Goodies!!!!!

Sam has now been a part of our household for more than a month. The kids are thoroughly enjoying having him and he is fitting in very well. He is quiet, but has learned to answer and speak up when spoken to. He has learned to say, “no, thank you” or “yes, please”  instead of “hmmmmm” He has come to understand that chores are a part of life, EVERYDAY, and that in the midst of responsibility there truly can be joy. He has filled our home with laughter and fun and has also been a great study buddy for Toby as they are in the same primary school class. 

Former staff members, John and Jenessa Biedler, are back for a month-long visit and carried with them some gifts from Sam’s sponsor family. He opened the back pack last night and as he unzipped compartments and dug down in to bring out goodies, his smiles just kept busting out and his laughter was contagious!  

If you’ve ever been far from home and received a surprise package full of thoughtful gifts, you know something of what we experience when packages arrive from the U.S. There is amazing power for joy in a small box arriving after weeks of travel. We have a tradition of waiting until after supper to sit together and open the parcel. It is like Christmas!! The kids ask every few moments ALL DAY LONG, “do we really have to wait until supper?” “Do I have to clean off the table first BEFORE we sit down to open or can we just get started?” “HOW MUCH LONGER???” 

Yesterday, we told the kids early in the day that Sam had received a package and that he would be opening it after supper. We asked them to not focus on themselves AT ALL, but to show their excitement for Sam, to be thankful for the blessing that had come to him and to rejoice for him. They did great. It was all about Sam, so much so that I think he was a bit embarrassed that all the attention was headed his way. But, what a fun night!!! He was truly, truly beside himself with joy and thankfulness!!!! 

stickers and a pencil bag full of school supplies!

He was soooooo excited about this crazy hoodie!!

He couldn't wait to try it on . . .

off they march to the mirror to see how it looks!!

What??? A watch???  !!!!! He has loved wearing Kevin's this past month and now he has one of his own!!!

HEY! Look at my new white t-shirt!! Perfect for wearing under my school uniform!