Big Strides

It's been a busy few days and we get the feeling that this is how it's going to be during this adventure, and we're perfectly fine with that.  We're having such a good time getting into a little routine and are enjoying getting to see Emanuel's charming little personality blossom. 

We went to the FANA birthday party yesterday and were very anxious and fearful to see what his reaction would be upon returning there.  It's impossible to know, but he was likely confused and then became very angry.  This obviously broke our hearts to see him react so strongly and it confirmed our worst fears for the day.  Later in the day, we met with his psychologist, Luis, who Emanuel had a close relationship with during his time at FANA.  The meeting went well and Emanuel started to get his smile back.  On the way home, he was so loving and playful that Leah and I knew we had our little guy back.  With this visit, it fully confirmed what a wonderful place FANA is as many of the staff took time to greet Emanuel in a very loving, supportive way.

We had a relatively low key day today.  We had to run a few paperwork errands with our wonderful driver/guide and made 2 trips to the park and 1 for ice cream.  Emanuel is becoming much more confident and brave, initiating climbing up on the playground equipment and taking the slide many times (having a spotter of course).  This is likely the start of some daring acrobatics.  Leah and I will have to be on our toes!

Glow stick party (thank you Graber's) after dinner.  Emanuel with his buddy April.

Tomorrow, off to the zoo.

Love,
Leah, Jeff & Emanuel