Two months ... What could possibly happen in two months?

 

The month of November came and went ... quite quickly.  I don't remember much of it between the prep at home for Mr. T's arrival, the holidays, and a terrible Charger season. I do remember the amazing sense of relief that poured over me when I saw that all our hosting fees were paid due in large part to some very generous families members, friends, and co-workers.  I may have cried more than once.  Having the support of so many while embarking on this surreal and terrifying adventure means the world to us. 

Fast forward a couple of weeks - and Brad and I found ourselves at the San Diego airport, hanging around Terminal 2 with two other families waiting for their kiddos to arrive.  All three kids and their chaperone were on the same flight from Atlanta.  Each of us checking our phones for the latest information ... "five minutes early!" and "ten minutes late!" and "back to on time".  Our airport host, a volunteer coordinator with NHFC, stayed with us at the airport and waited anxiously with us to see the blue NFHC shirts coming down the escalators to the baggage claim area.  I saw Mr. T and started making my way quickly to him - only to be cut off by another waiting family.  It certainly didn't hamper my determination and I called out his name - he flashed me the biggest smile and came running in for a hug.  This kid - he has guts!  Nine years old and flying 24 hours across the globe to vacation with a family he has never met.  He worked on pronouncing our names and we worked on charades and Google Translate.  We made our way to the car - three very smiley faces - ready to face the two hour drive home.  Mr. T let us know he was hungry ... and thankfully In-N-Out was still open to accommodate us after midnight!  Mr. T nailed his cheeseburger and fries! 

Mr. T is great.  He is so easy going and out going.  He is happy to introduce himself to our friends and family, he willingly takes a bite of anything I put in front of him (and is not afraid to tell me he doesn't like something), and he has seemed to enjoy every outing we have ventured on.  He is all boy - a climbing, jumping, farting, fearless little man who rolls his eyes when I announce it is time to take a shower and fights with his temporary sisters like he has been here forever.  He is bold and smart and has fallen asleep with his head in my lap more than once.  Adding a third munchkin to the house has been a bit chaotic  - but also very awesome.  He has stretched our ability to love and serve.  It has been amazing.

The hosting season was so full for us - celebrating Christmas five times, Knott's Berry Farm twice, a day trip to Santa Barbara, the zoo, a couple kids museums, the beach (holy cow does this kid love the beach!), lots of pizza, lots of shopping, and lots of video games.  I usually don't mind a high paced crowded calendar - but I am tired.  And sad.  Just a few more times to tuck this guy in at night and we have to  say goodbye and the five of us all resume our "normal" life.  Whatever that is ...