One week since our "Gotcha Day!"



January 16, 2011


One week ago today we returned to the hotel from Hannah's Hope, with our daughter, Hermela!  There is so much to share about this past week as well as from our first trip to Ethiopia, but until then...we just had to let you in on a few "firsts" for Hermela!

Hermela loved her first "real bath" and couldn't believe how high I filled the tub.  She just kept smiling and giggling as she poured water over her head. This was the first thing she shared with her "special mothers" when we returned to Hannah's Hope the next day for a visit.

Her first escalator ride in the Addis airport was a combination pure elation and fear all in one, as she gripped my hand tightly!

We boarded Ethiopian airlines for Hermela's first trip on an airplane out of her country.  We can't wait to bring her back someday to visit the Tigray Region where she was born.



During our layover in DC we decided to initiate Hermela with a Dunkin Donut!  She enjoyed eating her glazed with sprinkles treat until about half way through it when she wanted the rest of the sprinkles taken off.

Hermela's first time walking in the snow on her way into the house.

First photos AT HOME with her sibs, Abbey, Josh, Dan, Bekah, and Luke!

Meet George, the hamster!  Hermela loves feeding George a cracker for the first time.

Hermela was set on exploring the fresh snow, but did not want anything to do with her snowpants.  Instead, she discovered our swim goggles that were hanging with the winter hats and gloves. 

Hermela loved her first sled ride with big sis, Bekah!

Even though Hermela doesn't like cold drinks, she loves to eat snow.

We discovered that she loves chocolate too!

After another long day of "firsts" Hermela took her first "nap" in front of the fire.  That was about five hours ago.  She is still sleeping and hopefully out for the night!