12.28.2008

Hana had her first pedi appointment with Dr. K 2 days ago. She agreed with all of the treatment/changes we made. Hana was active, smiling, and well-appearing. Her physical exam was essentially unremarkable with normal sized organs and no evidence of infection of her skin, ears, eyes. Her hips are "loose" and her skin still has some healing to do, but that may resolve as she begins to use her little legs more. We're going to check xrays, however, and make sure her hips are okay.


Labs reveal a normal CBC (complete blood count), normal lytes, HIV negative. CXR requires a f/u xray because of her history/possible exposure, a PPD (TB test) was placed, and stool studies were ordered. She's standing with support, and her hips/legs seem to be 'normalizing'. She doesn't do the wide-leg flail when lifted. She holds her own bottle...basically, she's essentially doing all the things a "normal" 10-month old should be doing!!


She recognizes and prefers us over "strangers" and is beginning to cry for us, reach for us, and come to us. She's beginning to understand the word "no." She's eating very well.


Haley and Ian are adjusting. Ian was initially "not a big Hana fan." But now he's more accepting. Haley...is LOVIN' being big sister!!

1st Christmas

Today is Hana's first Christmas!! She woke this morning wide-eyed with *no clue*.

When we sat her down and opened her gifts, she was facinated, and engaged.

Overall she's doing well. Her first pedi appointment is tomorrow.

She's eating well, I've been treating her skin with a combination of Aveeno baths every day, and various creams/ointments as discussed before. Her diaper area *really* cleared up with the nystatin. Her feet look better after treatments with alcohol and nystatin as well. I treated her legs/scalp/torso with steriod ointment which helped tremendously, and helped differentiate the papules (that are likely from - hopefully - past scabies infection), secondary excoriations, and atopic reaction to all of the above. The chicken pox are healed, but one on her right pinky toe is still infected but looking better with local wound care.

We're planning to stay close to home today...and maybe get out tomorrow and see friends/family.

Treatments and progress

12.23.08 - As I mentioned, when we first saw Hana, she was somewhat somnolent. We knew she'd just woken from her nap because we *absolutely* couldn't disturb her during her regimented eat/sleep cycle. She didn't smile (expect to the kids), but she didn't cry or act afraid. We spent about an hour with her, and gave her back. She started rubbing her eyes, and we didn't want to overwhelm her.

We checked her out of the orphanage for a 'day trip' with us. Upon arrival to the Sheraton we gave her a nice warm oatmeal bath. As we undressed her, we noticed some VERY infected, swollen, chickenpox. They were oozing pus, and the surrounding tissue was red and tender. The worse was on her scalp and neck. All I could picture is bacteria, scabies, and whatever else, crawling around in the pox...building little microbial villages!! Her feet were like trench foot, wet looking, skin peeling, between the toes looked like tinea (mixed with pox)...horrible. And her little nails were so long, that her scratching only worsened the situation.

We treated the water with antimicrobial tea tree oil. We washed her hair with lice shampoo. Cleaned behind the ears. We then treated her with Aveeno cream, anti-itch cream, steriod ointment to her body, antibacterial ointment to the infected areas, antifungal/steroid cream to the feet. Anti itch powder to the torso, and desitin to her diaper area (which was very raw from her profuse, watery, urine-appearing diarrea). Seriously, when I pressed on her belly, urine-like stool would squirt out her rectum. I pressed and pressed on her belly, bicycling her legs and patting her belly. She'd intermittently cry (and of course I thought "oh no, she had intusseseption!!" William stood nearby and asked "could she have some sort of obstruction or maybe cholera - as 1000s of people are dying in Zimbabwe of Cholera at the moment). All we could do it pat, pump, and press her belly. We went thru 5 consecutive diapers and 3 large towels...but finally her belly was less distended. The pictures are taken after this process...so you can imagine the "before."

I started her z-pak...but instead of double dose on day one only (or a short course of double dose), I gave her a full 5 days of double dose. I gave her some Tylenol cold (yes, I think it's good for babies). I suctioned her nose, applied erythromycin to her eyes, and cortisporin otic to her ears. I used alcohol swabs to clean between her toes, and her pox. I gave her multivitmins. I gave her the formula she'd been on in the orphanage.

10 minutes after completion of her formula bottle (a bottle she wouldn't/couldn't hold) she started having what appeared to be abdominal pain again...and promptly pooped that clear yellow stuff again. Belly distended.

We went down to the pool, spent an hour in the sun. Then, it was time to go back to the orphanage. We thought it best to take her back as it was Sunday, and the plebotomist was due early Monday morning at Toukoul...and if we/she missed the blood draw...we couldn't have our embassy appointment.

We were able to check her out the next morning. Promptly gave her another oatmeal bath...and repeated the above treatments. Then I decided to switch her formula to soy-based lactose free (prepared with bottled water). I started massive amounts of pedialyte (and even gave her some pediasure which is gluten/lactose-free). I clipped her nails, and fixed her hair. Her infected pox were already looking better.

After the embassy appointment, Hana slept, literally 18 hours. We woke her to change her diaper, and to give her isomil bottles. I considered it was the Tylenol cold...but now (days later as she still gets the tylenol cold) I can say it wasn't that. Her breathing was *much* better with the tylenol cold on board. I think (in retrospect) that she was just overwhelmed, over-stimulated, and now that she was feeling better with less abdominal pain gas/distention, less itching, less congestion, less coughing, etc...she was just relaxed enough to actually sleep soundly!!

I continued to repeat the bath, creams, ointments, meds, antibiotics, pedialyte, isomil, vitamins, tylenol, alchohol swabs, tea tree oil, etc. etc. for the rest of our time there. By day 3-4 she was a TOTALLY different baby. She went from being so uncomfortable and ill-appearing, to an active infant!!

Developmentally she demonstrated only very few milestone accomplishments. She didn't even hold her own bottle, and she's 10 months old!! She didn't reach for people, didn't support her weight on her legs, and her she barely moved her knees/feet. I started thinking that maybe she had some neurologic issue going on. She would draw back her feet when stimulated/tickled, but spontaneously? No.

Also, she held (still holds) her legs in this funny extended, abducted, exterally rotated (like she's in 2nd position doing ballet or something) position. Her hips seemed dislocated and she constantly had her legs open very wide (like she's been riding a horse since she was born - OR more likely, she was born vaginally breech). Her facial features reminded me of a preemie baby. And she would only arch her back and cry as a "request" to be picked up. Very strange.

We've been working on that. She's now holding her own bottle. Her legs still flare out when she's lifted, but she will bring them down and support her weight on them now. She will reach for an object, and even starting to reach for people (instead of simply doing that back arch thing). She kicks her legs (like any other baby)...

...and is only pooping BROWN poop once a day!!!

Her belly is not distended, and she doesn't cry post meal. Her chicken pox are healed, and no longer infected. She no longer has that wet cough, or those "trench feet." She's hydrated enough to drool, cry tears, and her skin looks better. She's babbling louder, has an easy smile, her upper teeth have now broken the gumline, she's crawling now...and all of this wasn't being demonstrated just 1 week ago).

