Everyone woke up happy and went straight into playing. Took turns with Daddy feeding him at breakfast. Leo prefers to be with Mama (finally–after having two daddy’s girls!), so we’ve been trying to give Phillip opportunities to meet his needs.

At 9:00 a.m. we traveled to the orphanage. I knew this day would be a very emotional time for Leo, especially with the confusion of going back to the only home he’s ever known, but not getting to stay there. In a way, I wish I could say that the orphanage was rundown, dirty, and disorganized, and that we rescued Leo from a terrible life. But the truth is, the orphanage is a safe haven for these abandoned children–wide open spaces outside of the building for kids to run around, well trained staff who give proper care and attention to the kids, and clean rooms and facilities for the kids be in and use. We went up to the floor where Leo spent most of his life and met the nannies. Leo lit up when he was reunited with his nanny, who held him a lot of the time we were there. I am so thankful for this woman who took care of our son this whole time and loved on him before we could hold him in our arms. We were told that there is one nanny for every two or three kids–an amazing ratio! The kids were well loved and taken care of here. 

Our family with Leo’s nanny. So thankful for this woman and for the care he gave our son for the first two and a half years of his life!

A few of the orphanage staff and our personal guide on the right.

This crib is where Leo slept at night

The nursery

Washroom where the kids bathed and brushed teeth

Found a picture of little Leo on the wall!