It is hard to believe that I have only been here a little over 2 weeks. So much has happened since arriving on the 13th. The most exciting thing, of course, is Em's arrival with her daughter, Elsa from Ethiopia. They came in Wednesday evening after what was a very long and exhausting flight.
Em and Elsa had a marathon 30 hour trip home, the baby was sick and there were lots of challenges on their trip. The planes were full, there were no empty seats and little Elsa wanted to be held the entire time. Clare was a trooper helping to hold and entertain Elsa In SF, Clare got on yet one more plane and flew home via Portland. I hear that she is still among the land of the living now she is back on her Farm in Gaston, Oregon with all of her animals and her husband, Brian. Emily could not have done this trip with out all of Clare's help. Clare identified herself as the main sherpa and picture taker.
I finally got to meet Miss Elsa Thursday afternoon. She is so beautiful and good natured even when not feeling too great. I stayed for several hours and was enchanted by my newest grandchild. Emily was exhausted and I did a little helping out with things around the house while she tended to Elsa. Some really good friends have been staying with Em overnight and have gotten up to do the night feedings and entertaining. Elsa has her clock all messed up. Day is night and visa versa.
I had the duty last night and what a sweet heart, she slept through the night until 5 am. I think she felt sorry for her Oma. Of course, I did not sleep as I lay awake waiting to hear her cry. The good news is that Em got her first real chunk of sleep in over a week. What a welcome relief!
Em is doing great as a mother! She is a natural, Elsa will be loved and cared for so well.... I can see this already. I am so grateful for Em's many good friends who come over with meals, baby things, flowers, help and encouragement. It is heartwarming to see what a wonderful response this happy arrival has created. Em, (Porter) has been a really good friend to many and now she gets to receive for awhile.
I am helping to get Em's home back into order, she simply has not had the time to do anything but care for Elsa. I am happy to be the "putter awayer" of travel things and the organizer of stuff that has grown in the dark when Em has been away. This little baby has had so much given to her and Em's friends are giving her their baby stuff that they no longer need. There is baby equipment, clothes and feeding paraphenalia in every nook and cranny. It is amazing how one little person of 7 months can change a Mom's life so much! It is exciting to be here and be part of the action and feels good to be able to help.
The weather has been warm and wonderful which has kept my spirits high. I plan to visit several churches in the area before I settle into one church home. I am not sure what's up for tomorrow. I am taking it one moment at a time these days.
1 comment:
Hi Mom,
It's great to read about this from your perspective. I wish I could be there to help out, but perhaps I can still be helpful at a later date.
Sending much love,
Kate
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