Christ just as our family does.  We will help to teach you about His love and the sacrifice He made for us.  Ethiopia has had a strong commitment to Jesus Christ from the early days of the Church, and has always remained an independent spirit in Africa. Our dream for you is that you will become the man you want to be and be filled by the Holy Spirit  to show others that they too can overcome anything in life.  And we dream that you will continue to know Christ and always remember your roots as an Ethiopian in this crazy world.  Remember the strong Christian history that you come from and show the world that a smile goes a long way.

Find love and peace in our family and know the joy that you have brought to so many.  Trust in God that you can do anything you want and go where you need.  And no matter what, know how much you are truly loved by so many all over the world.  Many people prayed for you to join our family and we truly are blessed to have you as our son!  You also have so many angels all around you from your beloved grandparents in heaven and your birth parents where ever they may be.  Everyone wants to ensure you have a chance to grow and learn and love as any little boy should.

We love you and your brother more than words can ever express.

Love,

Mommy and daddy.

crazy happy life

Wow - life is just crazy - busy and wonderful at the same time. Not really sure what all has been posted in the last few weeks - but over the last few years we have had 3 prayers - and never really voiced one - well it finally has occurred And it is a blessing. We have decided after many discussions the last few years to close our business and have Craig be a stay at home dad for a while. This allows him to bond with Curt and spend some time with Nate. And honestly the timing couldn't have been more perfect with my crazy work schedule. It's a good crazy, I'm putting a management system in place for Environmental, Health and Safety (EHS) - and it just takes a lot of time. So Craig is now cooking dinner, cleaning and spending good quality time with Curt and Nate. The boys are really doing good. And watching Curt flourish the last few weeks is amazing. I swear he's learned more words in the last few weeks and understanding more AS I type this I'm just watching him play with his toys and he's very intent. He is SUCH a boy! He LOVES his cars, trucks and anything that moves. And now he's growling as he sees a Dinosaur on TV. Just so sweet. Nate - well just loving life - he's the best. He's ready for the holidays- sadly we don't have our decorations or anything up. WE're getting there though. Anyhow -just really thinking of how wonderful our life is - ok Curt is dancing up a storm at the moment - we need to take video of him. Anyhow - I'm finding that I"m thinking of his birth family - do they think of him? where are they? Are they alive? Did they have this much energy and wonder? Did they love so much? I just wonder. Ok - this post is ALL over the place - clearly life is busy and I'm just feeling and thinking all over the place. But just know that God takes care of us all! He does answer prayers and things happen in HIS time and the PERFECT time. Happy holidays all

Sami Craig Backus for a year now

Wow - I can't believe that Curt officially became our son 1 year ago today. I remember waiting for the courts and in this really hot room - that kept getting VERY loud. It was fun to see how well respected our agency was - AAI for those keeping track and , saying bad things about them - they are so well respected the employees kept going to THEM to help keep order. And we saw this at the US Embassy too. Anyhow - we were not the first family in but ended up going after an hour or two. So we go in and the judge asks us a few questions about our family, if Nate was OK with it all, if we planned to keep the culture in his life - and that was about it. Ok, she asked if we understood this is forever and non-reversible - and YES we knew that - she then hit her gavel and declared us his parents! Sadly it took a few more months to bring our son home - but it happened. And today I see this awesome little personality watching the Wiggles at the moment, dancing around and fighting with his big brother to have a bite of his Popsicle. We are truly blessed by everything and God's timing in our lives. Right now Craig has been given an opportunity to stay home with Curt for a little bit! What a great opportunity for them? They are both enjoying it very much! Curt's been getting into a routine (one that was not working out well at his former daycare) and really a happy boy! I will cherish so much for many years to come.

One year later

Wow - a year ago today Craig and I met and held Curt (aka Sami) for the very first time. I looked at the pictures that another mom with us too - the VERY first pictures of the caretakers at the orphanage introducing us to our sweet, sweet boy! We got to see that amazing smile first hand - we'd heard how sweet it was - and it truly is! And this last year has had some roller coaster rides trying to bring our beautiful boy home - but now we are watching him turn into the sweet little guy. Learning to talk - today he said Elmo, Happy Day (for Happy Birthday), one, two - and something for "three". WE are blessed. On the 30th it will be a year that he legally became our son! I feel blessed - I love my family so much - both boys are are just sweet! Nate talked all the way home today - he's so sweet. I heard about his Star Wars dreams and how he wants to invent a light saber? the new events in our life - Craig is now officially a stay at home dad for a few days. He's really enjoying this time with Curt and going out and bonding. They are doing fun things and getting a LOT of things done. He's very blessed to have this short time to be home with him before life takes another change! Ok - babbling - I just feel so happy today!. Gail

Happy Thanksgiving

Today is the first Thanksgiving for our little Curt! I feel like we are just so blessed to have him home for the holidays last year. A year ago today I was packing to fly out the day after Thanksgiving to go meet our son! Craig and I just had such an amazing trip meeting our new son. And today I"m so thankful for my boys it isn't even funny! I'm thankful for the selfless act that Curt's birth family did in 2011 - I know they are not celebrating a holiday in Ethiopia - but I just wonder if his family thinks of him, if they are even still alive. Do they know what a beautiful little boy they gave life to and such a spirit? Today we went back to the Detroit Thanksgiving Parade - and would like to start this as a tradition for our family (so anyone want to join - feel free - maybe some of the cousins and their kids can join in the future). But both Nate and Curt were so fun! Nate was lucky a family let him get closer to the front to see. Curt well he made friends with everyone. It is just amazing how so many people, from all over, all different, different stages of lives and totally different lives can all come together, standing in a small area and be nice. People helping one another, giving kids some food and a necklace when they didn't catch one from the clowns. Just such an amazing holiday spirit today. Anyhow - then our TRADITIONAL Thanksgiving with my family - I loved seeing my cousins and their kids that I haven't seen in some time. And for Curt to meet more family members. He was a good boy - and Nate - well he always loves knowing he has more family! Anyhow - today I feel blessed. My family is amazing and I love them all dearly! I'm just thinking ab out the trip of a lifetime we took a year ago and Curt was officially our son- I just love it. Happy Thanksgiving everyone. Gail

18 month check up

Wow our little guy is 18 months (and a few days) - but he had his well baby check today with the Dr.  She was very impressed with his development and how he's doing.  He's able to say more than 10 words, and totally understand and comprehends even more. She said that was so good to see.  He's in the 60% for weight, 30% for height and that's good too!

