Progress...

Here are a few pictures to update you on Eli’s progress since returning home with us 7 weeks ago. As you can see, he is adjusting amazingly well! We couldn’t be more pleased with the way he has bonded with us and with his brother and sisters (and they with him!). He still becomes timid and a bit uneasy in new situations, but then again, who doesn’t?

Despite that, he eats and sleeps well, is learning English at lightening speed, sings “Dancing Queen” (complete with dance moves), participates in gymnastics class once a week, has snow skied (twice!), gone swimming, attended two birthday parties for friends, gone to his first Imax 3-D movie, started preschool and Sunday School, attended his first sleepover with his brother and friends (albeit, right next door) AND turned 4 years old! All in less than 2 months! He is amazing!

Eli Turns 4 (and Erin turns 29…again!)

Growing up, I had a tradition of celebrating my birthday with my Grandpa Ray (Edie Raye’s namesake). My grandpa passed away five years ago, but I fondly remember our celebrations together at Azteca fighting over who would get to wear the sombrero for our annual birthday picture together!

What could make my birthday better…how about now sharing it with my son! Yep. Eli and I have the same birthday!

I’ll never forget our initial referral conversation with our adoption coordinator as she explained to us what little information she had on “Eli”. She said, “He is three years old and does have a known birth date of February 22nd.” (Most children in Ethiopian adoption don’t have a “known” birth date.) Joel and I just looked at each other, tears in our eyes unable to speak. Finally, Joel, with a little laugh, managed to explain to her that that was also my birthday. Another sign. Yep. Eli was meant to be ours. I remember exactly what I was doing on 2/22/05, the day he was born. What a special gift.

We celebrated our birthdays with friends and family. We ordered Ethiopian food and dined on doro wat and injera and a car themed birthday cake, chosen by the birthday boy! It was a great celebration. Eli received wonderful gifts and had a great celebration. He sang, “Happy Birthday…” for about 10 days afterward. Now, every time he receives something new, he says, “Oh! Happy birthday!” I think he liked his birthday and I definitely enjoyed sharing the day with a loved one again. Grandpa Ray would like that too.

A shower for Eli

If I had a dime for each time I said the words, “It takes a village…” I would be one wealthy girl! My “village” of ladies surprised me (totally!) with a shower for Eli! What a GREAT surprise! We had a great time laughing and eating (and drinking) at Mazatlan, our favorite restaurant for ladies night out (or Sunday afternoon as was the case this time around).

Eli and I were spoiled and he will definitely be the best-dressed kid in the neighborhood this summer! OH MY! He got some really (I mean REALLY) cute stuff.

Mainly, it was a time to reconnect with friends and family, tell silly stories (I really did land in the stroller!), eat some good food and celebrate yet another “birth” to our family. I am so, so blessed to be surrounded by such good, quality people. Thank you to my ladies, (especially Hilary for hosting the shower and Sara for Eli’s first family vacation!) for making it a great day and for creating a story of Eli’s “baby” shower to tell him of someday. I love you guys!

Back to life

Welcome Home Eli!
A Perfect Homecoming!
Friday January 16th, 2009

Our family greeted us at the airport with colorful signs and balloons...Talk about a wonderful sight! I remember envisioning the moment we arrived home (longing for it at times) for months before we even left for Ethiopia. I just wanted us all to be together. And finally, after a really, really long plane ride, the dream became the reality. With tears of joy, we were greeted with hugs and familiar smiles. Much like the moments after the birth of a child, I'll never forget that moment. Thanks family (and Hilary!) for making that moment beautiful for all of us.


Family at the airport! Ben, Aunt Anne, Uncle Steve, Grammy Pammy, Uncle DJ, Auntie Sara, Grandma and Grandpa Markquart, Katie and Uncle Nathan. Zoe, Nate and Edie (in front). Hilary was the photographer! :)


Meet your sisters and brother, Eli!



Edie, chatting it up, with Eli!


Edie, making sure Eli knows everybody... Zoe, sizing him up!


Our first family picture!


Eli, flashing that smile...

Eli, once again, was a trooper! He slept about 80% of the flight home (with NO Benadryl!) and was calm and engaged for the other 20% of the time. Joel was thinking ahead and packed some balloons for the airport in DC to play with and burn off some energy. That proved to be a good thing. We found a good space in the airport (right near the newspaper stand telling of the plane in the Hudson...What was THAT!?!?) and Eli ran and jumped and giggled for about 45 minutes. People walking by smiled at his energy and a few people stopped to ask if we had just adopted him. They were surprised that he had only been with us for a few days. They commented that he seemed really bonded and happy. We agree. We were/are very surprised (and happy) with the way Eli was/is taking to us. He prefers to be carried, constantly wants to "go with" dad, and definitely has the word, "Mama" down perfectly. It was almost didn't seem possible that a week before we had never met.

