tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34035648866572111002024-03-19T01:28:44.357-07:00Colombia BoundDavid and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.comBlogger88125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-57962641647860694822011-04-10T11:45:00.000-07:002011-04-10T11:45:57.389-07:00Where are the Derrs?????Come visit us at our new blog site:<br />
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http://cambioadoptivo.wordpress.com/David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-40665728971367128992009-09-14T19:48:00.000-07:002009-09-14T21:21:47.861-07:00Betty's Prayer...<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_oBoLgQuY8L18rHa6ft1VK7tBNB0des7CYBbiJljjokF6IwtaIZ_i-X4NNybCDYdpcOsJY356vtSXXLakeWZ6TZCBLeU-VI7LLQgINZzcA3NkeMNQ2T16Fw1_o1vi2VldbS1k5wrFam3A/s1600-h/July+2009+387.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_oBoLgQuY8L18rHa6ft1VK7tBNB0des7CYBbiJljjokF6IwtaIZ_i-X4NNybCDYdpcOsJY356vtSXXLakeWZ6TZCBLeU-VI7LLQgINZzcA3NkeMNQ2T16Fw1_o1vi2VldbS1k5wrFam3A/s400/July+2009+387.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381543748709004018" /></a><br /><br />While it has been many months since an update, I thought it was fitting to restart our posts with something that has been on our heart more recently. I hope to soon follow this post with an update on our family, what we have been doing, how Jonatan is, and what we are looking forward to.<br /><br />Sometimes, it is in an individual's death that you are reminded of just how special that person really was. And so it is the case with Dave's Mom. Back in the end of August, Betty traveled home to be with her Lord, and she will be dearly missed. <br /><br />The initial news of her death came as a surprise. We had just spent a wonderful vacation with she and Dad in Toronto with Dave's brothers and their families. She had been doing so well...after two strokes and complications with her heart, this was the most clear that she had been in a couple years. She seemed on a path to getting back to her old self. Perhaps these final moments together were a gift for us as family. <br /><br />A prayer...<br /><br />"Lord, I'm yours~fill my cup (me) with 'sweet water' that what spills over may be a blessing to others. Fill me with your love. Fill me with your wisdom, your perspective, your patience. Fill me with hope based on faith and trust in You and your power and sovereignty. Fill me with your peace and serenity. Lord, you were never in a hurry~never flustered or rattled.<br /><br />Fill me with Your Spirit. I submit to Your Lordship~to your control. This life is so short~eternity is forever. Lord, make my life count~glorify yourself in me. Take me~I'm yours.<br /><br />Make my commitment a very practical, down-to-eart, tangible thing~that my husband & children can see, know, and feel."<br /><br />In the front of her Bible, Betty had fixed this prayer. I can only imagine that this was something she daily meditated on, along with the scores of verses highlighted and noted. And, her life was a picture of the words written however long ago in that prayer. In remembering her with family and friends, it was amazing to hear just how significant an impact she had in the lives of others. Her love for Christ and His work always abounded, even when she felt trapped inside her own body following her strokes. I could go on about her, and I am sure that when I was done she would seem larger than life. Really, though, time spent with Betty was always about drawing close to the Lord. That was her greatest desire and gift for not just her family, but for all she met. It was evident in how she lived her life.<br /><br />On September 11th, Dave's parents would have celebrated their 50th anniversary. Dave had the opportunity to spend the day with his Dad remembering. While a sad and somber occasion, it was a day of remembering back to those first days of getting to know one another and the day that began a beautiful almost 5 decades of marriage together. Their marriage has taught us a lot about persevering, and much more about life in Christ. We are thankful for the influence both of them have had on our lives, both individually and as a couple. We are praying for Dave's Dad as he grieves his "Tweety-pie" and considers the 'what nexts' of life. I have attached a copy of Betty's obituary if anyone is interested in reading it.<br /><br />Betty L. Derr <br />(June 19, 1935 - August 23, 2009)<br /> <br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-f2aApdEVHiTbd-rnsHY3icKYNcUvJCOtQHEFAAlT7uBQId_s5seMpuSLItUYnKO6YDdTWH6Jq1Jk5eUkHBL2mMgYdQ0vaM9kmf6SCAvrF-eT1F3jgv9oHaeu4r-8qi_TEEsCjLMgBD8/s1600-h/Betty.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 179px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy-f2aApdEVHiTbd-rnsHY3icKYNcUvJCOtQHEFAAlT7uBQId_s5seMpuSLItUYnKO6YDdTWH6Jq1Jk5eUkHBL2mMgYdQ0vaM9kmf6SCAvrF-eT1F3jgv9oHaeu4r-8qi_TEEsCjLMgBD8/s400/Betty.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5381540604582083762" /></a>Betty L. Derr, 74, of 1340 Northway Road, Williamsport, died suddenly Sunday, August 23, 2009 at the Williamsport Hospital. Betty and her husband, Rev. Charles W. Derr, would have observed their 50th anniversary on September 11. <br /><br />Betty and her husband were missionaries for 34 years in Colombia, Costa Rica and Canada. She was a graduate of Wheaton College, Wheaton, Ill., a member of Community Baptist Church and volunteered for the American Rescue Workers, Prison Fellowship and the Child Evangelism Fellowship. <br /><br />Born June 19, 1935 in Hugo, Okla., she was the daughter of Edmund and Mary Louise Kennedy Miller. <br /><br />Surviving besides her husband are sons, Mark E. (Ingrid) and Kenneth C. (Jennifer) both of Toronto, Can., and David P. (Sheila) of Harrisburg; a daughter, Kathryn R. Rice of Williamsport and seven grandchildren. <br /><br />In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to the Child Evangelism Fellowship, 460 Market Street, Williamsport, PA 17701.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-67263807398985602442009-05-03T13:48:00.000-07:002009-05-03T13:50:00.466-07:00Oops...So, I realized that the 'You Tube' pictoral video I put together was private. I am not sure then if anyone was able to see it. Sorry there is no music; the next one will be put to music. Enjoy!David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-47438252942821202312009-04-29T08:00:00.000-07:002009-05-01T21:21:51.204-07:00One Year Ago...<object width="445" height="364"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/3TZYKvyd_IE&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&border=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/3TZYKvyd_IE&hl=en&fs=1&rel=0&color1=0x2b405b&color2=0x6b8ab6&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="445" height="364"></embed></object><br /><br />...we were in Pereira, Colombia, beginning our first steps as family together! I remember how nervous and excited we were to meet Jonatan for the first time. Repetitive flipping through paperwork and photos, checking our packing numerous times to ensure we hadn't forgotten a thing, and the endless talk of what was to come in meeting Jonatan and growing our family by one. I even remember how surreal that first meeting seemed. Standing in the visitation room that so many other children and their forever families had once visited...watching the shadows of people coming and going just outside our room (the walls were translucent), and wondering which bodies would finally represent our social worker, psychologist, and Jonatan.<br /><br />Those moments seemed like forever as we sat, held each other, paced, and looked out the window. Soon the ICBF psychologist appeared to begin reviewing a list of questions and information: did we have any questions? how were we feeling about all of this? what we needed to remember in meeting Jonatan for the first time...the scope of thoughts and feelings that he may be experiencing as well. additional information collected since our last update. Despite having a translator, I remember thinking, "I am so glad there is two of us to remember all of this; because I don't think I am going to remember it all." My thoughts continued to wander to what was coming next...that long awaited moment of meeting...the shadows that danced along the wall as people walked back and forth just outside our room...the smell...the breeze...the din of people in the background. Oh, when would that anticipated moment arrive?<br /><br />And then, without much transition, our psychologist explained that Jonatan was indeed in the building and wanted to know whether we were ready to meet him or not. By this time we had seen just a couple pictures of him and had only a fraction of an idea of just how big, exciting, and wonderful his personality was. Both of us looked at each other, nodded in agreement, and then proceeded to tell the psychologist that yes we were ready. I remember feeling very excited and happy for this moment, yet equally nervous about the events that were coming and how they would unfold. I remember my hands beginning to sweat, my heart beginning to speed up, and feeling a loss for words. How would Jonatan react? Afterall, we were told that he would most likely be crying, and because of his age, temperament, and other factors he may not be interested in coming to us. These were all things to be expected. How would we react? Oh, how much I wanted for our son to know how deeply we loved him, desired him to be a part of our life, and how equally sad we were for the events that were about to unfold. What to say? How to be? Only time and those first few moments would reveal just how the Lord would guide us through taking our first steps together.<br /><br />And then, in the distance came crying and footsteps that could be heard above the din; closer they continued to come until small specks of shadow turned into 3 life-sized bodies through those translucent windows. What followed was a brief swinging of the door into the room where we waited with our lawyer and translator. The crying briefly stopped as Jonatan took in his new surroundings, the somewhat familiar people that stood before him, and the words being spoken to him in Spanish by his social worker. To this day, I do not remember what I said...I can't remember what Dave said. What I do remember is the social worker coming closer, and Jonatan's expression going from momentary intrigue and interest to concern and fear. By the time he was in my arms, he was crying again. His little body stiffening here and there. His arms turned and reaching out to the social worker that he had grown to know and trust. I wondered how terrible this must feel; how confusing; I wondered if this had happened before.<br /><br />Despite all of our attempts to distract and redirect with toys, Jonatan just wasn't having any of it. If I was in his shoes, I think I would have felt the same way. For a then 19 month old I am not sure even the 'perfect' preparation could have prepared him for all that was in store. It wasn't long before Jonatan's crying and protest gave way to vomit and a rapid change of clothes and then more crying and reaching for anyone that was not me or Dave. I can't tell you how heart-breaking these moments were. What Jonatan, what all adoptive children, go through in order to be joined with a forever family. We were told that in a toddler this may or may not be most vividly seen...although in this day we had a vivid picture of what the joining of our two worlds would mean in that moment and the future for Jonatan. We were assured that this was a very good thing. His open grieving, fear, and even anger were necessary parts of the process of beginning our life together, yet despite knowing this I remember how sick my stomach felt. How I hoped and prayed that we could continue that grieving and growing process with him well. I remember thinking to myself, "Lord, thank you for this little one, and please help. We can't do this on our own."<br /><br />All the while Dave was trying to concentrate on reviewing some material, a photo album, and other items with the social worker that Jonatan's foster parents had sent. It wasn't long though before the psychologist and social worker both agreed that it would be better that we just head on over to El Cortijo as remaining at the ICBF office was not helpful to Jonatan. His crying and fitful protest was still at its height. So, out the door we went. We got into our translator, Mauricio's, car. As the car began to move and whisk by buildings, farms, vehicles, and people, Jonatan's sweaty body slowly began to transition from less rigid to more relaxed, and moments later his little head was nestled into my neck, his arms wrapped around me, his breathing beginning to slow from heaving to slow even breaths. By the time we were back to El Cortijo, he was asleep in my arms. Although this did not last very long, it was one of the first more peaceful moments for all of us as a family. I remember then thinking, "Thank you, God, for this moment, your presence and provision. We need you to figure out how to navigate these moments as a family. Please help Dave and I to be aware of your work in Jonatan, how that is coming together in your time, and how we as parents can join you in it. Help us to know how to care for him as he is grieving and getting to know us."<br /><br />Moments later we were walking the corridor to the entrance of El Cortijo. Betty, one of the women who worked there, had opened the door for us and was now also speaking loving words of welcome and adoration to Jonatan. He had awakened although did not say a word and proceeded to cling tighter. He continued to watch quietly from my shoulder. With Dave at our side we made our way up to our room to settle into our first few private moments as a family. In the room, he seemed more at ease, although still prone to periodic tearful and less consolable moments. Dave had now begun to go through the material that the social worker had given us, made his way to the photo album Jonatan's foster family had made for him, and settled down to look through it. While his intention was to read through the daily schedule and other helpful tidbits that were included in there, Jonatan seemed equally interested in the big blue album. He had slid down from my lap, tears stopped, and was now standing in front of Dave wanting to be included in the album's viewing. The very first turn revealed a page of Dave and I, the very first picture we had included in our photo pages to Jonatan. Then without hesitation, Jonatan pointed to those two seemingly familiar individuals and declared "Papa y Mama", followed by a glance to us as if realizing just who we were, seeming to make the connection between us and all that he, his foster parents, and social worker had been talking about for so long. Those three simple words brought tears to our eyes and joy to our hearts. The knot that had been forming in the pit of my own stomach seemed to unravel a bit. Here was our son, someone we had wondered about and prayed for on many an occasion.<br /><br />With the passing of our one year anniversary as a family, I was reminded of how much growing and changing Jonatan, Dave, and I have been through individually and as a family. We wouldn't trade any of those moments, both the joys and challenges of becoming a forever family.<br /><br />And to you, Toya, nuestro hijo precioso, we love you beyond what words could ever convey. It has been but a privilege and honor to share such a special year with you. You have such a sweet and kind heart, a gentle spirit. It is fun to watch you grow in confidence and strength...to watch as you grow in your enjoyment of music...a blessing to see your desire for learning about Jesus. You are persistent and eager, a self-motivated learner, and very inquisitive...all attributes that we pray God would continue to use to expand his kingdom through your life both now and in the future.<br /><br />We are reminded this day of your birth father and mother as well. We pray that they would be reassured of your safety and care as thoughts of what has become of you visit them. May God add his blessing and peace to their hearts as they continue to live out their own lives. We pray for their protection, for wisdom and discernment in living life, and for salvation if they do not already know it in Christ.<br /><br />And lastly, but not least, a special thank you to all of our family, friends, church and adoptive community...this year has been all the more special because we have shared it with you. The richness of our life together is also influenced by you and the relationships that we have with each of you. For those of you that we have yet to know more deeply, we look forward to more opportunities to spend time with you. May God continue to work out his life in all of you! <br /><br />Happy One Year, Familia Derr! Much love and blessing to you, Toya, nuestro hijo precioso!David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-9313448205134633662009-01-23T21:32:00.000-08:002009-01-23T21:32:00.828-08:00Parenthood and More<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6m3_o9TQ5uI7vIExdWKLYdzfbdgInRnELH6bepT3FcuIyOPN02vYBR-e0LUmqqaKlNlVCb0nhNutaqvDQMfKIAZZD4F3xorBL2pYz2Y0ZuRxmxXoygS8rxnMy_w8tjGctgaEjSC1199mZ/s1600-h/January+2009+046.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6m3_o9TQ5uI7vIExdWKLYdzfbdgInRnELH6bepT3FcuIyOPN02vYBR-e0LUmqqaKlNlVCb0nhNutaqvDQMfKIAZZD4F3xorBL2pYz2Y0ZuRxmxXoygS8rxnMy_w8tjGctgaEjSC1199mZ/s320/January+2009+046.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5294684459063440386" /></a><br /><br />So, I began this post a while ago...hence the 2008-2009 transition:<br /><br />Wow, it's hard to believe that 2009 is already here!!!! Looking back on 2008, so much has taken place in our lives. If you have been reading along, then you are well aware of most of the major comings and goings of our family. 