If you are among one of the many who often wonders what a 1-year old Peruvian boy looks like (secretly or otherwise)  you’re curiosities are about to be quelled!!  Last week, on Monday, July 16^th, we celebrated Cohen’s 1^st birthday!!  There was a time we feared this day would not come, and another time during which we were uncertain as to just where we would be, where Cohen would be, when this day arrived.  As part of God’s plan and will Cohen was right where he was meant to be- with us!! 

            The day arrived without much fanfare, and as Monday just happened to be the 4^th day of a labor/transportation strike, we were able to rise slowly and simploy enjoy our day.  As each of our kids awoke they promptly wished the Tootsie Roll a Happy Birthday.  With no big plans for the day, we relaxed and reveled in our own amazement. 

            Sometime around noon a large rock crashed into our tranquil pond.  Jose (Cohen’s birth father) called and asked if he and his two kids could come see Cohen for his birthday.  While we have always kept an open door to them they have never before shown any interest in passing through.  Thus, on this day, and caught off guard, Kayla was taken aback by the request and responded accordingly.  “No.  Not today.”  Not a minute later Kayla picked up the phone, called Jose back, and invited them to come by the house that afternoon. 

            About two hours later Jose, Danielle, and Marisol arrived bearing gifts and birthday wishes.  While the visit was awkward I can’t say it was uncomfortable.  We don’t have a lot to talk about with Jose, having little in common aside from our son.  We see him on occasion, but not often, and as I’ve shared in past writings his intentions have often been questionable.  Still, at the end of the visit we were and are glad it took place.  We recognize the inherent value of such times and the validation and realization that come along with them.

            The Saturday following Cohen’s birthday several women from both churches and the school, along with a few of our Young Life troupe, threw a baby shower for Kayla.  Yes, this shower took place just after our baby’s 1^st birthday, but since the future was unsure for so long after he was introduced to our home the ladies decided to bring a sense of permanence to the idea. 

            Not planning on attending, I was coerced to stay when the father of one of our Young Life members chose to stay while his daughter enjoyed the festivities.  I was glad to share his company as he recently discovered my interest in the Jewish faith and he happens to be a Messianic Jew (raised Catholic).  Our masculinity was further protected by our leader and two volunteers of Young Life.  The women played several games my mom introduced to them and they had a great time.  Everyone talked of how original the party and games were, and this talk continued into the school week yesterday.  Having my mom not only be at the party, but play such an integral role, made it that much more special. 

            Last Thursday we received another surprise- a visit from Social Services (yes, they exist in Peru, too!!).  We weren’t home at the time, and so they left us a note along with a phone number and instructions to be at their office the following Tuesday morning (yesterday) at 8 a.m.  While we have been expecting visits from Soc. Serv. we had also expected some warning.  Even so, we were glad to see the Peruvian justice system was moving along without our prodding. 

            We arrived yesterday morning at Social Services just a few minutes after 8.  Once we found the appropriate office we jumped right in to an informal interview.  While we had hoped that today might bring us a great deal closer to being a ble to officially adopt Cohen it turned out to be but a simple Q&A session.  The Social Worker did indicate that, at this time, we would not be able to adopt Cohen for another year, which means we’ll be in Peru for at least a year and a half, if not more.  It seems God still has more for us to do down here. . .

            It’s been quite a week. . .then again, it’s been quite a year.  Thanks to all of you who have and continue to pray for and support us in all we are doing.  I am always able to find great strength in you when I need it most.  We’ve witnessed more than our share of miracles during our relatively short time here, and we know many more are to come.