I can't believe we've been home almost 2 weeks now. In some ways it feels like we just got home and in other ways it feels like we've been here with him forever. Each day we see a little bit more of his personality pop out, yes even the obstinate side. He's typically pretty smiley and fun loving, often enjoying books, pictures, trains, car, balls, painting, playdoh, dishes, blocks, and on and on. We've been surprised to not see a lot of outwardly obvious grieving behaviors as I've read in many books or heard about in the adoption groups. We know he's lost so much including a loving family and friends, familiar smells, sounds, and tastes, and the comfort of his birth country and culture. Yet he has also been asked to take on much more than any little guy should have to, doing it with confidence and curiosity. Yes Benjamin has the regular meltdown or two or three daily. Typically because he has not gotten his way or we're having difficulty understanding what he needs. We know his little heart and mind are both grieving and growing in his own special way and most importantly he's allowing us to comfort him in the tough times.
Benjamin has really seemed to transition well thus far and has really jumped right into living the life here in central Illinois (aka Siberia the last couple of weeks). It's been hard to get outside and play due to the frigid cold weather and snow. However, we've had a few chances to get out for some playtime. We've also had quite a few opportunities to meet friends and family as well as squeeze in a hair cut and doctors appointment. These have all been a great reprieve from cabin fever.
We thank everyone for their patience and understanding in us introducing Benjamin to new faces and places. In all actuality he's seen a lot more of you than I thought he would in just these first 2 weeks. He's taken well to those of you that've had the chance to meet him. And we look forward to meeting many more family and friends in the coming weeks and months!!! Here is a LARGE sampling of some of my favorite pictures from the last 13 days.