2008 truly was a year marked by much joy and celebration! <br /><br />Fastforward now to Christmas 2008, and oh boy did we ever have fun this year! Although we should reassure family and friends here of our enjoyment of past holiday get-togethers as well. 2008 had more of a magical and complete feel to it. Dave and I have longed for children for a very long time. While I will spare you the recount of our own journey through infertility, I will say that Jonatan has been far more than we ever fathomed in a son or daughter. As the holidays, birthdays, and typical get-togethers have flown by, we have always felt a void in our own family. <br /><br />It was an absolute delight to watch as Jonatan woke up Christmas morning to gifts at his bedside. His wide-eyed excitement as he tore into gifts--and, I must say with much more zeal and confidence than even in September at his birthday! <br /><br />And now, as we approach February, Jonatan is welcoming his last molar and completed this morning 4 nights of solid sleep in his own bed and room! We were actually thinking that the independent sleeping would be a long challenge for all of us, but it turns out that he seems very comfortable in his new room and bed. I think that it has helped that there has always been a bed in that room, we have played in there with him all along, and even slept in there as a family when our house was full at Thanksgiving. So, all said, we are hoping that he continues to feel just as comfortable, as Papa and Mama are so very excited to have their room back! Ha!<br /><br />Today, Dave and I were completely cracking up over how much Jonatan can eat! We are thinking that he is now venturing into another growth spurt...let me just recount two meals in the last day of eating...so, yesterday, he actually ate a little more than 1/2 a rotisserie chicken (not 1/2 cup...an actual half a bird!), about 1/2 cup of rice and beans, cauliflower, and a banana at one meal...this was after having 2 helpings of cheerios, yogurt, and blueberries for breakfast and a midmorning snack of fish crackers, raisins, and nuts! And then tonight(Dave took us to one of his favorite Chinese buffets) he ate about 1/2 cup of green beans and brocolli, 1/2 cup of rice, 3 wings, 2 cheese puff somethings, a slice of turkey, a helping of salmon, a 1/2 dozen or so clams, 4 king crab legs and an actually half crab (the crab and clams were actually intended for me, but I ended up feeding him all of it!!!!!), 1 spring roll, some kiwi and ice cream to top it all off! Holy cow! It is so hard to believe that a toddler can pack that much food away! You wouldn't even know it by looking at him! Crazy! (And, just to dispell any possible wonderings...he has no intestinal parasites that we are aware of...we cleared those tests back in the summer! Ha!)<br /><br />Parenthood continues to be a journey. Jonatan is a sweet and gentle little guy. He is an absolute cuddle bug and has a love language that begs for time spent and touch. It is so very fun watching him grow and take in new things and experiences. He has a real desire to learn and is constantly investigating the things of our house and surrounding area. Walks around the block can take the better part of an hour because he is so fascinated with everything from hugging trees to smelling things like bushes that don't have much of a smell at this time of year! Too cute! He is a real socialite once he warms up to folks. We are finding that he enjoys sort of hanging back and taking things in when he first meets people, but typically warms up pretty quickly. He loves to talk, sing, jump, and play football and hockey these days. As for language learning, he has now mastered 1-5 in English and Spanish and is on his way to singing the alphabet in English and Spanish. One thing that has fascinated me with his development in this area is how intrigued he is when he sees letters on signs, shirts, cars, etc. He is quick to announce "There's the alphabet Papa/Mama!", and then will want to take the time to review letters (another reason why our walk around the block takes so long...realty signs are very intriguing these days! Smile.).<br /><br />This will have to be a post to be continued...until then, ¡Buenas noches y Dios bendice!David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-36451807888150018292008-12-19T19:09:00.000-08:002008-12-19T19:48:23.756-08:00Humor...And Just at the Right Moment!I promised myself last week that I was going to make time to blog as it is one very helpful way to account for a lot of the experiences that we are having as a family. I must say that I have been one to 'edit' what I do or do not post on here. Part of my reasoning has been privacy for Jonatan and giving him the option down the road to tell the more intimate parts of his story that he does or does not want to share; admittedly then I have tried to avoid recapping some of our tougher moments as a family as well. <br /><br />So, tonight is a different night; not that I am being any less censored in my sharing, but realized that tonight's parenting chapter is probably not very unique in that every parent occasionally finds themself reevaluating how they have chosen to parent.<br /><br />I am sure we all as parents have had those disasterous bedtime moments with our children. Tonight was one of those nights for us! Shortly after we had met Jonatan we had discovered that he was not used to sleeping in a bed on his own. "No problem", we thought, as we had already talked about the pros and cons of the family bed. Mind you, Dave and I do not come from families that even remotely practice the family bed. And so began our adventure of life and the family bed with Jonatan. <br /><br />Among the many lessons during our stay in Colombia was one of navigating a double bed with three bodies. Ugh! Pereira wasn't so bad, because we had two double beds...Bogota was a completely different story...in desperation, one night, we had actually tried to switch Jonatan to a crib, but with no success. So, we continued. With our arrival home, we eagerly welcomed our faithful queen bed and couldn't believe we had managed nights in a double bed! Oh the stories we could tell! Maybe one day when Jonatan is old enough to give approval! (smile)<br /><br />Sometime in August, though, we moved a twin bed into our room and butted it up against our bed...and this is where Jonatan has been since. The clincher is that we have gotten ourselves into a bit of a predicament in that we have allowed Jonatan to get used to having us with him until he falls asleep. And, to top it off, bedtime (after lights out) can take a REALLY long time for him to settle. Recently, we had concluded that our well-meaning efforts at staying present and helping him settle were actually doing him more harm than good. Overall he is doing well and has been adjusting remarkably; he occasionally awakens at night for a diaper change, but on the whole is a great sleeper. So, we are beginning to 'wean' him off of needing Papa and Mama to fall asleep. Tonight was our first night and 'oh my!'. As a camp director and former youth pastor, I used to hear parents talk about how they felt some of their parenting was actually creating 'monsters' in their little ones...granted I don't believe that they actually saw their children as monsters, just that they themselves were probably causing some or all of the behavior issues they were experiencing on occasion. At any rate, I now can commiserate with these folks. Tonight felt like a horrible start to a hopeful transition to Jonatan's independence in getting to sleep. <br /><br />I am not someone who typically reads email forwards, although tonight was one of those exceptions. My sister had sent out a forward entitled "Mom Song", so I thought you all may enjoy. It was a gift of humor in the end of a very frustrating bedtime. I hope you enjoy, and thank you Jen for sending it our way.<br /><br /><object width="400" height="225"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1509073&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" /><embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=1509073&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><br /><a href="http://vimeo.com/1509073">The Mom Song</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/northland">Northland Video</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-16942434549955545312008-12-10T11:03:00.000-08:002008-12-10T19:02:00.812-08:00Oh for the Love of Being a Toddler!As I sat basking in the sounds of toddlerville (aka the local mall play area) recently, I found myself reminiscing through the last almost 7 months we have shared with Jonatan! As his pictures reveal (sorry for those of you on blog reader, you will have to visit our blog to see photos...I will add some more photos in a future update as well), he has grown much and taken on that 'bigger boy' look...he has all but two top molars in (these are coming in right now!)...grown 2 shoe sizes, 6", and 6#! And, as if that wasn't enough growing, his brain decided to absorb more English than we ever would have expected by this time. In short, it has been nothing but amazing to see all the growth he has been going through.<br /><br />Today, Jonatan is speaking short phrases in English and Spanish; he runs with great confidence, is now tackling mastery of a tricycle, and is venturing into the art of jumping off things like couches and playground equipment! Yikes to that last two! There isn't a day that goes by that I don't find myself smiling over the person that we are discovering Jonatan to be. He is a little boy with a great sense of humor, a very caring and compassionate heart, and a lover of music. With this last one, we have found that the beat of Latin American music is his favorite...salsa and cumbia, in particular! And believe me when I say that Latin music really gets his soul moving! For 2 years old, he sure has some moves...that, and an ear for beat and rhythm...not to mention he loves to drum his little heart out when we put music like Carlos Vives' on.<br /><br />I can't tell you how much we are looking forward to our first Christmas with Jonatan! I was thinking back to last year at this time...and to think that we had yet to even know who we would be welcoming into our lives. I remember praying with Dave over the process of our adoption and having this strong feeling that we would be soon to meet a son. I remember feeling pretty uncomfortable with my thoughts and feelings at that time...having a hard time discerning whether this hunch was now my own desire or a small window into the future and from the Lord. And then, shortly after Christmas while reading some more adoption material, I remember thinking "It's a boy!"..."no, it's a boy, and you can believe it." It was at that point that I began to allow myself to truly 'expect' this child that was to come. From that point on, whether in stores shopping or in speaking with family and friends, our son was on my heart and mind. Now, I can tell you that I did not share this with anyone buy my husband, but now truly believe that this really was a small window into the future from the Lord.<br /><br />In entering the Advent and holiday season, we have found ourselves as parents considering anew the meaning of Christmas, our family traditions, Colombian holiday traditions, and what will now become our own in moving forward as a family of three. Getting to this place as parents really has felt a bit surreal at times. It truly is hard to believe that come Christmas we will have known Jonatan for 8 months! So much has happened in that time and I am so thankful and feel privileged to have shared in so much change in his young life. <br /><br />In this Advent season I find myself so very thankful for Jonatan. What an amazing gift! I am particularly thankful for the care and love that his foster family shared with him in the 17 months that he was with them. It is so very clear in how he transitioned to us that they took great care to prepare him for what was to come and who we were. I can only imagine the sadness, and perhaps fear and concern, that also comes with pouring your heart into a child to prepare them for a forever family to one day see them go. My prayer is that this set of foster parents (as well as the countless others across the world)are reminded daily of the critical role they play in the life of their foster children...and, more importanly, may they be granted wealths of love, patience, wisdom, strength, and understanding for the sometimes tentative road they travel with their children. In this holiday season, words cannot express how terribly greatful I am for Jonatan.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-35901513210812099342008-09-30T17:51:00.000-07:002008-09-30T18:40:23.450-07:00He's 2!!!!Sitting here at a coffee shop on my 'Mama's Night Out' I found myself thinking about all the things that I would like to get caught up on...and, as I am sure you well know, sometimes it feels a bit overwhelming to look at those sort of lists...so I decided to start with one at a time and not to worry too much about the rest until I get to them.<br /><br />Dave and I recently began giving each other a night out. I have been using them in the past several weeks to reconnect with friends apart from a toddler in tow. It has been fun and very special. I hadn't realized how much I need or miss that time until I spent a few nights with close friends. It has been good to be reminded that there is more to me than being a 'Mom' and those parts also need to be nurtured.<br /><br />Jonatan is now 2 years old!!! It is so very hard to believe that we have been home for over 4 months now. It feels as though we have known him all his life. In just the past month and a half since our last post, he has progressed from single syllable words to 3 or more...in fact, just today he said 'potato' and 'aguacate' with amazing clarity! He has also begun to add verbs to his short phrases...we have now welcomed in the days of 'Mama help', 'Nino run', and 'Nino hungry'...note the spanglish.<br /><br />As for physical development and as of the end of August, he had grown another inch and was a grand total of 5 pounds heavier since our visit to the US Embassy physician in Bogota! He is now able to jump in place and has been attempting to balance on one foot. This is so completely crazy as we can remember back to the days not so long ago when we were running along side him watching out for those inevitable trips and falls that toddlers frequently have. He is no longer in need of this and has even mastered the art of walking up and down our short, but steep, front lawn, and even recently began climbing the local playground climbing walls without much assistance.<br /><br />And, for the more intimate moments...lets see...Jonatan loves to read his "libro de Jesus"; in fact, we do not get through our bedtime routine some nights without being told numerous times "libro Jesus, Papa/Mama". He is also still very sensitive to others, ever aware of the pain and sorrow of those around him. These moments almost always evoke some tears on his part, which are also occasionally coupled with a curled lip and a more recent disclaimer "nino/nina sad".<br /><br />And for some more humorous moments: We, initially upon our return home from Colombia, had found that I, Sheila, while out with Jonatan in public would receive a lot of off the cuff coments about what culture Jonatan was from or questions about what culture his father was from...most of the time these were rather harmless and folks trying to find a way to express how cute or handsome he was. Well, these stopped for a while, and then about 2 weeks ago while at the grocery store with me, Jonatan was yawning and apparently tired...so the clerk asked him if he was going to go home and take a nap with his grandma!!!!! What!!!! Now, in defense of the clerk, this was a morning after one of my 12 hour nights, but come on I don't think I looked that old! Oh my! And then, today, I was in the same grocery store and as we were exiting, an older gentleman glanced down at Jonatan in his car (below the cart) and then up at me and asked if we were brothers!!!! Ok, now, my hair is actually longer than it was when I went to Colombia because I haven't taken the time to get it cut...and, I had a form fitting shirt on along with the same in jeans...as well as a purse! Hmmm, after thinking about all the responses I could give, I simply said, "No, he's my son." to which the gentleman replied, "Well, I thought you were his brother." Oh my, again. I called Dave right after this, as I had done with the other experiences...he most certainly laughed to the point of tears on the grandma story and certainly had a good laugh today with the brother story.<br /><br />Here is a video-picture collage that we had worked on and have been having a hard time uploading...finally tonight I figured it out...well, not sure how it worked, but cracked whatever code I needed to get it to work...hopefully I can repeat whatever I did tonight for future uploads. These are a collection of some photos over the last month. Enjoy.