Once at SeaTac, Eli took everything in. I can only imagine what he was thinking as we were hugging and crying in the middle of the airport! He met Nate, Edie and Zoe first. Nate was so excited to see his new brother, beaming his big semi-toothless grin! Edie, miss social, was introducing herself as her new sister in her normal "I'll take care of you" attitude. Zoe stood back and watched her older brother and sister with a little smile on her face. She finally looked at me and said, "He's cute." He made the rounds with the grandparents and aunt, uncles and cousins, giving an occasional smile that would be followed by a collective, "Awwwwww..." from the grown ups. It was the moment I had waited for and I remember trying to savor it, feel it, hear it, so that I would never forget it. I know, deep in my heart, I will always remember that as the moment we became a family.


So...the big question is, "How is Eli adjusting?" Well, this picture is a pretty good example! He is an amazing boy, so happy, so loving. He has learned (in the last 6 days he has been here) to love playing outside, especially swinging and riding the ride on toys. He is eating well and sleeping well. Each night the kids take turns laying with him until they both fall asleep. Sometime between us moving the kids back to their beds and us waking for the morning, Eli finds his way to our bed and snuggles in with us. It is a wonderful surprise to find him, sleeping soundly and calmly, in between us. He doesn't kick or sprawl like our other kids, so he manages not to be found until the morning! Nate, Edie and Zoe adore him and have each found special connections to him already. This was one of our biggest concerns, so we are beyond pleased that everyone is adjusting so well!

The one meltdown we encountered was our first morning getting everyone ready and off to school (Tuesday). Eli was getting dressed and started to whimper. During breakfast it turned into more of a cry. We were having trouble communicating with him to learn what was wrong. Finally, we figured out that he was unhappy with the flannel-lined cargo pants I had chosen for him that day (Darn. They are REALLY cute). Who would have thought? Apparently, our child has a preference for jeans. Once I pulled out the jeans, a huge smile pushed up the cheeks that still had traces of the wet tears. Go figure...

The sun was out on MLK day, which in our neighborhood means we're outside. Eli rode in the Barbie jeep for a couple hours, round and round the cal-du-sac, smiling and waving to us as he passed. I remember Joel and I waving and yelling, "HI ELI!" As he rounded the corner, Joel looked at me and pondered, "To think that a week ago he was in an orphanage in Africa..."

We know that we are providing a better life for Eli. He was an orphan in Ethiopia in every sense of the word. He literally had no one to raise him, to care for him, to love him. However, the blessing for us is Eli. Watching him with our other children, with our family, with our friends. He is making OUR life better. We are all better because of each other. And that is what a family is all about.

Welcome HOME Eli!

Thursday Afternoon

Another good day in Ethiopia! We began with breakfast the hotel restaurant, like we do every morning. After breakfast we went over to the Hilton hotel to confirm our flight reservations (YAY!). The Hilton was beautiful. Maybe too beautiful? It was constructed of stone columns and floors and lit with huge black iron lights hanging from the walls. The grounds were magnificent! The pools were gorgeous and the courtyards were lined with colorful flowers. It didn’t really feel like Ethiopia to us, but we could definitely appreciate why people stay there.

After the Hilton, we came back to the hotel where the artist was waiting with our paintings! I am so glad we decided to contact him. We first met him on the top of En Toto mountain and fell in love with his style. We purchased two paintings, one because we loved it (Tall Ladies) and the other because it reminded us good times celebrated here in Ethiopia (Coffee Ceremony). I know we will love looking at them for years to come.

Now, we have just finished a wonderful Italian (yes, Italian) lunch with our WACAP coordinator, his treat! He is such a wonderful man. The children adore him and all call him Papa. He has never been to Seattle before, so, of course, in true Markquart fashion, we encouraged him to come and stay with us someday. I hope he does.

As we were returning to the hotel for Eli’s nap and last minute packing, we got a twinge of sadness that this was our last day in Ethiopia. As I tried to soak in the images along the streets as we drove for the last time, it struck me hard…It is our last day, last day of nine days, that we are in Ethiopia. I looked at our son. It was also HIS last day here in Ethiopia. His last day in the only place his has ever known. I felt that lump in my throat grow bigger as he so unknowingly gazed sleepily out the window…

We will all miss Ethiopia. We will always speak fondly of our son’s birthplace and will forever share stories with him about our time here. He may not remember this part of his life, but we are so grateful that, here in Ethiopia, he was given life, raised through his toddler years, and then well cared for until we could come for him. We are grateful for his grandfather who made the heart-breaking sacrifice of giving Eli up for adoption. We will be forever connected to this wonderful country and we look forward to returning someday.

Thank you for sharing this journey with us. We look forward to creating many more memories with you, our family and friends and, of course, another Markquart!

