In my life...

"There are places I'll remember

All my life though some have changed

Some forever not for better

Some have gone and some remain...

      

Today we returned to visit Baby Home 2 and say good-bye to Harry's caregivers. Mike and I initially didn't think he would be emotionally capable of understanding this was just a "visit" and not a return to the life he once knew. Harry's had much disappointment, and often he would be moved to a new group without notice. We didn't him to think this was what was happening. Three weeks with a family and then back to the group. Ultimately we decided he would be okay, and with Irina's help, we prepared him for the day.

He was happy to be back there, and as usual, announced his arrival with a loud VOT!

He proudly handed out gifts to his group, and to his caregivers and staff members. Quickly it became evident that Harry was not the same boy that left there 3 short weeks ago. He told everyone his Poppa was home already, with Levi & Sabaka. He told them his new name, and with a new confidence, walked around the room with Skip, playing with some of his old friends. (Sadly, Danil has been transferred to Cheremkhovo, but we hold onto the hope that this quiet, sweet boy will also find a home soon.)

Everyone noticed the change in Harry, and he went around the room passing out hugs to all. His favorite, Natasha, had the day off but knew we planned to visit, and came to see him! Another favorite, Nadia, was working in another group, but came by especially so say Good-bye to him. Both women cried when they saw him again. He posed for pictures with everyone, and we sat and talked until it was lunchtime for the children.

With final hugs from the caregivers (for both Skip AND I) we said good-bye and made our way downstairs. As happy as Harry was to come and visit, he was equally happy to leave with his family and return "home" to the apartment. I was relived and proud of the progress he has made.

After leaving group 5, we stopped by the group where Skip last lived, and where his friend Evan last lived as well. We brought photos and candies from both boys. The staff was amazed and how they have both grown, and we thankful for the thoughtfulness.

Finally, we stopped to say good-bye to the woman I know only as "The Guard". An older woman who monitors all visitors to the building. We we left with Harry 3 weeks ago, she cried openly at the sight of him leaving with his family. Today she cried again. She again smothered him with hugs as the tears fell down her face.

And so we left Baby Home 2 and closed the door on this part of his life. While we are anxious to return home with him - to the new family and life that awaits - we never want him to forget the place and the people who first cared for, loved (yes, LOVED) and raised him.

...And these memories lose their meaning
When I think of love as something new
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more
Though I know I'll never lose affection
For people and things that went before
I know I'll often stop and think about them
In my life I love you more
In my life I love you more"

---The Beatles In My Life