3 months post-placement

Standing now. Taking 1 step at a time. Very happy and easy-going baby!!

3 Months Post Placement

Hana is starting to walk. She takes a step, or two, before she falls down. Getting to this point took quite a bit of "home physical therapy" with 1 hour "sessions" about twice a week, and mini daily sessions every morning and evening. At first she was terrified of moving her legs while standing. She'd stand okay, but when you asked her to "come here" as you squat 3 feet away, reaching out your hands...she'd just stand there and cry. Crying to the point I considered perhaps there was something actually/physiclal painful about walking for her. But...now she's getting over it...and jolting forward off balance as she lundges for my hands...squealing in delight the entire time.

She's only gained 2 pounds so far. Expected weight gain is more along the lines of 1-2 pounds per month for a child without a history of malnutriton. Given her history, and expected "catch up" growth, we'd like to see more of a weight gain, so Pedi recommended adding boost, ensure, pediasure, or carnation instant breakfast to supplement her diet.

Hana was a self-soother, which is excellent. But so much so, that she almost didn't *want*...or rather *expect* to be held while sleeping/relaxing, or hugged and rubbed. If you sneak into the bedroom while she's sleeping, and rub her head, she'd wake right up. She couldn't/wouldn't fall asleep in your arms. It's like, she didn't understand that touch doesn't have to stimulate. And she certainly didn't understand falling asleep in Mommy and Daddy's bed.

...so we've been doing (almost) nightly cuddles, rub downs, kisses, and lounging in the "family bed.".

Hana is a very intelligent baby. Tell her something once, show her something once, teach her something once...and she's got it!! She's babbling, smiles for everyone, waves "bye," and scoots as fast as her little legs can crawl into the kitchen at meal times when she realizes brother and sister are running to the dinner table for a meal.

I've started using organic/natural products on her (as with the rest of the family). See, initially I didn't use organic stuff on her because either: it wasn't medicated; it wasn't strong enough; or it wasn't readily available. Now that we're home, and she's decontaminated with soft, well-healed skin, less blow-out diaper poops, no URI, no distention, etc, I feel that gentle stuff may be sufficient.

Diet: now that she's one, she's eating everything we eat (sans peanuts) - including eggs, and milk. Yep, she's tolerating lactose, which is good. Most likely her GI tract has healed from the parasites, viruses, and protozoa/giardia. The intestinal villi are functioning, and she's tolerating everything. I still give her probiotic, vitamin supplements, and the occasional reglan for spit-ups.

Grooming: Hana now gets a bath about 4x/week. She loves very warm bubble bath with lavender added, she gets a shampoo and conditioning treatment. Aveeda lotion, then natural oils on her body. Powder. I use isopropyl alcohol to clean her ears, and any spot that looks like it's trying to get infected. I use triamcinolone to treat the residual/minor flakiness that occurs when needed. I use Aveda Beautifying Composition on her hair, and a boar bristle brush to help stimulate her scalp. She get her 4 teeth brushed, and her earrings cleaned every bath. Nails clipped, and diaper cream...

...phew, lots of work goes into this grooming ritual. But, as she heals, and her skin improves, and I become more comfortable that she's okay...this will decrease in the same way it has for Haley and Ian over time.

Lastly, we've been going to Pedi ID (infectious disease) specialist for a couple of months now (since hospital discharge). Her gastric aspiration eventually grew out AFB (positive for TB); and she was started on 4 anti-TB meds. She's been taking those for 2.5 months. We have a public health nurse that comes to the house. He administered PPD (TB tests) to everyone else in the house...and they were all negative. He will come out again in the next few week to repeat the PPD placement one last time. Hana has not been sick at all with sign/symptoms of active TB. The AFB were sensitive to all TB meds (which is excellent). She continues to take Rifampin and INH for another 3.5 months. Pedi ID said that the BCG vaccine kept it from disseminating, and us adopting her...saved her life. They are all confident that she would have certainly succumbed to this disease (as her mom did) had she not began treatment ASAP.

Post-placement report - our post placement report is due this month. Will have to call social worker to come over for a visit with Hana soon.
***



It's been 3 months!! Hana is taking small, unbalanced steps. She's still sleeping very well. She's babbling, still can't quite understand her. She's a very happy, easy-going baby...but she is started to express herself a bit more. For instance, if Haley and Ian take something from her, she "yells at" them. If someone upsets her...usually with the work "NO," she will make it clear that she prefers the other parent for awhile...the one that didn't say "no." If a new person comes up to her, she may (or may not) cry...and reach/lean towards a more familiar person.

When we pick her up from daycare, she shrieks and crawls over to us with such speed!! And when I arrive home at 6 or 7pm, she is just as "excited" and loud, and yelling, as Ian and Haley. "MOOOOMMMMMYYYY!!"