Making a difference

While Erin and Eli took a rest, Ato Teklu and I traveled to the city to purchase "supplies." Two much needed lockers for the children and storage. Ato Teklu emphasized how important these lockers were for the children who will pass through WACAP house. After speaking with him a number of times, I have grown to learn that he (as the rest of the staff), is most concerned with the health and well being of the children - than say - teaching them english or making sure they have toys. Imagine feeding and caring for 28 mouths every single day. Luxuries go out the door. It is time for basic necessities. If Ato Teklu says lockers. He NEEDS lockers.

I know we have said it before, but it was amazing to visit WACAP house and see how clean, healthy and happy the children were. A testiment to Ato Teklu and his staff.

We arrived at the warehouse were we confirmed the price of the lockers. It seems like Ethiopians love to/need to argue. After 5 or so minutes of language I didn't understand (facial cues I did), the arguing stops and smiles and laughter return? A fun process to witness. If we argued like that in the U.S., we'd probably leave the store in bitter disgust. I love this culture!

We then traveled to a series of banks to try and get some cash. The store didn't take credit cards. Yikes. At one point we found an ATM machine that wasn't working. It was amusing to see a guard, Ato Teklu, two bystanders and myself - poking and prodding the machine to try and get it to work. Again, not something you would see in the U.S. I even gave it a kick for fun.

We finally had success at a different bank and was able to withdraw enough money. The largest denomination they have is $100 bir - roughly $10 dollars. I had to ask for a large envelope to carry the freshly counted stack of cash in. I felt like a rapper with wads of money in my hand (and a little bit nervous).

We left and headed back to the furniture store to purchase the lockers. After MUCH arguing with MANY people (over and hour (and you know how much I love shopping AND wasting time)), finally - success!

Ato Teklu wanted to make sure that it said "Donated by Joel Markquart" on the receipt. While this was true - not entirely. While we contributed, this was from Merkle and the many people at Grace and family and friends that made this happen (including and inspired Bobbie who was traveling with us (thank you Bobbie!)). When a small band of people get together - it blows me away how so much can be done!

As we chatted on the way home, Ato Teklu passionately said "thank you, thank you..." over and over again. He wanted to print up certificates of appreciation for us. I stopped him and said "no." It was US who needed to thank HIM. He cared for and BROUGHT us our son. Money comes and goes - but lives - especially these children's lives that he cares for and ultimately will bring to THEIR families, were so much more than any money we could ever donate.

He tells me how special WACAP house is and that it is the best in Ethiopia. How they know how to navigate the court system (I'm sure being a diplomat and on the supreme court helped), and most importantly how to take care of the children. When he speaks of the children - babies to teens - you can hear in his voice his passion. These are HIS children. They all call him "papa" for a reason. He loves them like his own.

He went on to explain how important ALL the donations were and how much they will affect the children. WACAP house is very new. They had nothing. He told me now, after this one trip - OUR one simple trip - they had what they needed (for NOW of course (remember the "basics")). We were lucky to bring over formula, medical supplies, clothes, underwear, toothbrushes, educational supplies, and on and on... I'm not sure how to explain this (tears in my eyes now), in a way easy to understand. It is beyond moving to know what we've been able to be a part of.

One simple story to try and explain... Remember the rising cost of formula? Remember how much formula we purchased from donations and brought over? WACAP house received a child whose weight was no more than 2.8 lbs. They brought her to the hospital, where they said she had no hope and there was nothing they could do. Just take her away. So, Ato Teklu did.

He gave her formula.

She gained 4 lbs.

He placed her with a family.She had been discarded. Written off. A simple act. A simple donation. Someone soon, much like us will have a beautiful child that they will love forever. A simple act of kindness - from really - strangers.

You meet certain people along your life that you know are special. Ato Teklu is one of those people. A saint. Erin and I have been blessed to get to know him. We have been so blessed to witness all of this. To be a part of this. It has changed our lives forever.

On the ride home, I ponder myself. Literally. What I have ON me. What I myself take for granted.

REI Watch: $65
Northface shoes: $100
Northface windbreaker: $90
Backpack: $55
Banana Republic t-shirt ($25), pants ($40) underwear ($20), socks ($5) and wallet ($30) and yes, I know I have a BR problem.

$430.

Literally, what I have on my back could do so much. I am humbled. Confused. There is so much more that I could do. Should do.

Earlier in the trip Ato Teklu told me that they would love to build a little playground on the compound for the children. A place for children to finally - or the first time - laugh with the pure joy that only PLAY can bring. If you know me - you know I get PLAY. Onto our next project!

Who knows what the future will bring for Erin and I. But, I think we have definitely found our passion.

Thank you all for your donations, prayers and support. I've said it before... there are no words for the gratitude we feel. This trip has and will continue to help many, many children. Thank you. Thank you.

As my dad would say... "TODAY, was the BEST DAY ever!"

