Trip #1, Part 6

Day 6 was my first day without getting to see Callie. It was much more of a low-key day. I puttered around my apartment for a bit in the morning before my first visit with Chance. Throughout my trip I had some difficulty sleeping, I was often up early.  That worked out OK though because I was usually able to Skype with Jason before he went to bed.  Time change is strange!

I really think that Chance began to recognize me (as much as he likely recognizes any of his caregivers).  I hope I am high on his list of favorites as he did seem to favor me some. I got to play with Chance for a while and feed him his lunch before it was time for his nap. 

In general Chance is a very happy boy, especially when he is engaged; however due to living in an orphanage for 2.5 years he does have some institutional-type behaviors which is to be expected.  I am willing to bet that our children are in some of the best orphanages in their country, if not in all of Europe.  I love the staff there and the staff loves the children.  That really shows, however an orphanage will never be the same as a family.  The children to not get a ton of one-on-one time with caregivers like they would a mom or dad.  The nannys have to feed the children, bathe them, change them, play with them and put them to bed. I know that Chance will decrease his behaviors over time, just like Claudia did.  While I was there with him, spending individual time with him, I saw a great decrease already.

Speaking of the staff, the caregivers are so sweet to the children and I love the Sisters. I cannot say enough good things about them. They truly and deeply love every child that comes into their care. They do not care about prognoses, or lifespans. The caregivers love on each and every child for as long as they have them, the children in this particular orphanage tend to have more severe needs. There are several with CP, SB, DS, DD and more. Some of the children are very bright and have mostly physical disabilities.

Back to Chance... He has the greatest laugh and such a big, joyful smile. He copies me at times and anticipates when I am going to do something. Chance is very ticklish and squirmy. He enjoys cuddling into my chest. Chance can grasp large objects but has very poor fine motor coordination. He is starting to learn how to stand briefly with assistance.

During Chance's nap I had a productive afternoon.  And by productive, I mean that I did things other that eat lunch and sit in my room.  I got some local pizza which was very good, then I even ventured to a coffee shop by myself during lunch to get a gingerbread latte which was also amazing! I was able to to go to the huge outdoor market they have in the center of the city every weekend; there are crafters selling their wares at the market. The craftsmanship on some of the items is absolutely amazing!

Later that afternoon I got to take Chance outside for a walk in the stroller. It was nearly 60 degrees out but still Chance was bundled up as if it were 20 degrees or less!  They really try to keep the children warm. Such is the European way. After our walk I fed him his dinner and said good bye. I don't think he was too happy to see me leave. <3 p="">

This evening I had my translator order me some authentic local food, it was a wrap with pork, french fries, potatoes, onion, peppers and herbs. Sooo yummy!  After dinner in my room, I ventured out into the streets of the city by myself to take a walk in the nice weather and to find some dessert. I found my way into a sweets shop and bought Turkish delight.  That is an interesting treat. Not bad, but not quite satisfying to my American sweet tooth!

By this point my trip was almost over, I onle had one more day left with Chance before I left for several months...