Orphanage Visit Today

We had the opportunity to visit the orphanage where Ellie Ruth spent 7 years of her life and Allie Joyce spent the last 3 years of her life. Zhongshan CWI is considered one of the better orphanages in China. The International Adoption Director, Miss Zhong is very involved with the children and truly wants these children to find a forever home. Currently there are over 400 children living at Zhongshan and 200 children living in the community with foster families. The number of children for this one city that are considered orphans is staggering... even with the amount of families actively involved in adopting one of these previous children.

I was worried about how the visit might affect the progress we have established with Allie Joyce, but boy did she surprise me! She was excited to see her friends and show us around, but she was just as excited to leave with her new family. Miss Zhong asked Allie Joyce if she wanted to stay in front of me and Allie Joyce said"NO!" and quickly ran out the door!! YEAH! That's my girl!

Many referrals of children from Zhongshan pictures are taken either in front of the play equipment or the picture of children playing. Ellie Ruth remembers her way around and led the way through the different rooms. The visit did not phase this advantageous child. She was happy to be there and then happy to leave!

I can honestly say I am so glad the orphanage visit is behind us. I tend to stress over how the visit will affect them and how the visit could potentially go very bad.

We are on countdown to leaving China. 4 days....

Take care!
Vicki