A Day of Thanks

This has been a Thanksgiving unlike any other we've had. As we woke to the news of the Mumbai attacks, we had one more reason to consider all of the many blessings we enjoy. More than anything, we realize how thankful we are for our loving family and close friends. As I'm writing this, our Thanksgiving is coming to a close, and yours is just underway. We hope you each have a wonderful day and a chance to reflect on all of the blessings the Lord has showered on each of us.

Other than what we've learned through the internet and the morning paper, we've gleaned very little information about the Mumbai attacks. Of course our interaction with others has been limited. We certainly feel for the victims and their families.

When we first heard the news, we considered whether we should change our plans and stay here at the hotel. Considering that two of the attacks took place in hotels, that didn't seem like the best choice. In the end, we went to Agra and all went well.

We spent much of the day driving to and from Agra, to see the Taj Mahal. Although we have seen pictures and heard others' descriptions, when we first saw it we were still stunned by its beauty. It was fun to see, and worth the considerable effort to get there. In retrospect, it would have been better as a two day excursion. However, Leena was a trooper and did remarkably well.

Leena is getting more and more comfortable with us each day. She has a very cute, playful personality that we're really just getting a glimpse of. She has a wry smile that steals the hearts of those around us every where we go. As I'm writing this, she's just dozing off to sleep next to me. When we are in the hotel room or the car, she still wants Heather to hold her most of the time. Away from the Hotel and car, and even at times there too, she comes easily to Nate and me. On her list of favorites, I'm clearly in 3rd place.

Nate continues to show his adaptability. He's too tall for the bed here in our Delhi hotel room, so he can't stretch out in bed. He hasn't complained, and just goes with the flow wherever we are, and is always willing to help with Leena. From the son who used to be upset if there was anything but ketchup on his hamburgers, I'm a little surprised at how he has fallen in love with Indian food. We haven't found anything that he hasn't said he enjoyed.

As you might expect, Leena makes a conspicuous sight travelling with the three of us. People stop us everywhere to confirm that we're adopting her, and ask questions about it. I suspect John and Erin had similar experiences. On a couple of occasions, after we confirmed that we have adopted Leena, they asked if Nate is her adoptive father. Heather was quick to point out that must mean they thought I'm her grandfather. Unfortunately, it probably won't be the last time I hear that.

Tomorrow, we go to the Embassy first thing in the morning to complete the application for Leena's visa. It shouldn't take more than an hour. We will see Old Delhi and probably some of the markets, and hopefully have a quieter day.


We can't wait to speak with you. Happy Thanksgiving to all, and thanks for your thoughts and prayers on our behalf.

(Kent)