Bucket list...

 There are so many things that I wanted to do with the boys while they are here - but at the same time, I want them to have down time. I want them to see what our family is like, and while we are on the go a lot, we do have down time. I also want them to see so much, but at the same time, I don't want them to think that this is all we do in the US. There really is a balance here - and it is a very fine line. It is not uncommon that children from orphanages struggle connecting with people (as people don't stay long in their lives) and understanding/feeling unconditional love. It is also not uncommon for the children to ask for something, something somewhat outrageous, and we, as parents, know and understand boundaries, say no, and then the children get upset and put a bit more distance in the relationship. Undoing these feelings takes a lot of time and dedication, more that can be accomplished in just five short weeks. However, for this short time, they do get to see and feel what it is like to be a part of a family: the good, the bad, the ugly and the beautiful and sometimes, all at the same time. We've had some amazing moments these last few days. So... what have we done? Well, I prefer to use Google to help me. So Google - what is a good Christmas bucket list? Here is what we have created for this season and what we have completed!

So every year, I take the boys to pick out a Christmas ornament. We write their name and year on the bottom. Usually it is something that the are really interested in! Edwin and José Manuel also got to pick. And they choose to make my tree a Grinch tree! I love it! 

We have also been able to see Hunter and Hudson at school and the boys got to experience their first snow! Edwin absolutely LOVES it! He has been out multiple times in it. José Manuel, on the other hand, prefers to watch from a distance LOL! 
We, of course, also had to visit Santa. These kids believe that Santa exists, but just doesn´t visit them in the DR. How sad! I can´t imagine growing up believing that someone who brings presents to all the girls and boys around the world, except where I live. Some times, again, I am speechless about how blessed my life has been, even with all the difficulties. 

But these smiles just lift all of our spirits! We had some time building gingerbread houses, which was pretty interesting! And, after finishing, Santa judged all of them, and through our elf, Elfie, told them that they all did a great job and got 1st place! 

As we settle down for the next few days of magic, I want to thank you for reading and following us thus far. By doing this, I have met so many amazing and wonderful people! And while I may not always show my appreciation, please know that I think of you regularly. Without you, I would not be doing this. 

I am going to continue asking for help! Some continue to ask how they can help and here are some suggestions - 

1. Send gift cards for different restaurants. I want the boys to try different foods while we are here and it would be great to have some help!
2. Movie tickets 
3. Financially - if you would like to donate financially (last four of my phone is x2993)
1. Here is my PayPal - @teresamccann6
2. Here is my Venmo - @Teresa-McCann-6
3. Contact me via email - TLMCCANN2002@yahoo.com