Remembering Ethiopia

Obama, Obama, Obama! Ethiopians LOVE Obama. His image is everywhere: T.V., shirts, bumpers stickers, signs, etc! We are told that Ethiopians partied all night in the streets when he was elected and that they were following our election closely. Another big party is planned for Tuesday after he is sworn in as President. It is a powerful reminder of how the world watches the affairs of the US and how our leaders affect perceptions around the world.

Friendship is HUGE in Ethiopia. People here are very friendly and affectionate toward each other. It is not uncommon to see women (and men) walking down the street holding hands or arms around each other.

Driving in Ethiopia is an adventure in itself! It is a good thing we had a driver for the week we were here! There is no way we could have navigated the crowded roads (crowded with cars, people and goat herds!), numerous potholes, and major intersections with NO street lights or stop signs. It’s a free for all! I can’t tell you how many times I closed my eyes because I thought we were going to hit someone or something! We even drove up on a crowded sidewalk to get around some traffic. Did I mention that there are no seatbelts?

Mornings in Ethiopia begin by prayers announced over loud speakers throughout the city. As we open our blinds and look out of our fourth story window, the air is thick with smoke as people make outdoor fires to prepare their breakfasts. Even our hotel room is fill with the smell of wood burning.

The streets of Ethiopia are filled with people. Throughout the day the sidewalks are filled with people walking, talking, and begging. It is very common to see people just standing around chatting with each other. People on the streets range from those who are dressed in very Western clothing (upper class) to those in traditional garb (upper class and lower class).

Ethiopia is made up of compounds. All homes (tin shacks to stucco mansions) have “fences” around them which usually include a gate of some kind and tall walls made of tin, brick or stone. Many compounds have barbed wire or broken glass on top of the walls for added protection. The main streets are lined with tiny shops (no bigger than 10 x 10) selling spices, meat, clothes, shoes, fruits, etc. The allies are dirt roads that jet out from the main street and are home to numerous families in the city.

74 degrees. Everyday.

Injera (a flat spongy bread, like a pancake) is served at every meal and is used as the main “utensil.” Ethiopians eat with their hand (their right hand) and use the injera to scoop the meat, beans, and sauces like a fork or spoon. A small serving of meat, along with injera and sauces, can feed a group of people easily! It is very good.

There are guards everywhere. Our hotel has guards (inside and outside of the building), our adoption agency has a guard, even the mall had guards. We were “padded down” before entering the mall and when we checked in to our hotel. We have also noticed many police in the streets. That being said, we feel safe here and do not worry about our safety while out and about (especially since we have our driver and guide with us at all times).

Aljazeera TV has news that is very different than we are used to watching in the US. It provides a much more global and “raw” view of news in the world. On the few occasions I watched it, I was fascinated by the stories and coverage, especially about Gaza, Obama, Bush, and the world economy.

Ethiopian women are beautiful. We are both taken by the beauty of the women here. WOW! They are stunning.

Apparently they flush the sewers in our hotel, which means that at least once a day our bathroom is very, very stinky.

There is a holiday coming up in Ethiopia (TImkat, a celebration of the Epiphany) and therefore no one is working to help us get online to “chat” with our family. When people take time off here, what we think of as “basic systems,” break down.

Ethiopia sits at 8000 feet above sea level, which meant that for the first few days we were really dizzy and had a hard time climbing four flights of stairs to our hotel room. Our hearts would pound and we’d try to catch our breath once inside our room. It was really a weird feeling.

Ethiopian dance is amazing! The dancers move and contort their bodies in fast jerking movements of their shoulders while their heads keep totally still. It is one of those things you have to “see to believe!”

Taxis are either private small cars (more expensive) or a camper style on the bed of a small truck. The truck slows down to barely a stop and people hop in and out of the back. Usually other cars are driving on both sides of the taxis as they stop!

There are no lines in Ethiopia. If it weren’t for our guide and driver, I’d still be standing “in line” waiting my turn at the grocery mart. You have to be assertive (not impolite) when waiting your turn for something.

There is English everywhere. Most signs and public writing is in English. English is taught here beginning in grade 7 ( I think).

For Nate

Every good brother should know about Star Wars!

Wednesday

Another great day in Addis…It’s hard to believe that we are leaving tomorrow (it’s also hard to imagine being on a plane for two days with a three year old!). My feelings are divided. On the one hand, I cannot wait to get home and see our kids! I miss them so much. On the other hand, I know that we are not coming back to Ethiopia in the near future, so leaving is a bit sad. We have really enjoyed our time here in this foreign land. We have come to love the culture and especially it’s people. The people here in Ethiopia are truly wonderful.