She has her first pedi appointment on 12/26/08. I wrote to the pedi, and gave her the (brief) scoop. Asked for a repeat CXR and blood testing, including hepatitis/HIV. Her tests from Ethiopia are all unremakable...and they did the HIV test 3 times (once for the referral/intake, once a couple of months later, and one last time for her US embassy appointment since the US wants to know HIV status before allowing immigration). All were negative. But, nonetheless...

She's doing well on the Isomil, pediasure, pedialyte. I've continued the Aveeno baths, topical creams and ointments, and multi-vits. I started probiotics. She's eating jar baby food mixed with rice cereal. I've added a bit of fat/butter to her food at times. She sleeps thru the night, despite the time change, travel, etc. She goes to sleep about 8pm, wakes at midnight for a bottle and a diaper change. Then sleeps until about 7am. She'll play with the crib toys for 30 minutes or so...and we get up close to 8am and give her breakfast. After breakfast she'll take a morning nap at 9am...and sleep until 11am. She'll get a bottle, and stay awake until 8pm. At least this is how's it's been the last few days we've been home.

She's doing MUCH better.

DETAILS OF OUR TRIP

LAX to Dubai: We rented a mini-van and drove from NorCal to SoCal. Had dinner/breakfast with family in the OC. And off we went to LAX.

Of course we had massive amounts of luggage with all of our donations n' things. It worked out well that Grandma/Grandpa were there to see us off (and help us with our bags, our kids, our...stuff).

We went thru security with no issues - despite me having crazy amounts of liquid meds, juice, pediasure, pedialyte, various pills, etc. They didn't even ask us to "remove our ziplock baggie" with our 3oz toiletries - which was WONDERFUL!! AND we managed to "sneak" thru plane boarding with 2 carry-on bags each (the max size bag plus a backpack). To our credit the backpacks only had blankies and pillows...and each child carried their own.

Once on the plane we were *very* impressed with the level of service, the media options (hundreds of new movies, sitcoms, dramas, music, games). They had GPS and cameras in the nose and bottom of the plane, so you can track your travel from start to finish. On this airshow, they tell you your current speed, estimated time 'til arrival, altitude, local time and temp, etc. etc.

The food was outstanding...the meals frequent, the lavatories clean (the entire 16 hours), smelled okay, and big. They had child friendly meals, gluten-free meals, toys and actives handed out to the kids, child channels, games, movies. They give out warm (lemon fresh) 'real' towel at the beginning and end of the trip...to refresh. They give you booties, eye covers, ear plugs, toothbrush. The ride was smooth, ontime, our luggage made it all the thru. I didn't have to pull out any of the games/activities we'd brought to keep the kids quiet. It was maybe the best plane trip I've experienced. No "extra" charges for pillows/blankets/headsets/meals. They gave us "real" silverware and not sporks. I hope our trip on the way back is just as comfortable.

Words of a 6 year-old traveler: "Mommy, that was the shortest 16 hours ever, much shorter than the 4 hours of this flight" (regarding the comparison between flight 1 LAX to DXB, vs flight 2 DXB to ADD)

(Note: our travel agent didn't do a good job...and I don't recommend him. More details later, but because hubby travels frequently, he was able to negotiate/plan/correct the "errors" of our travel agent).

We got off the plane and headed for our "free" hotel. Turns out the "free" hotel was a shuttle (and a trip thru security/customs/multiple lines) away. So we decided to just stay at the hotel *IN* the airport. Which was perfect. We checked in to that hotel...and by 9:45p or so, we were ready for dinner...and bed.

But first...we decided to put down our things...and take a Taxi tour around . This city is like Las Vegas!! HOWEVER, whereas Vegas is all FAKE...imitations n' such...this *entire city* was so GLAMOUROUS!! It seemed as if everyone was driving a luxury car. The buildings were glass, no liter, graffiti, just...like a perfect city that looked like the Las Vegas strip.

We saw the only 7 star hotels in the world. Of course we had to stand outside of the gate...and take pix from afar. But, WE WERE THERE!! And then we drove around some man-made island they call Atlantis. Then we went to the Persian Gulf ...AND PUT OUR HANDS IN THE WATER (and saw Iran in the distance)!! We danced around the beach for a bit. It was dark...but way crowded for 11 at night. It was warm. The water was clear (even at night that was obvious).

Then, back to the airport....and this airport - is more like a palace than an airport. Even the clocks are Rolex on the walls. Marble everywhere. Waterfall indoors. Speaking of 'indoors'...we got to drive by (therefore see from a distance) the indoor skiing place. We got back to the airport...and went to McDonalds (it was our *only* option, trust me). Then took wonderful hot showers and climbed into bed...exhausted...Slept until we had to leave for Addis, feeling very alert and 'in sync' with local time. Had a quick bite to eat, and on to our gate/plane.

The flight from to Addis was only 3.5 hours. BUT, the plane wasn't loaded with endless activities/movies n' stuff. So we had to pull out some of our toys/games we packed. They served a wonderful breakfast, however. The flight was good. Both had lots of kids on the plane, which we like.

Towards the end of the second flight, it got a bit bumpy. Nothing too bad, kinda like riding in a car. Well, Ian has a cold...and it was naptime, so he was grumpy. And the fact that he had to relinquish all of his toys in preparation for landing...didn't help his mood. But, he didn't cry...but he wasn't happy. And poor Haley, was playing a computer game, and got motion sickness. Poor thing. All we could do is hold back her hair and rub her forehead with a wipe :o(

But, she recovered the instant we stepped off the plane. So much so that she was instrumental in helping us lug our excessive amount of luggage thru getting Visas, Customs, and out to the Sheraton Shuttle. (more on how to do this later)


The Shearton: As we drove from the Airport to the Sheraton, we have an opportunity to see some of the city. I was expecting to see...people sitting on mounds of dirt, with starving kids laying on their laps...flies all around. I was expecting to see people starving on the side of the road...and desperation/poverty unimaginable.

But, actually what I saw reminded me of New Orleans. Apartments with no screens, lots of walking, young women in jeans with very nice hair. There were dilapidated buildings, people selling/trading things on street corners, and the traffic…was crazy. There weren’t that many vehicles on the road (speaking as someone from LA), but there are no traffic rules or street signals, so you have to be a very intuitive driver – be able to anticipate the flow and movements of other drivers. Yeah, I saw the goats, and dusty children playing in the open spaces. But, there was positive vibe in the air (unlike in New Orleans where you feel the desperation), everyone just going/doing/being.

I saw people of all complexions, a few caucasions just walking the street along side of everyone else...right at home. All in all, not the dirt huts with starving/wasted people on the side of the road as always shown on American TV.

But let me say...that when we turned into the Sheraton driveway...you could almost hear the angels sing!! Once past the armed security guards, and the metal detectors and such...all we could do is look around and say "woooowwwww!!" I think the contrast more than anything is what's so "Wow."

The service we experienced upon our arrival was superb. We felt like one of the many celebrities they host (Beyonce, Angelina and Brad, Clinton). Everyone very helpful, smiling, nice. Unlike the service you get at most (even high end) American Hotels...where everyone is obviously *acting* nice...these people actually genuinely seem to be happy, nice people.

I’ve stayed at many hotels. St. Regis in DC, Ritz Carlton in Pasadena and Marina del rey. I've been to Bacara Resort more than a few times. This Sheraton is *BETTER THAN* all of them...well, maybe not Bacara...but you get the point. And all we've done is checked in and came to our rooms!!


