Why they don't know how old they are...

I was reading on CCI's yahoo group this explanation:

Most of the kids that come home from overseas have made up birthdates. Many were abandoned and the orphange just guessing on their birth date. This is often true for countries such as China, Russia, Ukraine, etc. In many developing countries, such as Ethiopia, most people don't actually know when they were born. Many were born in rural villages, like my girls, where no one has a calender. Also, Ethiopia has a otally different calendar than the rest of the world. It has 13 months and they just had ET New Year's so its now 2002 in Ethiopia therefore there are often mistakes when they try to translate the date into our calendar.

Sure is interesting! I am still trying to comprehend how one part of the world is still in 2002. Instead of being 49, I would only be 45. I think I like that!

The other boy, "O"

This was written up at his admission to the orphanage and the birthdate can't be right because he is at least twelve.

Birthdate: 10/22/98
Date of Admission: 2006

O's parents both passed away from an illness, and he was taken in by his brother. He ended up on the streets though when they could no longer afford to care for him.

O is a good student and is in the second grade at the Orphanage School. His favorite food is pasta. He enjoys playing ball with his best friend "S". When he grows up he would like to be a doctor, and one day visit America.

O arrived at the orphanage malnourished and underweight, but his spirits were high. He suffers from no physical disabilities, and is doing well now with proper nutrition and diet.

T is healthy!

We got the news this morning that T is HIV negative and the final recommendation is: Physically and mentally fit for adoption.

Another hurdle crossed.

Why we adopt

From an Illinois newsletter about adoption:

Others tell you that you are good with kids.

Your commitment will help change a child's future.

Patience and a sense of humor are two of your greatest strengths.

You have love and time to give.

Reaching out to others seems natural to you.

You have a spare bedroom, and you rather it go to a child than become yet another storage closet.

You know how important it is to be a part of a family.

You are ready to accept the challenge of parenting a special child.

You believe that every kid deserves a family.

Today there are approximately 6 million orphan children in Ethiopia who need the constant love of a family.