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/glc9TyEslCA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/glc9TyEslCA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Several friends and fellow bloggers have emailed and asked about Dave's mom, so I thought I would briefly share here how she is doing. You can continue to pray for her as she is in the process of more adjustments. In August, she was taken to the hospital with shortness of breath after a month of dizziness, low appetite, low energy, and just generally not feeling well, but with little answers from her physicians. After some more tests, her physicians thought it would be best to put in a pace maker. The pace maker actually helped to improve some of how she was feeling. She spent several weeks in the hospital and skilled nursing care before she then moved into assisted living. In fact, she just made that transition recently and seems to be doing ok. She has been a bit anxious at times, and we are not sure if this just the aging process or the fact of being in a new place and trying to get oriented. We will be visiting her this weekend as well as Dave's father to help him around the house in preparing for the remainder of fall and winter. <br /><br />In ending, I had the opportunity to do a walking half marathon with several friends in September, and absolutely loved it. Since completing it, I have set my sights on some smaller walks for the coming months. I do not think that I will have the time to prepare for the marathon in November this year, so I have set my sights on running both the half and whole marathon next year with these same friends. I have also found a trail race back home near my parents that will happen next June...it is a 34 mile trail race (with the only point of completing it), and I thought it would be fitting to tackle that in a year that I was turning 34! There is a time restriction as most long races have, so I have begun to plot my course for training between now and then. (So, Wendi, you can count me back in the game for a monthly exercise challenge!)David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-87280946848751137302008-08-13T22:20:00.000-07:002008-08-13T23:12:26.685-07:00Colombia Bound~La Familia DerrI am thinking that I should be in bed by now, although am having trouble settling this evening/night...so, it seemed fitting to spend some time updating our blog and catching friends and family up on happenings in our household.<br /><br />If you didn't notice, I decided to revert back to 'Colombia Bound' as a blog title. While we love the outdoors, the whole 'Field Notes' thing just wasn't working for me...It just seemed a bit 'cheesy' to try and re-work our blog title into some sort of outdoor analogy...and, besides, we really do love 'Colombia Bound' as it not only depicted well what we were moving towards in our adoptive preparations, but now the even deeper connection to Colombia that we have as a family.<br /><br />I had been intending to set aside some time to post more pictures of Jonatan, although I can honestly say that we have just not had the time. So, here are some pictures from the remainder of July and beginning of August:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaazy9_fIe3CDfdMCA3bF_-ZHIZHl5Wsrr7wsPhw9CqPHdXZ6KlGC9vZfQn7z365PXJMW1mskEC94qKDuAr4ptlztbVOKj7SxGUYtFDN8kDVbckuMyKr28YYtkg0sp5SKwzO6qdVg5rZA/s1600-h/Toya1+032.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQaazy9_fIe3CDfdMCA3bF_-ZHIZHl5Wsrr7wsPhw9CqPHdXZ6KlGC9vZfQn7z365PXJMW1mskEC94qKDuAr4ptlztbVOKj7SxGUYtFDN8kDVbckuMyKr28YYtkg0sp5SKwzO6qdVg5rZA/s400/Toya1+032.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234243009091412914" /></a><br /><br />Here's one for you Aunt Brooke! While this picture doesn't adequately show the love that Jonatan has for Brooke, we can honestly say that Brooke made top marks in Jonatan's book!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-Ea9Gy6ivLYN3q804uBposp_ho4Aipi5WP4gIf29HuZzM96QnYq3vrBuIRiAqdhRHath21p3SmeNFoDfWNvrQgFKKIFNYdg1jrTauwPE_m4RUUhAak0uEW-rJR_MpIwXHeGm8qSwfYCD/s1600-h/Toya1+034.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiA-Ea9Gy6ivLYN3q804uBposp_ho4Aipi5WP4gIf29HuZzM96QnYq3vrBuIRiAqdhRHath21p3SmeNFoDfWNvrQgFKKIFNYdg1jrTauwPE_m4RUUhAak0uEW-rJR_MpIwXHeGm8qSwfYCD/s400/Toya1+034.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234243485674064722" /></a><br /><br />Oh my, while we have only known Jonatan such a short time, it is so very hard to believe that he will be turning 2 in September! Where does the time go! When I think back to our first meeting as a family and where Jonatan was developmentally, it is amazing to think of how he has grown physically, verbally, and socially. Each day we are getting even more snipits of his personality and giftedness. It has been such a treat.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5RVsJjYeYsYKIJYHBwq2o8T_m2c9l9wnGhfeszGtDLok0iJfKAE6R0AFNJ6vUfMHqigD-T7jgAOcoFCrXe3UTySpVACqjipWZZgzGE97mnkMr-r_-Ia2Z6uwA7P3tF6KsMr41ZxePYEf/s1600-h/Toya1+101.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy5RVsJjYeYsYKIJYHBwq2o8T_m2c9l9wnGhfeszGtDLok0iJfKAE6R0AFNJ6vUfMHqigD-T7jgAOcoFCrXe3UTySpVACqjipWZZgzGE97mnkMr-r_-Ia2Z6uwA7P3tF6KsMr41ZxePYEf/s400/Toya1+101.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234244792430870418" /></a><br /><br />This picture was taken on a visit with a couple that Dave has known since college. Glen and Dave enjoyed the opportunity to share a bit in Spanish while our boys...all three...ran around and got a lot of energy out of their systems! Jonatan absolutely loved this ride!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhJoh1jdzsRp-ZXopkUCSDydeleuze_6Lxnyr-ZW5-D3RH97ECA6iJzSke1ySrPorjKBta3SsEkOatQj3Ye9_hQcvPmGAqsqA2CFBSLGZvxHLet9i3YchyphenhyphenqxkqZRjo0ZID9IVUt9vxvzL/s1600-h/Toya1+113.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYhJoh1jdzsRp-ZXopkUCSDydeleuze_6Lxnyr-ZW5-D3RH97ECA6iJzSke1ySrPorjKBta3SsEkOatQj3Ye9_hQcvPmGAqsqA2CFBSLGZvxHLet9i3YchyphenhyphenqxkqZRjo0ZID9IVUt9vxvzL/s400/Toya1+113.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234246025959059666" /></a><br /><br />This past Sunday our church had a child dedication service...or, rather, a parent dedication...see our previous post for an explanation if you are curious. Woody, our senior pastor always holds the kids and prays over each of them...well, we knew that Jonatan would go to him, but didn't know how long he would stay...and, it wasn't very long...although at the end of the dedication, he left Patty, our children's pastor (in the foreground of this pic) pick him up and carry him across the sanctaury to her son 'Bubba' which was an ego stomper for Woody...so sorry, Woody! He will come around! Ha!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-yAhT8Ovw3jY85jbffB3nZveVKiYZncBuKBM7NfP4ISbrhRd6yIUmnZsINsY18W2UT5o_Ij2MTFZpGxczOGMPbkzLH_NltDSQ7dyqk7RlS3Sy-8ZLOq05Lu9K1IrnfCoxmpUCKCfqxaP2/s1600-h/Toya1+114.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-yAhT8Ovw3jY85jbffB3nZveVKiYZncBuKBM7NfP4ISbrhRd6yIUmnZsINsY18W2UT5o_Ij2MTFZpGxczOGMPbkzLH_NltDSQ7dyqk7RlS3Sy-8ZLOq05Lu9K1IrnfCoxmpUCKCfqxaP2/s400/Toya1+114.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234246778194374194" /></a><br /><br />Jonatan is a bit obsessed with biking...I went to hop on my bike to head to work the other night and he literally had a meltdown because I was getting to ride my bike and he wasn't going to be able to do the same. (So much for missing Mom, right! LOL)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5En2naPYYghnDYIuFECcAs_H0-FIdH4IL3RyS0dZIJuRGPd0elVjRPmA5EOC1bJdzF5HN7dATXP4gxz86IzIzabg1_f8owZP4D7YcrK2c82SkDEiFe8aWm0sqrxr_rA7ZV8J_sagEg38W/s1600-h/Toya1+117.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5En2naPYYghnDYIuFECcAs_H0-FIdH4IL3RyS0dZIJuRGPd0elVjRPmA5EOC1bJdzF5HN7dATXP4gxz86IzIzabg1_f8owZP4D7YcrK2c82SkDEiFe8aWm0sqrxr_rA7ZV8J_sagEg38W/s400/Toya1+117.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234248127593192290" /></a><br /><br />I think Jonatan was trying to make noises with his mouth here...as sometimes this is the only way to get him to 'pose' and smile for a picture...he and a new friend, Dylan, got to spend the better part of a day at Hershey Park recently. They loved it.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lJ0OUIvjNhgw7caUOofUhzHJEwdgtbwiVI5R-o9hLZzQPH8ogar5dHcwrA9TO3iWnEC1WRFT3iPdJD4_ZybVzllhUu5Ix92oZncRKNX49KTiik_sp5cFbmoZya1JjqEPZvgyi40dco-v/s1600-h/Toya1+123.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6lJ0OUIvjNhgw7caUOofUhzHJEwdgtbwiVI5R-o9hLZzQPH8ogar5dHcwrA9TO3iWnEC1WRFT3iPdJD4_ZybVzllhUu5Ix92oZncRKNX49KTiik_sp5cFbmoZya1JjqEPZvgyi40dco-v/s400/Toya1+123.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234248990901423410" /></a><br /><br />Jonatan and some mealtime fun...need I say more!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Wybvz0_w3ilNr4Reb_l6fJRoE-ndy2eHglS1zl5OVj89MJnFKooSgAfR1g4um5YEM2F_NIKFLD5bDYMYZpiD40W4kHWSU8n18Fx44Gyl4l7NYgXBxB2mi7LxLj4LTNiioHrIJl6qsNnZ/s1600-h/Toya1+149.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6Wybvz0_w3ilNr4Reb_l6fJRoE-ndy2eHglS1zl5OVj89MJnFKooSgAfR1g4um5YEM2F_NIKFLD5bDYMYZpiD40W4kHWSU8n18Fx44Gyl4l7NYgXBxB2mi7LxLj4LTNiioHrIJl6qsNnZ/s400/Toya1+149.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234249640458743378" /></a><br /><br />This is one of the murals at a local park...painted by local students from the elementary, junior, and senior highs. It is the Harrisburg High School Cougar, I believe...at any rate, Jonatan loves the texture of this wall and can't resist running his fingers and hands over it.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnkQAmJ-VoCZSmULAgulj1hTtX5v0SGvoI-svUQHYvhzpbirA05mqClXnIaK3tjoQR-95bnOrEpoNUjyHHL1V4tndAtwmTdQS1SvfUkXNsUj3w8alM79of9_GrkSFAKpSKz9Iks-ajoP7/s1600-h/Toya1+152.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcnkQAmJ-VoCZSmULAgulj1hTtX5v0SGvoI-svUQHYvhzpbirA05mqClXnIaK3tjoQR-95bnOrEpoNUjyHHL1V4tndAtwmTdQS1SvfUkXNsUj3w8alM79of9_GrkSFAKpSKz9Iks-ajoP7/s400/Toya1+152.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234250111854687010" /></a><br /><br />One of our daily playground adventures:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenM3puHYW0xEU9Zk0O47SPHo9Gpwo58xDFun2RxWFa09qLX-QqNaCDJLCnKXdgwCxqLbP3Swp7ce4SMGsS0k0_KwbuX_WD4IO81mj9Gl9Ce-NPQtooBPZEzCGjHrLZQb8S3UyxpWQWXVg/s1600-h/Toya1+153.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjenM3puHYW0xEU9Zk0O47SPHo9Gpwo58xDFun2RxWFa09qLX-QqNaCDJLCnKXdgwCxqLbP3Swp7ce4SMGsS0k0_KwbuX_WD4IO81mj9Gl9Ce-NPQtooBPZEzCGjHrLZQb8S3UyxpWQWXVg/s400/Toya1+153.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234250563979628306" /></a><br /><br />And, until next time..."Chau" or "Ciao"<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcit0CVGf-a9nyJPIIPSpGfGmNX6MfepRtms6c_9y3otaAh8DUpBFCaL1gHRNTGauyZuWOThVxO5RHn7k60hM6HKR20-1Xi1iFldfJHmOQzYMGOCM8jjdqDRFoRJmJWfOWLx5H4eJULNDZ/s1600-h/Toya1+158.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcit0CVGf-a9nyJPIIPSpGfGmNX6MfepRtms6c_9y3otaAh8DUpBFCaL1gHRNTGauyZuWOThVxO5RHn7k60hM6HKR20-1Xi1iFldfJHmOQzYMGOCM8jjdqDRFoRJmJWfOWLx5H4eJULNDZ/s400/Toya1+158.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5234250960155206370" /></a>David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-18364132716464574362008-08-06T10:39:00.000-07:002008-08-07T12:50:12.729-07:00My RitalinI can only imagine what sort of thoughts have already come to mind with a title like this. Really, it was a phrase that caught my eye a few days ago while reading. Let me digress a bit from the reading to what brought me round circle to those two words in the first place, though.<br /><br />Tuesday, as Dave and I sat before our pastor, I was flooded with this giant reminder of how 'tired' I feel. I mainly attribute this 'knowing' to the fact that it was the first time I sat down (on our couch or anywhere, besides our bed, for that matter) for more than 15 minutes in the last two weeks. It truly is amazing at how aware we become when we choose to simply be still. In this case, I hadn't personally chosen the stillness, rather it came in lieu of preparing for Jonatan's dedication on Sunday. <br /><br />The second bit of awareness that also led to recalling a quote from recent readings was when Woody asked us what we favor in nurturing our relationship with Christ. Hmmmm, this didn't take much thought. I have always been a naturalist at heart...followed by disciplines like Bible reading, prayer, and journaling...although, nature is where I feel closest to God and experience Him most intimately. This discussion served as a reminder of how much I enjoy time spent relating to God in His creation, and how much I hope to share that love with Jonatan.<br /><br />So, my daydreaming during our conversation with Woody (sorry Woody) brought me back to a quote from "Last Child in the Woods," by Richard Louv. In one of the first pages, the author is recounting his own days of tree-climbing and wooded sensory experiences when he states: "Now, my tree-climbing days long behind me, I often think about the lasting value of those early days, deliciously idle days. I have come to appreciate the long view afforded by those treetops. The woods were my Ritalin. Nature calmed me, focused me, and yet excited my senses."<br /><br />Well, I think that is about where I stand on the issue of nature! Nature has always been such an incredible medium for God's work and communication in my own life. At a very basic level, being in the back woods has always provided me peace, rest, and perspective. So, why I am I tired? I am tired on several levels for a variety of reasons. I think the biggest is simple life-change. Between the life of a toddler and adventures in returning to work, our family life has felt a bit more frenzied these days.<br /><br />I can say that my return to work has resulted in a mixed bag of emotions. I enjoy the time I have with patients as well as coworkers, although I miss Dave and Jonatan and watching the daily changes that Jonatan is going through these days. While the practical side of work is that it provides an additional income, it also provides a small chunk of insanity for me. I now have a deep amount of respect for parents who worked opposite shifts for years...and they did that day/night stuff full time, sometimes overtime, and with three of us! Woody had joked that most people are lucky if they make it through the toddler years not having been incarcerated and their child alive with all of the mayhem that this age often entails. While I can say that we are fortunate to have only mild toddler mayhem, I can see what he means...I am not sure how we (my siblings and I) are still alive after those years with two sleep-deprived parents. Ha.<br /><br />And so it is, I am back to work as of two weeks ago. I can't say that I absolutely love it, the schedule, that is, although it could be worse. Dave and I talked after my first week back and concluded that a reduction in hours would be best, for all of us. So, starting this week, I have reduced my already part-time hours. I can't even begin to tell you what 8 less hours of work feels like...it is but wonderful! This reduction and our conversation with Woody has also helped me to think more intentionally about the time I spend personally as well as the time we spend as a family. So, in a sense, my return to work has been helpful in more ways than one.<br /><br />Yesterday, we also hosted a social worker for our first post-adoption visit. It seemed to go well. The only hitch was that Jonatan began crying and continued crying for a bit after the social worker left. We weren't quite sure what this was about as he doesn't have all the words to express that. The only thing we can imagine is that she reminded him of his foster mom or the visits with the social worker in Colombia. I am thinking the latter is more the case, and that it scared him as we went for a hike as a family last evening and he would have mini-meltdowns if I got too far ahead of him. So, today has been all about connecting and reinforcing the idea that this is forever.<br /><br />Speaking of, Jonatan is getting up, so I need to cut this short. I have more to share as well as pictures, but will need to post some more in the near future.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-79270869219763765802008-07-21T18:50:00.001-07:002008-11-13T13:33:12.232-08:00I Blanked On A TitleIt is so funny to think about sitting down and sharing through these blog updates. I often think about things that I would like to share, but when I finally sit down to write I realize that I should have carried a pen and paper with me throughout the day...I definitely need to update this more often, as I feel like so much has been happening between each post that it feels pretty near impossible to get all the details in one...otherwise the result is a mega-long post!!!<br /><br />To begin, Jonatan and I had a wonderful trip to Massachusetts for our visit with good friends, Stephen, Laura, Jonathan (try saying that name and Jonatan's in the same sentence without confusing the boys...some pretty funny moments because of it, though!). We also had the privilege of visiting with Laura's parents and sisters...oh so fun! Bob, if you are reading this...Jonatan is still hiding his ball behind his back and asking people to try and find it. It is so very cute! And, Queen Mama...you know who you are...Jonatan loves his beanie and bubble fan! He is so incredibly adorable with them! <br /><br />Laura, Jonathan, Jonatan, and I:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaMdNPC7TKiY1zAXURKn1J58b3sYIh1CSIER103zY3rwZZjRRQ9jvEUyBqNPP5zxUMohp_8dkHLf7lTHVYPavlWZDaEoPQmyo7z42Uq08_y0slSteu2uT65mVLcWMcVjLMDJ_n3rIifmU/s1600-h/Massachusetts08+096.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKaMdNPC7TKiY1zAXURKn1J58b3sYIh1CSIER103zY3rwZZjRRQ9jvEUyBqNPP5zxUMohp_8dkHLf7lTHVYPavlWZDaEoPQmyo7z42Uq08_y0slSteu2uT65mVLcWMcVjLMDJ_n3rIifmU/s400/Massachusetts08+096.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225660149863963602" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpCcNO65LHNqz_DSxOLQEL5vpvsk4ntadq3lzD2YbUOh7rvX6vlOfQN-iaO4q8U1ZFukEh4qvma-S-P11Wxlk8xnq8v3hEasMSiELbk4P0AafQEw3uZpQxLDgUL1hJ914DQK-7yQkClRE/s1600-h/Massachusetts08+094.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzpCcNO65LHNqz_DSxOLQEL5vpvsk4ntadq3lzD2YbUOh7rvX6vlOfQN-iaO4q8U1ZFukEh4qvma-S-P11Wxlk8xnq8v3hEasMSiELbk4P0AafQEw3uZpQxLDgUL1hJ914DQK-7yQkClRE/s400/Massachusetts08+094.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225665172716160434" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdF31U1Czcp9sQuNxBOF9LKTbmlxbi67BMm64m4HjfWy5SbWkusMdF2pPnj84gPZFi49WX34eMd5PhlkzEY2FXm-faW-djDgjTSW_66ruSuWIWHW1p6K0fP-4rqUAn6HfIPDXfj6iLhiNk/s1600-h/Massachusetts08+104.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdF31U1Czcp9sQuNxBOF9LKTbmlxbi67BMm64m4HjfWy5SbWkusMdF2pPnj84gPZFi49WX34eMd5PhlkzEY2FXm-faW-djDgjTSW_66ruSuWIWHW1p6K0fP-4rqUAn6HfIPDXfj6iLhiNk/s400/Massachusetts08+104.