Toukoul:
Le Toukoul Orphanages (36) - Actions View album View photo book




We met with the attorney, Abebe on Saturday 12/13/08. He said there is some sort of issue…and we stressed about whether or not we'd get Hana's visa in time to leave as planned on Friday. Needless to say, it was a very frustrating meeting. We did get the opportunity to meet Hana.





The orphanage is relatively small. It’s looks bigger on the pix. We were so excited to turn onto the dirt road leading up to the orphanage (a road we recognized from blogs/youtube). There were a few little boys (beautiful little boys) who came up to us. We went over to the playground and both Ian and Haley had a blast playing with the little boys. Then we spent some time learning simple phrases in Amharic from the children.





Finally, Hana was awake. They allowed Ian and Haley to go inside with the babies while the prepared Hana to meet us. They cleaned her up, fixed her hair…and then…we saw them. Walking down the side of the building. Hana with 2 puff-tails.





She is like a little doll. She was mellow, didn’t cry, but didn’t smile either…at least not until we sat her down alone with her sister and brother. Then, she smiled to them.

***



It was initially VERY stressful. I thought Abebe was full of shit. I was frustrated that Radu said it was okay to travel, only to hear Abebe say that everything wasn't ready. I was pissed that our phone bill had a $300 charge to Ethiopia for calling the Embassy, where we stayed on hold for 30 minutes...never speaking with anyone...and to get there (after receiving an email from them stating that it was OK to travel as I specifically asked if all of the needed documents were there - and not just the Visa 37), and realize that the medical eval wasn't complete...and they wanted to hold our file for a week before issuing the travel/immigration visa!!

Alicia was STILL there and had to *wait that extra week* as her stuff wasn't ready either!! There was another family in the guest house waiting (going on 2 weeks) for papers to complete the adoption of their 10 year old child. CRAZY!! Why did Radu tell them/us it was okay to travel...??

My husband works in politics...and "offered" to call our friend the Congresswoman Barbara Lee, among other people...PLUS the Ethiopian Ambassador in the US to "help Abebe get our Visas done." That's when things started to move for us (and the other familes there with us). We ended up getting our Visa on Wednesday as expected. But, oh the stress!!

Then when we got Hana...she was SO very ill. If I would have saw her in my emergency room, she'd be admitted to the hospital for IV fluid, antibiotics, surgery consult, peds consult, GI consult. Not only did she have chickenpox that were badly infected, a respiratory tract infection, and some sort of rash that I treated as scabies...she had this profuse watery (urine-appearing) diarrhea...and she's VERY thin and small. I'd call it 'failure to thrive'. I thought maybe she had/has a parasite. I thought maybe they were dishonest about the HIV results. I thought maybe she had celiac disease, or some sort of lactose/formula/dietary issue.

Hana was so lethargic, it crossed my mind that perhaps she wouldn't even live long enough to make it back to California!! I was crying, comparing her to other (fatter) babies (as "proof" that something was indeed wrong with her). Her belly was SO distended and rigid...full of air...I thought maybe her bowel was perforated.

My other 2 kids were there, and I didn't let them get too close to Hana...as she was so sick...and I didn't want 3 sick babies!! I did (eventually) speak with the peditrician who was very beautiful, nice, and obviously was familiar with each child's issues and such...but I didn't think she'd considered *all* of the possible ailments...and didn't have a good/acceptable explanation as to why she didn't. My sister is an RN, so together we went thru the medical records with a fine tooth comb...and Hana has been on amoxicillin for months!! Treating what, I don't know. In the initial medical report we got with her referral, they said her mom died of TB, but the baby's chest x-ray was normal. It *so* wasn't. She had bilateral (both lungs) pneumonia...or maybe it's TB?? I asked the pedi there if it's possible that the rash is scabies, the cough and congestion requiring amoxicillin for month could be TB, and if her "failure to thrive" could be from from
TB, her diarrhea from a parasite, etc. She denied all of the above...and stated that the baby was treated for TB (which is not possible since TB treatment is for over a year, it is not documented, and no repeat CXR was done to see if the pneumonia had cleared).

Anyway, I brought tons of stuff because I read the blogs and expected the above issues. I gave her zithromax...had scabies meds, cold meds, ear and eye drops, etc. I gave Hana an oatmeal bath every day, with tea tree oil and applied steroid and antifungal creams. I switched her formula to soy-based and spoon-fed her rice, applesauce and bananas. Her abdomen went down, her stools became "normal." Her cold symptoms improved, and she was a totally different baby. By the time she had 3 days with us...I was confident that she would be fine traveling (and not die before we left Addis!!). Seriously, that's how sick she was!!

Add that to the stress we had dealing with Abebe...and our embassy (or really the thought I having to extend our trip, rather). We were...completely stressed out, and couldn't enjoy Addis until Thursday. We squeezed all the rest of it into 2 days!!

AHOPE (23) - Actions View album View photo book
Maya and I went to AHOPE Orphanage for HIV+ children. There we met some wonderful children. They were overall healthy appearing...considering. They were happy, pleasant, and glad to see us. One little girl followed us around, and loved the camera.


We went back and gave a medical lecture to the children and staff. We gave medications, and met the medical staff.

Guest House, Dinner with friends, Merkado (33) - Actions View album View photo book
We did end up going to our Embassy appointment as planned, despite...and subsequently getting our Visa for Hana to travel. Thereafter were were excited enough to enjoy some of the other activities we'd planned.



We visited the guest house. Very nice, and met some wonderful families. We decided to *not* go out with the group as we were so drained after a long week of worry and frustration. Besides, eventhough Hana was 1000% better after some TLC and a Z-pak, Tylenol cold, creams and powders, etc...we didn't want to push it.


We had dinner prepared by friends in Addis. Ruta and Tades decided they wanted to contribute to the World by volunteering with an NGo...so they moved themselves and their FIVE children into a modest home there for one year.



Finally, we haggled ourselves some great gifts at the Merkado. Notice the donkeys, the people, the store-fronts...



...and Ian flirting with the beautiful Ethiopian girls!!

History Museum and Fasika Lunch (21) - Actions View album View photo book
We visited the History Museum and saw the bones of Lucy. It was a facinating museum...but it would help if they'd invest just a bit of resources into it's presentation.


We also had the wonderful opportunity to have an authentic Ethiopian lunch done right...at a very popular spot. The kids did very well...but you'll see that Ian picked up the injera and ate it like a burrito instead of tearing off a piece properly.


Hana photos and going home (28) - Actions View album View photo book
A few pictures of Hana Janet. Her first bath, her skin and abdomen, her next bath...where she fell asleep in the water (talk about relaxing). This was likely her first experience with baths since they don't bathe the kids at the orphanage. After treatment...she was a whole new baby!!



Also are pictures of us all packed and ready at the Sheraton, on the plane...in Dubai sleeping at the Airport hotel (again)...and finally in the limo at SFO. Upon arrival to our house, Grandma and Grandpa had balloons, signs, cakes, and FOOD waiting for us. Our house warmed, our Christmas tree full of lights, and baked goods on the table.



What a way to end our adventure...and begin our lives as a FAMILY OF FIVE!!!!