For example, we were invited to a buffet lunch this afternoon by the owner of our hotel. We met her yesterday and learned that she will be in Seattle in two weeks. We arrived at noon and could immediately smell the delicious meal she had prepared for us: Injera, rolls, chicken wings, fish, salads, dora wat, three different kinds of sauces, Ethiopian wine and more. We felt like royalty. As we sat down to eat, we were joined by our coordinator from WACAP, as well as the hotel owner’s sister and brother. We learned that her sister owns an Ethiopian restaurant in Baltimore (close to Joel’s DC office) and her brother owns Dreamland, the wonderful resort we ate at on Sunday overlooking the lake! We were in fun company and enjoyed learning more about their histories and lives here in Ethiopia, as well as the US. As we chatted, Eli and his BFF ate their lunches (those kids can EAT!) and then chased each other around the room blowing up a balloon and then letting go, screaming as zig-zagged through the air. I am not exactly sure what the staff thinks of our parenting (is such behavior acceptable?) but our children are met with nothing but smiles and affectionate nods. You can tell that children and loved and valued here.

After lunch Joel went with the WACAP staff to purchase lockers for the children at the House. Right now they have no where to put their clothes, shoes and such, so this will provide each of them a “place” to keep their clothes. He will have to tell you more about this experience, but I understand that the gift of the lockers was very much appreciated. The lockers were purchased with the donations that came in from the children and families at Grace Lutheran, as well as from the grant Joel received from his work (Merkle). I wish everyone who contributed money and donations (formula, games, medical supplies, clothes, toothbrushes, etc) could be here to see the children they are helping. I know sometimes the phrase “make a difference in a child’s life” can be overused and somewhat mind-numbing, but we got to see firsthand how your generosity and thoughtfulness affected 28 children and improved their daily living. Not to mention the hundreds of more children that will follow in the coming months and years.

After Joel returned, we all went to the market again and to an art gallery. We went back to the same local market we visited earlier and they remembered us! ☺ We much prefer going to the local market, rather than the mall. Even though it is much more crowded and full of eager sellers, we like the atmosphere and the people in the shops. We didn’t buy a lot, but purchased a few things to take home to remember our trip. It is important to us that we have a few items especially for Eli from his birth country.

The art gallery that we visited was quite beautiful. Much fancier than the tin container up on En Toto mountain. I am really kicking myself that we didn’t purchase a painting the other day on the mountain. We tried to find another painting like the ones we saw, but with no luck. Luckily we were able to contact the artist we like so much and he is bringing some paintings to the hotel tomorrow for us to see. Hopefully we like what he brings! I’d love to have at least one painting from here at home to look at and to help me remember this experience (not that I’m going forget this!).

I wish that I could get everything that my eyes witnessed during this trip down into this blog. It has been an amazing experience. As we look forward to our last night sleeping on box springs and listening to the endless car traffic outside of our window, we have mixed emotions. The week has gone by quickly. We have experienced so much, but mainly the week as been about meeting and getting to know our son. I feel like we have transitioned well this week. Eli is a trooper. He has an infectious laugh that we enjoy hearing throughout the day. Now that we have met and spent some time together, my mind goes to thoughts of being home and how that transition will go. We have shown Eli pictures of his brother and sisters, but I am sure he doesn’t understand that he will have to share our attention in a couple of days. We are noticing that he is definitely developmentally younger than three. Some of his behaviors remind me of a young toddler, such as arching his back when he is unhappy and throwing things. Some of this I am sure is due to a lack of language communication as well. However, tonight he was counting (in English) to five! Also, I was singing the ABCs and paused at “K” and he chimed in with “L, M, N, O, P!” Joel and I cracked up laughing with surprise, which sent Eli into a fit of giggles!

Another good, no great, day in Ethiopia!

Tuesday

It has been another extremely full day in Ethiopia. It is almost 1 am and we're just getting to bed. The sounds of the bar across the street and the blaring of the car alarms will continue now for a few hours, the sounds drifting through our seemingly paper thin walls. We SO look forward to being home. At one point this morning, I joked with Erin about getting a Starbucks in one hand and a McDonalds cheeseburger in the other hand. I'm not sure if Eli did something moving or not, but when I turned to look at her, she had tears in her eyes.

We were able to sleep in a bit today with Eli getting up about 7:30. He now has down "MaMa" and is constantly seeking out Erin. Its amazing that she has been a mom for 7 years and still hearing "MaMa" for the first few times can be so very precious. Moving.

At breakfast we met the owner of the hotel, and older, stately woman dressed in red. She spoke to the children (as the entire staff at the hotel do now) in words we didn't understand - but the children did. It is fun to watch and guess what they are saying. She asked about our stay and after we found out she will be in SEATTLE in two weeks offered to buy us a lunch tomorrow. An Ethiopian buffet. We're not quite sure what to expect, but another fun experience - just because we spoke to someone!

We were picked up at the hotel and weaved our way through the city up to the ToTo Mountains (I really don't know the spelling). We wound our way through treacherous roads passing by women carrying sticks on their backs for cooking in their homes. It is illegal to cut down branches and trees, so these sticks must be found on the ground. The forests around the road are strangely picked over. We dodged the donkeys along the route as well. The hills surrounding the outlying areas of the city are breathtaking. A little like Eastern Washington farmlands. In the rainy season - the yellow dry grass will be replenished with green. I hope we can see this one day.

