People and Places

For the most part, Ella and I have stuck pretty close to home during our stay here in Haddonfield. We've spent our time getting to know each other, getting to know those closest to us here, and getting to know the local area. But, we have gotten out a little bit, and the following are just a few of the faces and places in our New Jersey lives.

First of all there is Colette. Like I have said to her already, I must have done something right in life to end up at this time of life in her home and company. She has been so good to us, really opening up her home and her life to welcome us in. She will always be part of my memories of my first weeks with Ella.

Just yesterday, Ella and I hopped on the train in to Philadelphia for the day. We spent our time in the Rittenhouse Square area, which is centred around the square of that name. The square is full of people having their lunches, reading the paper, or grabbing a few rays of sun on the grass. And then the surrounding streets are full of little shops, sidewalk cafes and restaurants, theatres, and lots of lovely old architecture.

Mid-afternoon, we were joined by Lori and baby Sawyer. Lori was Ella's foster mom, and Sawyer is the baby she is now fostering until her parents arrive from the Netherlands. The weather was perfect for a stroll around the city.

Another couple of people that have been so great to us are Anne and John. They live next door, and Ella and I have spend several evenings on their patio, sharing a meal and good conversation. Much as I'm looking forward to getting home, I'm going to miss these people!

And then there is the house itself. Every day, I find myself sitting on this rattan sofa on Colette's front porch. Playing with Ella, catching up on email, or having a visit with Colette.

Our bedroom is a quiet escape. As you can see in the previous and following pictures, Ella is happiest napping right up against me during the day. Thankfully she sleeps just fine in the crib at night!

Ella had two sets of foster parents before I arrived to pick her up. Gregg and Pam took care of her for about 3 weeks before they had to leave on a previously planned trip. Lori and Jack then took care of her until I arrived. About a week ago, we were all invited over to Gregg and Pam's for dinner. They are all such lovely people, and it's so nice to be able to share with Ella a little bit about her early days when she eventually asks.

This is little Sawyer, Ella's first friend. They spent one night together at Lori and Jack's before I picked Ella up. And Ella and I have met up with Lori and Sawyer several times since then.

Tomorrow is a big day - Patrik and Anna arrive! How will I sleep tonight?