Jones Adoption Journey - Ethiopia Trip2 (PART I)

ONE month, ONE week, ONE day... THAT is how long we have been home and together as a family of FIVE!! It's really unbelievable and doesn't seem like that long, although we have had days that seem like they would never end! ;) ha! In case you are wondering, she is doing REALLY well. God has truly surprised us with the ease of transition, as we were prepared for the WORST and it to be extremely difficult for a while! She slept through the night the first night, and has had great naps since the day she arrived. Our biggest issue now is she's not eating great... whereas early on she'd eat almost anything (besides meat). Our oldest child is really proving to be a sweet big brother and I can see his love for her growing all the time. Our youngest son has had the most difficulty getting used to sharing mommy and daddy, and his toys for that matter. Some days are better than others, but it is evident he is going through a lot of emotions he has never really experienced before. We covet your prayers for him, and that he would grow to love his new sister, treat her with kindness and bond more everyday. Please also pray for me and Kent as we need continued wisdom in discipline, management of a 3 kiddo household and learn how to make each child feel valued and special even more. Thank you! Here are a few pics from the time in Ethiopia upon placement, and our arrival home: First moments together upon placement... Anbes is the busy bee who works for Gladney, does everything including deliver our princess, and is wonderful, helpful, and always on the phone! ;)

Tired from waking and in shock about what's happening!!

She napped well that first day! I learned she sleeps with her eyes 1/2 open, and LOVES her thumb! :)

First bath (well, my first bath with her ;)... she LOVES it!!

Visited friends at another guest house on Day 2...

We hope these 2 will be friends forever! They were in the same Toddler house together, and this family also lives in the DFW area! :) Funny pic... and no, he didn't bonk her on the head. lol

Sweet first moments with Daddy!!

The largest Greek Orthodox Church in Africa ... beautiful.

F's crib in the Care Center...

The day before we left, we said our goodbyes to the wonderful caregivers and special mothers that F had in her year and 1/2 at these care centers. It was a sweet, memorable time, but emotional for all. She did NOT want me after going to back to see them, which tells me she loved them very much and they loved her well!

Special mother her first year...

We also experienced a wonderful, traditional Ethiopian Coffee Ceremony, and our littles enjoyed the festivities as well! Aren't their ET outfits so beautiful!?

Bonding progress!! :)

Sooooo tired and ready to be home...

FIRST time she let Daddy hold her while sleeping ... WOW! (The last 2 hours of travel :-/ )

Sleeping babies.

Airport Arrival ... To be contd. in PART II !