The McCawley Family

Given the circumstances, the last few days have gone extremely well. That's not to say our days haven't been without challenge- we've experienced multiple tantrums that have brought both Jenna and I to tears, but all-in-all, we're a week in and everyone is still alive and we're progressing daily. The valley's remain challenging but fortunately the peak's have become more frequent and make up for the difficult times. While driving to the Bird Park today I felt a tap on my arm and heard a soft "Daddy, Daddy" come from the seat behind me. I turned around and Nomathemba was trying to get my attention. I reached my arm around to the back seat and she held my fingers while we drove through the streets of downtown Johannesburg. In hindsight, probably not the smartest idea as I was driving a manual transmission on the opposite side of the road in a foreign country but I couldn't resist. A few hours later she elected to sit on my lap while eating lunc...

Nomathemba has clung to me since we first met her. It's rare that I have an opportunity to set her down. When I try, she gets upset and cries for "mommy" and tries to jump back in my arms. Each night thus far she's slept in my bed beside me waking up multiple times a night calling out for "mommy". Only after I say "mommy's here, it's okay" does she fall back asleep. At first, I was beyond excited hearing her call me "mommy" so soon. However, yesterday I learned that the children often refer to their caregivers at the orphanage as "mommy". Bummer... In time, she will know I am her mommy and connect these dots. But for now, I will meet her needs as best as I can and try to earn her trust. We have also learned that Nomathemba has rarely been outside of the walls of her orphanage. Visits outside the orphanage are generally limited to well visits at the government hospital. For that reason, she is terrified of the outdoors...

They said you were "discharged" We called it "finally together". Your eyes were big and cautious, full of uncertainty and fear; While ours were full of joy, of dreams and hopes fulfilled. You hugged us--complete strangers--more out of obligation, hesitating as you did; While our arms swung fast around you, wrapping you tight with love. You've only had a few days to adjust to the idea of us; While we've had years to prepare..... Your departure brings more trauma  as you leave the only place you've ever known; While our world is cautiously hopeful of a life of growing together and love as a family. Despite your fear, we walked out hand-in-hand as you  said goodbye to your life as you know it. You are the bravest person that we know, little darling. We cannot even imagine what this is like for you. God has big plans for your life, sweet one. And we are honored and privileged to be a part of the redemptive story that He's w...

We arrived at our Airbnb last night approximately 6 pm and were greeted by some of the most accommodating hosts we've ever met (As a side note, if you're looking for a place to stay while in Johannesburg let us know and we'll put you in touch). The night started off a little rocky- our hosts welcomed us into their personal residence for a cup a tea and we reciprocated the gesture with our three year old vomiting on their kitchen floor, such is life with kids. After a quick clean-up we had a wonderful visit before leaving in an attempt to get some rest. Bedtime was equally rocky, the kids were wound up and bouncing off the walls. The ten hour time change didn't help much either. Three hours and a few rounds of musical beds later we were able to get some much needed rest. We awoke this morning to the sound of thunder and a beautiful lightening storm. The storm faded late morning and turned into a light rain as we set out to Ethembeni Children's Home to me...

Sorry, we had some technical issues posting updates via phone while traveling so this is a couple days old. We figured we'd go ahead and post it anyways... We are off to meet our girl! Prayers for the plane journey would be amazing... The long journey (just over 21 hours) is not for the faint of heart with 3 kids 7 and under! Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!

Our South African Adoption Journey Family and friends- Many of you know that we've been "matched" with a beautiful 3 year old little girl from South Africa. We set up this blog since many of you have expressed an interest in following along with our journey. We are excited to share some of it with you.  The details: We will be flying to South Africa on Thanksgiving morning and will be meeting/receiving custody of our daughter either Saturday or Sunday. Our court date is scheduled for December 4th, 2017 which will give us a solid week of bonding & adjusting to the time difference.  *Please note: We are unable to post identifying pictures of our newest daughter until after our court date--when she officially becomes a McCawley. Thank you in advance for all of your prayers!