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225662335356105234" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9YnRZbWJWNQuH6L1ZSy9JzH4Leksw6IwFNiU10QpidQO1VX1vh7zFBXff3EdRG2HRRDETOUJqrhjN869D4BFaIQ1i3TD7IyQfyIJw1-GR8DPj2iTKF6iWdEOqjoHG6svYO8blti3U6Mw/s1600-h/Massachusetts08+106.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt9YnRZbWJWNQuH6L1ZSy9JzH4Leksw6IwFNiU10QpidQO1VX1vh7zFBXff3EdRG2HRRDETOUJqrhjN869D4BFaIQ1i3TD7IyQfyIJw1-GR8DPj2iTKF6iWdEOqjoHG6svYO8blti3U6Mw/s400/Massachusetts08+106.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225662862039760386" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjk88_JLFlakxLUS9oZF1UEwnQdiwqVkSdrEUUqR4eshE2k1uQws_blkpQfWf2uK1aj32RGCCwDH2pw69kxoOFolNKJHQFXX-1UJWI1cNMXMafttfzYbOArJt24bejH4J5vOLrHJ6nHjF/s1600-h/Massachusetts08+107.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWjk88_JLFlakxLUS9oZF1UEwnQdiwqVkSdrEUUqR4eshE2k1uQws_blkpQfWf2uK1aj32RGCCwDH2pw69kxoOFolNKJHQFXX-1UJWI1cNMXMafttfzYbOArJt24bejH4J5vOLrHJ6nHjF/s400/Massachusetts08+107.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225663336025607538" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMt1f1zb1RWUHCqhyphenhyphendysYmNYoXMnBy8aDEFqmHjMZOiXf9_EmwpI3Jzy9N5n1uxY5pPaggGk5vXnV5ML504JugtjI6Yg9s5dPzKjwTI6kq9a8tcCwp50reDuN6er66UtxGToqfUq1tV0V-/s1600-h/Massachusetts08+108.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMt1f1zb1RWUHCqhyphenhyphendysYmNYoXMnBy8aDEFqmHjMZOiXf9_EmwpI3Jzy9N5n1uxY5pPaggGk5vXnV5ML504JugtjI6Yg9s5dPzKjwTI6kq9a8tcCwp50reDuN6er66UtxGToqfUq1tV0V-/s400/Massachusetts08+108.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5225661877082850866" /></a><br /><br />On our way, we also stopped by and visited another good friend of mine, Becky, and her family in Connecticut! Once again, Jonatan's charm seemed to be a crowd pleaser. He enjoyed exploring Becky's parents' house and yard and an additional stop at one of their local Mexican restaurants.<br /><br />Yesterday marked 12 weeks of being off work...so I had to return to work...part-time, thankfully...and, as it turns out, I will be able to cut some more hours for the schedule that begins the end of September. What a blessing this will be...I would only be working Sunday and Wednesday nights...yeah!<br /><br />As for Jonatan and the changes that continue to take place in our family and him...oh my, where to start! Just a couple weeks ago, Jonatan was blurting out a good many words in both Spanish and English, although a good many words were only understandable to those of us who spend a good amount of time with him...we have had to develop our ears for his baby Spanglish. Ha! Actually, it is incredibly cute! When he is working really hard at a word, he gets this impish grin (with dimples to go with) that is undeniably adorable. He has actually tried to use this same grin when we are working at redirecting or correcting him in those occasional and mainly toddler moments that do occur! It is one of those faces that sort of melts us as parents...hmm...gotta work at choosing the poker face in those moments.<br /><br />Currently, Jonatan has advanced to being able to say 's' words, which previously seemed to elude him...the 's' was typically silent in his pronounciation. He can now additionally say 'Jona'...Jonatan is a little too many syllables to blurt out just yet, although he tries.<br /><br />It has also been such a great blessing to see his desire for sharing in our times of prayer as a family. We always tell Jonatan who is going to pray and proceed to pray...well, he began this little ritual not too long ago in saying 'otro' (meaning-another)after we would finish...he then grabs our pinky fingers, closes his eyes, and wants to pray again...but, he wants to pray...so Papa or Mama then begin a new prayer in which he likes to recite everything that is said. I can only imagine what delight this brings God! It certainly brings much joy to our own in watching him desire to emulate that.<br /><br />As for other milestones or progress...Jonatan is...<br /><br />*now drop-kicking a ball...we are now considering the benefits of moving his ball activites outdoors.<br /><br />*pretty consistently by day announcing to us when he needs to go to the bathroom (or is going...so we don't always make it to the bathroom in time)<br /><br />*now performing a gentle petting technique on all of our animals...but primarily for the cats...(score one for the felines in our household...I was beginning to think that they would be forever relegated to the part of the house where he was not!)<br /><br />*learning how to float in our bathtub and loving it! We tried the pool scene, although the larger body of water seemed to put him into a panic...only in lying back into the water, that is...otherwise, he is a natural fish!<br /><br />*currently getting over his first offical cold/sickness with us. It has actually been rather mild, but definitely gave us a nice view into Jonatan's world and what he needs during those times...a good bonding and growing experience for all of us.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-46047049692075780522008-07-11T21:27:00.001-07:002008-07-11T22:14:05.684-07:00What's that you say?More paperwork! Yep, we are in the process of completing the final bit of paperwork that we have with Jonatan's adoption. Since returning from Colombia, we have been asked quite frequently the "What's next?" question. I don't think early on we were even quite sure what the 'next' was...although, rest assured, we are on top of our game. Here is the low down on those the details:<br /><br />As of today, Jonatan's readoption has been filed with the state of Pennsylvania. An intersting twist in this part of our journey was that we were under the impression that we would need to work with a lawyer to complete this...and that it would cost anywhere from $1,300 to $2,200...upon a closer look into the process and speaking with a very kind woman at the Dauphin County Courthouse, we discovered that this paperwork could be filed by us for only $30 with copies of Jonatan's Pennsylvania State birth certificates being $10 a piece! Now that was one big whoo-hoo!<br /><br />A second stop was the Social Security Administration office for Jonatan's social security card. Oh my, this was quite an adventure! Once upon a time ago, I had to visit one of these offices for a replacement card when my original was stolen...and, I had completely forgotten how incredibly busy they are...not to mention that we live in a larger city, err shall I say town in this area. After an hour and a half of entertaining a toddler with everything that I could pull out of my pockets, my purse (um bag; totally not a purse type of woman! Ha!), and from my person, we were finally called to one of three windows. After some more waiting and inspection of paperwork, we were told to expect his social security card in the mail within the next 2 weeks! Check and done!<br /><br />Our last stop most recently is a new home study agency to complete our post adoption reports...um, did I really say that? We had a little bit of a curve ball recently...in June, we had been leaving messages, both phone and email, with the social worker we had been working with for our home study, but did not get any response...so, we then proceeded to call the agency directly...BUT found that the number had been disconnected. Hmmm? So, a reverse look-up of several numbers produced info that indicated our home study agency still existed...called those...and all disconnected...finally, in a last ditch attempt to contact them, we went to the internet to find out if they had moved...well, their website no longer exists...in a matter of three months, our agency is gone...finished...a mystery and with no word or warning! Weird.<br /><br />This little glitch was only mildly annoying. Actually, maybe it is a God-send, as we are now connected with an agency that seems very sharp, is close by, and can have our post-adoption reports done in less than a week. Sounds good to me; hopefully the ICBF will be ok with that change! So, in the beginning of August, we will complete our first post-adoption visit with one of their social workers. And, for all of you who are wondering...we will have three more that will take us through February of 2010! Whoa baby!<br /><br />As for progress in other ways or things to come:<br /><br />Jonatan...<br />1. Is now drop kicking balls.<br />2. Tried his first dish of green (spinach) eggs and ham and loved them!<br />3. Can now say several two word phrases..."Hello Papa", "Fawn come", "Lo siento", "Por favor", "Thank you", and "Oops Perdon"...some of these are understandable to us, but need some interpretation for those who aren't tuned into his toddlerease...it's too cute though!<br />4. Will have his first ultra long car trip this coming week...and, I am not sure who to ask you to pray for more...Jonatan or Mama! We are headed to Connecticut and Massachusetts to visit a friend of mine who also has a son about a year old...while Dave stays back in PA to catch up on work that he still has waiting from being away in Colombia.<br />5. Has one more trip to the hospital next Saturday for some blood draws...oh pray for our little man! The first trip was not very pleasant for him...the nurses didn't "realize" that he was as strong as he was, so he got impaled in his one thigh 5 x's for 2 vaccines...and 2 x's in the other thigh for one additional vaccine. While at the Social Security office, I found a bandaid in my bag and offered it to him to play with and he immediately started wailing because he thought we were actually in a Dr.'s office and were going to get more shots! Oh no!!!!...just a small window into next week's visit!<br /><br />Mama...<br />1. Returns to work part-time on the 20th of July...and am now thinking that I was crazy to choose the schedule and hours I will be working. Hmmm, that may need to change.<br /><br />Papa...<br />1. Starts another accounting class in August for the fall semester!<br /><br />As for this weekend, we are off to do some swimming as a family tomorrow, and then Jonatan and I are off to New England until Wednesday.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-28438709613617121532008-07-06T21:16:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:14.781-08:00Time Warp!I began this post last evening (Sunday):<br /><br />Has it really been 6 weeks, 1 inch, and 4 lbs. now since we have been home! I can hardly believe it! Our time has been filled with both calm and more tranquill family moments as well as the rounds to see family and friends. Jonatan has done remarkably well in meeting everyone and with the sometimes lengthy drives that we have had to make recently.<br /><br />We are very greatful for my Mom and Sister in taking some much time and energy to put together such a wonderful shower for us back home at my parent's house. It was awesome to see family and friends from both sides of my parent's family! Jonatan especially loved getting to play with all of his Grandpap's toys...especially his Harley and tractor! And, we have to also post a special 'thank you' to cousin Taylor for all of her hard work in helping to decorate and entertain Jonatan during the festivities!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZoqV3GIOoSe_Dn2mhQDI9Udstb3NeJPd6kMa-rAp8MCuKQ5e2wp2DJiWe0OATUtMcsmgwvwCG6WhOneg6CSl_rdDki6ZLygkYywmUhBgKTpsGNtYzGS4O2nua35AxBjSRNPly7r0QEna/s1600-h/July+08+019.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjZoqV3GIOoSe_Dn2mhQDI9Udstb3NeJPd6kMa-rAp8MCuKQ5e2wp2DJiWe0OATUtMcsmgwvwCG6WhOneg6CSl_rdDki6ZLygkYywmUhBgKTpsGNtYzGS4O2nua35AxBjSRNPly7r0QEna/s400/July+08+019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220132812400592978" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjflC0cw5Dv3mYYTpR3QKkeeD-Z12iUSN-1pPUUg1Hdcd21pEsXnm2I2jxWNDq3sf9dfp3UQi-iEX27s58qEvF7XeBBRgsYE9BlHnYDKlujP8KqguxvMMLVhnKjEMydLEDHPN-imHAx_Dj/s1600-h/July+08+044.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjflC0cw5Dv3mYYTpR3QKkeeD-Z12iUSN-1pPUUg1Hdcd21pEsXnm2I2jxWNDq3sf9dfp3UQi-iEX27s58qEvF7XeBBRgsYE9BlHnYDKlujP8KqguxvMMLVhnKjEMydLEDHPN-imHAx_Dj/s400/July+08+044.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220478829305632978" /></a><br /><br />This was a sort of funny shot one of us took at my sister's house...we aren't quite sure what was going on...but the picture kinda looks like Jonatan is "laying hands" on cousin Jayden...I hope this didn't precede any sort of toddler baptism!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0WCjvc6eEhXQ6MzmobqiGthWWLmOxUwuPADCiDXY0NSw9s9NDcnr6BXeBp-BNrIOzog7QNYKTGrGYjHJ7zVw7kPtE7wwgyzOa9DRleZhbWSqqfQFv9uN_OVHiO_IXAb1s-dsTJarwotd/s1600-h/July+08+073.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0WCjvc6eEhXQ6MzmobqiGthWWLmOxUwuPADCiDXY0NSw9s9NDcnr6BXeBp-BNrIOzog7QNYKTGrGYjHJ7zVw7kPtE7wwgyzOa9DRleZhbWSqqfQFv9uN_OVHiO_IXAb1s-dsTJarwotd/s400/July+08+073.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220480244695954258" /></a> <br /><br />We have also had the opportunity to visit with Dave's parents as well as his brother, Ken, sister-in-law, Jen, and our nephew Austin! Actually, we just shared a visit with them over this past week! We miss you guys and can't wait to see you sometime in the near future! Austin, you will have to say 'hi' to your baby sister or brother for us! (For those of you who do not know that part of Dave's family...Jen is expecting in August! Yeahhhhhhh!!!!)<br /><br />A special moment with Dave's parents!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVK6usCw9ygVRRqrIFy-dU-h66U3PstG_FviGfuMI4_C6S4kv-NRufA7lse7IsltVdiqAfBd0bv-pB1jT3X8rRNKq-STdvVNKzU66k7jg3J0Mx9XQDysYRuCovHD-MxXRD1yD-tg2D4dAx/s1600-h/July+08+010.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVK6usCw9ygVRRqrIFy-dU-h66U3PstG_FviGfuMI4_C6S4kv-NRufA7lse7IsltVdiqAfBd0bv-pB1jT3X8rRNKq-STdvVNKzU66k7jg3J0Mx9XQDysYRuCovHD-MxXRD1yD-tg2D4dAx/s400/July+08+010.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220486768699132514" /></a><br /><br />Have no fear all of you baseball fans out there (Uncle Ken & Granpa Derr!)...we are still a little young for working on form...for now, we sort think it is fun to simply swing these things at any size of ball...both in the air and on the ground!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVgydqnv99q7mfh9VqTN4NfxhdQJomdb_9SkZ2MhqSx18Rtv2UL9UsXI4T0-fK3E7b1NBtGdwEa7ldUv-3LYTaxTuE2nWjv4YZu2KpBVuL2T91XixRPU07m1zmexeBOY6Ae9NG1hs2bd8/s1600-h/July+08+089.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVgydqnv99q7mfh9VqTN4NfxhdQJomdb_9SkZ2MhqSx18Rtv2UL9UsXI4T0-fK3E7b1NBtGdwEa7ldUv-3LYTaxTuE2nWjv4YZu2KpBVuL2T91XixRPU07m1zmexeBOY6Ae9NG1hs2bd8/s400/July+08+089.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220481230328131906" /></a><br /><br />And, afterall, we do have a superstar cousin Austin to help us out with form in the future!!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv5mW_hHY7lxO5oMYfLJ4xBuk2f4mfJuhEr_w9W7heHDS3qaYjvQDjVByE04d9UleMFFbLx87feQiJjagy3nPm7aPRXHRPZPEzak7xlG_jDwaphe177N2CAwqwWvJeMQgPVtvnwdxd8r7D/s1600-h/July+08+099.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv5mW_hHY7lxO5oMYfLJ4xBuk2f4mfJuhEr_w9W7heHDS3qaYjvQDjVByE04d9UleMFFbLx87feQiJjagy3nPm7aPRXHRPZPEzak7xlG_jDwaphe177N2CAwqwWvJeMQgPVtvnwdxd8r7D/s400/July+08+099.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220481816255574674" /></a><br /><br />This was a photo that we took on Friday while at the American Musicfest on frontstreet in Harrisburg. We actually had the opportunity to see a band called AZUCAR...http://www.azucarband.com/...they were a latin dance band...and what a special treat it was!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRF-CTKjJhaajcNIKc32u2tigjZkVxYSDTW_CHQ_iY_TRaXUde5cqYcNUOiYFUnNaR29eAWHfMZWxFWpdpRTEYg8ptgKsP__xDNKK2PbLl5v0s3GfiFhPDF9aT_Khuu9mlnEUzV37Wv81k/s1600-h/July+08+105.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRF-CTKjJhaajcNIKc32u2tigjZkVxYSDTW_CHQ_iY_TRaXUde5cqYcNUOiYFUnNaR29eAWHfMZWxFWpdpRTEYg8ptgKsP__xDNKK2PbLl5v0s3GfiFhPDF9aT_Khuu9mlnEUzV37Wv81k/s400/July+08+105.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220483185400472178" /></a><br /><br />Yesterday, we decided to deviate a bit from what our schedule has been like to take in some family time for the three of us...sooooo, we boarded the Hummelstown-Middletown railroad for a scenic tour of the area. Jonatan was pretty excited to get on the train. When he got up in the morning, we had told him that we were going to ride a train, although it was clear that he didn't quite understand what that meant. We had a lot of fun as we also got to take in some live music and singing...songs like "I've Been Working On a Railroad" and, hmmm, I just blanked on the rest...but it was fun, though, ha!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpmlQzPD7ox8p0IC6CTn_DhkDsMq22hqI075uU4deEbCmRroon3qNrHyu6WUC8NRyXcm6U5sQXMuVB44AHez5Gf1OmUZQnDwH6IKhcez95KN2c0-FqGd3-EKdbuqJuL5DSmg8sIYETcDw/s1600-h/July+08+127.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXpmlQzPD7ox8p0IC6CTn_DhkDsMq22hqI075uU4deEbCmRroon3qNrHyu6WUC8NRyXcm6U5sQXMuVB44AHez5Gf1OmUZQnDwH6IKhcez95KN2c0-FqGd3-EKdbuqJuL5DSmg8sIYETcDw/s400/July+08+127.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220484248132203042" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5bhdYjEVpExyobdginajpe9Ub8P_wF3nZit9tJUk5Ud3e-C99o7SjvHWfpKD8SFsnLgp66kNm6XgYRYKdVNMgrIs8Vft3WLTpceMzQkbHIEGzAX8yoMurPnzVhCRbMrSO5nQEuCUrv4B/s1600-h/July+08+125.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg5bhdYjEVpExyobdginajpe9Ub8P_wF3nZit9tJUk5Ud3e-C99o7SjvHWfpKD8SFsnLgp66kNm6XgYRYKdVNMgrIs8Vft3WLTpceMzQkbHIEGzAX8yoMurPnzVhCRbMrSO5nQEuCUrv4B/s400/July+08+125.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220483908960895986" /></a><br /><br />And, to wrap up the low-down of our wherabouts, today in the afternoon, we went to a local state park to join a family we know for their daughters' (twins) 1st birthday. Happy Birthday Liberty and Glory!!!!! The park actually had a giant waterpark so some of our time was spent swimming and running in and out of water geisers and fountains. Jonatan didn't want to leave! We had a pretty comical moment when we hit the car this evening...Jonatan was trying so very hard to communicate to us what he wanted..."agua", "no agua", "agua", "no agua"...I think you get the idea...and then, all of a sudden, there was complete silence...he was overcome by sleep and slept the whole way home...which is such a rarity!