We arrived at the top and were greeted by an armed guard with a large gun. We payed our 5 bir and started on our little hike... guard in tow. We came to a lookout and could see all of Addis Ababa and beyond. Eucalyptus trees were all around us and gave off a beautiful fragrant smell in the crisp cool air of the forest. Very large strange birds rose from the trees with sounds I have never heard. I enjoyed talking with the guard and he let me pose with his gun (after he took out the bullets). After the hike, we went to an art gallery inside of a truck dumpster (?). We met the artist,who did amazing work. We regret not buying anything. We have his number and may call tomorrow. They can deliver to the city. Supposedly Beyonce and Oprah were at the top of this mountain not too long ago.

We worked our way down the curves of the mountain to go to the local market. Of course stopping at a coffee shop - their Starbucks if you will. As we left we were barraged by beggers. As we left, it was hard to see Eli watching them. He turns to me and says something in Ahmeric. I'm not sure what, but it felt like - "don't you see them? are you going to give them something to eat?" A profound moment. Eli looking at them from the other side of the glass. Who knows how close he was - or any of the 28 children I met a few days ago - to being standing there, tapping, tapping.

Our time at the market was cut short as we needed to get back for an appointment. Bartering still isn't for Erin or I. But we made the best of it and had fun shopping where the locals do.

A quick nap and we were back on the road. We were brought to a "mall" to shop some more. I think something was lost in the translation of what we were looking to do, as this was pretty much a "western" mall - prices and all. We bought one thing. Sunglasses for Eli. He was SO proud. Of course, much like our little Zoe, he plopped them on upside down on top of his head. I think he wants to be like his dad. :)

Back to the hotel for another quick nap and we were off to dinner with Ato Teklu and his wife. They brought us to an incredible restaurant - to hard to describe. Decorated from floor to ceiling in Ethiopian decor, this was definitely a special place to come. A four piece band with traditional instruments played a we arrived. Eli was fascinated. You could tell he really loved the drums. We sat in low carved chairs/stools around a basket that would normally hold all of our shared dinner. Eating together is definitely an event to socialize around. We were brought through a buffet loaded with Ethiopian food like you could not believe. I love the spicy food, but my body doesn't handle it well. I happily sat on my stool with sweat pouring from my head. At one point Erin even asked if I was OK. We found out the Ato Teklu's wife is a graphic designer and does ads for magazines and newspapers. Small world. We also sat next to a man from Nebraska (or somewhere like that). Very strange. In all the places to meet someone. During dinner, the band was joined by a lead singer and 6 VERY talented dancers. Photos don't do this place justice. Not sure video will as well - but I tried. The pulsating rhythms of the music made me want to jump to my feet and join them (luckily for Erin I held back). The dancers moved in a way that I have never before seen. A jerky up and down back and forth of the shoulders, neck and hips. They carried on for HOURS. It was almost painful to our own backs to watch them. Amazing food, amazing company, amazing music, amazing dance... an amazing night.The bar across the street just closed (I think). I swear they rivaled any Irish singing pub. These people can party.

Entertainment.

Dancing.

Nice Shades.

Coffee Shop.

Ethiopian terrain.


Havin' a good time.

Walking on the sticks.

Yep... still adorable.

Stop for a family photo.

Talk about a view.

I look cool.

Binoculars are cool!

P.S. A couple more things...

This is a life-changing experience we are on and I don't wish it away... but I miss my other three kids today so bad its almost too much. Nate's electric personality and fire in his eyes, Edie Raye's hugs and dramatic personality and little Zoe's Infectious laughter and heart-melting smile. We want to be home. ALL together.When Eli gets happy he smiles huge and sticks his tongue out just a bit between his teeth on the left side of his mouth. He's a little ham.The first night we had Eli with us. After we tucked him into his bed, I don't want to forget Erin saying (with tears in her eyes), "Can you believe it? THERE he is. Beautiful, little head peaking out of the covers... this is what we've been waiting for."

Eli's Top Ten

1. Balloons (playing soccer with them)
2. His Backpack (riding it around the hotel room)
3. Brushing his teeth
4. Washing his hands with (lots of!) soap
5. Going to the window and showing the people below his new things
6. Bread (He dips everything: soup, HOT sauce, juice, Coke, etc)
7. Laughing
8. Taking pictures with Dad’s camera
9. Flushing the toilet
10. Being carrying around by mom and dad!

Day #??? I lost count!

Day - ??? I lost count!Right now, I (Erin) am sitting on the couch in our suite, drinking an Ethiopian beer (Hey, when in Rome…) and smiling as I watch Joel and Eli play soccer with a balloon. What a soccer player Eli is! WOW, the kid has a leg! We have discovered that Dum Dum suckers and balloons are a MUST while traveling to adopt. Being somewhat “stuck” in our hotel room gets long with a three year old. Burning some energy while playing kick, punch, throw, head and slam the balloon goes a LONG way in passing the time!

