A Lazy Day After Christmas

First of all, a disclaimer... the picture below is not an accurate representation of the current state-of-affairs between Miss Kylie Grace and her Mama. This picture was taken a few days ago and is a reminder of the almost schizophrenic mood swings that these poor kids go through when their worlds are turned upside down. Three days ago Kylie was giving out big kisses like this one -- today, she literally pushed her food away (which up to this point has been unheard of) because Mama had the audacity to touch her fork. The rejection has even spilled over into bath time -- which had been the last bastion of intimacy between them. It is so hard to figure out what could possibly be going on in her little head that would cause her to treat Cheryl this way. And it is even harder to see the heartbroken look in Cheryl's eyes. I don't have words to describe the hurt my heart feels for her. But, she is trying to remain positive, look ahead, and expect miracles as Kylie learns that Mama's arms are, by far, the best place to be for safety and comfort. So, keep praying for all of us as we take one day at a time...







The beginning of our day was spent at the buddhist temple of the six banyan trees. It is an active place of worship and also a tourist attraction. It felt intrusive to be there taking pictures while people were lighting incense and bowing to the various buddha statues that dotted this temple. But.... I did it anyway. Our guide explained that this temple had been there for 1400 years. One thing I found interesting -- she told me that the temple is maintained in part, at least, with government funds. The department of religious affairs allocates money for the upkeep of this and other temples throughout the country. That fact seemed very strange to me. The grounds were very beautiful and the smell of incense filled the air -- we couldn't and didn't want to stay long.

Afterwards, we went shopping at one of the nicer "souvenir" shops. Our guide told us that this would be a much different experience that going to the markets. She was right. We were able to browse the aisles without getting hounded by aggressive salespeople and we had the place virtually to ourselves. It was a nice -- well, as nice as going shopping can be -- experience and Kylie enjoyed sitting by the indoor koi pond, pointing at the fish. Sorry, we took no pictures -- we were losers!

After a very American lunch (hamburgers & pizza), we relaxed in our rooms most of the afternoon. All in all, it was a good day for Kylie, a hard day for Cheryl, and a confusing day for the rest of us. We know this is normal and most families go through it in some manner. So we look forward to tomorrow because we know, with God's grace, that there will be baby steps in the right direction. And while we are waiting, we will celebrate His goodness, His mercy and His love for us.