On the healthcare front: She has gained 3 pounds and up to 17 pounds 9oz...putting her on the curve at about 3rd percentile. Her head circumference is still solidly at the 40th percentile. Her length at about the 25th percentile (or so). So she still has a bit of weight catch up to do. After consultation with a dietitian (and multiple pediatriticans), it was recommended that we stop the formula, and instead give her pediasure/ensure or boost; give her all table food with added butter, sour cream, cheese, etc. Okay to give peanut butter and eggs now (African kids tend *not* to have all the food sensitivities that we find here in the United States....apparently their immune systems have *other* things to do then to attack peanut or egg allergens!!)

She completed just over 2 months of Rifampin, INH, PZA, and ethambutol. The PZA and ETB was stopped per protocal after 2 months, and the RIF and INH to be continued until end of June (6 months). Pedi ID doc* is happy with her progress, states that one more set of (optional) blood tests will be done, per my request (to check her liver and kidney function, and also, since her prealbumin was low, that too), and end of course CXR. He is confident that Hana's TB is gone already, but continuation of meds for 6 months (even if the disease was dissiminated, which in her case it is not) is standard. He said he doesn't need to see Hana again. He also said that a negative PPD at 12 weeks post possible exposure will rule out the possibility that anyone else was exposed to TB.

(*pedi ID doc is this highly recommended guy who worked all over the world including Africa, Cambodia, Thailand/Asia, and has lots of exerience with international adoptees, TB, and international pediatric infectious diseases...and the fact that he thinks everything is all good with Hana, that she's absolutely doing better, not contagious, and TB-free, is reassuring).

So, everyone had a repeat PPD (TB skin test) placed...and all were negative still!! So no TB exposure in Africa, Dubai, or home here with Hana. Eventhough they say she can't really spread TB...common sense tells me that it is indeed *possible.* How could it not be? And the pedi ID doc agreed with me. So we are super happy that we retain our non-conversion status with regard to PPD.

We had our 3-month post placement visit last week. Interview, clean house...you know the drill. Hana was perfect...happy and full of personality. Ian was home as well, and he was actually perfect as well. Haley, was at school.

Social worker was very interested in the "before" and "after" regarding her health status, growth, and adjustment. Wasn't so interested in much of anything else. She stayed here about 90 minutes. Wanted to walk thru the house, see Hana's room/bed, and spend a bit of time playing with Hana. It was light, and kinda fun to talk to someone about our experiences so far with Hana at home. She offered a bit of insight, stories, etc. And that was that. I made a collage from this site to include with the post-placement report that has to be submitted to the placement agency at 3, 6 and 12 months, to be done by a social worker. Then once a year thereafter until Hana is 18...to be done by us.

February - 1st Year of Life

Early February Update:

People often ask "how is Hana adjusting?"

Hana *has* ADJUSTED!! It is the rest of the family that's still *adjusting.* Meaning, Haley is a great big sister, but at times feels the urge to let the new baby know...that she is indeed, in charge. Ian is accepting, mostly. At times, however, when Hana decides she wants to explore his car collection...he has a fit. The thing is, when Haley 'explores' (i.e. takes over) his car collection...he's okay with it. Maybe Ian is trying to establish his "rank" as big brother. Mommy is now more relaxed now that the baby seems to be on a huge healthy upward swing. And Daddy...well, he was the most flexible, easily adjusted member of our family from day one.


"Honey, does it ever seem like she's not quite our child yet - since she just kinda showed up?"

His response: "See, to me, they *all* just sorta 'show-up'...so I feel exactly the same as when they placed the other two in my arms and proclaimed me the Daddy."

I've been in contact with some other families who adopted with us...and they are having some "adjustment issues," but mostly with children over 3. I can imagine...

Hana is doing very well. She is standing...just for a few seconds at a time, unsupported. She still eats like a champ. I think she has a "reserve stomach" or something, as much as she eats. I've switched her formula from soy to lactose-free dairy at the recommendation of the dietitian. The GI specialist supported my recommendation to order additional blood tests to evaluate nutritional status, lead exposure, etc (things that are not immediately necessary...but will be as time passes).

This month we had a party INTRODUCING the baby to friends and family in Orange County, CA. We also took a trip to the Dallas Fort Worth Metroplex to visit friends there. Enjoy the pix of us at Ruth's Chris!! At the "Sip and See." On the airplane. And hanging out in the Metroplex!!

***

What an incredible first year of life the baby has had!!

We celebrated her first birthday last weekend - and what fun she had!! We had a small, little party at home. Grandma and Grandpa came up from Orange County. We had cake. We had ice-cream. We had hats, candles, gifts, and goodie bags. All the bday essentials!!

Hana continues to thrive. She's standing for secords, unsupported. She even tries to take little steps...but chickens out and sits down. She seems to say "mama," "dada," and "dog," but it's not reproducible or consistent...so maybe not. She's eating everything. Her poops are solid and only once or twice daily. Whereas when we first met her her "life light" was dim and flickering...

...now, it can light up the night sky!!

What else can I say?