We just returned from the US Embassy (an experience in itself) where we completed more paperwork and applied for Eli’s Visa to the US. All went well and we will pick up his Visa on Wednesday. The highlight of the Embassy trip (other than getting his court documents) was meeting a number of other families from the US with their adopted Ethiopian children! What a surprise! There were about 11 families and 10 of them are on our flight home! HAH! Those poor flight attendants!!!! What a relief to us, though. One family lives in Bothell and is on both of our flights. They adopted a five-year-old girl and have three biological children at home as well! Very cool. We exchanged names and emails and parted saying, “See you Thursday!” Should be a flight to remember!

We thought we were going to the market this morning, but that was a miscommunication. So, we spent some time playing in the room (we are not allowed to leave the hotel with the children). Eli, let’s just say, came out of his shell today. Whoa. He was a wild man! It could be that we are cooped up or that he is testing his boundaries (wouldn’t you with people who gave you a sucker every 5 minutes?) or a combination of both. He definitely has good energy and will fit in well at home. I think we’ll be signing him up for soccer as soon as possible! Luckily, he did nap for about an hour this afternoon!On the way home from the Embassy, our car was approached by people begging in the streets (as happens every time we leave the hotel). Eli was sitting near the window. He looked at the poor, old woman and then at Joel and then back at the woman. It was very sad. We wondered what he was thinking. As I sit hear listening to Eli SQUEAL with laughter and joy as Daddy hits the balloon to him, I am so happy that he is our son and that can enjoy a happy and healthy life full of love (and squeals of laughter).

Day #6 - An unexpected Surprise!

I (Joel) apologize this may be long. There are too many moments that I do not want to forget.Our day started out earlier than normal – 8:30am. Ato Teklu was picking us up WITH the children to go visit an Orthodox church before our trip to a lake quite some distance from the city. He arrived and our hearts jumped for joy at the sight of our son’s little head peaking out the window of the van, his big eyes and smile warming our hearts as he saw us.

We hop in the van, and head for the church. Eli sits to my left and Erin on my right (she doesn’t do well with “riding” in cars,let alone driving in Ethiopia). I slide Eli up on my knee. There is this invisible string that you can feel when holding a child. I feel an ever so slight of a tug away from me. He is happy to be sitting with me as he reassures me with his electric smile… but still not quite comfortable.We arrive at the church. Eli and his BFF stay inthe van with the driver. The driver (whose name I cannot spell), is also amazing with children, and all is good. Eli looks unsure as we leave. As we walk closer to the gates of the church we quickly feel out of place. Hundreds of men and women dressed in flowing, traditional white robes are here to worship. We don’t know what to expect. Maybe just stand outside the gates. That would be good. Ato Teklu motions usto follow as we enter the gates. All the worshipers seem to have a“place” in the massive courtyard. Some are stopped outside the gates, some inside the gates, some near the steps – it feels like they darenot go any further than where each of them are. We are QUICKLY met by two guards carrying sticks. Cameras must be put away. I doubt we will go much further. Ato Teklu (like we’ve witnessed many times before),with his hands behind his back, quietly speaks to the guards. We have no idea what he is saying, but the guards stern looks are replaced by cautious smiles – moods completely changed – and we are motioned farther. We enter the grounds and walk up the steps to the courtyard ofthis ornate church. A beautiful prayer rings over the loudspeakers.People are chanting, kissing the wall – a wonderful moment of worship we have not ever experienced. We take it all in. We dare not go anyfurther. Ato Teklu motions us to follow (my dad would really like this man). The stares of the locals grow more intense. A nervous feeling takes over my stomach. Out of respect, fear…? We walk along the walls of the church now. Ato Teklu is stopped by another stearn guard, whohas been following us. Erin is feeling very nervous. A few words and we are allowed to pass. This must be as far as we go… nope. Ato Teklu, not looking back enters the church. We follow feeling like we are breaking almost every rule imaginable, but curiosity overtakes us. We remove our shoes and walk inside the church and the smell of burning oil and incense wafts our senses. Young boys giving communion. Priests andclergy (?) in ornate robes chant in the front. We duck into the back pew (true Lutherans). Erin notices that we are on the men’s side of thechurch…another uncomfortable reminder that we are foreigners and out of our routine. As we listen to the prayer, I myself pray to my God.Thanking him for Eli, for my family and friends. Bringing us here. The moment is too much and tears steam down my face. Amazing. Words do this experience no justice.