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4BeGln_HgfgQgofxNn6R0obCqyny8oOLshEKpIYCcfHjDEiNVpFvmli-usEskzmJuY68I6uaNEqllgkvYOfunnVTTyQr5PCY2KQnaia-hD-R_JsO8x9ZJdv5DaKLXqUQvZB2gNs7YGJx/s1600-h/July+08+162.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE4BeGln_HgfgQgofxNn6R0obCqyny8oOLshEKpIYCcfHjDEiNVpFvmli-usEskzmJuY68I6uaNEqllgkvYOfunnVTTyQr5PCY2KQnaia-hD-R_JsO8x9ZJdv5DaKLXqUQvZB2gNs7YGJx/s400/July+08+162.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220485293600584098" /></a> <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbgwL-bNbOVAu3W-_O3WSE_QEf6ra_LkFCwciEkL3qTVyiSqeTdxN_ZDiX1Mhjc4asflvuiLuQ8Aa7gpzaEIE_DXVNE7JUUjJAHQU6WtFJPptBHtH-NcQu4c_Xp4YVzpV4Ucb4_f8yI00/s1600-h/July+08+142.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLbgwL-bNbOVAu3W-_O3WSE_QEf6ra_LkFCwciEkL3qTVyiSqeTdxN_ZDiX1Mhjc4asflvuiLuQ8Aa7gpzaEIE_DXVNE7JUUjJAHQU6WtFJPptBHtH-NcQu4c_Xp4YVzpV4Ucb4_f8yI00/s400/July+08+142.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220485793770845074" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacwoCJ5BNT8HgHfmVOZpz9926HFWRKUl3jJvD0YcYYIE-JVYDGyglFHQ1W7MlLsLK8expvW7XOGV8kCCSNCMuOeOegQ-gXwZkZs4QUfMyx6HtHeXC9cRg7jMdj-8wWQkC0_buFo29dIay/s1600-h/July+08+155.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgacwoCJ5BNT8HgHfmVOZpz9926HFWRKUl3jJvD0YcYYIE-JVYDGyglFHQ1W7MlLsLK8expvW7XOGV8kCCSNCMuOeOegQ-gXwZkZs4QUfMyx6HtHeXC9cRg7jMdj-8wWQkC0_buFo29dIay/s400/July+08+155.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220484872412517154" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAHPxbxl0i226sQE6xBORFqQoxR0fAjzd1YFHqSgHjpynER2ZWlBdVtSd0wkDp2kz1T_mhXBrq6qsBg55Cc8EXQXtpQ2MBbSYjZwWAehwR_1xvzUywLleMZdy8-LgAkXZBcB49f9YStnR/s1600-h/July+08+158.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeAHPxbxl0i226sQE6xBORFqQoxR0fAjzd1YFHqSgHjpynER2ZWlBdVtSd0wkDp2kz1T_mhXBrq6qsBg55Cc8EXQXtpQ2MBbSYjZwWAehwR_1xvzUywLleMZdy8-LgAkXZBcB49f9YStnR/s400/July+08+158.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220485559307650050" /></a><br /><br />As for how we are in general...we are doing well. Dave and I continue to work to find balance in our days...I am sure all the parents reading this will understand this...we are not even close to striking a balance between and in our relationship with Christ, with each other, as well as Jonatan...not to mention work and other commitments we have. I feel like each day is a new experiment to see if our new adjustments will meet the needs that we have as a family...although, I suspect, that this will also be one of those lifelong processes! Another Ha!<br /><br />I find myself marveling each day at the changes that Jonatan is going through...and how well he seems to be weathering them...and so completely amazed at his understanding of English! I really do wish I had that sort of capacity (in such little time) to absorb so much! He really has only heard English since we have been home, and I can tell you that he understands much more in the 6 weeks we have been here than I understand of the Spanish I heard in our 4 weeks in Colombia! I think the other thing that I have found myself doing a double-take on is how he has physically developed. When we first met Jonatan, he was quite shaky on his feet, especially when moving fast...and, as for steps, these were a challenge each day...he was always up for it...and because of his desire for repetition he has now mastered the art of going up and down the stairs (although we still would not dare to let him travel solo!) as well as running. Lastly, I think that we have discovered that Jonatan is a natural at climbing...and, I don't mean, just randomly doing the toddler climbing thing...he actually loves "climbing walls"!!!!! One of our local parks has an actual childrens' climb which is about 10 feet or so high and he not only loves to climb it, and can climb it very well, but he goes to the top!!!!! Mama is always climbing right behind...with Papa praying that his son finds a different sport to enjoy for the future (Dave hates heights!).<br /><br />Well, those are some of the highlights of what has been going on in the Derr home...I can say that I would very much love to post more often, and am hoping that I can make that happen. Not only has this been a wonderful way to share with family and friends, but it is also kinda therapeutic for me!<br /><br />And, this is just a small side-note for Wendi....you are on, sistah!!! I am taking you up on a 30 Mile Challenge for the month of July, and will get my ticker up in the next day or so! I hope to see yours soon as well!<br /><br />I also have to place one more comment in here for a special family that is on our hearts and in our prayers often these days...Troy and Andrea, we are so very excited for you guys!!!!!! Not only is Pereira obviously near and dear to our hearts, but you are about to have 3 boys from Pereira join your family! We have a little soccer player here who can't wait to kick the ball around with your guys!!!! Enjoy your time in Bogota; we are definitely following you along as you make this journey! Much love from PA!!!!<br /><br />Outtakes:<br /><br />Ummm, wow, my sunglasses were a great bargain, they do much more than I thought!!!!!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpo_IkPogLHaQ9RKSjP4qwWVfDouYwLtQTLyY_4m9cV_ailft1-SIJLWqblC9UD4a2M0Ur5yuP6009hRX-7btlkHIHhoP3ujQzhhsAhC5yxzAk8Hr62a86cmPzSYIA2_JFYy1SIrRgXOH/s1600-h/July+08+005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKpo_IkPogLHaQ9RKSjP4qwWVfDouYwLtQTLyY_4m9cV_ailft1-SIJLWqblC9UD4a2M0Ur5yuP6009hRX-7btlkHIHhoP3ujQzhhsAhC5yxzAk8Hr62a86cmPzSYIA2_JFYy1SIrRgXOH/s400/July+08+005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220486396035855586" /></a><br /><br />Errr, a mother's job well done!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnXxlpzGUR22jSk2JgFYLG7-ETRiYgJ_c2v7g6c4q4N2dlzQb7_0zeIHITsKzO0S5eNzq9dHXdXW5jMxuCxwRoWnEtFfsCC_XnoYW9d8tcZ6feCxekyBaYg4JxlEh5ql4wj7VzcLYyA1E/s1600-h/July+08+017.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbnXxlpzGUR22jSk2JgFYLG7-ETRiYgJ_c2v7g6c4q4N2dlzQb7_0zeIHITsKzO0S5eNzq9dHXdXW5jMxuCxwRoWnEtFfsCC_XnoYW9d8tcZ6feCxekyBaYg4JxlEh5ql4wj7VzcLYyA1E/s400/July+08+017.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220487350405048242" /></a><br /><br />Taking in that form that we were talking about earlier!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9a34sfmvuAVAs2gBd7soEqBGAqtU0x1ajC7WWs0QadKw4FabdYP4KTINEp7EvW_yskjbTvlQO7qBojLl8gjzAopd7CvRr1JS3Vj5rbHlQIqSYGjIjVFzKFYn54Nio5ZN_LcY2PaLMAtr8/s1600-h/July+08+094.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9a34sfmvuAVAs2gBd7soEqBGAqtU0x1ajC7WWs0QadKw4FabdYP4KTINEp7EvW_yskjbTvlQO7qBojLl8gjzAopd7CvRr1JS3Vj5rbHlQIqSYGjIjVFzKFYn54Nio5ZN_LcY2PaLMAtr8/s400/July+08+094.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220488238351970114" /></a><br /><br />Ok, hopefully Jonatan will not be completely mortified when he looks back on this pic in 10-20 years! He is a complete ham at times and it totally cracks us up...he just up and does things like this when we least expect it...his entertainment skills are being polished every day!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0DOWr0gKzDUiw8IrGgjK97id-WNk7NrXzpIkJwlbbsqts-YVOBQpUB0YfWuucx0OvsVUOrN3-gKrgEqOaTmYYw82qNv-J0nr4cogSGzBYo27xTjvlTprpK_3bSa6UquaTU3vShahDvV7Y/s1600-h/July+08+133.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0DOWr0gKzDUiw8IrGgjK97id-WNk7NrXzpIkJwlbbsqts-YVOBQpUB0YfWuucx0OvsVUOrN3-gKrgEqOaTmYYw82qNv-J0nr4cogSGzBYo27xTjvlTprpK_3bSa6UquaTU3vShahDvV7Y/s400/July+08+133.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220489270439788818" /></a><br /><br />One of Jonatan's favorite times of the day is spending it some time with Dave doing part of his evening routine!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu1s9bPjBGS06waq_E6Q0tNrLcybGSxv5NcF01_iI49A8txiZ95diylhnW5yD7NAi1PIP0SUF3C902wE8oeX78FaNqpCMF8ZsRQKJxtnYmIf0fTWkVwhY5pHIC3xymr4M5IgyjfeWB8SyY/s1600-h/July+08+139.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu1s9bPjBGS06waq_E6Q0tNrLcybGSxv5NcF01_iI49A8txiZ95diylhnW5yD7NAi1PIP0SUF3C902wE8oeX78FaNqpCMF8ZsRQKJxtnYmIf0fTWkVwhY5pHIC3xymr4M5IgyjfeWB8SyY/s400/July+08+139.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220489693567016690" /></a><br /><br />This is a fitting last shot...chau for now!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJ5-ZL2HpoNcO9pm0NthodgAHgFBMtad5TpT67dWRp5NLph85JAHLrCqFOstOrYD5svQKYHfdcbt3pPTMSBS_ger7eyfdNN8bHctxIoYKuHkYKCVWay4XBWlcEyfk9fFfuXZoWf18cdq0/s1600-h/July+08+153.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJ5-ZL2HpoNcO9pm0NthodgAHgFBMtad5TpT67dWRp5NLph85JAHLrCqFOstOrYD5svQKYHfdcbt3pPTMSBS_ger7eyfdNN8bHctxIoYKuHkYKCVWay4XBWlcEyfk9fFfuXZoWf18cdq0/s400/July+08+153.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5220490145974144706" /></a>David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-26993013238900497892008-06-18T11:15:00.000-07:002008-06-18T12:00:40.174-07:00<a href="http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/2136735200092943640GJljCW"><img src="http://inlinethumb03.webshots.com/1666/2136735200092943640S425x425Q85.jpg" alt="Fog Rolling In."></a>This is just a fun shot of the theme of my thoughts for the day! As Jonatan and I tackled a full morning of eating, play, and chores, I found myself reflecting on our journey to becoming a family of three. Honestly, I have been stumped on what we should rename our blog, and then it hit me this morning! "Field Notes"...while I am sure it doesn't seem a too likely pick for most people, it is so very fitting for us.<br /><br />You see, Dave and I absolutely love the outdoors, especially backpacking. On our adventures you can often find us with camera and journal in hand, and for obvious reasons. It then simply makes the most sense for us to entitle our blog "Field Notes" as our journey has only begun as a family and it is in the 'field' of learning and growing together that we will be recording and journaling through the events of our lives. <br /><br />What an amazing thought! When we leave for backpacking trips, we know that those trips will last a couple days to a couple weeks. To know that we have only begun this field experience and that it will continue a lifetime is such a thrill! I can only begin to imagine how we will grow as parents, how Jonatan will grow as a son, and what we will learn together along the way.<br /><br />I think the other thing that is a bit striking about parenting, and so unlike backpacking, is that the journey isn't always clear. While we labor pretty intentionally on the details of our trips...from maps, itinerary, food, gear, and packing...parenting, family, and the future of our lives together isn't so much planned as it is lived moment by moment...and thankfully, with the grace, guidance, and provision of God along the way. <br /><br />I realize that there are many unknowns about the road ahead. And while my own desire to have control and see the big picture causes a bit of anxiety, I am reassured in knowing that the unknown is what deepens my faith and broadens my ability to trust in my Lord and Savior. I am so thankful today for the way in which God has brought us together as family. While our road to Jonatan was relatively short in Colombian terms, his arrival to us has been awaited much, much longer...and I couldn't imagine a child any different! We are so blessed and incredibly greatful for the opportunity to share in his life! Hopefully "Field Notes" can do justice to all the experiences ahead!David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-38747621448258299562008-06-15T20:53:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:16.068-08:00Three Weeks Home & Father's Day!Papa & Jonatan prepare for a ride through the City Island area of Harrisburg! Jonatan absolutely loves the "Wee Ride" that his Abuelito and Abuelita got him! We snuck Fawn in this picture as she joined us for this adventure, although Mama and she explored on foot!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYNmfYQM6DStEyF9Py5Yf_VOkqfvswWvBhp5TyvFAEaB_qQw5U5HOUn-BJVhCO6mpeMhoaIvatO173PT3WvmHTZ6GziNp0tsLbsepmDRBna0lgydVkQRCng9M58ijV4Qca-t4REmtabvB/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+002.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuYNmfYQM6DStEyF9Py5Yf_VOkqfvswWvBhp5TyvFAEaB_qQw5U5HOUn-BJVhCO6mpeMhoaIvatO173PT3WvmHTZ6GziNp0tsLbsepmDRBna0lgydVkQRCng9M58ijV4Qca-t4REmtabvB/s400/Harrisburg+3+002.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212323205896445426" /></a><br /><br />Jonatan still enjoys passing on his besitos to his furry and not so furry friends!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-H_4qjXzINcwfKnDEPC8INVQsAgGs9j2Nd-8qChW0FjoQnlhEu6mj5lnR0fAjwflOld5PFbzBX2tI3JtvehCnf3VXVbUDWb2XAp2N4fWXeewFaSXGjYTBtM1jurTUl21Log2U7OrqBQK/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK-H_4qjXzINcwfKnDEPC8INVQsAgGs9j2Nd-8qChW0FjoQnlhEu6mj5lnR0fAjwflOld5PFbzBX2tI3JtvehCnf3VXVbUDWb2XAp2N4fWXeewFaSXGjYTBtM1jurTUl21Log2U7OrqBQK/s400/Harrisburg+3+005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212324093687148626" /></a><br /><br />One of the first children that Jonatan met from our church was "Bubba", our Childrens Pastor's son. Bubba has quickly become one of Jonatan's favorite buddies. One evening while he and his family were visiting for dinner, the boys jumped in a 'froggy' pool that a friend bought (Thanks so much Amy! He loves it!). We also brought out a lion that blows bubbles (battery operated)...so the boys ended up having a good ol' soapy time!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjSFXjCyZ-60kU6J_Uy__dzmhbmnaIwLFJ2Ic3v7Ui9LJHs3jD9jBY6xlgS9LIZZ_aer2RPfEYIrCISISSzSTFK-J5URbX0prx6jUFXmBWDCA78tnwmgu17hMMS-Zae30ZtQA48GjgVEy/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEjSFXjCyZ-60kU6J_Uy__dzmhbmnaIwLFJ2Ic3v7Ui9LJHs3jD9jBY6xlgS9LIZZ_aer2RPfEYIrCISISSzSTFK-J5URbX0prx6jUFXmBWDCA78tnwmgu17hMMS-Zae30ZtQA48GjgVEy/s400/Harrisburg+3+011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212325191024819778" /></a><br /><br />My Mom and Sister dropped off a huge load of clothes and fun stuff for Jonatan not too long ago. It has taken me forever to sort through their gift as well as many others that we have received. It just so happened that Jonatan had found a tiger outfit and thought it was so fun to run around in! You should hear him growl; it is so very convincing!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJ7YTblQdEGbbUmAfAIquTiwDToDowPInE2YsFSo-fO6Iqr0gzGmoLVzqToDkbDbPqhzJFSEWUqt6JuWFXJUZYu0a_GCqclsu7qON8K3pY7m8PIwzBMoCeV3zq_HcSkolxjHMtMk8gu4P/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+021.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMJ7YTblQdEGbbUmAfAIquTiwDToDowPInE2YsFSo-fO6Iqr0gzGmoLVzqToDkbDbPqhzJFSEWUqt6JuWFXJUZYu0a_GCqclsu7qON8K3pY7m8PIwzBMoCeV3zq_HcSkolxjHMtMk8gu4P/s400/Harrisburg+3+021.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212326689097016898" /></a><br /><br />It is so hard to believe that we have been home for three weeks now! Each day has been a complete blessing and filled with many fun surprises and challenges for us as a family!<br /><br />Some discoveries or milestones along the way:<br /><br />1. Jonatan loves to eat green beans and brocolli raw, but completely dislikes them cooked! I keep thinking to myself, "Is this toddler for real?!?!?!" Ha!<br /><br />2. Um, can we say potty training already! Yikes and LOL! Admittedly, we weren't quite ready for this one...in fact, we were thinking that this one would come well after Jonatan's 2 yr. old birthday. I won't go into details, but will say that shortly after we arrived back to the states Jonatan began announcing to us when he was either going or had to go 'pee pee'...although right now 'pee pee' is used universally to mean #1 or #2, so we have had a few surprises with this along the way. Oh my! I can say that on the whole this part of parenting has been pretty funny and challenging!<br /><br />3. The words 'yes' and 'no' are being road tested! What I mean by this is that Jonatan seems to stumbled upon the use of these words, rather than just shaking his head for yes and no...the funny part of this is that he will often use them incorrectly; at first, this was a bit frustrating for Papa and Mama as we were functioning with the commonly accepted definitions for these words. Now, we are used to hearing 'yes' but half expect to hear 'no' in the end for some things...and vice versa. Actually, it was pretty cute, one night shortly after he began consistently using these words and as we were going through our bedtime routine, Jonatan laid back on his pillow, would turn his head one way and announce 'yes', then the other way and announce 'no'.<br /><br />4. Our little guy can now go up and down stairs 'solo'! (Although Papa and Mama are still a bit nervous about this one as our staircase to the second floor is pretty steep.)<br /><br />5. Compassion should be Jonatan's middle name as he often surprises us with his responses to people and situations around him. Twice now, he has cried when he realized that someone else was hurting and in need of comforting. At first, we thought he was scared, but it turned out that he was truly concerned for the people around him. And, on another occasion, we were reading a book to hin in which the main character is sad in a particular part of the book. In this particular time, he began to cry and point to the main character while trying to get our attention to confirm that it was indeed an appropriate moment for sadness. There have additionally been occasions where he has seen someones "owie" and needed to not just point it out, but to approach them and hug them or stroke their head to communicate care. It has been very touching to watch this growing sense of care for those around him.