Sadly we had 5 shots today and 2 pokes trying to get blood (trying is key - didn't get any blood)  - but we are caught up on immunizations - yeah.

Yes it sure has been a while - LOTS going on with the Backus' - we are busy with Nate in 3rd grade - he's so good and amazes me how much he's progressed in the last few years.  He's a good brother and trying to comfort Curt today at the doctors - it was so sweet to see.  And then Craig and I are good too!  Work is work - I'm crazy swamped but getting things finally organized and set up - yeah.

This summer we moved to a new Church - Genesis and can't explain how much we love it.  The sermon's just really speak to Craig and I.  Nate loves the Sunday school program and we now have small group too!  The whole church has a big 6 week program for sermons and small groups to do the same things, I'm really learning things.  Which is good.

A  lot of other changes are coming our way - we'll get there.  exciting how things happen for a reason and the right time.

But for now - I"m enjoying listening to my boys laugh and play!  They are great.
Have a good one.
Gail

Support the fight against Leukemia

all leukemia is a nasty disease that took my mom back in 2004  -17 days before her first grandchild was welcomed into this world.  To this day I believe she hand picked Nathaniel Craig Backus out in heaven just for us - if not him in body and all - his spirit was chosen by her.  We were never able to "see" the gender and I tell myself that she realized we (Craig, me and my dad and Marcus) needed a beautiful bald little boy!  He brought so much joy into a very sad time.

Anyhow tomorrow night our team - Loretta's Love will do our annual walk at the  Light the Night event in Troy, MI.  If you are able, please go visit our new website - www.lorettaslove.com and donate.  Or even come support the cause and walk with us tomorrow night (walk starts at 7 in Troy, events start at 5) - and enjoy glow in the dark balloons.  Rain or shine - the walk goes on.  So bundle up.

If you ever noticed the archives on here - they data back to May 2004.  Yes my dear husband Craig created this long ago (and a few looks back) to help us communicate with family and friends as the stress and cost of calling everyone every day became too much!  I think our phone bill that one month was well over $400.  And then dad and Marcus had high ones too.  It was hard to tell the same story all over and over.  So this was our way to communicate to everyone that wanted and/or needed to know.

Anyhow - reading back you can feel the emotions and stress of a pregnant me wrote about things close to every day or so.  I don't handle things very well - and it was very hard the last few days in June.  But then go to July 8th and the start of the waiting for Nate came on and brought a ray of light to this family!  And over t he years you can read about our family, losing my in laws, grandma and then our adoption!  This is a blog created out of love and information and has continued that on and hopefully helped people looking at adoption.

Yes - it is bitter sweet - and we're hoping for a good turn out at the event this year.  Tomorrow is Curt's first walk in honor of his angel grandma as well!

I will bet everyone that reads this will have ONE connection - even a small one to someone that has fought leukemia, lymphoma or some sort of blood disorder -  lets go fight for those people now!

Thanks - and check out the great site - www.lorettaslove.com.
Love
Gail

Happy New Year - Welcome 2005

Today is the Ethiopian New Year - 2005.  yes they have a different year  they use a totally different calendar.  I won't put it all here - but Google it and you can read all about it.  So in theory I realized both boys were born in 2004!  ha - pretty funny.

We didn't do any big celebration - but hope to next year. I've been in touch with an Ethiopian pastor and they are hoping to do more in Ann Arbor next year!  yeah!  Can't wait.  Very important to keep the culture in our lives - at least it is my thoughts.

So I realized I haven't posted in a while - things are just busy.  School started for Nate at the end of August, Curt and I have been fighting a cold the last week.  His is mostly teething and me allergies -but still NO fun.  Labor day weekend was just a busy time.  I hope to do pictures one of these days -but too tired and icky right now.

So a quick (probably not but I'll pretend) update on life.

Curt is 17 months old. Tomorrow will be 6 months from Gotcha Day!  Wow - 6 months as a family of 4.  It seems like he has been with us forever and it is perfect.  yes we have our ups and downs.  He still wakes up at  night lately  Last night we let him "cry it out" and it went well.  Craig may not agree, but it was 15 minutes,  and he slept till 7 and woke up in a great mood.  Curt loves to talk, walk, run and play!  he's all over and it is great.  He's definitely got a personality!  We love it.

Nate started 3rd grade at St Paul's and we are just so proud of him.  His reading compared to last year has advanced so much.  Tutoring really helped. But we are done with tutoring for now and going back to soccer starting Saturday.  And maybe something else.  WE were hoping the Lego Robot clubs, but need to be 9 years old.

Me - swamped like crazy at work, but love it.  It is just a good fit.  I was actually able to have Nate in for two weeks to help me out.  Yes he worked and got paid to help me scan MSDSs!  He's great.  I'm having little medical stuff happening - possible ulcer related to my stomach surgery (3 years ago).  Yikes.  But good to get it checked out NOW before it gets bad.

Craig - busy with the store - but enjoying Saturday's with us again!  yeah.  We love it too!  He's just into football season and taking walks with the boys.

