Watching the orphanage superintendent, Vanaja, say goodbye Niranjana brought tears to my eyes. It happened again when we asked Pastor Mariasingarayar to give Niranjana a blessing. We did manage to get her to sing her "rejoice" song for the pastor and his wife, who was looking like she wished she'd never followed the rules and turned that cute baby over to the police.
I must give thanks for Kamala, the woman whose voice you hear on the videos of Niranjana. We thought it was an easy request to visit the church. Maybe a 20-minute drive in the city, a few photos by a sign, then back to the hotel for dinner. But no. This church is in a small town that was at least an hour's drive from the hotel - except we went too far at first and had to backtrack. It wasn't quite as scenic as one of my dad's Montana shortcuts. We passed several industrial sites, including an oil refinery. The sides of the road had piles of garbage and big puddles that looked like rainwater mixed with something toxic.
The driver, Manoug, earned a big tip. A man who will ask directions, not once, but at least five times - of police officers directing traffic, roadside lime juice stands, the driver of the auto rickshaw stuck in traffic next to us, random people walking along the street. We finally got there. It was dark and dinnertime. Of course, the pastor didn't know we were coming - but he was there! Kamala explained things and smoothed over an awkward situation. What an amazing experience. We confirmed that Niranjana's birth mother is unknown, but we received valuable pieces to her story.
To top off the day, Kamala pulled an extra baby photo of Niranjana from her official file and gave it to us. A baby photo was not something I ever expected to be able to give my daughter. Truly, a day to rejoice.
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Uncle Joe?
I've now got a new nickname at the golf course. Everyone just says 'hey Uncle!' when they come in the pro shop.
Finally figured it out!
Finally figured out why I am looking for another name to be called beside grandma. . . I never had a grandma. You and Kevin had 2, Andy had 1 that I am aware of. Anyway, if any one out there was a "cute", apprproiate name for grandma, I would take suggestions. Mona, Andy's mom, has an Indian name selected (which I can't remember).
Grandma sounds old to me, (I am legally the grandmother), but could could go for options!
(This is meant to be a light blog)
Niranhana's maternal grandmother
xoxxoo
Guess who???
What a difference a day makes!
The best photo has got to be Niranjana sleeping. Didn't think you would have her with you today. It must have been hard for Kamala to see her go. We're glad you were able to get some history and the baby photo. Very precious things. Continue to be safe and give her a hug for us. Niranjana too (hi Mona).
L & A
What a way to end the week!
Loved the comments and the pictures. As I work with children and families all week long I often reflect on the unique circumstances you and Andy are in. God is blessing you and guiding you in this wonderful experinence. We can hardly wait to meet our new granddaughter.
xox
Mom and Dad (O'Neil)
Carole C. here...
Great to know you made connections and everything has gone so well. Your excitement is well noted as well as the journalist in you both...you two are too funny! Please send more info (time permitting) and specifically I'd like to hear more about how little Naranjana lets you know she needs to potty. Should be interesting on the flight.
God bless you all and keep you safe on your journey HOME!
Feeling joy for you
Not much can bring tears to these old, cynical eyes; but your, and Andy's, comments about Naranjana and your first meeting did. Deana and I wish you great blessing and joy! Maybe you are our next Reading Foundation poster?
Safe trip home.
Marc & Deana
Luckiest people in the world!
The day you meet your child for the first time is amazing. You know how I feel about adoption and for this little miracle to find her way into your loving arms is amazing. I am so happy for all of you. However, reading all of your blogs this a.m. I have to tell you---my office is out of tissue now:) God bless and have safe travels.
Kelly
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