Pick-Up Trip Days 8 & 9

October 11, 2014

This morning we headed to the Cascades.  The kids were not very interested in the monument itself or the view from the top, but all three enjoyed the rides up and down on the multiple long and steep escalators.  I don't think Ella had ever been on one and just giggled the whole time once she figured out how they work.  In the afternoon we spent some time with an American family who has been living in Armenia for about seven years.  They are so nice and showered us with attention and gifts.  Ella especially enjoyed playing with their second-grader.  Upon their recommendation, we had a delicious Chinese meal for dinner.  Ella is a good eater and gravitates mostly toward fresh fruit, vegetables and meat.  Like her siblings, Ella enjoys watching videos on the Kindle.  She's already singing along to some children's songs

October 12, 2014

This morning we had a wonderful visit with a friend whom we met during our adoption of Rex.  It was so great to see her again and catch up.  We did a little walking together and then let the kids have fun on the playground while we chatted.

After lunch and naps, we took a taxi to B--- to meet with Rex's birth family.  This time we were invited to his birth parents' home in the village where they live.  Rex would have grown up there had they decided to parent him.  We really cannot say enough good about Rex's first family.  They are warm, generous, sincere and caring.  They have embraced all of us fully with open arms and acceptance.  Just like us, they feel that their family has now been extended.  They are also happy and thankful to know that Rex is in good hands and growing up in a family and country that can help him reach his fullest potential.  We are very blessed to have this connection.  Here are a few photos of Rex and his bio siblings (and for those of you wondering, we did discuss this with the "K" family and we all agreed that there would be no need for secrecy):