We also found a new church this summer.  It was not an easy decision but attending Genesis we realized we needed to grow more.  And we have found the opportunities here.  Very excited to get involved and doing more.  A sermon this summer inspired us both so much it was amazing.  a real GOD moment!  They do a lot of out reach and I can see us doing more here in the future!  I can't wait!  Yeah -

Dad was here for a while in June/July - gave us a health scare - but doing well now.  We were even able to get pics of him and the boys AND had family pics taken too!  They were food too!

What else?  Oh - I"m going to be an aunt!  Yeah - can't wait - my brother is expecting next year - so thrilled for them too!

Other than that - through all the life struggles,we just feel blessed to have the boys and the family we have. I love my boys and just enjoy what life is bringing us.

I love talking about adoption, Ethiopia and what we can do to help the people there someday!

That's about all for now  - I can tell it is very disjointed  sorry about that
Gail

So much going - where to start?

Wow - where do I start?  Just so much in life going on - and pretty much ALL good!  Curt and Nate and all of us are just bonding like crazy.  I have to admit the attachment was my BIGGEST fear - I never thought sleeping would be an issue (and yes IT IS  - not fun).  But the attachment is so amazing.  Seeing Curt and everyone he needs to know and care about - he is starting to bond.  Today we said give brother Nate a hug and he waddled over to give him lots of hugs!  It was so beautiful.  I am just beyond happy and just love my family so much!  I honestly feel complete!  My boys (all 3 - including the big one) are just MY LIFE!  I will never be able to express the love I have for them.

My dad was home for the last few weeks and was able to get time with the boys too.  It was nice because Curt finally started to bond to him.  He wanted Nate near by if it was just the two of them. But after a few days, he'd go right to Papa.  And even though my dad may not have heard it - he can say that too Papa - not sure he knows what it means.

And then one day my dad and Mary kept Nate - so we met up the next day.  It was priceless.  WE walk into Uncle Marcus and Aunt Stacey's house and Nate is like CURT!  and Curt goes waddling over to his brother and they are hugging and attacking/wrestling!  So please - I still ask - observe the boys - you can see the love.

We did get some pictures the last week.  Some with Papa and the boys and others with the 4 of us!  And a few in our Ethiopian shirts!  Not sure how well you can see them all -but it counts!  Can't wait to see them early next week!  yeah.

So another big thing in our lives - helping to get a group going of families in SE Michigan and even northern OH that have or will be adopting Ethiopian kids!  Another woman stated it last year, I sorta took it over and another woman kindly took it from me (thank you Kim).  So she was great to arrange a gathering a few weeks ago.  It was so fun to just meet others, and have the kids play!  One little boy was from Curt's orphanage!  And they were in the same room!  Watching him see this little boy - ok it has been months, and they were so little -but he just wanted to gently touch his face!  he wasn't like that with the other kids.  Yes he was happy and playing,but this one boy  - there was such a connection!  It was priceless!  We're all going to keep meeting up!  Hopefully starting more often.  We even had a few families meet at the zoo concert this week!  yeah!  Lots of fun.

Craig and I are good too!  My work is amazing.  I just love all that I"m doing and what I am able and allowed to do!  It is just so cool!  I'm starting a new project and I feel like I'm getting in on the"ground floor" of something big!  I just am excited!  It sure will be cool.  And Craig - he has a lot going on and doing well!  Watching him with the boys and being protective is so sweet.

We recently went back to NY to his 25th class reunion - it was a lot of fun.  Getting pictures of his home town, seeing and meeting his sisters family (yes both of us had additions since we'd seen each other 3 years ago) - and Nate being with TJ - priceless.

AND we are expecting another baby in our family!  I will be an aunt early next year!  I'm thrilled and so excited!  I just can't wait!  Another baby in the family!  YEAH.

So just lots happening - and watching Curt grow, develop and learning to talk is so fun!  He sure has a handle on walking now - and likes to go UP the stairs - just not sure how to get down.  He wants to walk JUST LIKE US!

I should run - I made a few changes to the blog in the back ground and format.  we'll see if I like it or not.
Enjoy - hugs to you all!
Love
Gail

8 years ago

wow - 8 years ago today I was laying in a hospital bed hooked up to lots of drugs and stuff trying to induce labor - yep this started in the morning and continues till the next day.  Anyhow - my water broke 8 years ago tonight - but Nate still was NOT ready to be born - he waits till 6:23 pm on July 9th!

It was a bitter sweet moment as I cried to have my mom there JUST ONE MORE TIME to see and hold her first grandchild - but she wasn't.  She passed away 17 days earlier - that sucked.  Anyhow - I now believe that she was up in heaven and hand picked Nate - since we never could tell his gender - I believe she hand picked this soul for us - and held him for those days until he was born.  And she had a hand in picking Curt as well!

I can't believe my beautiful boy was born 8 years ago - and we just had another big birthday party yesterday on one of the hottest days of the year!  We had a bounce house, cotton candy and snow cone machine and great friends!  Tomorrow we'll celebrate at his choice of restaurants.  It will be amazing  -

I love my family and life so much - he is a blessing that brought our family together.  So lucky to have these great kids!

Meant to be a Backus

Just a good weekend - we didn't really do much - but it was nice.  The more we hang together, the more I just KNOW Curt was hand picked by the Lord for our family.  I still wonder about little Karesso and what family he made it to - he was/is a beautiful little boy - but Curt truly is meant for our family.

It is the little things in life that make Curt truly our son!  Yes - in little ways he looks like Nate did as a baby - just the little facial features, body structure and how he walks/holds himself.  Someone even said - he looks like a "chocolate Nate" - yep!  He does.  They meant it as a compliment.  And the little things we always said were hereditary - just were built into Curt!  Like the way he moans and groans in his sleep (plus snores) - Craig has done this for ever. Nate started it too - and Curt does it too!  Today at church I swear Curt's ankles were clicking - Craig's do that too!  Just funny.  It goes all the way to the food - they all like spicy foods!  Curt was eating mustard by spoonfuls tonight!  ha.  Then they were all sharing Popsicle!  I just love it.