<br /><br />6. Phone fetish! Ok, there is definitely one area of life together that is a bit of a hurdle...in our paperwork from Jonatan's foster parents, we were told that he loved phones...what we did not know is that he REALLY LOVES PHONES!!!!! This doesn't seem to be a phase either! Oh my! And, he will not just settle for the toy version, but is pretty determined to get his little hands on the real deal! When he does, it is pretty cute! He walks around with his phone propped on one shoulder while waving his opposite hand in the air and talking up a storm...knowing that he is a pretty great mimic, I wonder how much of this is a picture of one of his foster parents or siblings. At any rate, it is pretty funny. Needless to say, he loves to get on the phone and 'chat' with family and friends.<br /><br />Ok, I am sure that there are many other things that I could list here, but will end with sharing a bit about Dave. It is such a blessing to watch Dave as a Father! I know that I don't say it enough, but I have one amazing husband! In the three weeks that we have been home, Dave returned to work, has jumped back into being Treasurer for our church, has continued in other obligations...yet still has devoted very intentional time to us as a family.<br /><br />As a Father, Dave is very loving, patient, gentle, fun-loving, adventurous, and creative. I am blessed each evening to watch as Father and Son run around the house being goofy, exploring, practicing new words, or just romping around. I am also blessed in watching Jonatan as he responds to his Papa...he absolutely adores being with Dave and will often ask where Papa is throughout the day. It is also a blessing to watch as Dave leads his Son in pursuit of Christ each evening. I get 'chills' as I write this because I often think about what sort of lasting impressions we are sharing with Jonatan...and, this is one that I pray plants a seed of eternity in his heart and mind. I know we all have something to share about our spouses, if married, but needed to take this opportunity to share just how special my husband is to me. What an amazing seven years of marriage, the highs and lows, and I look forward to many more as we continue to grow in our love and care of each other as well as in our parenting of Jonatan and any other children God blesses us with down the road!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOGXwPPGPRLhrTM8RqxcVJ7amzNr-Ia8vxcZWVB6L4Zr90n77MQ2J2mM7Rp667S4fYcuPch_JWpc-S5pGc41hh24bu2l3zwcUZUK8s5x6yj4gYv6z0CbkLhOiwahc7dpKOAAHeSU5mb9i/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+041.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOGXwPPGPRLhrTM8RqxcVJ7amzNr-Ia8vxcZWVB6L4Zr90n77MQ2J2mM7Rp667S4fYcuPch_JWpc-S5pGc41hh24bu2l3zwcUZUK8s5x6yj4gYv6z0CbkLhOiwahc7dpKOAAHeSU5mb9i/s400/Harrisburg+3+041.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212341510202174290" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNN-hWmI82jHwKK8hBcG8RFwoyOYDionkXIWLscF5DIdXeGn4bc2TPxRPquUbb7IFkbNT76ryABlb_0261wzwCHGKzfgnfDVg6-i0L7aVbaSS-eIvwzwgnAB9uyV6BLt2kDxyJQnt-vanI/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+055.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNN-hWmI82jHwKK8hBcG8RFwoyOYDionkXIWLscF5DIdXeGn4bc2TPxRPquUbb7IFkbNT76ryABlb_0261wzwCHGKzfgnfDVg6-i0L7aVbaSS-eIvwzwgnAB9uyV6BLt2kDxyJQnt-vanI/s400/Harrisburg+3+055.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212341903849988098" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cc8DfvNkZPo_74X06ucqZkA4d0EEuf_4qsCRCeKqlRAE0xkcrmQdFCwGrlKflVkHjY8qcv12lJeh7Bt01lOF3CTF46fXbQYQTuxmpsAG48KgEU6l6fyIYGnaAXHvESoZfMugf0sSJTge/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+061.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5cc8DfvNkZPo_74X06ucqZkA4d0EEuf_4qsCRCeKqlRAE0xkcrmQdFCwGrlKflVkHjY8qcv12lJeh7Bt01lOF3CTF46fXbQYQTuxmpsAG48KgEU6l6fyIYGnaAXHvESoZfMugf0sSJTge/s400/Harrisburg+3+061.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212342513423415842" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZm794qxo5t4ueYKbNCH7OZ6zo6AJfm9we8KhM7_n8GdBsS2w5iCzU7qabbLQRJgRcTMmfSXsDAizJwJpiH4clGQ6LLXHK0eNyRQebQ544fo-jkmk9R85GaWjkyuWhGz46QlkqZBjfTsR3/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+036.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZm794qxo5t4ueYKbNCH7OZ6zo6AJfm9we8KhM7_n8GdBsS2w5iCzU7qabbLQRJgRcTMmfSXsDAizJwJpiH4clGQ6LLXHK0eNyRQebQ544fo-jkmk9R85GaWjkyuWhGz46QlkqZBjfTsR3/s400/Harrisburg+3+036.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212342959476208946" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Q1VpD2RqvCrMtLi1ZAJGJeGr1AUXE3KV5vID3QFC_twVi8IqBMILpAVwOpaGyU2a9oj00B8OUO5DOlwrJymQKxGhJCblEja741-Xgqyhzfn46TQk3rk1Y70LsPacWDOy0ZhvnZzp8Ose/s1600-h/Harrisburg+3+033.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Q1VpD2RqvCrMtLi1ZAJGJeGr1AUXE3KV5vID3QFC_twVi8IqBMILpAVwOpaGyU2a9oj00B8OUO5DOlwrJymQKxGhJCblEja741-Xgqyhzfn46TQk3rk1Y70LsPacWDOy0ZhvnZzp8Ose/s400/Harrisburg+3+033.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5212343386075709954" /></a>David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-49377728809002549172008-06-03T20:28:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:18.242-08:00Ahh, Here We Go!My effort at getting some pictures posted through the weekend failed as I was not sure where our camera was!!!!! Now, I knew that having a toddler at home would shake things up a bit, I just didn't realize how much I would misplace and forget things! Oh my! It also turned out that Dave had hid the camera out of sight so that Jonatan would not find it...well, Mama couldn't find it either! LOL!<br /><br />Our house is obviously not the same since our return from Colombia! Let's see...I will start with the animals...I think that out of 4 cats, I have only seen two consistently in this whole past week. Jonatan has taken to trying to lay on poor Bud! He hasn't quite grasped the idea of petting the kitty...and simply using his hand to do so...it is definitely a full body contact sport. The funny thing is that Bud always comes back for more! Outside of referreeing the cat and Jonatan, I have found that while it took Jonatan a bit to warm up to Fawn, our canine daughter...she is no longer a foe for him. He will often seek her out for a loving headlock...hmmm, we need to work on that one too. And again, Fawn always comes back for more as well!<br /><br />Over the weekend, my (Sheila) parents came out for a visit. Unfortunately Dave had to work. So sad, as he missed out on a nice weekend together! We love you, though, Papa! Anyway, we went to a local wildlife sanctuary of sorts...it is called Lake Tobias...if you are in the Central PA area, it is so worth your time to stop! The highlight for Jonatan was a petting zoo where he got to pet free-roaming goats and llamas as well as a miniature pony and camel! we additionally walked around the area to see the caged animals and then took a safari to see over 500 other animals out on a range. It was pretty incredible...and utterly amazing to see how little fear these animals had of the vehicles...to see Elk, deer, cattle, and ostrich just coming right up to the vehicle we were sitting in was pretty awesome! The fun part is that the vehicles they use for their safaris are old buses that have had their tops removed so you are completely exposed to the animals. Jonatan just loved it, and I am sure my parents did as well.<br /><br />Sunday was our first day back to church. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces! We had originally decided that we would send Jonatan to the nursery and have one of us join him there, so Dave had the honor since he got so little time with him during the rest of the weekend. All told, he did very well and had a lot of fun with everyone...even enjoyed his high fives and knuckles he must have done with everyone he passed!<br /><br />As for the nitty gritty...I would say that we are all still working to find balance and routine. Dave and I put in an order for safety rails for our bed as we are still doing the 'family bed' with Jonatan but found that our bed is a bit too high to trust that he will not roll out during his naps...we do block the sides, but have found that our little guy still travels quite a bit. <br /><br />I am sure other adoptive blog-stalking parents will agree to this one...it is an enormous change to go from having all your meals, laundry, and daily cleaning taken care of to doing it all yourself! I now realize how much time I wasted before having Jonatan! Wow, I am a bit administrative at heart, and this sure has challenged those gifts in me...I am constantly restrategizing in my head on what to do, when to do it, and how to do it...I used to work with children full time and remember my days of working to make the mundane fun and playful and have found those ideas rekindled in parenting Jonatan. <br /><br />I must send a giant thank you to Amy for taking such great care of our animals and home while we were gone! Also a great big thankyou to she and Jess for filling our cupboards and refrigerator with food; not having to worry about shopping was such a huge help! We had a handful of other friends and family drop off either food or clothes, toys, etc. to welcome us home, and for this, as well, we are greatful!<br /><br />So, here are the pictures you all have been waiting so patiently for!<br /><br />Better late than never on some of these...this is a pic of all the families that were staying with us in Bogota<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKm_Ls2wp1ucW-FC0C5vTo26aS82yn6TYlwcUL3tqtwxw1986d0I9CkAMW2Nl7CIMOvoME-LC29_F_FXB7fSyrLVtYYSQcNzomPxIuYIypO0l5LDEpxXQ169tPsxxs-qXP77uW4Oy9wHid/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKm_Ls2wp1ucW-FC0C5vTo26aS82yn6TYlwcUL3tqtwxw1986d0I9CkAMW2Nl7CIMOvoME-LC29_F_FXB7fSyrLVtYYSQcNzomPxIuYIypO0l5LDEpxXQ169tPsxxs-qXP77uW4Oy9wHid/s400/Harrisburg+2+001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208071738384727538" /></a><br /><br />This is one side of the exterior of Zuetana for anyone who will be traveling soon and wondering what this one looked like<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix34xjCw-KjbrtWS6BX9QrJThk8vM7OfXVeO3HDP84KjpHMe9YB-2XDdtMCng3WUQKqHx_vQQQwDT6YmmhQ2OWcFYikCF1yFA4zm9eMZflSo15lvLhDaphSx5xeI43BCmZ8O-3MLX71Y4q/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+010.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix34xjCw-KjbrtWS6BX9QrJThk8vM7OfXVeO3HDP84KjpHMe9YB-2XDdtMCng3WUQKqHx_vQQQwDT6YmmhQ2OWcFYikCF1yFA4zm9eMZflSo15lvLhDaphSx5xeI43BCmZ8O-3MLX71Y4q/s400/Harrisburg+2+010.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208072363677308050" /></a><br /><br />Ok, Dave really doesn't have a complex about the color pink, but I thought that this was a funny and cute picture of Jonatan with the car he loved to play with...Dave had just finished joking about how he would never want his son seen with a pink car when I took this picture...sorry, Papa! LOL!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0pUWWOe9C9LDhAEcbevLHYf3wFU-VkBmzOVwpkMcm2aZwXkJJ5ijaeEYS89K3S0fMB6S_1_6P_thKGEeOqgnWABAge5FNicIM2Ikk_kwu5bnvSoZAIVqWyB9eKNosA4m2oDp3JKtVtdq/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+007.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH0pUWWOe9C9LDhAEcbevLHYf3wFU-VkBmzOVwpkMcm2aZwXkJJ5ijaeEYS89K3S0fMB6S_1_6P_thKGEeOqgnWABAge5FNicIM2Ikk_kwu5bnvSoZAIVqWyB9eKNosA4m2oDp3JKtVtdq/s400/Harrisburg+2+007.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208072898708133538" /></a><br /><br />More exterior shots of Zuetana:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxRsdXy2ATtGqshcaEaaxq7o37-R_jgYPDXLeWzIVDshfTcwkoIyl7ntXUgm3zuyNBzUmvnk1apW8kLXc33ctZX3eF83Ykd2JubFHGWmhoy4Vt1UICedulJmhLH_RImype1E-p87wy2QK/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+013.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSxRsdXy2ATtGqshcaEaaxq7o37-R_jgYPDXLeWzIVDshfTcwkoIyl7ntXUgm3zuyNBzUmvnk1apW8kLXc33ctZX3eF83Ykd2JubFHGWmhoy4Vt1UICedulJmhLH_RImype1E-p87wy2QK/s400/Harrisburg+2+013.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208073599956451122" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkc_iIDRP7U81vp-eUZmRt69WrER9g2LvAAdtfgustZaHMwX_Hhnq_SnwFKs9uvUvvT5fDhDyD-VqVawD-omZuO6MQu_mIZdcLtbTVKkmYfA91WunLRoBDrRhnPekuKwNqU28xVPwzGwoR/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+016.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkc_iIDRP7U81vp-eUZmRt69WrER9g2LvAAdtfgustZaHMwX_Hhnq_SnwFKs9uvUvvT5fDhDyD-VqVawD-omZuO6MQu_mIZdcLtbTVKkmYfA91WunLRoBDrRhnPekuKwNqU28xVPwzGwoR/s400/Harrisburg+2+016.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208074022424994402" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkIlx9WITCJ3m7t2rgjzIlpC7IWAr8rYkofUOhbUpZ_JHYiit0XKZFLyKSlIF38mxeh5MbfiY9dX8-nbE2eqqcPJ0DOJhBw1T16lAVyPx4Ak3XLfBejWlL4x5t6xIyQIpSzzuSPpxYFKF/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+019.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMkIlx9WITCJ3m7t2rgjzIlpC7IWAr8rYkofUOhbUpZ_JHYiit0XKZFLyKSlIF38mxeh5MbfiY9dX8-nbE2eqqcPJ0DOJhBw1T16lAVyPx4Ak3XLfBejWlL4x5t6xIyQIpSzzuSPpxYFKF/s400/Harrisburg+2+019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208074430500194338" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZEWZDzHHAOgD50_HsL5xT9s8vaVGSoMvd_BChVvzKaSb4gBtjCeQpGY4XHUD3hd6q7TUV9wyamuqs8xwI9ZTpMJ0X7LgY0pPuywFFZoZhcEdDuM_l3yb-nCAe9e0f45OvIZdXM2Fgb4J/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+020.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVZEWZDzHHAOgD50_HsL5xT9s8vaVGSoMvd_BChVvzKaSb4gBtjCeQpGY4XHUD3hd6q7TUV9wyamuqs8xwI9ZTpMJ0X7LgY0pPuywFFZoZhcEdDuM_l3yb-nCAe9e0f45OvIZdXM2Fgb4J/s400/Harrisburg+2+020.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208074820943716194" /></a><br /><br />Icecream with the Jensens on the Friday before our return home! How fun & we so miss you guys!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwjb1PWKmM5MRnTFrDLyR4_GOJ1yLUTHY0bqGYbHDT2phlz-VCb-kIECzCTifRZZvoSxNtWVfH7GDzKh9vWZ-WpHZGjinvzgKeNGpUXCPsviAjf4YWAnkS4wGTJHMyHlsLF-J-kH7cz5If/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+045.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwjb1PWKmM5MRnTFrDLyR4_GOJ1yLUTHY0bqGYbHDT2phlz-VCb-kIECzCTifRZZvoSxNtWVfH7GDzKh9vWZ-WpHZGjinvzgKeNGpUXCPsviAjf4YWAnkS4wGTJHMyHlsLF-J-kH7cz5If/s400/Harrisburg+2+045.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208075814361131714" /></a><br /><br />A fun pic of Jonatan getting his haircut in Colombia...the poor woman that was cutting his hair did a phenomenal job with a squirming toddler. She got away with only cutting herself once!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4y49tHx7YhDJuLcrE-m8QJssZz-cH-yW9-cNybNOvhtAE-nf612lQJmRgsxPBgmCPFj0gnPjdT87e_TR2WilDOsRAP2joTlhdK_5ToF9TSn5fz41UhySi59Cz3NvPmnYMTP0aux1DfqYL/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+038.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4y49tHx7YhDJuLcrE-m8QJssZz-cH-yW9-cNybNOvhtAE-nf612lQJmRgsxPBgmCPFj0gnPjdT87e_TR2WilDOsRAP2joTlhdK_5ToF9TSn5fz41UhySi59Cz3NvPmnYMTP0aux1DfqYL/s400/Harrisburg+2+038.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208075171560280738" /></a><br /><br />Here is Jonatan watching the airplanes in Bogota! He was pretty excited to be flying again!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0bjTio6DjCN5OB88IysV019yas9r5MOSqNTEWhz6ylCUJa6CNx6joYO6gWOrqIDJ5QPzyocFZcOeQo5142IqfMbiSoRkW9zyeeyDpyRrrwsXB_-mjBCwcWyUiQkwvxCbzSnQjPrAck-F/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+051.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje0bjTio6DjCN5OB88IysV019yas9r5MOSqNTEWhz6ylCUJa6CNx6joYO6gWOrqIDJ5QPzyocFZcOeQo5142IqfMbiSoRkW9zyeeyDpyRrrwsXB_-mjBCwcWyUiQkwvxCbzSnQjPrAck-F/s400/Harrisburg+2+051.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208076572211056642" /></a><br /><br />This is one of cousin Taylor and Jonatan the morning after our arrival:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9W36kIXoCRuo1PIISdOI5GhpCxJoY2dXkb6nAbTzexPtTulSD-TUGzhiE6Utu8kgGDEKw5HO-JFWnW4AxOx2IZ-O9hqiBcmEsQR2Q0tvQweW6bM4mQJxpn9SIk1CuiI3TE24mysaWwdt/s1600-h/Harrisburg+June+2008+007.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9W36kIXoCRuo1PIISdOI5GhpCxJoY2dXkb6nAbTzexPtTulSD-TUGzhiE6Utu8kgGDEKw5HO-JFWnW4AxOx2IZ-O9hqiBcmEsQR2Q0tvQweW6bM4mQJxpn9SIk1CuiI3TE24mysaWwdt/s400/Harrisburg+June+2008+007.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207871014823210402" /></a><br /><br />Hmmmm? I wasn't around for this photo op...I think that Dave is starting driving lessons early with his son. Maybe a tricycle will be in order in the very near future!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbHJoH_fxjum7lt84IoXHCRbsAbflFuCcSNYirrbAdVevOYbjot3HcTAkI4Z-bLBV6wlJrKw3_3mBH9unbFWZwBuZ9iA-RPwG_Mqlr7PZB5XmNGNqcXIULvO7FaYh6cpxQXw8o_wnrULt/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+072.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbHJoH_fxjum7lt84IoXHCRbsAbflFuCcSNYirrbAdVevOYbjot3HcTAkI4Z-bLBV6wlJrKw3_3mBH9unbFWZwBuZ9iA-RPwG_Mqlr7PZB5XmNGNqcXIULvO7FaYh6cpxQXw8o_wnrULt/s400/Harrisburg+2+072.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208077548491362482" /></a><br /><br />Ok, here is one of our eating adventures at home! Oh my...it depends on the food, but Jonatan can really get into it!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHaLMUFQpc3BCKqKCAcYS6Cr-5JPeO3PCH6nqKihOTix0EiBadfzbUUr4oYlnIhMSksqwlGzJaqH3zKGqFaO-J3uiSEGN5xRB3KDPvOSDh5SPQCX7pvG0qqHrt_WkGzPXV0Edtebx7M4Qm/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+081.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHaLMUFQpc3BCKqKCAcYS6Cr-5JPeO3PCH6nqKihOTix0EiBadfzbUUr4oYlnIhMSksqwlGzJaqH3zKGqFaO-J3uiSEGN5xRB3KDPvOSDh5SPQCX7pvG0qqHrt_WkGzPXV0Edtebx7M4Qm/s400/Harrisburg+2+081.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208078363269250642" /></a><br /><br />While this is not the most flattering picture of Jonatan, this is the only picture we snapped of he and Dave's Mom on our brief visit to their house one day last week...we will have to get more of them together...as well as Grandpap!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimslrYSXtqd3cwp2-_Fr08ByF4ulfAVh8wFSb7t2GMYkOHOVNGlUjxr_lsYAobwXLKEj5vfG4UtjpGT4y8BcMwBzYjagKIqVKNjTPCYyLmCn1tm2ZUzPjBVmEADN9YOQeoWNTnzM1CcLNw/s1600-h/Harrisburg+2+087.