FAQ

Do you like Adoption Avenues Agency?
We are/were with Adoption Avenues. I like Radu...and think the Agency is reputable, and really is trying hard to streamline and flow and work out the kinks. A major "kink" (as mentioned) is upon travel to Addis. Radu could do a better job communicating with families about what to expect, and subsequently follow-up with them once they are home (if only to just get their opinion and discover any issues).

I wasn't a big fan of the attorney, but my husband spent quite a bit of time wining and dining him...and in the process came to know him better.Overall, there's a lack of communication between Radu, the lawyer, families, and the US Embassy...resulting (at times) in delays and frustration for families once they are in Addis Ababa.

IF families had *accurate* travel information...and IF more organization could be arranged for the families during the time spent in Addis......the agency would be almost perfect.

I hope Radu improves this one aspect (which is a major thing as being in Addis Ababa unsure when you'll be able to leave is very, very stressful). I would recommend this Agency...but would advise the use of caution when it comes to travel. Calling the lawyer and double checking the completion of the documentation prior to leaving (or expect to potentially extend your stay).

What do you wish you had in Ethiopia that you didn't bring?
CHUCKS - those blue paper/plastic waterproof bed cover things they use in hospitals. The baby kept pooping which leaked all over - despite the rubber pants, and the tight onesie, and the big Huggies diapers.

What was the one thing you a GLAD you brought?
A Z-PAK (antibiotics), Tylenol COLD, snacks, and soy-based (lactose free) formula!!

Did you like your Airline?
Emirates was WONDERFUL!! One stop each way. Non-stop from the west coast. Great service, wonderful food, kid friendly...

Word of advice?
Call Abebe (the lawyer) prior to your departure and make sure he has everything he needs (including the medical exam) and everything has been submitted to the US Embassy at least 7 days before your embassy appointment.

Call your Congressperson prior to your departure and get a contact person on their staff that you can call if you have trouble with the Embassy in Addis.

What did you worry about that you shouldn't have?
Taking my bio kids.

What decision were you most confident about?
Staying at the Sheraton.

Did anyone get sick?
No one.

How was the baby doing when you arrived?
Not well. She was sick, lethargic, dehydrated, with infected chicken-pox scars and distended belly with very watery diarrhea and obvious abdominal pain.

How did you make her better?
Gave her multiple baths and applied various ointments, topical antibiotics, and zithromax. Symptomatic care, scabies medications, ear and eye drops, PLUS change in formula to soy-based.

Did travel/jetlag get to you?
Yes and no. It wasn't too bad...except waking up at 3am for the first 4 days of the trip. Now home, going to bed as late as possible upon our return (which for me was 6pm). Woke at almost 5am...and feel good. A bit of headache, nausea, lightheadedness, and sorethroat...all rapidly resolved with one dose of Excedrin, cup of lemonade, and some pepcid.

Best decision (outside of the one to adopt in the first place).
Taking our sister with us.

Worst decision.
Calling the Embassy...and holding...resulting in $300 bill. Using Scott Nordwall as our travel agent.

What's wrong with Scott?
I liked the amount of time he spent explaining to us the various travel options. I liked the fact that he*is* responsive. I didn't like his lack of initiative. He seemed to put off making our seat assignments, mailing our tickets/receipts out, and didn't really offer anything above and beyond simply making the reservations...something I could have (?should have) done myself online. The pearls of wisdom you'd hope to get from a travel agent are lacking...such as preferred seats, securing group seating, bassinets,etc. I would not use his agency again.

Travel Advice?
Try to get seats close to the front of the plane...to avoid having to wait in long line at immigration/customs. Avoid sitting in the back row or near the lavatory. Bring water on board, but don't drink it until the end of the flight (once they run out of water drinks towards the end of a long trip). Try to get the fewest amount of stops possible. Go on seatguro and check your seat assignments and see how you like them. Bring your own pillow and blankets. If you fly Emirates you don't need your ipod, DVDs, etc. Be sure to go online and request the type of meal you'd like. Get changeable tickets.

Did you like the Sheraton?
We loved the Sheraton. Rooms were about $250/night...and they have drivers, shuttles, restaurants, etc. The guest house is also nice...but with young kids...we are happy we stayed at the Sheraton.

We're HOME!!

We are home!! We were very (VERY) pleasantly surprised that Grandma and Grandpa were waiting for us (with rotisserie chicken meal from Whole Foods, homemade brownies, and a warm house). Our doggies are fat, and our neighbor came by with Greek cookies.


We'll write more later. I'll upload a few pix. It was wonderful seeing Alicia in Addis...but I agree, there are a few things I'd do before travel to avoid the *STRESS* in dealing with delayed paperwork and possible trip extension! (such as call Abebe, the attorney *yourself* PRIOR to travel to make sure everything is all ready at the US Embassy...including the medical evaluation!!)

Anyhoo...more later!!

The family goes to Ethiopia

Send positive energy our way...


....as we go to get our little girl in ETHIOPIA!!!

We are now in the air...on our way to Dubai. Will update as possible!!

Braids n' things

1.) Braids - I'm thinking that lice cannot grab onto fake hair, and climbing braids is very difficult. It makes sense to me that having synthetic braids not only saves us time/effort, but is healthier!! :o)

2.) Travel/med-evac insurance

3.) We'll clean our home (of course), before we go.

And, with that...we are all ready!! :o)

mad dash to the pharmacy

Joy and her family are back from Addis...with their two boys. The "word on the message boards" is that chicken pox, scabies, and URI (upper respiratory infections) are rampant in the orphanage.

I'm not concerned about chicken pox...it is a pretty benign disease in childhood, and do not feel children really should be vaccinated against it. But scabies? That's absolutely a big problem. The last thing I want to deal with is little itchy bugs in our home. Also concerning are the bacterial superinfections that occur when the children scratch the pox or scabies. SO....

...even though I had LOTS of stuff/meds/supplies all packed up - (including zpaks for all which treat both skin infections, URIs, pneumonias, etc). I decided (in my usual OCD fashion) to *get more stuff* - just in case. It would be very frustrating (to me) to be there, and not have something I could have totally gotten...if I'd have just taken a minute to *think* of it...OR, a bit of extra effort/money to actually go get it.

So today, I picked up:

fluocinolone acetonide ointment 0.025% - prescription topical steroid that's the best I've used
more antibiotic ointment - just in case we need to cover her entire body with the stuff
permethrin cream 5% to treat scabies (Sister also has some of this cream for us) - we will treat her on day 1, and treat ourselves on our last day in the hotel.
Aveeno Baby Oatmeal bath treatment
Aveeno Baby Oatmeal Creamy wash
Aveeno Baby Oatmeal Moisture cream
Aveeno calamine and pramoxine HCL cream - dries out weepy rashes and itch-relief
Gold Bond baby powder - triple action
anti-fungal (via Sister)
triamcinolone cream (via Sister) - topical steroid cream

in addition to these skin treatments, I started thinking to myself as I walked around the drug store "oh my, I wonder if we have enough [fill in the blank]!!"

SO...I bought more anti-diarrheal medication, more pepto-bismal (not a big fan, but maybe it'll treat travelers diarrhea better than it treats dyspepsia), lactaid...and I wrote myself a prescription for phenergan (because the reglan doesn't work as well when you're not pregnant I've learned).

