His Hand

Sofia has begun testing quite a bit and we've had some rough days, but we know this is all in God's provision and in His hand. There is nothing major, just some small things that can add up. But we have seen a revolution and redemption in the life of a child before, and we know that He will not fail to the same again! He brought us to this, and He will bring us through it! His promises are what keeps us going some times. I know part of it is Sofia just trying to see what she can get away with, and all the changes can totally mess with her head. She is still doing extraordinarily well and we are so impressed at the progress she has already made. She really is a joy, and a super sweet girl. We are blessed that she is in our life.

On Saturday, Sofia, Jenna, and Mamí all went to Parque Carolina and rode horses and played in the playground. While they were having fun with horses, Papí, Zoe', Gabi, and I went to some markets in Quito. I love the markets here. They are so full of color. 

Later, we went to some friends' house here in Quito. On our way there, we left a camera in the taxi! Thankfully I had just uploaded a lot of photos, so the only ones we didn't have were from that morning. So we lost the photos of Sofi and Jenna horse-back riding and of the balloon party Jenna had put on for us in the morning. We are very sad that we lost the camera but are thankful that all the important photos were saved. We are now using my camera which isn't as good of quality but it still works! 

We were sad that Papí had to leave again Sunday morning. We went to church again and Sofia had fun dancing to the worship music once again! It is so precious to watch. Music really calms her.

We spent time with our new/old friend Kaleigh which is always fun :)

This morning (Monday) I had another opportunity to volunteer at For His Children for a couple hours which was a lot of fun. Afterwards, the whole family went to the park. This park is actually very memorable for us because we spent just about every day there last year because it was right across the street from our apartment during our last trip. We had a great time! Sofia loved the teeter-totter! 

Me with my friend Zoe'. 

Monkey-bars is the perfect place for this little monkey :) 

Here are some pictures of the beautiful scenery here in Quito.

Here you can see the snow-topped Mount Cotopaxi. This volcano totally towers over the city!

Here are some cute pictures of Sofia I got before she went to bed.

I love this precious girl.

Tomorrow we have Sofia's doctor's appointment. Before she can become a citizen of the United States she has to have all the necessary vaccinations. Hopefully she won't have to get many (if any) shots. Please pray that this appointment will go well!

Our process is already going quicker than last year. We had court two and a half weeks after we arrived in Ecuador this year as opposed to three and a half. We are getting off to a good start! Hopefully within two weeks everyone will be home together, but only time will tell! Please pray with us for God's perfect timing. 

And also, please pray for Sofia. She is going through a lot of changes. It's hard to see your treasured Papí come and leave, and come and leave again. And then I will leave Wednesday morning. And on top of all that, her world has been totally flipped upside down. New rules, new things, and brand new people that she now calls "family." Please pray for every transition and please pray that her heart will be prepared for the next great transition - when she gets to come home!