We are so excited to make plans and arrangements for Mr. T to come back for another hosting season. We are stockpiling leave time at work, we started buying him some clothes (I might have a problem), and we are really looking forward to taking him the beach at a more seasonally appropriate time ... though the "chill' of December couldn't keep him out of the water. The first full day Mr. T and I spent together - I took him to the beach. Within 15 minutes he was knee deep, and within 20 minutes his shirt was soaked. Throughout the entire time he was with us, he impressed me with his willingness to try anything we were doing and go anywhere with us. Except for vegetables. He wasn't always willing to try those. He was up for everything else, though.
To answer a few questions ...
1. Does this mean he is here to stay? No, it doesn't. Mr. T will just be spending his summer break with us and then he will return to his home country.
2. Why host him if he can't stay? Hosting programs provide a way for kids to experience life in a (mostly) normal family doing family like things like sharing meals, playing games, being loved and taking a break for what can be a stressful living situation. Kids who participate in hosting programs are more likely to have a stable adulthood. Also, Mr. T is awesome. He blessed us in ways he may never understand. Our family feels a bit more complete with him. It is a short term stay with life long implications. For Mr. T and for the four of us.
3. How can I help? Well, thank you for asking. We have a YouCaring page set up to accept tax deductible donations that go towards our hosting fees. The hosting fees include Mr. T's flight, paperwork, chaperones, meals while travelling, and transfers in his country. We have been saving and selling and saving and selling and we are so grateful for the support of our friends and family that give to help make this summer possible. You can donate here - https://www.youcaring.com/b1171b-524026.
I asked the girls how they would celebrate Mr. T's birthday if he was in California for it. Aubrey said we would celebrate by singing and making him a cake. And a pie. And giving him toys. Dylan agreed. And then both of them took off to go make him something. Brad and I made 120 cupcakes to share with our coworkers. This kid is definitely worth celebrating.