I also had to get some infant vitamins...afterall, if she lacks essential vitamins, it'll be more difficult for her to heal and be/stay healthy.

Phew!! I *really* think I'm done with the medications now...

List.

Confirm our hotel reservations with a phone call
Confirm our flight information with the travel agent; ask that he mails the receipts (expecting them tomorrow)
Print final documents and fill them out
Gather the supporting documents (employment letter, paystubs, taxes)
Spoke with Haley's teacher regarding missed classwork
Suspend Haley's automatic healthy school lunch program
Paid the house bills or arranged for them to be paid.
Gather supplies and donations
Pack supplies/donations
Pack the medications/medical supplies that we've gathered
Pack clothing
Pack activities, snacks, carry-on stuff
Bug sister about the final medications we're bringing for skin conditions
Register our trip
Give our travel info to interested parties
Copy and leave copies of our important document with family
Email these same documents to ourselves for online access
Purchase doggie supplies to leave with our doggie-sitter
Speak with neighbors regarding our travel plans (so they will bring in the mail, out the trash, watch the house, and the dogs)
Read books about Ethiopia
Read books/info about health conditions in Ethiopia
Purchase and learn to use new camera/video recorder

Wash all baby's clothes, fold them, put them away
Decorate Hana and Ian's room, wash the crib clothes (thanks Grandma for helping me with this...couldn't have done it without you - just wasn't enough time)
Rearrange our house to accommodate one more by turning the playroom into Haley's bedroom and
complete the last of home improvement projects (thanks Grandpa for helping us with this...we've been trying to do this for the last 6 months. Nothing like time pressure to motivate.)

Sort out important issues with family - sign forms, etc.
Update life and medical insurance to include new baby
Meet with other people who are familiar with the process, and Ethiopia
Call the people in Addis Ababa that friends recommended we contact

Christmas shopping and talking to Santa on behalf of our children
Christmas decorations, inside and outside

What's left?
Thinking of getting my hair done
Thinking of getting Haley's hair braided
Home spa day
Get more snacks (can never have too many)
Thinking about getting a stronger topical steroid since other families have reported that their babies from Toukoul have extensive rashes
On the same note - thinking about getting stronger anti-fungal
Still have to pack last minute things (things that *can't* be packed until the last minute b/c they are used daily)

Hubby list includes:
Making sure the dogs are squared away (including grooming)
Travel insurance with medical evacuation
And he needs to finish his packing (I'm OCD and cannot wait until the last minute. He, OTOH...can)

This is starting to feel *real*.

Recommended Reading. Shout-outs.

Staying Healthy in Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Bradt: Ethiopian Guide

Ethiopia & Eritrea

Recommended books we've been reading in preparation for our trip. We've spoken to multiple people who have offered tremendous insight, pearls of wisdom, and advice. Thanks to everyone who participated in helping us raise donations, money, and took their time to share their experiences.

--the shout-outs--

My first 'real' boss...an ER doc who let me join his medical group when I was a new graduate and 21 weeks pregnant without blinking an eye...and promoted me, advocated for me, and really took an interest in me. He encouraged me to leave my previous oppressive group to take a chance and join a more progressive group. AND, his parents took him and his siblings to Ethiopia when they were young....maintained relationships...and now he takes his girls there. Needless to say, I considered him a valuable resource.

We also had the pleasure of hosting an adoptive family at our home this week. They not only came full of wisdom and pearls...but baby clothing, shoes, dresses for our little one. They were very reassuring, telling the the good/bad/ugly about their experience. They, no doubt, saved us from lots of unnecessary frustration.

And I can't leave out the wonderful Ethiopian family who had brunch for us. Because they were born/raised and attended college there...and go back every year...they had tons of things to say about their home country. Lots of her family still lives in Addis Ababa, and even know our attorney over there. There were pictures of his wedding at a beautiful hotel there...his home, and a glimpse into their lives. I spoke to him personally, and will try to see him during our visit.

We have another friend who works for an NGO in Addis, and moved her family from NY in September. Her, her husband, and 5 kids...all moved to Ethiopia for at least a year. They are now in school there, and really have made a life there. We are eager to visit with them. We have activities planned since she has small children too.

***

We're all packed and ready to go. We have all of our required papers, including the employment letter, paystubs, cash in new bills, etc. Donations are all packed up in rubbermaids, and ready to go.

ALSO, we got our final update!! We are so excited about going...

...and with the info we've acquired from our friends, we feel safe, confident, and ready! :o)

I600A approval - I171h - Visa 37; just be sure the Embassy has it!!

(As a follow-up to this post - on checking to see that US Embassy has received the necessary documents to issue the child's visa at the embassy appointment).

I wasn't sure if, when the embassy says "we have your I600A approval" they ALSO mean "we have your Visa 37 cable and you are safe to travel...and when you get here we will actually issue a visa for your baby..."

So, I've been emailing them for the last few days (along with my blog buddy Lisa)...we're totally freaking out together. We've been going thru this entire process together...except she's traveling next week. (See, we decided to wait...for multiple reasons. Among which include Haley's school vacation schedule...my work schedule...and the fact that we purchased our tickets 'early' and gave ourselves 'extra' time, just in case there was a delay. Besides, we wanted to make sure that all of the papers are prepared and ready...)

Well, we learned that, for whatever reason, the embassy wasn't receiving her emails. So...after a few days of 'no responses,' I changed up my email address...created a new gmail account...re e-mailed the request for confirmation from my brand-new gmail email...and they responded immediately!! :o)

So. Yes. They do have our I600A approval...BUT ALSO they have our Visa 37!!

Note to self: Next time I'll ask about *both* the I600A approval AND the Visa 37 on my first email (because, I've heard the the Visa 37 actually includes the homestudy info...in addition to the I171h approval).

Note to self: Next time, I won't even bother trying to call the Embassy. And if I don't get a response within 1 day or two, I would immediately send the message from another email account.

Note: I wouldn't bother with the National Visa Center unless the Embassy tells you they didn't get the necessary forms...because even if they *say* they sent it...it only matters if the Embassy *receives it*!!

Also note: The I600A approval = I171h = Visa 37 (+ few other papers)

***
Info from the EthiopiaAdopt Yahoo Group - very helpful!!
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/EthiopiaAdopt/message/24036
The I-171H from your USCIS office means that your I-600A was approved. Your approval for an international adoption is now good for 18 months and your fingerprints are good for 15 months - the end dates are determined by the approval date, not the date you received the I-171H. This approval is for your family not for a specific child.

After you have adopted a child and have all of the child's foreign documents you then submit an I-600 form for a child - one for each child if you are adopting more than one child. The I-600 will either be submitted to your local CIS office or to the involved US Embassy, again with all the child's foreign documents including the child's foreign passport.

Before you can submit an I-600 at the US Embassy your placing agency must make certain that yourI-171H has been received by the US Embassy, along with your homestudy. While the approval a family receives is called an I-171H, the approval for an I-600A that goes to the US Embassy either by e-mail or fax is called a Visa 37 -

The adopting family's homestudy is either held at the involved CIS office if the adopting family is filing their child's I-600 directly with CIS, OR the homestudy is pouched by CIS to the US Embassy. The Embassy will make sure that the child being presented for a US visa matches the gender, health, age range and number of children the family's homestudy approves the family for. If it does not matchthe Embassy will not issue the adopted child a US visa until the homestudy has an addendum with information matching the child.

