Today we went to Dumpling’s medical appointment – this is part of the process to apply for his US visa.  I went while DH stayed behind with the other children.  Because I was pretty sure it would be tough for Dumpling, I didn’t take my camera or take any iPhone pictures.  The appointment is broken into several evaluations, including a blood test for TB.  It was a rough morning, but I’m thankful that he let me comfort him every time he got scared.  At three years old, he weighs 25 pounds with clothes, and is wearing 18-24 months.  He’s definitely a little peanut.  Looks like a diet high in healthy fats is in order for this little love!

After that, Dumpling had his first McDonald’s experience.  That’s not something we normally eat at home, but American food is a delight for the kids in a strange environment.  Dumpling loved every bit of it and ate it faster than I’ve seen him eat anything else so far.  I’d say chicken nuggets are a hit, woohoo!  He also ate up the scrambled eggs and banana on his plate this morning, which I’m really thankful for.  He’s not very picky about food but I think he’s showing some favoritism based on how fast he eats certain things.

His personality is continuing to blossom.  He’s really funny and likes to entertain us with his silly antics.  He’s a hoot!  He enjoys watching the other kids play together and is joining in now too.  He will sit with a toy for a long time and study how it works.  He’s definitely a cuddle bug with me, although isn’t so much with anyone else yet.  He seems very comfortable at the hotel apartment, but still is very reserved and quiet out in public.  I’m taking that as a good sign!

Tomorrow will be a difficult day all around.  I am going to visit his orphanage alone while DH stays behind with the children.  I had originally planned on taking the two big kids, but the 5 hours drive both ways has made us reconsider.  I’ll be visiting with the orphanage staff and the children who live there, seeing where my precious son lived for the first three years of his live, and delivering lots of donations.  It will be a tough trip filled with many emotions.  Meanwhile, DH will be holding down the fort here at the hotel.  It’s a long day to keep four children entertained period, let alone in a hotel without a car or any of our normal comforts.  Please keep us in prayer – I leave for the orphanage at 6am (4pm home time on Thanksgiving).  I am reminded tonight of how much we have to be thankful for.  God is so good!