Tuesday, August 17, 2010

August 7


Today I woke up, got dressed, and packed/organized my things for the return trip home.  I grabbed a quick bite to eat with a protein bar and finished filling out my evaluation of Desi and Ashley.  After I finished with everything from the guest house, I went down to House 5 to see Carlos, Lester, and Neyali plus the other young babies to spend a little amount of quality time before I headed North.  After I took some last pictures I headed to House 6 to visit the older orphans to take photos and see them as well.  I wandered outside and was asked by one of the Special Moms to get a few playground balls for the little ones, and I headed down the road to a nearby cul-de-sac to play with the young kids.  I helped them with snack time and then Neyali, who is very temperamental, warmed to me and we spent our last time together by me holding her, looking at/paying with leaves on a tree, spinning, and laughing all the way.  By this time, the other team members and all of kids from Dorie's Promise joined us on the empty street.  One special moment was when I would whisper and tell Neyali I'd miss her in English, she would collapse into my arms and give me the best hugs . . . it was quite endearing.  Finally it was time to say our last goodbyes and to hold back tears.  The kids could tell this was goodbye for good and there were many hugs and kisses on the cheek.  In an instant we were in the van and whisked away to the airport by our faithful Abel.  

 

Carlos

Carolina
Baby Max
Cul-de-sac where we spent our last hour with the children
Classic Lester look!!

Alex

Neyali

Miguel

Johnathan
Desi, Neyali, & Me . . . my last goodbye to Neyali :(
Amanda's goodbye to Marlon

Mis amigo siempre!!

Once we were in the airport, we got through security and customs very quickly.  The plane to Houston was on time and we landed safely stateside with luggage in hand.  We had no problems going through customs or security again for our last leg home.  It was perfect timing in Houston to grab a bit to eat right up to boarding the plane.  We’re now back in Indianapolis, and it has felt like the longest and shortest week of my life all at the same time.  It's hard to imagine it all being over.

The clouds as we descend back into the United States

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