And I know it isn't just us - I believe all kids adopted were plopped into their families for many reasons - they ARE that family.  We may not have the same blood or genetics - but we have heart that connects us!

I love my family so much - very blessed and lucky to have them.  Watching the boys play today was so fun - normal boy stuff - a little wrestling and teasing and of course horsing around.  It is just fun!  I feel so blessed.

I will update this blog a little with the look - one of these days.

Right now there are a LOT of families meeting their kids in Ethiopia and my best friend Shannon bringing her son home!  They have Gotcha Day tomorrow!  So happy for all these families- They will also find out that these kids are MEANT for their family - hand chosen by God!
Enjoy everyone.
Gail

New Birth Certificate

Well it is official AND Legal!  Curtis Samuel Backus - his new US birth certificate arrived this week!  YEAH!   Now off to try and get the SS# later this week.  Shouldn't be difficult- but another step and more paper work.  Always fun.  And we'll also work on getting him a US passport as well.  I LOVE the Ethiopian one, the picture is just too adorable.

Anyhow - I type this as Curt is napping in his vibrating rocking/bouncy chair, Nate lays on the floor playing his 3DS and I sit on the couch with a sleeping cat.  Love it.  Now if only I can be taking a nap.

Overall life is good.  We had our 3 month visit with the social worker this week and it went well.  She felt Curt was attaching well and saw the protectiveness that Nate projects with his brother.  He's so funny he will NOT talk about his emotions much, but if you just sit back and watch/observe - he's amazing!  He has to be the one to push the stroller and all that.  We are blessed with our boys!

School ends this week and Nate will officially be a 3rd Grader!  He's doing AMAZING after the issues at the end of last year (being told he struggled with reading and way behind in APRIL) - he's reading at a level 3!  WE have had him in tutoring this year and she's amazing.  So happy we found her - all by going to the library and asking for a reference!  Anyhow Nate now likes reading AND asked that he continue to see Miss Suzanne through the summer!  Alright - how can you tell your child NO you can't see the tutor!  Ha - we'll visit the library once/week still.  Unfortunately I no longer get my library hour to myself to read.  Mr. Curt doesn't get that you have to be quiet in the library!  He isn't quiet much as all.  Oh well - we now visit the little cafe there and getting to know The Cookie Lady!  Yummy cookies.

We're going to hopefully figure out summer camp in the next few days as well.  Man - places are just insanely priced this year.  And the hours - really end at  3 o4 pm without any latchkey!  What are working families supposed to do.  Lucky for me my employer is amazing and I can put my hours in earlier in the day and go pick him up!  Curt will continue with Miss Jodi's place.

Alright - I'm hoping to update the look of this blog in the coming weeks - but we know how fast I get things done.  And right now I'm too tired to think about it.

And for those that believe in prayer - there are LOTS of families traveling in the coming days to meet their children or bring them home!  Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.  I have 3 families I am friends with that I'm very excited for!  i can't wait to meet them all in person.

Thanks for reading - Mr. Curt IS NOW AWAKE!

Strange and RUDE comments

So last night - I heard a comment that I had not expected.  I've had people make comments about Curt's skin color, his hair, he's "not that dark", "wow he's dark", "where'd you get him", "where are his parents", "what happened" - stuff like that.  BUT THEN last night we were at a restaurant (yeah for gift cards) and Craig carried Curt out the door first.  Nate was next and me in the rear.  Some worker was holding the door open and looked at me and asked "is that guy stealing that baby"!  Seriously?  Who knows if he was serious or not - you have NEVER seen, NOR met us in your life and you ask me if my husband STOLE OUR SON!  So I must have just given him the LOOK of WRATH because he just apologized, smiled and said - I'm just kidding!  I looked at him (probably after THE LOOK and my chin was back up where it belonged and said HE IS OUR SON and walked out!  Nate then was like - what did he say?  Did he think we stole Curt?  Yes - so now to explain to the older son what happened?

I was so stunned I just walked away.  Kicking myself later that I should have used this moment as a "learning" moment for others and for my kids!  Just crazy.

Hopefully this late teen/early 20 something idiot of a man learned to keep his comments to himself next time.  I doubt it - but we shall see.

But for all the other people - he IS OUR SON!  Our 2nd child and he is beautiful!  His skin is the color of him. Its the way he was created by God.  His birth family loved him so much, they gave him a life beyond birth and ultimately he ended up in our lives.  He is OUR SON - we love him dearly - And his hair - is adorable.  Yes he has curls, loose curls I'm told, and yeah maybe he can have a hair cut - but have you seen Curt's brother Nate?  He's got long hair - and for now - we love it on both of them. (side bar - my hair cut - I HATE - I look like Pat Bennatar or Janet from 3's Company - I'd be styling if it were 1980 something) - but the boys are perfect.  Just like your own kids or family - you know they are perfect for the way they are - I feel the same

Thanks everyone.
Gail

Mother's day for the motherless

So this year Mother's day is harder than normal.  You may think this very odd that my dream of having a second child just came true 2 months ago today. Don't get me wrong, we are BLESSED - I AM BLESSED!  I have a beautiful and wonderful loving husband and two amazing boys!  I am so complete its not even funny!  My career, my family - its all amazing.

However if you read this blog from the VERY beginning - yes there is a LOT of information - we started this 8 years ago - about this time too!  My mom - well she was sick, our cell phone bill was over $400 as I kept calling my relatives and family friends telling the same story every day - how she's doing?  What her blood counts were, etc.  So in his amazing way - Craig started this for us to communicate with family and friends on her condition, ultimate death and the birth of our first son Nate  - and yes this all took place in under 3 months!Then we used it to share about Nate!

So we took time off - and then you see about Ron - Craig's dad's illness and death (he was very sick for very long) and his mom's fight with cancer!  WE used this to communicate.  Then in 2010 - I started it up and redesigned this for our future child #2!  We all have known now to be Curtis Samuel.

