Too many to count

While in Ukraine, John opened up a whole new world to Dennis---------- a water world. Not only did Dennis appreciate when either of us gave him a drink of water, but Dennis absolutely loved when Daddy let him play with it.

Here are some up close and personal pictures of Dennis and his Daddy.

Dennis reached out to touch us all the time. I can't help but think how much physical touch and nurturing he has missed out on. This is where he will be blessed coming into our large family. He has 12 people just waiting to dote on him....... especially his Mama.

I just love this picture. Dennis is wondering why his hand feels all wet. I wonder how he is going to respond to his first bath.

Isn't he just adorable? Something about this picture and how he is letting John give him a drink. Oh, how I miss this little guy.

For those of you wondering, John flies out tomorrow evening on Lufthansa. Once in Ukraine, he will then fly out to the Donetsk region on the 15th to finally be reunited with our son. From that point on John will have custody of Dennis and they will scurry to get Dennis' passport before heading back to Kyiv where Dennis will have a medical to complete the paperwork at the Embassy. God-willing they will both be on a plane on the 18th heading home.

Admittedly, we were both very upset when we learned that the 10 days would not be waived because of the prosecutor. After reading letters from a pediatric plastic surgeon here in California and from the director of the orphanage who is also a doctor who both said that Dennis needs immediate medical attention, the judge was planning on waiving the 10 days only to learn that the prosecutor was threatening to cause trouble and hold us up for months appealing the judge's decision. As a favor, the judge didn't waive the 10 days.

But I have to again say how good God is. In the midst of this not so wonderful news, God was showing us that he is right there to provide no matter what. He has shown us numerous blessings since our court date. Not only did this 10 day wait give us a chance to come home early to see our kids, but it also gave me a chance to prepare for Dennis' arrival, and also witness the continual love and support from all of you. I am continually humbled by how many of you have asked to donate since we have been home. Total strangers have asked if they could send a little something for our new son. Fellow adoptive parents have offered to mail hand me downs. And even some very concerned readers/friends have contacted doctors on our son's behalf. Talk about blessings------ I don't think I could even count them all---- there are just so many. Thank you. I can't help but feel that Dennis is one very loved little boy.

Psalm 127:3 (Contemporary English Version)

Children are a blessing
and a gift from the LORD.

Ain't that the truth?