It was such an encouragement to go to church today. We were so glad to be at home. Everyone welcomed us with open arms. People were genuinely interested in how we were doing, sharing how they followed our journey via the blog, and how they had been praying for us. It was a real blessing.
One of the most common questions today was, "How is Kate adjusting?" I realized that I continued to answer, "Well, Kate is doing the best so far in adjusting." And that is true. She is taking good naps, eating well, and last night (almost) slept her usual 11-12 hours. She is smiling and seems to be pretty good natured about all the new sights, sounds, smells, and people.
For the most part we are doing well also. But we are tired and jet-lagged. Marti, Sarah, and I are still waking up pretty early and feeling pretty tired by mid-day. And I guess for Marti and I it seems like a big jump from 4 kids to 5 kids. I think it is more that we have two babies now - twice as many diapers, twice as many bottles, twice as many naps, twice as many little people to help feed. NOT that we are complaining; make no mistake about that. But, it is a bit more draining being jet-lagged. Making up a 12 hour time distance coming back home is a challenge.
But we are blessed. Except for Amy struggling with jealousy (one minute she is stroking Kate's cheek, the next she is shoving her to the ground), the kids have been very excited and very helpful. So far, everyone is pitching in to help. And it was nice to have my parents here the past couple of days. My dad was already here and my mom flew in Thursday night to hang out. It allowed us to take a few extra naps that we needed.
Tomorrow will be an interesting day. I go back to work tomorrow so Marti will be playing serious zone defense...one on five. I know she is feeling a bit overwhelmed, but I also know that God will be able to provide her with the energy and wisdom to do well. Hopefully, the big kids will be able to pitch in when needed. And so, the real work of our journey of adoption starts as we begin to settle in and parent all five kids - despite jet-lag and adjustments!
Hang in there! Tell Ben and Sarah I said pick up the slack, and Sam that I said he better be "Momma's little helper"! hehehe
Can't wait to meet her, and great pictures and stories on the blog. Thanks for keeping us all updated! It is a great medium!
Posted by: Jon B | October 06, 2009 at 06:29 PM