So yes - a lot of emotions, two mom's in heaven, and now a child who was motherless for all but one month that we know!  So yes - I miss my mom!  My beautiful angel in heaven watching over us, taking care of us in ways we do not know or understand yet.  And we have Liz - she's amazing in so many ways as well (and our grandmas) - But now we have a woman somewhere in Ethiopia that gave me a son!  I do not know her name, I do not know what she looks like, I know she was from Dire Dawa, Ethiopia.  She gave birth to this amazing little boy in April 2011 - and now he's living in the US with us - and now called Curtis Samuel!  And he is so loved and so happy.  But what is she thinking tomorrow?  Yes - they do not celebrate mother's day in Ethiopia - but what if they do?

And then ALL these children not only in Ethiopia - but all over the world - MOTHERLESS!  How my heart breaks for them.  Craig and I had our mom's into our 30's - we have over 30years with them - it SUCKS they died so young - both only 58!  Yes -it SUCKS!  But then I hear of kids that are under 15 that  have mom's pass away - how that must really suck!  And again - just the orphans - they never had a mom!  Its so hard to understand.  Everyone will be talking about mom's tomorrow - and yes that is great.  I loved mine dearly and I'm thankful to be a mom!  (oh yeah - I should have a blog about infertility and life trying to just HAVE a child).  But my heart breaks for those like me that don't have a mom.  That never did, or are missing theirs this year.

Please keep that in mind when you wish people happy mother's day tomorrow.  You never know which child lost their mom to cancer in the last year?  Or who was adopted and doesn't know their birth mom?  Or a child that is in foster care, that has an amazing family loving them now - but struggles not knowing where they will end up or if their mom will be in their lives.  I just have been thinking of all these people today!

when you are talking about mom's at church tomorrow - say a prayer for those that did one of the biggest sacrifices in the world - give their child up for adoption.  Say a pray for those children that have no mother, the orphans, foster kids - children who's mom just died.  They need extra prayers to get through the day.

And yes - I challenge you to read our story here - go back to May 2004 in the archive of this blog - you will see how it sucked for my brother, father and I!  And Craig too!  we've all lost them.

I love all those angels in heaven, mom, grandma, Liz!  You are amazing women and we will never forget you!  Flowers tomorrow are in your memory and honor!  Happy mothers day!
Gail

Crazy Busy Life

I realized now that we're home, back to work - its hard to post anymore.  I think about it often and just never get the chance.

Basically life is good, great - just crazy!  Curt has adjusted very well to daycare and really likes it (yeah) - that is a relief.  However the first week we think it really triggered memories and he woke up with nightmares or crying  - we assume thinking of Ethiopia.  So it may not be a nightmare, but hard for a 1 year old to process why he's suddenly here.  It is just amazing to watch him as he watches EVERYTHING.  Today he saw a train for the first time - mesmerized watching it.  Sweet for me to see!

So he's still "close" to walking and just feels safer crawling.  Ha.

We also celebrated daddy's birthday AND aunt Stacey's as well!  All fun - enjoyed our first trip to a Japanese Steak house with the boys - it was fun - I love the food!

For Craig and I - work - life has been busy!  Craig had another AWESOME order from GM this year - last year they ordered 4000 hats - this year - 8000!  Seriously - an AWESOME order - so that is great for the store.  And me - as crazy as it is trying to get organized - I love my job.  For the first time in many years I feel like I'm using my brain on a consistent basis!  I feel like my work life has more meaning and I LOVE it!

We're just really busy - but loving our crazy life.  I'm getting excited for Mother's Day this year - I feel like its all complete!  Can't wait.  Not planning anything special, but it will be nice.

Hope everyone enjoys their evening.
Gail

Daycare and Work life

Well started back to work this week!  NOT bad.  It has been nice - people are so happy to see me and glad I"m there.  It really is nice!

Curt really is doing good at daycare.  He loves the other kids and Miss Jodi and the other ladies - so its good.  Guess he's fighting sleep - not surprised - but he's having a lot of fun and really just wants to be there with all the action!  So that is good I guess.  Glad he likes it.  BUT then he's so happy to see me at the end of the day - yeah!

Just a LOT going on - but it is all good.
I'll keep you all posted.
Gail

Ethiopia

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Birthday and Easter pictures -

Yep - we need to post more real Ethiopia pictures - just on a different computer - however here are some 1st Birthday and Easter photos to share

Enjoy

Gail

Easter Eggs are yummy

Yes Mommy got me bunny ears and someone gave me the big

YEAH

Papa with the grandsons

Dexter helping Curt look for eggs

The boys

Craig, Nate, me and Curt - Easter 2012

Egg Hunt Champion - oh yea

Mommy and Curt - HI

Birthday time - Nate helping Curt with his presents

Aunt Stacey helping too

A nice lady at church gave both boys an Easter Hat - they look cute

Curt in the hat AND his Birthday shirt

Party time with Papa

Party decorations - Elmo

Curt and HIS Cake (we had ice cream cake for everyone else)

Uncle Marcus (Gail's brother) and aunt Stacey

Hum - cake

Yep - I think I like this cake stuff

Silly Nate

Curt AFTER the cake - icing and cake EVERYWHERE!  He had fun.

Happy 1st Birthday

Yes - today our new son turns 1!  I'm so happy he was able to be home in time.  but it is a bitter sweet day.  I just can't help but think of his birth mother and what she sacrificed for the love of this little boy?  What she did - I can't even begin to imagine in May 2011!  She loved her son so much - that she did what she felt was best for him!  But I have to wonder - where is she today?  is she thinking of her little guy?  I know they are on a different calender - heck even a different year right now - what is it 2006 now?  Anyhow - they don't really celebrate birthdays  - but still.  I just will always be thankful to this woman and her family - where ever they are - with the help of our God - he brought our families together by this little boy and our lives are connected even if we will never meet!  I am thankful for them - our family is complete.  It was perfect before and it is just finally a Family of 4!  A Table for 4!  I love it.

