Everyday we wake up we wonder if it will be a good day or a bad day. Even when checking e-mail we are nervous yet excited about what we might find. Despite a great visit to the orphanage, yesterday was a bad day. So many days without information and only being able to speak with 4 other people who speak English makes things tough. The roller-coaster of having fun with your child followed by the reality that he may not come home with us, is so very difficult. The silver lining to bad days (and the good days) is that we are experiencing them together. Our marriage is as strong or stronger than it has ever been and we are developing friendships that will last a lifetime. Today was a better day. We heard via e-mail from the embassy that they are in the middle of our investigation. They said that it will likely not be concluded this week. The upside to that message is that they are working on it and they did not say it would be weeks or months (although I'm sure it still could be). We also know that the Senator Wickers office is again making a push on our behalf.
Today we did not visit the orphanage as it is the birthday of one of the Hindu Gods. Therefore, the temples are having festivals to celebrate. This means that the roads are closed through much of the city. Our Nepal representative and lawyer took us on a walking trip through what they called "real Kathmandu". They wanted us to see the areas of the city outside of the tourist area where we are. It was eye-opening! We are including some pictures below. There is one picture with us. The person on the far left is Indra (our lawyer) and next to him is Bobby (our helper here in Nepal), both are wonderful people and have been very helpful and compassionate. Bobby told us that he is named Bobby because when he was born his family really liked reading about chess champion Bobby Fisher. Others are of things and people that caught our eye. As you can tell I (Michael) am a bit larger than the average Nepalis, so it is not difficult to get people to look at me when I take their picture (big bald white guys don't walk their streets everyday). Please know we are not treating this as a vacation, we are just trying to do things to take our minds away from the process we seem to be stuck in.
Unfortunately, the garbage strike is back on (you will see in some pictures). Not sure what the problem is now, but there is a problem.
Neat pictures. The garbage looks awful, though. Hopefully they will get it under control by the end of the day tomorrow! I am so glad y'all heard from the embassy...the middle of the investigation seems much more hopeful than no investigation or the beginning. Although, I know you will still remain skeptical and on guard, I believe this is a good sign. Continue to be faithful as you have been and you will see the rewards. I love you guys and am so thankful you take time to update us daily. It is really what I look forward to every morning when I wake up. Get some rest!
ReplyDeleteThe photos are amazing. I am glad that you are trying to see as much as you can. I think it will aslo help you understand the culture that your boy is coming from. Seeing and experiencing it is different from reading about it. This is an important part of your journey!
ReplyDeletePS. The spices on the photos look delicious. How is the food?
I'm glad you are finding silver linings in a difficult situation. Your experience will be life changing in so many ways. I hope to see you and the little one before long. You are constantly in my thoughts and prayers.
ReplyDeleteYou are in our thoughts and prayers as you continue this journey. Thanks for keeping us informed and for the pictures. Bob and LaVone
ReplyDeleteWe all know it hasn't been a vacation...far from it actually. We continue to pray for you guys and can't wait to see all 3 of you soon. Please let me (us) know if there is anything you need!
ReplyDeleteHardly a vacation! Who would sign up for weeks of mental torture???? (ummm, sorry for the rant)
ReplyDeleteDad and I are so proud of both of you! In spite of the emotional roller coaster, you are continue to find some silver linings. Cling to hope, and know that "strength in faith and hope" is only one of the many prayers that we are lifting up for you every moment. We love you!
"Half way through", while not what you wanted to hear, is better than "started". Hang in there. These things take time. Whatever you do, don't get too close to that garbage or any of the associated vermin. Yeesh! Adventure maybe, but definitely not vacation.
ReplyDeleteThat is great to hear about the investigation taking place. Those pictures are great (minus the garbage). Nice pictures of people and of that street corn. That's one of our favourite things to have in India when out and about.
ReplyDeleteIt's inspiring to hear about your and Karyn's incredible strength. Seek faith and hope through that strength. We are as well.
Love you both
Robika and Erik