Happy Birthday Nes

Today is Nesradine's eighth birthday.  He requested lasagna, and chocolate cheesecake for his birthday dinner.  He had sent a birthday wish list to his grandparents the day after Karsten's birthday.  One of the first things he memorized after he joined our family was the order of birthdays.  This was actually rather impressive for a four year old that barely knew English, and had nine people to keep in order.  He had asked for a Wii, K'nex, Legos, Avengers, white pants, and black pants.  He got the pants, and some how talked one of the guys from camp into getting him Avengers.  He got money from the grandparents and is determined to get a Wii. While we were at the cousins he discovered Kendama's, I decided that would be a fabulous gift, so I got him one.  He loves it, but it is driving Soren crazy.  I found out later that Martha has nearly knocked out two people that have let her play with theirs.  Things I should have thought longer about.

Nesradine is still the sweetest kid on the planet.  He is very concerned about other people.  He shares his stuff, and will give you whatever you ask for before he takes his share.  He is tough.  He plays sports with the big kids and rarely ever cries.  He will take a hit, brush off and dive right back into the game.  He does have a keen sense of fairness, and if he thinks he is getting cheated he keeps at you until you make it right.  If you ask him for something he will give it, but if you take it he will hunt you down.

He has blessed me far more than I have blessed him.  He is affectionate, and patient with me.  He has had some emotional times, but they are few and far between.  I am hopeful that we will be able to return to Ethiopia and see his mom.  He is very concerned about who his dad is, and I hope that someday he will find those answers.  For now we tell him that God is his father, and Rick is too.  He has all the protection and love he needs, even though we know that he will always ache for the parents he has lost.  I have so much hope for him and all the people that he touches.

I'm thankful for...

Adoption

Birthday cakes made by big sisters

Late flights that give extra days in CA

Disney land

Gifts from guys who are really sweet and shouldn't have

Families singing Happy Birthday

Pink cheeks and big smiles