10 days until we leave!!!!

In another 10 days, we will be leaving to go to Guatemala again! We are so excited to be going to visit Lili and to get to spend some more time in Guatemala. Moses and Max haven't been to see Lili since early March, so this will be a big visit for them. She's changing so much.... getting bigger physically, talking (actually more like squealing), eating solid food, playing with toys, trying to move herself around much more, sleeping the night through in the crib, and just generally interacting much more. She's developing a little girl personality, rather than just a new baby personality.

We talked to our foster family last night and were able to see Lili on the web camera. I was so excited to realize that, for the first time, Lili really seemed to recognize our voices! We would talk to her over the computer (just like if you're talking on a phone line), and she would be in front of the camera just looking around as if to say "Hey, where are you guys?" It was so cute and heartwarming. We've been making a lot of sacrifices and trying not to worry too much about where the money will come from to pay for all of the expenses related to the adoption and the travel. This was affirmation that we are making the right choice to spend the money and visit.... we obviously get so much out of it ourselves, but more importantly, Lili appears to be getting something out of it and recognizes us.

I talked to one of my bosses at work today and she very logically and reasonably discussed the benefits of us holding some sort of fundraiser for the adoption. She is a huge advocate of worthy causes, and she believes people would be willing to help financially to bring our precious little girl home to a wonderful home and family. Moses and I have discussed it briefly and think it's not a bad idea, especially considering how wonderfully supportive all of our family, friends and acquaintances are about this process. I've got to start thinking about our options and really get in gear with planning an gathering of some sort.... maybe a party with a lot of donated items to auction off, or a dinner with a band..... who knows, we'll have to start hitting up some of our talented and creative friends and family for help with this project!!!!! Stay posted for more news and be prepared.... we may be calling on each of you for your help!!!

One last note.... Lili had her 5-month birthday over the weekend (on 5/5). Her loving foster family took her and the other kids to a lake that's about 1.5 hours away for a celebration. They were able to take her horseback riding, for a ride in a cable car up into the mountains, and on a boat ride of the lake (among other things). They sent us some ADORABLE pictures where Lili just looks SO BIG.... so I thought I'd share! Enjoy!!!!