Children's Welfare Institute

When we were planning our time in Shanghai there were a couple of activities at the top of our list.  One was visiting Eliana's orphanage.  Today we had the opportunity to do just that.  It was about an hour's drive from the hotel where we are staying.  It was a priceless but emotional experience.  We visited the room where Eliana lived.  We were given the opportunity to interact quite a bit with her former roommates.  We gave them lollipops and took pictures of them.  We talked to them and hugged them.  Keith was especially popular among one little group sitting at a table when he took pictures of them then showed them the pictures.  They all loved that!  One little boy had the cutest giggle and he just laughed and laughed as Keith showed him the pictures he had on the camera.  It was so sweet to be able to give these little ones a little bit of love today.  We know that some of them have families waiting to bring them home but you do have to wonder about the future of that precious little group.



Eliana's former bed.





When we walked in the door.


It was raining today so our other plans needed to be changed.  We spent the afternoon in the hotel.  Well, at least Eliana and I did.  Keith needed to go out to get us some lunch.  Then to pick up our laundry and get water. Then to get some supper.

Today is Casper's birthday and I have to admit that this Mommy's heart aches as I think about not being there to wake him up with a birthday kiss.  I cannot wait to have all five of my children under one roof!  Happy birthday, precious boy.  We love you more than words can express!