Monday, July 7, 2008

Delhi

This morning we did the first part of the U.S. embassy stuff in Delhi. We tried to squeeze in some breakfast before Mr. Singh picked us up at 8:00 am and we made it to the embassy a little after 8:30. Driving in Delhi is very different from, say, Hudson, and we are glad we do not have to do it ourselves. Everything went smoothly and we were back to the B&B shortly after noon. It's amazing how long you prepare for something, and how long you look forward to it, and how much paperwork it takes to make it happen, and then it's over like that. We were out of the embassy by 10:00, and went to do the visa photos and visa medical exam, which both went off without a hitch. The Indian man at the photo place heartily wished us well and made a point of telling me that he thought that adoption is the greatest, most noble thing one can do, including reference to close friends or relatives that had adopted years ago and it had turned out really well for the children.

Vonda felt pretty bad early this morning and wasn't even sure she was going to be able to go out, but it subsided a little by the time we had to leave and she barely found what she needed in order to do our errands with us. After Eva's visa medical exam appointment, Vonda also got an exam and some prescriptions from the same doctor. For about $25, she got an exam and a bunch of medicine that hopefully will make her feel better. I think she got: electrolyte powder mix to add to water to combat dehydration, antibiotic, something for parasites, something for nausea, and something for heartburn/stomach acid. Also, no more Indian food. That may be tricky, since we are in India! Hopefully all that will nuke whatever she has. We still have 2 (hopefully minimally demanding) days left in Delhi, but the trip home is not going to be fun for her if she's sick.

We are now back at the B&B and had some Italian food delivered from a nearby establishment (with a h.i.l.a.r.i.o.u.s. menu). The Italian was pretty iffy, but sufficed. Eva and mommy are having their naps, and all is right with the world. We are laying low at the B&B for the rest of today. Agenda: play, dinner, bed.

We will do the embassy again tomorrow, but it will be even easier. It should just be one stop at the embassy, and no doctor or photos or anything else. Then, if everyone is feeling up to it, we can see some sights and/or do some shopping. We also have a whole 'nother day after that in Delhi as well. There is a zoo nearby; I wonder if it's any good?

We are hanging on each encouraging email or blog comment from all of you. The prayers, support, and sharing of our joy mean more than you know.

14 comments:

Kara Jo said...

Praying Vonda feels better today. Want her to be able to enjoy this experience and take it all in. Plus, being sick in another country is double yucko.

So glad to hear details of how your life together is getting underway. Also glad everything at the embassy has gone smoothly thus far. Praises!

Emunah said...

Yes, keep hydrated!! I hope the medicine works perfectly. Thank God you were able to get seen by a doctor. I'm so glad you are all safe and things are going well. I will continue to pray. I'm so glad you have been able to enjoy your time with you daughter already. See you in three days!

Katie R. said...

Still praying for Vonda's recovery. Happy to hear you all have a few days yet before the big trip, hopefully Vonda's meds. will work and all will be well.

Anonymous said...

Ed and Vonda - I've been quiet on the blog-front, but I've been thinking of and praying for you all. I've loved reading your updates and I am praying for a fast and healthy return home! Thanks for all the updates - they are a blessing and encouragement. You're one beautiful family and I look forward to seeing you all soon!
-Jamie White

theswamphare said...

I am sooo jazzed for you three!

What is the closest we can all park to your house and observe from, when Eva gets home, so that the three of you can adjust before we descend on you?

NoOtherName said...

Ethan and I are sitting here seeing your pictures for the first time...the one of your new family brought me to the brink of tears yet again. OH MY GOSH--that's your family!! I can't even stand the excitement and joy right now. And to hear that the embassy went so well today...God has truly gone before you guys and made the way smooth. Now we will just pray our socks off for sweet Vonda to feel better. If it's like Amy when she visited, the medicine should help a lot.

Ethan says: "have a good time with Eva."

I told Karin the news yesterday that you and her friend would be home soon and she smiled so sweetly. Then she corrected me and told me again that Eva is her cousin.

Can't tell you how much we love you. I hope I do not spontaneously combust waiting to see that most beautiful Eva of yours.

Namascaram, Prathibha! We will see you soon.

LadyD said...

Forget the house... Can we park at the airport to catch a glimpse of the little beauty arriving home in America!!!!!
:-)

NoOtherName said...

Ed--speaking of soaking in the sights and sounds of Eva's beautiful homeland, Brian asked if you guys would be going to visit the Taj. It's in Agra, which he remembers as being only a short drive south from Delhi. And it is one of the 7 Wonders of the World! Something to consider if Mommy Vonda starts feeling better.

Sleep sweet, precious friends!

Ben said...

Hey guys,
Know that Ariel and I are celebrating with you tonight. We love you dearly. And now we can love Eva as well.

Anonymous said...

i'm sure i have no idea...but her little hand pressed into your chest make me want to scream & cry...i'm so proud...and you 3 are so very precious to me...
mums

erin said...

An Indian zoo??? Go, go, go!
Also, PLEASE can we have more photos?
I am praying for V that she will be able to enjoy this miracle.
Blessings!

Anonymous said...

oh, p.s....and i'm blowing up that picture of you 3 walking from behind...oh, my,land...beautiful...
mums

Anonymous said...

We are praying for you as well. Reading your entries makes me teary eyed and I am not an emotional person. We found out that we are having a little girl in November so excited for that. We also found out our friends who are adopting are getting a baby in the beginning of September so there is a lot of happy baby news.

zcoffeegirl said...

Just reading and soaking in the pictures, and love, love hearing about your daddy's heart, Ed. Isn't adoption a miracle? You love them instantly.

Praying for Vonda to feel better.....wanted you to know that I'm reading, too!

All three of you are so beautiful together.....

Love you guys!
Zimms