Yesterday we celebrated with papa, grandma Mary, Uncle Marcus and Aunt Stacey!  It was a great day!  Curt was not sure about his cake at first - but then was like - OH YEAH - this is yummy!  He was so sweet.  Even got into opening presents - with the help of his big brother Nate!  On top of the Easter festivities - he had fun!  Its funny how the packaging or paper is sometimes more exciting.  I'll work to post pictures later.

But today - I love my family and my two sons so much!  I can't wait to celebrate with all of them  - as we request the table for 4 tonight!
Gail

Day to day life

Well we have been home just over 2 weeks now and also about to turn 1 next week!  LOTS going on in Curt's life. We do believe he's struggling with sleep at night as his mind processes the grief and loss of his life at Engida!  He was so well loved and cared for - it must be hard.  Don't get me wrong, he's a happy child - but I just feel and others have confirmed that this is common.  At his age he can't process things or verbalize it - so it comes out in his dreams. So we have had some rough nights.  I did start listening to all the advice - SLEEP during the day when he does - do NOT worry about the house or other things. so today we both snuggled on the couch for a good old fashion nap!  I loved it - I  miss those days with Nate!  He would sleep with us on the couch.

We will get there though - I'm getting LOTS of advice and recommendations.  So we'll see. I just have to continue to tell people it isn't always the same as just any child - this is my son and he lived in an orphanage since he was about 1 month old!  Since 3 months he was at only one  - Engida Addis Ababa and that is all he probably knows! so the grief at night is common and natural!  We'll get there.

Well I'm in the last two weeks of my time off - its hard to imagine going back to work, but I also love my job too!  Last week we found a wonderful home daycare that we will be using in Ferndale!  Not right off Woodward on my way home to get Nate - but not too far out of the way!  I really like it - one they just seem nice and clean - but the kids were so happy there.  But also that it came recommended by a friend. So that's good.

I hope to continue to post on here - I know we will have lots of things in life and I find all the blogs so helpful!

Anyhow - right now we are thankful we have NOT had any really rude comments.  One off the wall - "good luck YOU NEED IT" comment.  But then mostly looks.  OR better yet - the avoidance of a look from people that you think are n"friends".  I had that recently where I didn't expect it - but Craig and I said - oh well. They really weren't our "friends"  or definitely not a "GOOD" friend.  That our friends are not like that - and we are still happy.  And we'd rather just  not have the horrible comments.

Its interesting to see the older generation watching us when we're out - but then some of the ladies - well they all melt with one look at the smiles!

We truly are blessed.

Tomorrow my dear friend Shannon and family are finally flying to Ethiopia and will go meet their son in a few days!  I am so happy.  Please keep Shannon and her family in your prayers.
Thanks
Gail

Prayers for a sick little boy needed

Below is a post from Gabe's mom - you can see the link above.  they are struggling - Gabe is almost 5 and very smart - he probably realizes this is NOT how he's supposed to feel.  Please continue to keep him and the family in your prayers and thoughts
Gail

He's admitted - Cincinnati

Hi everyone!  

I wanted to share a quick update.  As I’m sure many of you have heard, we are concerned about a particular condition and concerned about Gabriel period right now.  We are headed to Cincinnati, Ohio a week from tomorrow to meet with a world known expert in immunology/blood disease and the leading expert in the particular disease we are worried about.  It sounds like they will be drawing substantial blood at our visit and will follow-up with a phone consult.  I really am unsure about what she is going to say and whether or not she is going to know what is wrong with Gabe.   

He’s been suffering a lot lately.  He’s had many bad headaches, lack of appetite and the loss of two pounds, low energy and irritability.  He presented last night with all these symptoms including a high fever.  The reason for the fever is unknown which is usually the case.   He was admitted at Beaumont around 11:00 last night. 

In addition to him not feeling good, he’s been going through some emotional stuff and I am worried about his spirit.  He cries a lot in the middle of the night and cries himself to sleep a lot.  Last night he was admitted while sleeping and awoken to a needle.  I have never wanted this to come to a resolution more in four years than I do right now.  I really want him to have a break. 

We are hanging in there the best we can and just getting by one day at a time.  We are feeling very loved and supported so thank you for that!

We are tossing the idea around of trying an immune system suppressant infusion drug just to see if it helps him feel better and not knowing if it will.  We may do this in the morning.

I will update later.

Rebekah 

Good posts about Race and educating others about adoption

All
There are a lot of good posts on the post - http://casselljourneytoafrica.blogspot.com/ - check it out.  I've asked and was told I could link to it here - I just know it is so well written that I couldn't write it that well myself.

Enjoy -
Gail

Adjusting to life in the USA

We have been home just under a week now and I have to say Curt is really adjusting well to life as a Backus in the good old USA!  He's been attaching to the 3 of us and even spent some time with Papa and Grandma Mary!  We're getting into a schedule of naps and sleeping.  We are now sleeping through the night and working on eating more foods.  I've decided to do a fast track on different foods so that he can learn to eat a lot of things.  We're currently on beans and peas and carrots!  A few other things are going as well.  He's eating some solid finger foods as well!  I'm sure in the coming weeks we'll have transitioned over to lots of finger foods - which should be entertaining for pictures.

Speaking of pictures - I haven't posted any here yet - but you can see a lot on my facebook page - I'll try and post some here later today.

Nate is really doing good as well - he's NOT liking questions by a lot of people  but if you him alone with his brother, he's just so good with him!  He's helping, he wants to push him around in the stroller and play with him.  Its great!

I have to say our family is pretty darn good!  We are COMPLETE!

