And then there were 6...

We arrived at Como Zoo, with our stomachs in our throats.  We are unvelievably lucky to have our case worker, Michelle.  She's been with us every step of the way and definately helped ease our tension for our first meeting today.  She made small talk and kept us laughing until we waited for them to show up.

Evan and Sawyer were playing in the grass area, in front of the building entrance, while the rest of us waited near the carousel.  Next thing I know, Sawyer is talking to a boy.  I right away thought he found someone from school.  Next thing I know, they're walking toward us.  That boy was Paul.  He spotted the boys right away and politely introduced himself.  It was so cool!

Foster mom, Patty, was parking the car, while her daughter brought the kids up.  The daughter told us they had spied on us for a few minutes and knew who we were from our pictures.  We sat in the grass and the kids asked all sorts of questions..first one..Can we have Facebook?  Our response...we'll talk.  Our talk time was minimal and awkward.  Everyone was relieved to actually go to the zoo.  The kids were amazing!  All of them.  What could have been a terribly awkward situation turned out to be wonderful...pretty sure this is the start of the 'honeymoon'.

We left the zoo and already had plans for them to come by the construction zone, aka- our house, and then head to Elm Creek Park Reserve for dinner.  It was a long day, but not so much to process this time.  I took all the kids in the van and toured the city, while Rob and  Patty went to Cub to grab some food.  We went past schools, parks, etc. all the while each kid talking a hundred miles an hour at volume 10.  I was thinking ear plugs...I'm going to need some ear plugs.

The kids were all talking about... can I call him my brother and sister.  Both families were asking.  My response, do what feels right.  We left by kids hugging and Rob and I giving pats on the back (funny how the kids got the hugs...).  I knew they wouldn't be quite ready for a hug from us yet.  They headed off to the hotel with smiles on their faces and excitement for our next visit.  That will take place in one week.  Just in time for us to finish up the school year.

I can say that I feel blessed, and I am glad that day is behind us.  Somehow, things just seem easier now.

Michelle