Our first year with Elijah

Elijah has been the biggest surprise! At the orphanage, he seemed troubled and reserved.




Elijah at the orphanage 2008

When he left the orphanage with us, he was very concerned about taking care of his sister and brother.

Since he's learned English, it's been wonderful to see him develop! He's able to be a young boy again. No responsibilities with taking care of the family. We made it very clear that mom and dad will take care of everyone -- you could see the relief in him! He also has been able to enjoy the sense of security by KNOWING we are his forever family!

Since being with us, Elijah has grown 3 inches and put on some weight! He loves to lift weight and exercise with dad, play sports with dad, play video games with dad -- really, anything with dad will do!

Elijah played baseball for the first time in his life this past fall. He is really interested in football and we may let him play next year. He is also involved with Cub Scouts. He's already been on his first camping trip and loved it! He was able to do all the things he likes -- camping, fishing, shooting.

Elijah is enjoying school, although he thinks he has way too much homework. It's difficult for him because he is so far behind everyone. We work with him regularly and he has had great teachers at South-Western. He loves to draw and write books. He also loves Spiderman and most super heroes.

He is a great help to mom around the house -- carrying groceries, cleaning, raking leaves, etc. And he helps dad quite a bit with the car and maintenance projects around the house.

He is a very loving boy and great fun to have in our family!



September 2009