We return to the van to a relieved Eli.We start along our journey to the lake again. Same places in the back of the van. We both notice that he has a blank look on his face. Eyes not quite there. Fingers in his mouth. He is scared. Erin who always knows what to do, produces a lollipop. His eyes light up again and thesmile returns. I feel his taught string give just a little more. We’ve spoken to people about how adopted children sometimes smell different. And that it sometimes takes some adjusting too. As I rest my chin onthe soft curls of Eli’s head, I take a deep breath in. The sweet smell of his hair is wonderful. I kiss the top of his head and am greeted with a sheepish smile. I smile back. After an hour or so of driving past an amazing Ethiopian countryside, we arrive at our firststop - a quaint little resort – for tea and, yes, more coffee. Eli is ordered a mango juice, which arrives in a very tall glass with a straw. We work with him to teach him to blow the paper off the straw (a favorite game of our kids). He succeeds with a huge smile. Sitting now happily on Erin’s lap, we put the straw in the drink and he of course…blows bubbles! Our brilliant teaching of how to blow a straw backfiresas mango juice bubbles over the top of the glass! We all laugh. But it takes quite a while (and help from our driver) to explain, “suck.”

Talking to Ato Teklu, we find out he has lived in France and Germany as anambassador, as well as has served on the Supreme Court in Ethiopia. Now his talking himself out of situations makes more sense. We are honored to be with him. We walk the grounds. I push Eli high in the air, andreceive squeals of joy, which of course I can’t resist inducing more ofthat laugh and tickle his belly with my chin, the giggles are infectious. We hop in the van again towards our next stop. Thelake. Eli excited and nervous looks around. As we hop out, he grabs Erin’s hand. A profound moment for me (and Erin!). We walk along the cool lake and see many species of birds. Eli of course wants the camera. We find out this is just another stop. We hop back in the van and head towards our final stop. All a bit hungry now, Erin pulls somegorp from the bag (thanks Grandma Markquart). Eli’s small fingers go through the bag. Peanut good. First time eating a raisin… good. M&M– not so much. It is so much fun to see him process and learn new things.

Half an hour later we arrive at our destination. As wewalk down the steps of this restaurant, an amazing lake slowly engulfsour view. It almost looks like a crater. I motion that I want to sit asclose as we can. We are shown to a table on the patio against therailing over-looking the bluff. Eli moves about exploring, taking photos. At lunch he looks to Erin and says “waah.” Water! Erin motionsto the bottle and he shakes his head yes. Do you want it in a cup? Head nods yes. Our first communication! Who ever would have thought such simple thing would be so wonderful? We watch Eli eat injera ands ourdough-type bread. Dipping in hot sauce, smiling as he sits on my lap (HIS choice over a nearby chair). It is so much fun to watch him eat. His little fingers moving about in such a graceful manner. I get up to pay andhead up the stairs. He panics a little and wants to come with ME! Of course I oblige both our hearts leaping for joy as we walk hand in hand up the stairs. I swoop him up at the top, with giggles of delight. his handwraps around my neck. Hand grasping on my neck for balance. There is nomore string. My heart wells in the moment.Back in the van, he sits on my lap again. Constantly looking up at Erin and me for approval, each time followed by a smile. His little body grows tired and he slowly sinks into me. Is there anything more wonderful than a child falling asleep, comfortable, trusting, in your arms? I'm not surehow many more of these moments my heart can take. Erin and I chat all the way home. So blessed. What a day.

As we near Addis, I think to myself - my dad would be so proud. This is a Markquart travel day. We have packed as much in as we can! I glance at my watch. 2:30. Ha! Little did I know we had much more in store for us.We arrived back at our hotel. Eli sleepily woke up. The moment we dreaded.Saying goodbye until tomorrow. Who knows how he would react. As we got out of the van, Ato Teklo out of the blue asked, "You take him now?" Excuse me? What? "You take Habib now?" YES, of course! Unprepared, we scooped up a relieved Eli and headed inside. Ato Teklu following.Eli smiled all the way up to our room. Taking everything in. We brought him into our room and produced a plastic laptop with more buttons and noises than the camera. More smiles. This is going well. Ato Teklu came up to our room and we finished out our paperwork for tomorrow's visit to theembassy. Then it was time for Ato Teklu to go. The mood quickly changed. Eli was ready to go. He headed towards the door. Holding Ato Teklu's hand,we watched as Eli's shoulders slumped and head bowed. We could hear, for the first time, his cry. A sad little whimper. Big breaths and sniffles.Ato Teklu reassured him. Nodding and breathing hard, Eli did his best tobe strong. I remember looking at Erin, tearing up and thought - now is MYturn to be strong. I picked him up in my arms, rocking and whispering"Daddy's got you, everything is going to be OK" over and over. Not 100% sure myself. Quickly we jumped into parent mode. Lets get out distractions! His suitcase filled with new clothes, shoes, games. after a few minutes we got that smile back. Apparently smiles mean the same in English as in Amharic.

Fun in the hotel!

New Toys.

ahhhh... dad and a sucker.

Amazing scenery.

Eli and mom.

Now that is a cute kid!

Good day.

Becoming a family.

Smiles.

Learning to use the straw.

Walking with mom.