The US Embassy in Ethiopia requires one I-864 form (affidavit of support)for each child. The person who signs the I-864 as the applicant MUST be the person who was approved as the applicant on the I-171H. If the applicant does not have enough income to match the Federal guidelines then the spouse of the applicant signs the attached paperwork to the I-864 (which is the I-864A). This form is given to the US Embassy, not to CIS.

Packing

PACKING TO GO!!

Using the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines; and abiding by the rules of Emirates Airlines. (max carry-on size is 22x15x8 inches); each person can check 2 items.

Carry on stuff
Documents*
Medical Supplies**
backpacks
toiletries/hygiene products (3oz bottles)
water bottle
straws
video camera
digital camera
laptop
cellphones
keys
Lip balm
premoistened towels
antibacterial towels
hand sanitizer
deodorant
earplugs
eye shade
saline solution
(sun) glasses
compact mirror
spoons
lotion
snacks
gum
child strap
pen/pad
business cards
pens/pencils
permanent markers
toys/activities/books for everyone
sippy cups
pillows
blankets

stroller (double)
diapers
wipes
ziplocks

2 complete outfits for all


*Documents
Accordion folder
Airline e-tickets
Hotel reservation
passports
wallet/purse
credit cards
New/clean dollar bills
Drivers license
insurance cards
insurance information
passport holder
Ethiopian contact list
emergency contact list (there and here)
U.S. MD letter to carry all of these meds/supplies
AHOPE letter stating they need some of the HIV meds we're bringing
dossier
the final forms
pay stubs
1099/W2
1040s
employment letter
birth/marriage certificates
I171h forms + copies
medical license
emergency medicine certification papers
information about the baby/pictures
travel health book and information
language information

**Medicine
Prescription:
Zithromax (adult/kids)
ciprofloxacin
Flagyl
zofran ODT

phenergan
reglan

compazine suppositories (sister)
cortisporin ear drops
erythromycin eye ointment
sulfacetamine eye drops
Altabax (antibiotic ointment)

triamcinolone cream

permethrin cream 5%

OTC:
pepcid

pepto-bismal
dramamine
cough medicine/drops
immodium
Tylenol (kids/adult/infant)
Excedrin
Motrin (kids/adult)
benadryl (kids/adult)
antifungal cream

infant vitamins

Aveeno Baby Oatmeal bath treatment
Aveeno Baby Oatmeal Creamy wash
Aveeno Baby Oatmeal Moisture cream
Aveeno calamine and pramoxine HCL cream
Gold Bond baby powder

rubbng alcohol packs
iodine swabs
cotton balls
Q-tips
deet (non-deet) repellent
hydrocortisone cream
sunblock
bacitracin
Neosporin
rehydration salts
Pediapops (kid salts)
Lactaid
Lice/scabies treatment Rix Shampoo
water purify tablets

Alternative
Melatonin
Probiotics
Tea tree oil
Sleep/relaxation aid (kids/adults)

Supplies
medical/paper tape
IV start kits
angiocaths
IV fluid
swiss army knife
gloves
face masks
tweezers
nail clippers
Ace wrap

Laceration Repair
staples
staple remover
laceration repair kit
lidocaine
syringes
suture
dermabond
scalpels
cotton swabs
iodine swabs
bio-occlusive
bandaids
gauze
tefla/non-adherent gauze
gauze rolls
-------------------------

Checked in luggage
soap (tea tree)
toilet seat covers
toiletries
feminine hygiene
shaving stuff
tide (little boxes)
lotion
flashlight
ziplocks

Clothing
REI quick-dry pants
underwear
shirts
jackets/sweatshirts
socks
belt
lounge wear (pajamas)
shoes
flip-flops
swimsuit
floaties
hat

infant formula
diaper bag
diaper cream
baby toys/books/activities
bottles/accessories
binky
baby blankets
bibs
baby clothes
carrier

Donations/gifts

Donations

Thank you SO much to everyone who has given their time, energy, MONEY, medications, clothing, shoes, jackets, school supplies...etc. etc. We've decided, after talking to various people, that it's less hassle to simply take the donations in rubbermaids/luggage, and check it. So, that's what we're gonna do. We're going to hand deliver all the items to the 2 orphanages that we've been in contact with. I will update this post if/when we receive other donations.

Crossing things off the "to do" list.

- We've been busy gathering everything we *think* we might think about needing in Ethiopia (list forthcoming). We have our luggage out, mostly packed. I think I have all the items I want/need - including a new camera. I just can't reconcile taking only one camera.

- I mentioned before, I'm a list person. I'll make a list just to cross everything off the list. My list of "things to do" is short now. I have to squeeze my December shifts into the first week and the last week...so I anticipate being crazy busy with work/home as we get close to our travel day. And I cannot wait until the week before 'cause I'll forget a cool third of our stuff if I do. So, now, everything has been purchased.

- We're even done with Christmas stuff...and I spoke to Santa, and he has everything all ready to deliver on Christmas eve ;o)

- I've called our contacts there, touched bases with the orphanages regarding medical volunteering with Sister and have it all arranged.

- We have our transportation (mostly) arranged.

- We (get this) actually have appointments and things to do scheduled already during our time in Addis - people to visit (friends of friends) - things to deliver.

- We've registered our trip with the Department of State Travel Registry - so we get travel warnings (and they know our travel plans) at https://travelregistration.state.gov/

- Hubby has added Hana to our family health insurance policy.

- Our dogs are microchiped in case they get out.

- We've been taking probiotics and vitamins to help maintain healthy gut environment.

- I have our U.S. MD note to justify carrying all of our medications:
All prescription medications are permitted in carry-on bags, even those in liquid or gel form. Associated supplies such as syringes, disposal containers, and the like are also allowed once they have been screened by security. The TSA recommends having the same name on prescription labels and boarding pass, but it isn't a requirement, so you can pack a small day-of-the-week pill organizer rather than several bulky bottles. If you prefer to bring entire bottles of pills, a multiple-bottle storage case can keep the bottles together in your bag. The TSA encourages travelers to bring "supporting documentation" such as a doctor's note explaining medication needs. Additional documentation isn't necessary, though it may prove helpful if you encounter an overzealous TSA agent.
-source

- We've been reading relevant travel information such as: http://www.africanchildforum.org/visa.asp

- Making sure we have all of the required papers in order.

- Coordinating donations.

- Hubby is doing a school project with Haley's class.

- AND we had the greatest time with our new Ethiopian friends who had a brunch for us, and served the yummiest spicy injera dish with spicy butter. The best part - we get to go back over there and learn to cook, speak, and celebrate Ethiopian style!!

Busy, busy, busy...
Still have to arrange travel insurance.
be sure to constantly check the US travel site.
Get cash, new clean bills

Scan our important dox (again) and try (again) to upload them; and send them to our VIP (very important people). Stuff like copies of our passports, hotel/plane reservations, dossier, etc.

Get (replenish) our snacks :o) (redvines are sooo irresistible!!)

Arrange pet care.

And, honestly, we still have to get our employment letters.

But...the list is shorter.