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimslrYSXtqd3cwp2-_Fr08ByF4ulfAVh8wFSb7t2GMYkOHOVNGlUjxr_lsYAobwXLKEj5vfG4UtjpGT4y8BcMwBzYjagKIqVKNjTPCYyLmCn1tm2ZUzPjBVmEADN9YOQeoWNTnzM1CcLNw/s400/Harrisburg+2+087.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208078917248929474" /></a><br /><br />Jonatan met his match in goofiness! He loves immitating my Dad!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YEjzyney7IycEI6zg_XuOc7_V6XrJuI8otk6V0ZaR3RyTN79eiOOy_EU4QuSeu9HcLG3_okaO2jF926H_IPeMoWJNvw2luth70ZXddO91rT77KFpEpjiwAIweGWBQFP4AebTWUgKhAFK/s1600-h/Harrisburg+June+2008+017.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6YEjzyney7IycEI6zg_XuOc7_V6XrJuI8otk6V0ZaR3RyTN79eiOOy_EU4QuSeu9HcLG3_okaO2jF926H_IPeMoWJNvw2luth70ZXddO91rT77KFpEpjiwAIweGWBQFP4AebTWUgKhAFK/s400/Harrisburg+June+2008+017.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208081026779667906" /></a><br /><br />Meeting his goat buddies at the petting zoo!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11pYW2WfN8MoHChF6Jl7SFOVyaNQASmIEavwEx24t4vEbUy2rFWvtzkk_f8neph49yAFcMVihk-PgZJ5OKTXw3-_L9cSAZdhrEhgYI7EF2HRVJ7q9-LUKr9djZ0eNDvTj11R_l0lyo0xa/s1600-h/Harrisburg+June+2008+079.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj11pYW2WfN8MoHChF6Jl7SFOVyaNQASmIEavwEx24t4vEbUy2rFWvtzkk_f8neph49yAFcMVihk-PgZJ5OKTXw3-_L9cSAZdhrEhgYI7EF2HRVJ7q9-LUKr9djZ0eNDvTj11R_l0lyo0xa/s400/Harrisburg+June+2008+079.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208084077913104162" /></a><br /><br />And, last but not least, another moment where food is a little messy, although Mama is to blame for this one as she was not supervising the yogurt bottle very well! Oops!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoD-1L9u9TpsGsP1u2RUhodNbgsOCbHo9-eFOG_IUZwUPYifaOl4y9WXKcpXz1eQC1yLjOsl22XV1bOgWXoOqdezkpeIdwh92gxwdA29kzohdznssLcRg2QMGE3UhQ9jMdlrdOhtojQu7e/s1600-h/Harrisburg+June+2008+134.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoD-1L9u9TpsGsP1u2RUhodNbgsOCbHo9-eFOG_IUZwUPYifaOl4y9WXKcpXz1eQC1yLjOsl22XV1bOgWXoOqdezkpeIdwh92gxwdA29kzohdznssLcRg2QMGE3UhQ9jMdlrdOhtojQu7e/s400/Harrisburg+June+2008+134.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208087127990338898" /></a>David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-59037880948181212192008-05-29T21:29:00.001-07:002008-05-29T22:10:53.465-07:00Where does the time go!Wow! I can hardly believe that it has been almost a week since we arrived home! Several friends and family have written or stopped by and asked the very same question..."So, how has your life changed?" Oh my, is that a loaded question! For those of you who have adopted or biological children, I am sure that you can provide a litany of examples for this question. Well, the same is true for us.<br /><br />Our flight back to Harrisburg was on the scheduled flights our travel agency had provided. It was relatively uneventful with the exception of a rather toddler moment somewhere between, say, the Atlantic Ocean and Georgia. In short, Jonatan decided to let everyone know that he was ready for some more food and tried his little lungs out in a very quiet plane! Oh my word! I can't tell you what that was like! All I have to say is that both Dave and I wished to be in a much louder place...say Walmart, Wall Street, or Disney World...not an airplane in confined quiet space with who knows how many passengers! At one point, Dave leaned over and says "Sheila!"...to which, I turn and say, "Dave, do you actually think that I am doing this!"...we laugh about it now, but definitely found ourselves at the mercy of a 20 month old for what seemed like eternity! LOL! Really, his fussing didn't happen for long, but ironically, happened to be the biggest explosion that he had had with us up to that point...we later chalked it up to much change, hunger, and being very tired. <br /><br />We had a wonderful 2 hour connection in Atlanta...in fact, made it through immigration and re-checking baggage in under an hour...which gave us time to hunt down some dinner before we were to board our plane bound for Harrisburg. In Harrisburg we were met by friends and family, which was such a welcomed event! My niece and nephew had arrived from the Pittsburgh area which helped to make Jonatan at ease with everyone! He quickly warmed up to his older cousin, Taylor, who just so happens to be an amazing big sister to her brother who is only a couple months younger than Jonatan. (BIG SMILE for Taylor!)<br /><br />This week has been all about getting settled in and cleaning up from our arrival...I laugh as I write this, because I have said that I would finish unpacking and organizing by Friday and we are still officially unpacked...Dave has declared that the four outfits he took to Colombia can remain in the suitcases for a while longer as he would like to give the rest of his clothes a spin for a while...I must say that I am feeling the same way with that one! (LOL) Our friends, Jess and Amy, were wonderful in stocking our fridge and cupboards with groceries for arrival...and, not just for the humans of our household, but also our 5 faithful companions...4 cats and a dog! What a blessing to not have to go out for a while!<br /><br />In addition, we arrived to a banner our church had made and plastered to the front of our house! It was such a giant and wonderful "Welcome Home" card! We have pictures and will post not just these, but some from this week and the final days of our time in Colombia, over this weekend. I am working from our home computer and the pictures are stored on our laptop, which, ironically, is also still unpacked and sitting in the dining room. So, stay tuned for more!<br /><br />Last weekend, my Mom and sister had traveled in to welcome us home, and today, we traveled to Dave's parents in Williamsport, PA, and what a blessing this was. Dave's father is a fluent Spanish speaker from his days of working as a missionary in South America as well as here in the states with male Spanish speaking prisoners near their home. Jonatan lit up when he heard his Grandpa greet him in Spanish! In fact, it seemed that he couldn't get enough of him for most of the day...it was pretty cute! Jonatan equally enjoyed his Abuelita and her warm welcome. I should mention that usually Jonatan is pretty reserved in meeting people for the first time. He is not liberal with his kisses and hugs, so it was a huge surprise that when first meeting Dave's parents he very eagerly gave both hugs and kisses!<br /><br />As for the rest of the week, Dave went back to work on Monday while Jonatan and I have worked to play, begin the monumental task cleaning up, and just work at getting some kind of routine down for the both of us as I am off through July 20th and will only be returning to work on a part-time basis. Our week has been rather dull and calm, which I believe both of us have needed. We have enjoyed long walks...sometimes Jonatan enjoys helping Mama push his stroller and other times he is in it taking a nice nap as Mama enjoys a quiet walk on some of the green paths around town...a highlight for Jonatan is a 'frog pool' that Amy left as a small gift for him! Amy, he absolutely loves your gift! If we haven't mentioned up until now...he is a natural fish! I am sure that some sort of water sport or past time will be in his future!<br /><br />As for some other details of our week...we initially found that Jonatan was not fond of our dog, Fawn...this was not a suprise as his foster parents had mentioned this in information that we had received. Our first few days home were marked by a toddler ready to climb up our legs at the sight of Fawn, although we can now proudly report that they are like old buds...Jonatan is always finding a way to sneak Fawn some snacks from the table or from the cat food, while Fawn is always up for a good gentle romp with her new-found friend...as for the cats, that is a different story! Jonatn loved them from the beginning, yet the cats didn't feel the same way...while it is not a love-hate relationship...Jonatan's lack of fine motor skill control and high pitched voice send the cats running for the hills! They are so used to a quiet relatively calm environment, and Jonatan is anything but quiet and calm...he is a perpetual ball of energy, when awake, that is! I am sure that the cats' relationship with Jonatan will blossom in time, but for now they are keeping their distance. (Smile)<br /><br />We are very proud parents, to say the least! It is neat to see the daily changes taking place in Jonatan...from in-coming teeth, to vocabulary development, as well as his toddler investigative talent we have enjoyed the journey so far and look forward to what the future holds. As for posts, our intention is to continue to document our journey here...as well as, perhaps, my own personal reflections along the way. We are in the midst of deciding what to do with our blog title and will reveal that in the coming month (as days would not be realistic...ha!). Thank you for your patience and encouragement as we get adjusted as a family, and, for those of you who are in Colombia or elsewhere adopting...we continue to pray for you and follow along as you journey to become family! Much love and hugs from afar!David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-5609161054210028832008-05-24T04:03:00.000-07:002008-05-24T04:04:52.206-07:00Super Quick Check-InTo say that all is well! It is 6 a.m. Bogota time and we are getting ready to leave for the airport! So far as we can tell, our flight is on time and we will see everyone tonight at 7:30 after a connection through Atlanta!David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-91157660956946465712008-05-22T10:34:00.000-07:002008-05-22T11:01:22.200-07:00Time for a Haircut!So, since we didn't get a chance to blog last night, I figured that I would try and post a bit here while Dave and Jonatan take a nap!<br /><br />I will start by saying that last night we had a wonderful time with Lucia and Andres at a local restaurant. Jonatan had a hard time enjoying dinner...we are thinking that part of the problem was that he had just awoken from a much needed nap, although the nap was not at the time he is used to taking them since we were out picking up his visa and Colombian passport at the US Embassy during the afternoon. Secondly, the restaurant was busy and he seemed a bit overstimulated with everything. One of the waiters had come over and helped to get him in a high chair...well, Jonatan was having none of it. (Although, in his defense, he has only used a booster seat with us while at El Cortijo and is now sitting on one of our laps here at Zuetana.) There was a live musical group that played wonderful music. This seemed to grab Jonatan's attention as he loves to dance...Lucia wanted to take him up front to see the musicians up close, although he was insistent that it needed to be Papa or Mama.<br /><br />We enjoyed a nice dinner of baked potato, steak, salad, empanadas, fried banana or sweet plantain (not sure), and another side that I forget the name of (made of corn flour...I will have to ask Dave when he gets up). At the end of dinner, the waiter gave us some customary candy...and, in a bad turn of judgement, I gave one to Jonatan..thinking that it would be ok to give it to him if he simply sat on my lap so I could supervise him and make sure he didn't choke on it, rather than running around and increasing that likelihood...I proceeded to share with Lucia that hard candy and young children make me nervous as I had seen my niece (yes, that means you, Taylor) when she was younger choke on a piece of hard candy...and that happened to have been the first time I ever had to use the infant heimlich maneuver....well, wouldn't you know, Jonatan started to choke on that piece of candy just as I was sharing this! Ugh! Fortunately, a few whacks on the back caused him to cough it up, followed by a bit of shock and a few tears on his part, then all was fine...needless to say, I have decided that he will not have hard candy for another 20 or so years! It has been quite some time since I felt my heart almost leap out of my chest! It was a poor decision...one that will not be repeated any time soon. A disclaimer for new parents...choose the mini-tantrum, sad face, and curled pouty upper lip as opposed to trying to allow something that you know should be postponed for a later age.<br /><br />I am posting out in one of the sitting areas and do not have our camera with me, so we will have to wait on the pictures. The day has been a bit overcast here and, now, as I write this it is down-pouring! I haven't mentioned the rain in Bogota yet, but will say that it is pretty incredible! The other night I awoke to the rain...one moment it was raining cats and dogs (as we would say back home), the next moment there was nothing...I lay there in bed imagining God turning some grand storm faucet on and off. It was so strange as this continued for some time.<br /><br />And, lastly, I should mention that we thought it would be better to get Jonatan's hair cut here before we leave to return home. It has gotten fairly long...his little curls are getting a bit out of control and he is only so tolerant of Mama chasing him down with a brush or comb! LOL! So, this afternoon, we are going to take an adventure to one of the salons that specializes in cutting children's hair...hopefully we will get some fun pics to share with everyone.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-88296669861756890872008-05-20T19:01:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:19.255-08:00Flight HomeBefore I get to our flight...I have a fun Jonatan story to tell...or two! So, every night before Jonatan goes to bed, we have this routine we go through with him...bath, bottle, teeth, "Me Gusta Cuando" book, pray as family, besitos y abrazos, and then 'Good Night". He has become so accustomed to it, that he will often indicate to us what is next. Well, the other night, Dave was praying in Spanish when all the sudden, Jonatan takes his "titi" (a bottle he sleeps with) out of his mout and announces 'Ahmain'(I need to spell it that way because that is the way his "Amens" sound right now.) So, he doesn't just do this once, but proceeds to continue every couple seconds until Dave finishes! It was too cute and so very funny! I think we have a little charasmatic on our hands! LOL!<br /><br />And then, this morning at breakfast, we were going through yet another routine...this is where Papa and Mama point to things and name them in Spanish then English or play the game "Donde esta" while waiting for our food to be served. Well, it just so happened that the table cloth had apples all over it. I had pointed to one of the apples and said "manzana" and then "apple". Well, he looks at Dave and then I and says "apple"! Oh how funny...and once he realized how shocked and excited we were...he proceeded to point to the apples and repeatedly announce to everyone in the dining room "apple, apple, apple". It was hysterical!<br /><br />Ok, now, as for our flight home...we discovered two problems in booking a flight earlier than Saturday...if we leave Thursday, we can get as far as Atlanta, but would have a layover there until 8 p.m. Friday night and then come into Harrisburg rather late. The two problems are the long layover in Atlanta and the fact that Delta will not book an international-domestic flight unless it occurs (completely) within a 24 hour period. So, to sum things up...we will be home on Saturday. Here are the details of our flight arrangements:<br /><br />Saturday, May 24th<br /><br />Leave Bogota @ 9:30 a.m.<br />Arrive in Atlanta @ 3:31 p.m.<br /><br />**We have a 2 hour layover, which apparently is just enough time to get through immigration...so, you can pray that our flight arrives on-time, unloads in a timely manner, and that we have no problems getting our luggage, going through immigration, and then re-checking our luggage before needing to board our flight for Harrisburg.<br /><br />Leave Atlanta @ 5:29 p.m. on Delta 4239<br />Arrive in Harrisburg @ 7:23 p.m.<br /><br />At first, I must admit that I was a bit bummed about being here a few more days. It is not that I have been enjoying myself...knowing that we could possibly come home sooner because our process here is complete, led to anticipation of home, getting settled, and seeing family and friends. Ok, I don't usually get home-sick, but I think I had my first taste of it last night as we were trying to make flight arrangements. With that said, I am shifting my focus to relishing our last few days here...looking forward to taking Lucia, and possibly David and Andres, out to dinner as a family tomorrow night, and potentially getting together with the Jensens and their two new additions before we leave. As for some sight-seeing here in Bogota, we are going to sit down tomorrow and consider possibilities for Thursday and Friday...although outside of going back to the Embassy tomorrow afternoon, Dave and I are going to carve out some time tomorrow to spend individually with Jonatan to give each other a break. Dave has already declared that his time alone is going to be devoted to an extra nap! I think that Juan Valdez, a book, and I have a date! Have a great night and thank you so much for all of your emails and comments...they serve as an appreciated connection to home. Much Love, The Derrs<br /><br />Some outtakes from the last couple days:<br /><br />Jonatan was so completely tired after our trip with all the families on Sunday that he fell asleep in Dave's arms on our walk back to Zuetana...this is a footpath not too far from Zuetana...it is actually quite quaint and has a park on the other end of it:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiZEPXJfPT981hnpD8uthpQ8XRLZMZMigwGyhCPAUbQublaCInKrLwuFsJl2nh1fBI-WI6KJGqfjkhtemj1mwtV7nELCy52IeAXZw3-4wk9tdXl-hx3X6nNagDbFC1lkqo3MNMzAhA0G5/s1600-h/Colombia+12+011.