Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Gratitude Where It is Due

I could go on bitching about the treatment we received at the CIS office yesterday but thought that it would be better to report that our boy is now 15 pounds. He grew 4 pounds in the last 5 weeks. According to our IA doctor's office "It's not a leap to say he has great growth. This weight measurement is 50th percentile for US children, which is lovely for a child in an orphanage!" When we met him, he was only in the 25th percentile. I'm so proud of D and miss him so much. I was in tears when I read this from the wonderful internet friend who is in Bishkek to meet her baby girl. The hole in my heart tore just a little bigger but at the same time, I was so happy to hear how well he is doing.

I really do want to also take the time to articulate and memorialize my feelings of gratefulness for so many things. I am grateful that he is doing well despite being in an orphanage. I'm so grateful for the caregivers who continue to keep him safe and healthy in our absense. I am grateful for the awesome people in my family who at moment's notice took care of paperwork tht we needed for our CIS application. And lastly, I am so grateful for the Yahoo group through which I have met so many wonderful people who have been so supportive with words of encouragement and warmth, and willingness to take some time from their visit with their babies to take photos, get an update and play with D.

5 comments:

Lisa Brotherton said...

Ivy,
I am So happy to hear good news for you. It is amazing to think of the connections we form over the many miles and different circumstances that lead to another hopeful parent checking in on your child overseas. It is a blessing.
I am delivering my USCIS package next Tuesday. I think about turning this hard earned work over to people I don't know, that have control over something so intimately important to me and yet means nothing to them... I think about how callus they have been with you and Bill.
I do believe that somehow, it will all turn out alright...
I do know that you have a child that is waiting for you , that is being well cared for and thriving and has angels watching over him - literally!
He is yours and nothing will keep a mother from her child in the long run, not even US bureaucracy!
We are with you!

Suzanne said...

What a lovely and positive post in the midst of your deep frustrations. You're inspiring! I've been focusing on the negative for the past 36 hours, and you've reminded me of all the positive. Thanks for the attitude adjustment.

Sending good vibes your way-
Suzanne

Johnda said...

Ivy,
I totally understand where are coming from. After meeting Josie, My heart has ached, almost flu like symptoms...I never thought in a million years I would ache so much for a baby!!! This waiting is the hardest thing I have ever done!
ANd the days keep getting longer and longer...But I know she is being taken care of..just not cuddled and loves on..Thank God she doesn't know the diffence..

I would like for you to email me privately, when you have time
johndamcguire@windstream.net

Ivy Lee said...

Thanks so much for all the beautiful words and the support! I am really making an effort to stay positive through this waiting period. My darling munchkin is growing bigger and bigger without me and it isn't easy to accept. We need him just as much as he needs us.

Gen 's Family Story said...

Keep on keeping on!!! Your son is going to wonderful parents with the attitude you have. It's so exciting to hear how well he is doing!!! It doesn't replace the heartache you feel, but you'll make it up when you have him.
We are praying that everything starts to fall into place and that you'll be on your way soon!!!