Final Forms

We've browsed over, and started the completion of the final forms that are needed for our Embassy appointment in Addis.

Forms and Fees (remember, all of these forms must be filled out by the petitioner, and signed at the Embassy).

Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative.
There is the I600 form, which is the last part of the process we began back in January with the I600A form (and the instructions). The fee, the fingerprints, the approval (I171h form), all culminate in this. So no additional fees are needed.

- you'll need to bring a copy of your I171 form (the approval of the I600A form).
- be sure to call and make sure a copy was sent via National Visa Center to the US Embassy.

Affidavit of Support
The form I864 is a form showing the US Embassy how much money you make and to demonstrate that you have the resources to care for the immigrant. Also is an "agreement" to do so. It's required that you make at least 125% percent of poverty level as determined by the 864P.

You'll need to bring supporting documentation to submit with this form.
- Recent employment letter (same letter as prior, but with new date) - notarized
- Recent pay stubs/earning statements
- 1099 and/or W2s for at least last year, but possibly (if it'll help you prove your financial viability) for the last 3 years.
- Paystub(s). Again for the last month, but if it'll help prove your case, consider bringing them for the last 3-6 months.

Contract between sponsor and household member.
The form I864A. If you need (or choose to) show a second person's resources/assets in order to meet the financial qualifications described above per 864P, you'll need to fill out the I864A.

Visa Application. - overview
Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration.
This is the actual visa application. The fee is $355 as of January 2008.

We've made a few copies to take with us, just in case we need them. Additionally, there's this blog with awesome links (in both the text of this post, AND in the sidebar) to all the forms needed, if we happen to need new ones once there.

What we still need.

We're so excited that our friends and family are excited for us, Hana, and our (relatively small) contribution to the orphans in Ethiopia!!

'How can I help?' some have wondered. We want as many people as possible vested in this experience with us.

How you can help is by donating a bit of money so that we can ship things over there to the orphanages. From what I understand, it's over $300 per box!! Or, if it's more feasible, we could add the box(es) to our checked luggage to travel with us...but checking extra (heavy-ish) bags is not cheap either.

So...if you're so inclined, please help us collect these funds so we can ship as much as possible to the children in the Toukoul and AHOPE orphanages. We plan to ship the donations to a friend's house in Addis Ababa, then, once we are there, will go thru and divide the donations so that each orphanage gets the products they need most. Then we will hand deliver the donations to the two orphanages.

The paypal button is in the side-bar. And for those of you who are wary...I've used paypal for *so* many things...and it's safe, reliable, and easy (the best way is to set up a paypal account http://www.paypal.com/ and use money from the account - but they also accept credit/debit cards)!! For those who would prefer to give another way, just email me (at myaschlitz.at.yahoo.com) and let me know what you're thinking. :o)

Thanks so much!!

UPDATE 11/15/08:

Needed supplies AHOPE

Medical
Ace Bandage
Nystatin suspension(oral preparation)
Nystatin and Triamcinolone Acetonid cream
HEXIT-Lotion (Lindane lotion 1% usp) for scabies and poison
Perimethrin cream 50% (for scabies)
Pediatric Nasogastric tube No. 6 & 8
Pepcid (Famotidine) antacid tablet 20mg
Cefalexin 500mg and 250mg capsule (antibiotic)
Spatula (Tongue depressor for throat examination)
Enfamil (Multi vitamin supplement Drops)- Essential vitamin for infants and toddlers
Enfamil- Milk gas-free infant formula powder for Babies 0-2

Hair/Skin Care/Hygiene
Anti dundruff shampoo and ointment
Ketokonazole Shampoo
Hair accessories
Soaps
Hair oil (8-15 year old girls)
Strong Body Lotion(8-15 year old children) (e.g. Eucerin)

Clothing
Socks (8-15 yrs)
Clothes (8-15 yrs)
Swimming Suit (different size)
Sports wear(for 8-15 year old children)
Shoes (all sizes for infant – 15)
Watches(for 8-15 year old children)

School-Type Supplies
Pens
Children's Diary
School bags(for older children)
Rechargeable battery
Flash disk
Mathematical Set
Note Books
Index Cards (3x5 blank for flash cards – several sets for English/Math) – please label "Char Baldwin – Big AHOPE"
Plastic Containers, varies sizes (e.g. storage of flashcards, art supplies, etc)

Others
Diaper (for 9 month -2yrs)
Baby Wipes
Rubber sheet(disposable)
Toys, games (8-14 year old children)
Towels

Things we have in excess
Anti Pyretics(anti-pains) (e.g. Tylenol, Motrin)
Multivitamins
Antibiotic ointment
Tooth brush
Band Aids
Alcohol Swabs
Baby Feeding bottle
Thermometer
Hydrocortisone ointment
Gas relief
FALCON Ophthalmic Solution
Clothes for children of 1-4 years
Diaper rash ointment

The following is a list of physical donations currently needed at the Toukoul Orphanage.

Warm Blankets
Clothing (all children's sizes, gently used or new, boys and girls)
Jackets and Sweaters
Shoes
Books for the Library (hard bound and good quality)
School Supplies (pencils, crayons, paper, note books, educational activity books, flash cards, educational games that don't require batteries)
Sports/Play Equipment (soccer balls, playground balls, frisbees, bubbles, games that don't require batteries)

Referral Photo - can now be published!!

Cellphone use. Emergency Consular Service in Ethiopia

ATT Wireless does allow for international cell phone use on our Blackberry's. The cost: $3.49/minute!! They have a "special world traveler package" but it saves you no money for calls in Ethiopia.

Lucky us...our friend is gonna let us use her cell phone for the week we're there!!

Of note:
Consular Emergency while in Addis Ababa:
http://ethiopia.usembassy.gov/service.html
call 011-517-4000 ext. 0 and ask or the Duty Officer.

Our Newest Family Member...

Photo and video editing at www.OneTrueMedia.com

We passed court...and are therefore officially Hana's family per Ethiopian Law!!

Now we go get her.

Our Embassy appointment in Addis Ababa is December 15th. In the meantime, birth certificate has to be redone (with us as her parents), passports, medical clearance, visas, etc. This typically takes between 3-5 weeks.

Today we celebrate!! President Obama...and our newest family member!!

Hana's Growth/Updates from the Adoption Agency

Referral and Update Photos

Hana was born to a woman who died of TB leaving behind her an orphan at 4 months old. The father is unknown, and as a result, there was no one to take care of her. Her mom's remaining family took the baby to the social court to so that she might join the orphanage. They were no longer able to take care of the baby due to difficult living conditions. She is from South Ethiopia - born on 2/22/08 in Guemto Guech; Gamo Goffa Zone SOUTHERN NATIONS NATIONALITIS AND PEOPLE'S REGION.


JUNE: (referral picture = white dress) Her mother died, leaving her an orphan. When she arrived to the Toukoul orphanage, she was 4 months old, malnourished, and weighing only 7.7 pounds (3.5 Kg).

She was rehydrated, and basic medical care was provided. One week later, she weighed in at 8.2 pounds (3.7 Kg). Height 61 cm; head circumference 38.5 cm.

Her physical exam is unremarkable, and her blood tests/xrays/cultures are all negative. She has a good appetite, normal sleep cycle, and began laughing out loud. She holds her head steady when pulled to sitting.

