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8.18.2010

Reni's first play date

Today was a pretty quiet day since all of our medical and Embassy appointments are done! We spent most of the day lounging around the apartment and playing. I did spend some time cleaning although I am not sure anyone would believe me if they walked in right now. I was also on the 'phone' (How did we live without Skype?) with my travel agent to make sure everything was set for me to bring Reni back as 'an infant in arms' on Sunday. This designation means that we won't have to buy a seat for him (or get one for that matter) but then we only owe the taxes for his flights. It is now noted on my ticket that Reni will be flying with me, and we will just have to pay the taxes at the airport on Sunday.


Last night after I blogged, we went to get supper at a pizza place about 2 blocks from our apartment. Reni surprised me again when he not only tried a little piece of cheese pizza, but continued to eat as much as I would let him have! Anytime I am eating something, he reaches for it and grunts. As soon as I tear off a little piece he smiles and pops it in his mouth. Today the 'daddy food' he tried was french fries. I hope his adventurous spirit with food continues, and that it will rub off on his big sister!






After supper we continued our evening tradition of visiting Vera at her shop and then crossing the street for a coffee. This time there was a friend of Vera's babysitting her granddaughter, and we were invited to join them. We removed a chair and scooted the strollers close to each other to make introductions. The 8 month old girl was named Noah, and she and Reni examined one another.

I think Noah was making a pass at David Reni! Be strong young man! This will be first of many!



Reni decided to engage when he saw her toys. He was stretching so far that I had to hold the stroller to keep it from tipping.




Success! The rattle quickly became a drum stick against the table. When he was finished with his rhythmic masterpiece, he proved that he has quite an arm as he tossed it across the table to the peril of our coffee! Vera loves to tell Reni's story to those she meets and this night was no exception. I am quickly gaining hero status in her retellings, "Look at him. He cooks. He washes the clothes. He changes the diapers. He is an American man!" I can only grin and be thankful that she can't see the state of the apartment right now!

I am looking forward to my father-in-law David vanOrman coming tomorrow! It will be good to have some adult conversation! He is flying over to assist me on our return flight on Sunday. Pray that he will get over jet lag very quickly, so he can enjoy his brief time here in Albania.

While Reni and I will be picking David up at the airport, Agim will be picking up Reni's VISA from the embassy. Tomorrow promises to be a full day! Lots more pictures tomorrow!

5 comments:

Aunt Ruth said...

Reni has always been a cutie, but he seems to keep getting MORE handsome. Wow!! He's looking a little older also. Please don't grow up too quickly, Reni. I think you are the youngest grandchild and great grandchild on both sides of your family. You are in our prayers for the visa and the airport. All our love and prayers,

Kjernald Family Adventures said...

Reni is a good looking boy, can't blame Noah for having good taste!

laurie

Doreen Nixon said...

Reni really seems to have settled in so well Nathan and I am sure it is all the Love and Caring you are giving him. I laughed at the Hero status - because Albanian men do not do any of those type of chores - that is womans work! tee hee - you would indeed be a hero in the womens eyes. I just think it is awesome the way you are coping because not too many South African men would be able to cope with a toddler on their own so far away from home - Well done and be Blessed.

Cydil said...

Don't you know it, Doreen! I think Nathan is pretty exceptional, even in the States! Our family is blessed! Cydil

bug seth tua pip said...

Go Vera for encouraging Nathan. I can hear her saying that right now :) It is super hard watching a toddler on your own, especially when you aren't in your own surroundings. Good job, Nathan.