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiZEPXJfPT981hnpD8uthpQ8XRLZMZMigwGyhCPAUbQublaCInKrLwuFsJl2nh1fBI-WI6KJGqfjkhtemj1mwtV7nELCy52IeAXZw3-4wk9tdXl-hx3X6nNagDbFC1lkqo3MNMzAhA0G5/s400/Colombia+12+011.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202648830325291298" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4g3GNfLZPZPaCE7UhukOdSI-j8Fibr6-PRZB2j4YV57C5nttBpo1beY_SRfiFnfOphiZxWltbix2peUyvzmPgK7GudfPxD1GOqFq7FBIkeQtcJ1I7BHL5M79-o7naFTzvmXiDiKLvnLr2/s1600-h/Colombia+12+014.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4g3GNfLZPZPaCE7UhukOdSI-j8Fibr6-PRZB2j4YV57C5nttBpo1beY_SRfiFnfOphiZxWltbix2peUyvzmPgK7GudfPxD1GOqFq7FBIkeQtcJ1I7BHL5M79-o7naFTzvmXiDiKLvnLr2/s400/Colombia+12+014.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202649569059666226" /></a><br /><br />Our crazy little Colombian! On Sunday, Jonatan met this woman at the bazarre/market that was selling little Colombian ball caps...he loved them...in fact, we brought a hat down for him, but he so dislikes wearing it...this one he willingly puts on and often will wear it backwards or off to the side! Pretty funny!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PNqb5y9Vd17A1t7-KMfm2z9LSG4ywyzfeanuq8c3T0oXQ4f91M8GXWyX0vpj_wbEfkd33NGyEMir7aUvof9OJj2rhLhjQYLhwYhtZJ6uz0njo_xsCP8lCx8tvmarxOdXbm0gzoA9ArXT/s1600-h/Colombia+12+015.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2PNqb5y9Vd17A1t7-KMfm2z9LSG4ywyzfeanuq8c3T0oXQ4f91M8GXWyX0vpj_wbEfkd33NGyEMir7aUvof9OJj2rhLhjQYLhwYhtZJ6uz0njo_xsCP8lCx8tvmarxOdXbm0gzoA9ArXT/s400/Colombia+12+015.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202649934131886402" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimk2YzoHLqEodcuRhgnRbeu9niAcRaeGUIM8ogNVaxzRdxdGPIOVEjIbab3kHtnF1D94GZyoGyvndxHlopDFm48VxnPZRhjH95KmRSspo7U9Fji8U2t3QcfZdw8UqPpzMx14-rQ_DUxSuG/s1600-h/Colombia+12+019.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimk2YzoHLqEodcuRhgnRbeu9niAcRaeGUIM8ogNVaxzRdxdGPIOVEjIbab3kHtnF1D94GZyoGyvndxHlopDFm48VxnPZRhjH95KmRSspo7U9Fji8U2t3QcfZdw8UqPpzMx14-rQ_DUxSuG/s400/Colombia+12+019.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202650496772602194" /></a><br /><br />In case you ever wondered, yes, Colombia has McDonalds! The menu is pretty much the same, ironically! We visited this one when we, Dave and I, first arrived to Bogota on our trip down, and then revisited it on Saturday when we got in at an odd hour and had some time to burn before stores opened and we could move into our room...the fun thing about lunch and dinner is that they have a side bar that you can visit to add Jalepeno, Salsa, and other fixins' to your burgers. The only other unique thing about McDonalds here is that they have a cafe in the front of the store, completely separate from the counter you would normally order your food from.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKccLOkBgs43BB3w3RoChwi8fmGtNHzCvZ14hB70oyfo_ynAJMw3qa_PHLzFElLpOrPoS1uoEVN6fq15sfoSwr21yidmwFkc_GwNidVjdYdNQhZj9ZVTjBW2EAdOy8ljV7P9NOmbaxhGV/s1600-h/Colombia+12+001.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCKccLOkBgs43BB3w3RoChwi8fmGtNHzCvZ14hB70oyfo_ynAJMw3qa_PHLzFElLpOrPoS1uoEVN6fq15sfoSwr21yidmwFkc_GwNidVjdYdNQhZj9ZVTjBW2EAdOy8ljV7P9NOmbaxhGV/s400/Colombia+12+001.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202651862572202338" /></a><br /><br />Jonatan is going through a stage right now in which he thinks that everything Mama is eating is actually his to eat. Consequently, each meal is always an adventure...in this pic, everytime I would try to sip some soda (or "pop", for family and friends in Eastern PA), Jonatan would try and press himself into my face and beat me to the sip. (Have no fear all of you hard core health nuts out there...he only had a few sips of soda! Scouts honor! LOL!)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqyNHFqPRmJVkyDl3gsg0YI2mCyW7NbaroHwZKqWo79vEhJyZJnlOQq3nkK-RXQ4IrjjiaOm1r7zL8bOdJJt8NfTVSIAnlSiA0A_eJHN4R8OpvSdE1suLKqaxcG-gFerEc2T5tQSw5sg6/s1600-h/Colombia+12+024.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaqyNHFqPRmJVkyDl3gsg0YI2mCyW7NbaroHwZKqWo79vEhJyZJnlOQq3nkK-RXQ4IrjjiaOm1r7zL8bOdJJt8NfTVSIAnlSiA0A_eJHN4R8OpvSdE1suLKqaxcG-gFerEc2T5tQSw5sg6/s400/Colombia+12+024.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202652408033048946" /></a>David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-10090582110845665582008-05-20T15:41:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:19.561-08:00Day ?: Bogota<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1fw4cyIrbD7pr3q9d4hhg-XH6-HGC8I1XjIHE-WDYucM3O__gOvaviWrfD8jSET8oiRxkt2MQkvsSsOW8PQdJXMk6XNkUgIjXZy0QEcM1MB9-StuM3bnPcTTSWT7mqNlSGSftuiFZ1dEN/s1600-h/Colombia+12+005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1fw4cyIrbD7pr3q9d4hhg-XH6-HGC8I1XjIHE-WDYucM3O__gOvaviWrfD8jSET8oiRxkt2MQkvsSsOW8PQdJXMk6XNkUgIjXZy0QEcM1MB9-StuM3bnPcTTSWT7mqNlSGSftuiFZ1dEN/s400/Colombia+12+005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202594391614814466" /></a>Sunday was a wonderful day here in Bogota. We enjoyed a day out with other adoptive families. Actually, as mentioned in our earlier post, we are not too far from El Refugio, where we first stayed when we arrived in Colombia. So, Dave, Jonatan, and I walked over and met four other families for some time out to a local market at an upscale hotel and then we were on to Archies, a really nice pizza place not to far from where we all are staying! It was such an enjoyable time! And, actually, we got to catch up with 2 CHI families that we were hoping to see...the Adelmans and the Jensons. Here is one picture from our time at Archies!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vdbL3Q6vTbyOMB2T_qYkletC6XABuM-uniS7ozv3gHIEjLmLpCmqlRtPCsCjHPmH3tficB7s0WVqywORrN_bj60P-3RYEfD3mv23OoGkbwHJjDBC1qSUnQihmETuXw_KpYRpClMSMsKT/s1600-h/Colombia+12+006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_vdbL3Q6vTbyOMB2T_qYkletC6XABuM-uniS7ozv3gHIEjLmLpCmqlRtPCsCjHPmH3tficB7s0WVqywORrN_bj60P-3RYEfD3mv23OoGkbwHJjDBC1qSUnQihmETuXw_KpYRpClMSMsKT/s400/Colombia+12+006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202595272083110162" /></a><br /><br />Yesterday, we went to this wonderful store, Maku, in the morning! We almost wished that we hadn't bought some of the things we had in Pereira (as Maku had it all and more). Oh well...the prices were comparable...we were just thinking more of the space in luggage that our little trinkets took up and the charge to fly it all (we had to pay an overweight fee of $48,600 pesos...about $27.34...to get everything up to Bogota). So, for all of you who will be traveling to Colombia for adoption and will be located in a town outside of Bogota for the majority of your time...have no fear if you miss out on the souvenir shopping...Maku is amazing (3 floors of amazing) and very close by El Refugio and Zuetana. Poor Jonatan had to endure 1 1/2 hours in Maku! He was a real trooper!<br /><br />Early yesterday evening we went and saw the US Embassy pediatrician. Turns out that he and Dave shared some fond memories of the Sincelejo area. It was fun hearing them swap stories and seeing the excitement they shared. As for Jonatan, he was fine until he had to strip down for his exam...he was having none of it! We are guessing that his previous pediatric visits have not been so exciting, so this is a good heads up for when we get home and begin some of our own visits to physicians with him. Overall, he is in good health...actually, the physician was amazed that he was only 20 months old as he seem so very "alert" and "developmentally advanced" for his age. It was reassuring to hear that all is well, although we haven't had any doubts.<br /><br />I am sorry that this is so long...I want to make sure I cover everything! Today we headed out to the US Embassy for Jonatan's visa application. We were told, as is customary, to expect up to a 4 hour wait. Well, we were in and out in under an hour! The only question that the US Embassy had for us was whether Jonatan had been in good health or not. Easy enough question! His visa was approved and we have an appointment for tomorrow at 3:30 to go back and pick up his passport and paperwork. Before I leave this subject, I have to tell you about the US Embassy here! It is like Fort Knox!!!!! Lines of Colombians begin at 6 a.m., apparently, for tourist visas. Lucia was telling us that over 40% of these visa requests get declined. Wow, some of these people spend all day in line to hear that their request is being denied...and there were literally hundreds of people in this large open room with windows on one side where you were called when it was your turn for an interview. I wish that we had pictures to show you but no cameras are allowed in the building.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-25975551380438355812008-05-20T09:53:00.000-07:002008-05-20T10:01:56.586-07:00All Is WellThis is just a quick post to say that all is well here. We had a busier couple of days and then discovered that we are having some troubles with our laptop...hence the lack of posting...one of us will try and stay up a little later this evening and use the Zuetana computer to post pics and give more detail on what we have been doing.<br /><br />In short, we went to the embassy physician yesterday and everything checked out fine with Jonatan. This morning we went to the US Embassy to apply for Jonatan´s visa-passport...and it was approved. We will return tomorrow to pick up his passport...and, then, surprisingly, everything will be finished! Yeah!!!!! <br /><br />So, here is the prayer request...actually, it isn´t a terribly big deal, but if you want to see us earlier than Saturday, pray that we can get the adoption fair tickets worked out...we called the International line for Delta last night and were put on hold 2 separate times for over 45 minutes each...and then only to be told that while there is room on flights coming out of Bogota Thursday and Friday, our adoption fair will not allow it because of the ´class´of tickets...hmmmmm...that is why we paid the higher rate in the first place through our travel agency...soooooooo, I (Sheila) am calling our travel agency in the US after I am done with this post to see why all the confusion...and to see if they can just take care of it for us. <br /><br />Until later, know that we are doing well...(when I opened my inbox today, I saw that we are starting to get "Are you OK messages!"). We are just having some electronic difficulties and a few busy, longer days...too much detail for me to share now...but will later. Much Love, The DerrsDavid and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-81967961825383752402008-05-17T10:54:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:20.137-08:00Ahhhh Bogota!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsGm52kv2E9xSqtytD4MSDnramBkSihYEYUxiYDDy_pyr3qKoKOA-wnp1ObSlV0L9jgESbm8N76ObkGXwkPGUw-BYN8LLYi5gCKndT-J-0miqZcZfF-ne3Vt13KC9rLddYQay0Skgo9Rr/s1600-h/Zuetana.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIsGm52kv2E9xSqtytD4MSDnramBkSihYEYUxiYDDy_pyr3qKoKOA-wnp1ObSlV0L9jgESbm8N76ObkGXwkPGUw-BYN8LLYi5gCKndT-J-0miqZcZfF-ne3Vt13KC9rLddYQay0Skgo9Rr/s400/Zuetana.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201459918953249010" /></a>We arrived in Bogota around 8:00 this morning! Actually, Dave and I got up around 5:00 a.m., got all of our stuff together, and then got Jonatan up and ready. Surprisingly, he was a great sport about the hour. Ok, he wasn't all fun and games, but he wasn't putting up a fight either. He even enjoyed the plane ride and fell asleep for a short bit of time.<br /><br />Zuetana is now our home away from home...you can check out their website at www.zuetana.com From their website: "Who we are: Zuetana means 'home' in the language of the Muiscas, aboriginal inhabitants of this region. The use of this name, Zuetana, reflects our wish to become ambassadors of our country." They actually 'specialize' in housing for adoptive families. In arriving we have already met two families from Germany, and understand that there are two other families here in addition to ourselves.<br /><br />There was a bit of a misunderstanding on when we would be arriving, so Zuetana was surprised when Andres dropped us off at their doorstep this morning. They were full and had a family leaving at 1 p.m. So we moved into their room once it is ready. In the meantime, we took a walk around the area and discovered that we are just blocks from where we previously stayed (at El Refugio) when we first arrived. Our walk was productive in helping Jonatan to get some rest as he fell asleep in Dave's arms.<br /><br />Today will be a rest day and tomorrow we plan to do some more walking around town and possibly go over to a market that happens each Sunday. We really haven't discussed much else beyond trying to get together with a couple of CHI families over at El Refugio.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-24793209133720036642008-05-16T20:50:00.000-07:002008-11-13T13:33:20.595-08:00Last Day in Pereira!The long awaited post is here! Tomorrow morning, at 7:15 a.m., we will be heading off to Bogota! It took a bit of waiting this afternoon to get Jonatan's Colombian passport, but it was well worth the wait!<br /><br />This evening, we packed, said goodbye to our interpreter, Mauricio, and his girlfriend, and went out to eat with Jose and his wife to celebrate. Mauricio had brought a bag of empanadas for Jonatan as a going away present! So sweet and thoughtful! Our dinner with Jose and his wife was at a quaint downtown arepa restaurant! It was pretty neat! They even had curb service, literally! Folks would drive up, ask for a menu, order, get their food and then they were on their way...the unique thing about this is that there was a sidewalk full of tables and pedestrians between the store and vehicles pulling up to order. Pretty cool!<br /><br />Another brief side note...while waiting for Jonatan's passport, we went over to one of the Plazas (Malls) and got Mimos (ice cream shoppe)...so, Dave forgot to tell me that the icecream that he and Mauricio were ordering was not vanilla...it was a Passion Fruit of sorts...well, I had ordered something like a blizzard with something like oreo cookies...needless to say, my first bite was a bit interesting...passion fruit y chocolate and creme cookie...hmmm...don't think I will do that combo again...it was interesting to try though.<br /><br />Anyway, here are a few pics from today...unfortunately, we have been so busy with getting things squared away here that we have not had much time to take that many pictures...we will be sure to take more in Bogota in the upcoming few days. I need to go to bed now as it is 11:30 p.m. in Colombia and we need to get up at 5 a.m.!!!!!<br /><br />Mauricio and his girlfriend on their last visit with Jonatan:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTVXOBzefefdsOI6kLLT6_eSrENZkGCbAaTPjokF1Tq_OS8rVe_cU4ey2Tn7-xSeST58OpYYjFST4964WzuQFYwfVyVabLrhhtJ4BjaavfcL7H7u7GHMHY9Ncv-zUKw4NlNI42tTUijCn/s1600-h/Colombia+11+003.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMTVXOBzefefdsOI6kLLT6_eSrENZkGCbAaTPjokF1Tq_OS8rVe_cU4ey2Tn7-xSeST58OpYYjFST4964WzuQFYwfVyVabLrhhtJ4BjaavfcL7H7u7GHMHY9Ncv-zUKw4NlNI42tTUijCn/s400/Colombia+11+003.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201194172146776210" /></a><br /><br />Our friends from Spain arrived back in town for their Sentencia...Juan was very happy to see Jonatan:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUPZYmxrXZpBZ1JEf3K-rIygAEeJSNSK81-7HpH3I16m2BTLfTa0NOJcfYQtWdwbDFfYD8_a2RTEpFyXQOWYiEGfWpgXKkYuj4P4VuBTxxppfUJvTGm5-BfmDLfz4YhLpZQcgUYv-kZ5s/s1600-h/Colombia+11+005.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioUPZYmxrXZpBZ1JEf3K-rIygAEeJSNSK81-7HpH3I16m2BTLfTa0NOJcfYQtWdwbDFfYD8_a2RTEpFyXQOWYiEGfWpgXKkYuj4P4VuBTxxppfUJvTGm5-BfmDLfz4YhLpZQcgUYv-kZ5s/s400/Colombia+11+005.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201196285270685858" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyN8da3PjKLfkb-SLHk0Xzp_K1eFN055zjZvsZeoyLnWhHlOrCGlcT2uaEYQAjOiSpZ6fwdx7b1j4pTu4Kti7D7g5sGdHL7LDzYFlbEXszhUlM4nHqIkVwzp4s9tKOkrtxkMgv5uBe1bFe/s1600-h/Colombia+11+006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyN8da3PjKLfkb-SLHk0Xzp_K1eFN055zjZvsZeoyLnWhHlOrCGlcT2uaEYQAjOiSpZ6fwdx7b1j4pTu4Kti7D7g5sGdHL7LDzYFlbEXszhUlM4nHqIkVwzp4s9tKOkrtxkMgv5uBe1bFe/s400/Colombia+11+006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201198797826554034" /></a><br /><br />Jose, Rosario's driver, and his wife:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCvLWmM82j0zeDp9lbpBR47L_xnZPpfhHHGAIgbge9jOw1-tYflqZ9O5SxMNxv_K2p7XsLrmttY0UGUcy6aXvIYFQBIfXFuz6z2PmznCyTR7miN_f3IFXbbY31_kGhprWytt2wUJJrCKE/s1600-h/Colombia+11+009.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMCvLWmM82j0zeDp9lbpBR47L_xnZPpfhHHGAIgbge9jOw1-tYflqZ9O5SxMNxv_K2p7XsLrmttY0UGUcy6aXvIYFQBIfXFuz6z2PmznCyTR7miN_f3IFXbbY31_kGhprWytt2wUJJrCKE/s400/Colombia+11+009.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5201199785669032130" /></a>David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3403564886657211100.post-36260273764849368792008-05-16T10:41:00.001-07:002008-05-16T10:45:58.046-07:00Just a Quick NoteThis morning went well as Jonatan's paperwork was corrected. The birth certificate turned out to be fine although our paperwork still needed to be re-presented to that office to document the change in the original application. There was some confusion surrounding this yesterday, and neither Dave or I had actually seen the birth certificate and name.<br /><br />Around 1:50 Colombia time...EST 2:50...we will join Mauricio for a, hopefully, final trip to the passport office. We will update everyone with details as soon as we get back and have news of what is next. <br /><br />Tonight we are joining Jose and his family for an evening out to dinner. This should be a lot of fun and great opportunity to get to know his family a little bit better. We plan to try and keep in touch with him as we have all grown close to one another in our short time here.David and Sheila Derrhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374423290226320676noreply@blogger.com1