Gail

Adjusting to life in the USA

We have been home just under a week now and I have to say Curt is really adjusting well to life as a Backus in the good old USA!  He's been attaching to the 3 of us and even spent some time with Papa and Grandma Mary!  We're getting into a schedule of naps and sleeping.  We are now sleeping through the night and working on eating more foods.  I've decided to do a fast track on different foods so that he can learn to eat a lot of things.  We're currently on beans and peas and carrots!  A few other things are going as well.  He's eating some solid finger foods as well!  I'm sure in the coming weeks we'll have transitioned over to lots of finger foods - which should be entertaining for pictures.

Speaking of pictures - I haven't posted any here yet - but you can see a lot on my facebook page - I'll try and post some here later today.

Nate is really doing good as well - he's NOT liking questions by a lot of people  but if you him alone with his brother, he's just so good with him!  He's helping, he wants to push him around in the stroller and play with him.  Its great!

I have to say our family is pretty darn good!  We are COMPLETE!

Gail

URGENT - Gabe needs prayers

All
Little Gabe is sick again!  This Fever stuff are coming back and may be related to a finding from his bone marrow biopsy a few weeks ago.  I know from Facebook that Rebekah has traveled with Gabe to see more specialists.  Below is her post from Caring Bridge a few days ago.  It sounds very serious and they need more prayers!  I can't explain what's going on very well - so please read the post below - Emergency! Gabe.

Thanks all - Gail

Emergency! Gabe

This post is one of the most serious posts I’ve ever written…  I have been chewing on what I’m about to share for about a week now.  The bone marrow biopsy revealed some “blood eating cells” that also destroy vital organs.  When the disease is in a progressed state, the prognosis is poor.  If the disease isn’t in a progressive state, the prognosis still isn’t great. 

I am in the process of making arrangements to take Gabriel to see a HLH “expert” at the Children’s Hospital in Cincinnati.  She will either rule out or confirm this diagnosis.  If the disease is confirmed, aggressive chemotherapy and/or steroids will be administered immediately.  A bone marrow transplant could follow. 

One of the clinical features of this disease is persistent fever which you all know has been one of our biggest mysteries.  It’s only been 3 weeks since our last fever and I’m sad to share that he woke up today with another fever. 

I’m packing our bags and going to the hospital for evaluation.  My guess is he will be admitted again.   

I am asking for you to pray like you never have before for the doctors and our family.  We are in crisis.

Rebekah

Changing Names and Attaching

Quick post for people we see in the coming weeks - please understand that we are working really hard to bond with Curt.  So we will be holding him close and trying to keep him with us until we really get a good attachment. So please do not be insulted or hurt when we ask that he not be held by others right now.  He really just needs to get close to us.  You can touch him, hug him, play with him - and he will LOVE IT - and give that classic smile and some noises I'm sure

Also - we are working hard to change Curt's name To Curt!  He's been Sami for a long time, so to do this - we use both names for a few days or weeks.  Right now we are going with Sami Curt on everything so that he gets to know Curt when we call him.  Shortly we will drop the Curt from his name.  So please join us in helping with this  - we'd really appreciate it.
Thanks all for the understanding!  You will be able to get your hands on him REALLY soon!  I promise -
Love
Gail

Home!

We are finally home!  After a few days of travel - restless sleep on the airplanes, we are home!

Before that - just a few updates -

So we had a wonderful time Wednesday night at Alemu's home.  A coffee ceremony, traditional food - which for Nate included french fries.

Thursday was a crazy day - the hotel and MUCH of the city lost water. Unfortunately the guest house didn't let us know till about 5:30  - would have been better to just let us know so that we would understand.  And our TV lost signal again - but they finally fixed it.

So we had a taxi driver - a really great guy - when I unpack I'll post his name and info for anyone traveling.  He works close with many agencies and hotels taking people places.  He was so helpful!  I can't even thank this man enough.  I wanted to take Nate and go to ONE store to pick up a few more souvenirs!  Maybe two - but this driver took us to a new section of the shopping area near the post office - so I got to find everything in ONE store.  Then we wanted to convert our extra birr back to US $.  the airport said if we do this, we had to have a receipt and go to a bank in town!  Well guess what - they forgot to tell us we needed an airplane ticket - which we really couldn't get - had to check in at the counter!  UGH - so that was annoying - oh and we had to wait OVER AN HOUR - but the driver was great - he talked so I could see what they were saying.  And kept the mob away - there wasn't really any line!  Ha.

but the interesting part - we met this nice young man from NY City that is Kenyan - and he was just there traveling Ethiopia!  What an amazing young man.

So then the issues at the hotel - they forgot to arrange a driver to take us to the airport!  i had asked for that in the morning and I guess the two shifts forgot to mention it - ends up the owner drove us in her own car and wouldn't take money!  She had given us Thursday (half day) free because she felt bad about everything else.  This time, we were early and check in was so easy!  Some guy helped with all the luggage ALL THE Way to check in!  Yeah - we even picked up a few more things while waiting.  Ran into a few people there coming home as well.

Now to the 17 hour plane ride home. We took Ethiopian Air and I really liked them.  Lufthansa is Great too!  Both have pro's and con's in different ways - but highly recommend either to people traveling.  Leaving at 10:30 pm was good.  Both boys slept.  Forced Nate to sleep at midnight to just shut his eyes.  And he was out in minutes - and slept for about 7 or 8 hours!  Curt got some sleep too.  We were lucky to have the bulkhead and get the bassinet for Curt!  NICE to have him sleep there for a bit and to even sit and play there!  He liked it!  Anyhow - this flight stopped in Rome for a crew change and refueling for an hour! Between all that and being so late - we all slept good and it made the first 6 hours go by fast.  I know it was long - but in my mind with us sleeping it wasn't too bad.

