Today we celebrated Jekie's birthday. Mike and Andrea are good folks with the US embassy who have take a special interest in her.

They invited the whole gang of us down to their compound and arranged a day of activities, food and presents.

Jekie's mom, Phoebe, was there--and, while that wasn't without its necessary awkwardness, it was a very good day for her.

Of course, a first birthday party is more about the people who throw it than the celebrant herself--but she had a lot of fun with the cake.

The event was very caringly put together, and we will all remember it fondly.

For the older kids it meant invaluable exposure to activities they don't get in the home.

Camille will need some coaxing to enjoy the water as much as Deborah does.

Volunteers really fill out the tlc care try to give to the children while they wait for their Forever Families.

Just an outing to the park or a trip to the mall helps to prepare them for "normal" life in a family.

Speaking of which, Senon is ready for local matching now (on the 14th), and will very likely go on to inter-country adoption. We are praying for a very special family for him.