introductions!

Today was a huge day in our books.  The day we met our Sweet P.  We drove in the gate and first saw this, the orphanage administration building.  

As everyone unloaded, I grabbed a quick video of all I could see.

 Next, we passed these buildings...

... as we headed into this building.

We removed our shoes in proper custom and were invited to sit on a couch facing a flatscreen television on the wall.  We met a few of the workers and were served rose apples along with mango and sticky rice.  They treated us so kindly.  The head social worker wanted to share a video about the babies' home.  It was encouraging to see the philosophies behind what they do for all the children and know Sweet P was being loved, held, and hugged as she waited.  

What I wasn't prepared for was the video they played next.  A video of pictures taken throughout the past 2+ years of her life.  I was in tears.  It made me so sad to see all I had missed.  Her playing.  Her smiles.  Her dressed for a beauty pageant complete with make-up and pearls, at no more than 1 1/2 years of age.  (I will do my best to get a clip of it on here once we return home.)

Next we were presented with a photo album full of pictures that was a tremendous gift.  I couldn't look at it for the moment because I could not hold back the tears.  We were also given a gold buddha charm and an amulet necklace to give her when she is older.  They will be treasured because they were given by those who cared for her during her first years of life.  

As we were still talking with the staff, an adorable little girl walked through the door.  She was asked to greet us with the traditional "Sawasdee Ka" and put her hands up in a wai. 

At this point I was going to insert pictures of Sweet P, but I will have to wait until tomorrow.  I am sorry!  Not my plan, but I think the internet speed is wreaking havoc on this blog post.  I promise to get them posted tomorrow after I have rested and have my husband awake to help me figure it out!  

Thank you for reading along and caring for our family!  It means so much.  Blessings, angela