The family is doing great. It seems as though the "adjustment issues" have plateaued. Ian now considered Hana apart of the family, in that he actually includes her in his 'drawings' of our family picture. He is always sure to include her when he's assigning everyone a "type of car." (See, he's into hotwheels, and everyone in the family has a certain color, or style...that varies daily...and is determined by him). So it's a huge deal for him to "assign" her a type of car!!

I catch Haley playing "Mommy" with Hana...lecturing her and such. It's kinda funny to me becaue she's giving Hana the same lectures I give her. When I stand back and spy...I feel a sense of pride...like Haley is actually *listening* to (and learning from) me. But, I quickly catch myself because (obviously) Haley shouldn't be "playing the Mommy" with her sister.

One last thing until next time: After reading the book, There's No Me Without You, I find myself wondering...what was life like for Hana before she went to the orphanage? Was her mother healthy enough to nurse her? Did she hold her...or perhaps she realized she was sick, and didn't want to infect the baby, so she didn't hold her much? Were there other children (siblings) that maybe died before Hana was born...and when Hana failed to thrive by 3 months of age, did her parents realize she was going to die like the other(s) if they didn't do a different thing? Did her mother know she, herself, was dying, and did she request that the baby be given to an orphanage? What about the Uncle that reliquished her? Does he have his own family...or maybe he's keeping some older siblings, and just couldn't handle one more? I wonder what Hana remembers...of those early months, the transit from the satillite orphanage in Southern Region to the main Toukoul in Addis. Does she see a her mother's features when she looks at my face?

By the time she's old enough to tell me...she will have forgotten. But right now, I bet she remembers. And that amazes me. In her short one year...she has experienced so much. And probably KNOWS it!! But, is unable to share it.

Kinda makes me wish we had some USB wires that we could connect from her temporal lobes to our laptop...and watch the slide show of her life so far!!

Introduction

Hana had her introduction party, organized by Grandma Janet! Family came over to her Orange County house, had snacks, drinks, gave gifts, and met the newest member of the family.

Regular updates about Hana can be found at: http://hanajanet.shutterfly.com/whatshanadoingnow

Mid January 2009

Hana's doing well. She eats like a pro. She's standing with support. She's starting to cruise. She is comfortable at home now...and doesn't cry when everyone is out of her direct line of vision.

She's out of the hospital...all tests were done. She had a follow-up pedi appointment today, which showed a half pound weight gain. Not much, but we'll take it!!

She's LOVIN' Haley!! Her and Ian still have to find their places in the family.

Here are a few candid pix of her...eating, bedtime reading, bath splashing, napping. Ears are pierced!!
***

Hana's doing well. From a medical POV, she's doing very well. It's difficult to document her weight gain because sometimes her clothes are on...sometimes the diaper is full, etc. And when you are only 14 pounds...every ounce counts!! But she *seems* bigger and heavier (very scientific, I know)

As far as bonding...there isn't an issue. It's almost "suspicious" that she's SO comfortable with us so quickly...only meeting us last month. But the Universe...has a plan. She HATES to be told "no." It SO hurts her feelings...and she cries, and cries, and cries...because (as Haley would say) "we're unhappy with her." Of course we're VERY happy with her...but she's still learning what 'no' means.

She sleeps thru the night. She gets VERY excited when we walk into the room. She spazzes whenever she sees a bottle. Even in Target, when we pass the baby isle...she spazzes...cuz she KNOWS there's baby food nearby. It's hilarious to watch!!

She's been completely decontaminated...bug juice, worm juice, etc. Ready to start daycare on Tuesday. She's no longer congested, and her belly is normal. She still has lots of poops tho'.

She crawls all over. She loves to play with her siblings...and will do so for hours before needing a break. She's not so much into TV (yet). She still eats everything presented....eventually. She cruises. She babbles, coos, and LOVES to laugh out loud. She's realizing the concept of "gravity" and when you lift her high, you can see her eyes get big (whereas before she loved it...now she's like "wait a minute...I'm up kinda high.")

What else can I say?

The family is adjusting well. Not without little bumps...but nonetheless. Adding a new family member to the "mobile" requires everyone to adjust just a bit to regain the balance.

Have you read There's no Me Without You? A book about Ethiopian orphans. LOVED IT. If you are at all interested in this little girl...you'll love this book!! Go get it...and read it.

The New Year

The New Year is here.

Hana's doing very well. She had a short hospitalization so the various test/exams the pedi wanted could be done easily...without taking 6 weeks of office visits, etc. Tests included labs, radiographs of her chest, hips, nutritional status and dietary eval, child psychology (to see how she's adjusting, and help if she's having any trouble. Also to evaluate her development and recommend physical therapy, counseling, or whatever.) She received some vaccinations, etc. etc. She was such a trooper!!

Her skin is almost 'normal' - after two scabies treatments, topical steroids, antibiotics, etc.

She's eating pretty much whatever. She's a very happy baby...and has joined the family nicely!!

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.