Friday, June 13, 2008




We are all alone today

We actually had our bonding meeting yesterday. I think Dolly (our attorney) had presented everything to the courts although Im not too sure due to the language barrier, sometimes it's difficult to interpret. Not too sure where we are. Dolly had driven last night to Aguachica to get the original birth certificates. I understand she will return next week. We met with her about 3 pm yesterday and the social worker and psychologist were still working on thier reports at 3:30. Not sure how late the courts are open and if this was completed yesterday. Initially Dolly was planning on presenting today. Maybe her assistant will present it today!

We had several meetings yesterday and did alot of walking. We went back to the ICBF and have recieved official custody of the kids while in Valledupar. We can go back and get permission to leave the area but must remain in Colombia. We are planning on staying for now. Keep praying that Wendy and the children will be able to travel back to Bogata with me on the 22nd!

Today we have no meetings. We will spend the day, hopefully relaxing at the pool (La placina). Luci asked that we remain at the hotel. She has a seminar today and tomarrow and will not be with us. Last night we went to her house. She has 3 boys and one girl. The kids had a lot of fun with them. It was a good break for all of us. It's been difficult for them in a hotal room.


Things are much differnt here. The roads are very narrow. No stop lights. Motorcycles everwhere and constant beeping. People walking out in the streets. Sometimes I think they are going to be ran over. Most cars and houses have no A/C. Cars are very small. We have been walking alot to all the meetings. Several blocks from the hotel. I feel very comfortable on the streets. No ploblems and people have been friendly. You cant put TP in the toilet anywhere in Colombia. The food has been good. Breakfast consists of Arepa, empanada, queso (cheese), fruit and Hurvos (eggs typically with ham). I have papaya juice and 1/2 cup of cafe leche (coffee with milk).Lunch and dinner i have had baby beef, fish and several varieties of chicken. We have eaten at the hotel everyday. I'm looking foward to eating out soon. Wendy eats Arroz con pollo everday. Juan eats like a horse. He was hombre (hungry) last night night at Luci's. Manual, her husband warmed up Pollo and platonos (chicken and bananas) for him. He ate a large dinner earlier, Spagetti pollo (chicken) plus half my carne (beef). This can be good for me. Maybe I'll drop a few pounds. We neen to go for breakfast now so Hasta Leugo (see you later). Steve

PS. Thanks for the posts. It's nice to hear from everyone. Makes us feel closer to home.