JULY: (update picture = pastel/white romper) At 5 months old, she weighs in at 10.1 pounds; height 62cm, head circumference 40cm. She receives her first set of vaccinations. Developmentally, she rolls over from front to back, imitates some speech sounds/razzing sounds, and recognize familiar faces.

SEPT: (update picture = blue/gold dress) at 7 months old, she weighs in at 13.6 pounds; height 64cm, head circumference 42cm. She receives her second set of vaccinations. She's eating more, and has her formula supplemented with spoon feeds. She sits with support and has started to crawl. She transfers objects from hand to hand, babbles and reaches for familiar people.

OCT: (update picture = blue dress with hair bow) At 8 months old, she weighs in at almost 15 pounds; height 66 cm, head circumference 44cm. She's sitting unsupported and crawls.

Baby Girl in Review

JUNE: (referral picture = white dress) Her mother died, leaving her an orphan. When she arrived to the Toukoul orphanage, she was 4 months old, malnourished, and weighing only 7.7 pounds (3.5 Kg).

She was rehydrated, and basic medical care was provided. One week later, she weighed in at 8.2 pounds (3.7 Kg). Height 61 cm; head circumference 38.5 cm.

Her physical exam is unremarkable, and her blood tests/xrays/cultures are all negative. She has a good appetite, normal sleep cycle, and began laughing out loud. She holds her head steady when pulled to sitting.

JULY: (update picture = pastel/white romper) At 5 months old, she weighs in at 10.1 pounds; height 62cm, head circumference 40cm. She receives her first set of vaccinations. Developmentally, she rolls over from front to back, imitates some speech sounds/razzing sounds, and recognize familiar faces.

SEPT: (update picture = blue/gold dress) at 7 months old, she weighs in at 13.6 pounds; height 64cm, head circumference 42cm. She receives her second set of vaccinations. She's eating more, and has her formula supplemented with spoon feeds. She sits with support and has started to crawl. She transfers objects from hand to hand, babbles and reaches for familiar people.

OCT: (update picture = blue dress with hair bow) At 8 months old, she weighs in at almost 15 pounds; height 66 cm, head circumference 44cm. She's sitting unsupported and crawls.

According to Radu, everything is all set and ready for our Nov 6th court date. All documents have been acquired, and everyone is prepared.

Fingers-crossed that we become her new parents on this day.

US Embassy in Addis Ababa.

You may recall that I mentioned that we're supposed to contact the US Embassy in Ethiopia on a prior post - but couldn't wake up early enough to ever catch them before 5pm their time...

I finally had a genius moment and thought: "why don't I call the US Embassy in Ethiopia *before* I go to bed?"

So first I had to figure out how to call them:

011 - US exit code

251 - Ethiopian country code

11 - Area code for Addis Ababa

124-2424 - the phone number to the embassy.

So the number is: 011-251-11-124-2424 (this is exactly what you press on the phone)

Was on hold for the better part of an hour (called at 9am their time). Then decided to just send an email to: pasaddis@state.gov.

Got an email response the same day (which was *my* next day) saying they'd received the I600A approval (the form I171h) for an infant girl age up to 2; the dates it (and the fingerprints) expire (which are October 2nd and June 11, 2009 respectively). I also asked about the Visa 37...what it is...how to get it...

...they didn't answer that part.

So...I'll send another email, maybe after we pass court.

Travel Plans. Tickets.

Dubai. Home to the World's only 6-star hotel.


We made the decision to purchase our plane tickets!! We've decided to fly Air Emirates. Our route: LAX to Dubai then Addis. Back from Addis to Dubai, then into SFO (San Francisco). Everyone has a ticket...even baby girl!! The tickets are refundable, changeable (for small fees), and very reasonably priced. Much lower than I expected!!

After talking with multiple travel agents (including American Express Travel), we decided to use:

Scott Nordwall.
Travel International
2345 Rice St. Suite 173
Roseville, MN 55113
Phone: 1-800-494-7568 or 651-482-7568
Email: tfs@isd.net


Other popular agencies that we considered:
Elsa Abate
Addis Travel Services
1821 W. University Ave. Suite S135
St. Paul, MN 55104
Phone: 651-646-6900 or fax: 651-646-6909
Email: elsa@addistravel.net


Susan Parr
Susan Parr Travel, Inc.
1234 East Front St.
Port Angeles, WA 98362
1-800 455-7277 or 1-360-452-6596
http://www.susanparrtravel.com/

We've also reserved our hotel rooms (and the rental car to drive down to LA). The reservations for the hotel can be canceled up until 48hours prior to our expected arrival, so we felt comfortable doing this.

***

On a side note -
Most of the "things to do" on the 'pre-trip' list is done.

Trim the branches of the big tree off of the house
Micro-chip the dogs in case they get out
Sprinklers/timer fixed
Reorganize the living space to create more room


We've gathered donations, and I'm hoping to ship the box(es) so they arrive while we are there. I would rather not try to lug all of those extra items on our trip around the World.

We've gathered up most of the medications/supplies we need (still have a ways to go before we have *everything* we want to take). But between me and Sister...all the medication and medical supplies have been acquired!!

Now...we just have to get the rest of the supplies, organize (so we won't forget) our important documents, such as copies of our dossier, passports, tickets, identification, contact lists, my medical license, the stuff we'll need for the embassy appointment, and so forth and so on...(I have a check list to help organize).

Also, one of these days I'm going to wake up early enough to actually call the US Embassy in Addis during their business hours!!

Final Paperwork

Once in Addis Ababa, with the help of our attorney, we'll have to complete the I-600 form (Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative). We have the forms now, and we were instructed to fill out as much as possible. Both parents have to be present at the US Embassy (or a notarized signature must be obtained from the 'absent' parent prior to leaving the US) - unless you're a single woman adopting. The person who files the I600 must be the same petitioner as on the I-600A.

Additionally, the I-864 (Affidavit of Support) and I-864A (Affidavit of Support Contract between Sponsor and Household Member) must be done. This is an agreement that you have the resources to provide for the child...and the child will not come to America only to end up on public assistance. This is also filed with the I-600 form at the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa. Again, the petitioner of the I-600 form must be the sponsor on the I864 form.

The Form DS-230 Parts 1 and 2 - (Application for immigrant visa and alien registration) to be done for the US Embassy appointment.

*whatever we can't complete, the lawyer will assist once we arrive to Addis. I was told that we meet with him the day prior (Sunday) to go over and complete these forms correctly.

To accompany us in support of these forms:

1) Most recent paystub.
2) Notarized employment letter with recent date.
3) Last 3 years taxes (copies of 1040 and W-2 or 1099)
4) Copy of your INS approval (the form I171h)
5) The DS-230 form (parts 1 and 2)

Additionally, we must be sure to call the Embassy and make sure that our I600A approval (the I171h form) was indeed sent to them via the National Visa Center *prior* to our departure from the US. (If not, follow these steps: write a letter to the USCIS asking them to send the form to Addis Ababa. And they will. Then you'll receive confirmation and a case number that they did.)

That's the last of the paperwork per our Agency. This final paperwork couldn't have been completed prior to the referral as they require the *name* and *identity* of an actual orphan/child.