However, they didn't really serve enough water or have it available like the flight over so we can get drinks on our own.  So Craig and I were VERY dehydrated when we landed in DC.  I was dizzy and he had horrible head aches!  Curt was starving and melting down!  We finally got through immigration and Curt is officially a US Citizen!!!!!  Yes - important part - yeah!  We'll get the final paper work in the next few weeks - but yeah!  Anyhow - we got him fed and he was so happy.  He was crawling ALL over the floor at the gate - normally probably wouldn't allow that - but man - he sure needed to just get out and move.  And it was nice for him to just get around without clinging to me and Craig - he's feeling more comfortable and knowing we will still be there.

arriving in Detroit was a little surprise - I knew my sister in law Stacey was picking us up and figured my brother would come too - but my dad and his wife were there too - all with signs and little things for both boys!  That was nice.  Curt did pretty well, a few tears and trying to get back to Craig and I - ha!  But they understood that.  It was just nice to be see family and have a welcoming crew!  And to just get home!

We stayed up as late as possible but our bodies were 7 hours ahead - Craig fell asleep around 5 or a little after.  Nate and I ordered Pizza (even though we had some nice food for us - we will be using that today - thanks for family and friends).  AT 7 Nate said he was taking a nap - we told him to just go to bed. Curt went down shortly after that.  And Craig and I were both asleep shortly after that.  Curt got up a few times, tried to sleep with us for a bit - and we ended up on the couch sleeping.  Craig and Nate were up at like 4:50 this morning - and I got a bit more sleep!

Now - Craig's off to the store, Nate and I are hanging out and Curt is sleeping!  yeah - we will get on a schedule and slowly getting all the advice from people with kids from Engida Orphanage as well!  So that will really help  with the adjustment.

ok in the car seat!  yeah.

Hopefully we'll get into a good schedule shortly. I hear its not too bad.  And the attaching is starting - which is good!  Yeah!  So all that we see over the next few weeks - please understand.

Thanks
Gail

USA or Bust

Yes - this day seemed like it took forever -but it is finally here -we are packed, fed and ready to check out and get a ride to the airport - ONE BAG less, but ONE kid more!  Ha. 

Today was long - we had a great time last night with traditional Ethiopian Fasting Meal during lent and a coffee ceremony at the AAI local head guy  - Alemu's home.  He's such a wonderful man.  We all had to dress in traditional wear he supplied - yes we will post pictures one day!  Soon we hope when we have our OWN computers.

Then today Nate and I went to ONE store to get the last few things we wanted to buy, and then tried to go to the bank to convert our Birr back to US $ - what a mess.  Waited over an hour only to be told NOPE without a paper ticket - you can't do it!  Seriously!  but sounds like the hotel will allow us to pay with that - so that will be nice. 

Then the hotel lost all water - but didn't tell us till JUST NOW - that the whole area is out of water.  Its NOT like Detroit or most of the mid-west where you have lots of water on demand.  Each home has a tank of water - and they all ran out!  How horrible.  Wish they had informed us - it would have been easier to understand.  but I did get a hot shower.  But was very crabby - and then the TV went out again!  It was just rough NOT having a suite like everyone else - just ONE little room.  UGH.  so at 6 am today Curt and I were in the lobby in our PJ's.

He really slept good last night - we are hoping for good things tonight!  We'll see

17 hours on a jet plane - should be interesting. 

Looking forward to seeing some family at the airport tomorrow to welcome Curt home!  So thankful for the family we do have!  Marcus and Stacey - you two are amazing.  Thanks!  And my friends that have helped this week - yeah!  You are great too!

Ok - best run -
Love you all
Gail

Another level of OFFICIAL

Well it turns out there are so many levels to make this adoption official.  First you CLEAR the US Embassy and USCIS - but then you have to go for an "interview" - basically they asked if we did this and that - and NOTHING else.  I could barely here through the thick glass walls - but he said ok - you are done.  We will get his visa on Thursday and this envelope everyone gets we can not open till we get to customs and immigrations  - for us  Washington DC as we land there first.  I think then he's officially declared a US citizen - other paper work will arrive in a few weeks.  So Official today - official on Friday morning - you name it.

So today has been Great - Curt has taken some naps, eating well, and so interested in his big brother!  And attaching to Mommy and Daddy!  We are loving it - we only went to embassy today and chilling out.  Curt and other kids still were getting night time bottles - so at 2 am he woke up - and then wanted to be snuggled and would NOT lay down in the crib - so after about 90-120 minutes I rocked him and finally laid down while rocking and he slept with us.  Then i could not sleep - I now have THREE men in the that snore and do some weird noises when they sleep - and laugh too!  Both boys were giggling in their sleep!  its funny -but I need my white noise machine.  The rooster decided to start crowing at 2ish as well  - then some church has a guy singing or chanting VERY loudly around 5 am!  Its not too bad -but annoying when you need white noise to sleep.

kicking myself for not bringing the portable DVD player - but again its probably good or it would get fried.  This hotel's electricity or voltage is not perfect for the converters - we are not the only ones having issues - oh well!  Better the chargers and cords over the equipment!  We will survive.  Using the hotel computers for all our stuff.

Tomorrow Nate and I are getting a driver - going to visit a church, maybe a little more shopping.  Today Craig did get his coffee - but I think he needs more - especially if we learn we can freeze it?  not sure  - we'll see. 

Allergies are really kicking in for Nate and I - I have cough meds but NO allergy stuff - just benedryl and that puts him asleep - so we'll see if we can find a pharmacy tomorrow too.

Thursday we are hanging here - we fly out at night - 17 hours - and met a couple on our flight - so that is good.

Also making a new family friend from Alabama here - they are sweet.  their daughter is 7 like Nate and the new little girl is just a few months older than Curt. 

Ok - Yeka Guest house/hotel is great!  I would recommend this to anyone.  The outside area is so nice - I love the greenery.  And the staff - ready to do anything for you - and love the kids.  Trying to interact with all of them!  Its fun - Nate is the only boy sibling here - so they are talking to him.

Ok - should go - wanted to update you all.
Love
Gail