Esteban seems bigger

We decided to measure Esteban this morning to see if he really is bigger than two weeks ago. And we have proof--he grew an inch! We thought he wasn't fitting in the bathtub anymore! And those chins are a little chubbier, too.

He is also developing his baby laugh. You know, the kind that start in their toes and are totally contagious. He laughs when we shake our hair in his face, or when Sabeth nibbles on his neck.

His personality seems to be starting to appear as well. He's very curious, and loves to explore the entire hotel. He gets bored with spending too long in our room (who wouldn't? it's 10' x 10'). He is also very demanding--especially when he thinks it's time to eat!

All the women love Esteban--his big brown eyes and coy smile will undoubtedly break many hearts for years to come.

On Sunday we went to San Pablo Episcopal Cathedral here in Bogota and celebrated Palm Sunday with no fewer than three bishops! The bishop of Colombia and the bishop of Connecticut (a sister diocese) led the service, and a retired bishop of Colombia was in the congregation. Esteban loved the red vestments of Bishop Duque (Colombia) and managed to spit up right in front of him just before the service started (fortunately missing the silk vestments). The music was fabulous and live. The service was very long. Esteban, Sabeth and her mom will be going back to the cathedral for Easter services.

Today, Monday, we went back to CRAN for an informational visit and tour. Before the tour we received the final information about the adoption and learned our court assignment (Court 19). We are told that Court 19 is neither slow nor fast, just average speed in terms of how fast it processes adoptions. We expect the process to take another 4-5 weeks (especially since the courts are closed all this week for Holy Week). The tour of CRAN was informative and we are glad to know that there is such good service for children in need here in Colombia. You can find out more about this amazing agency at their website (English version) http://www.cran.org.co/default.asp?chapter=2

We spent this evening packing Julien's bags for his early morning departure back to Massachusetts tomorrow. Dawn (Sabeth's mom) arrived at the Halifax this afternoon, so she kept Esteban entertained while we packed. Julien is very sad that he will be away from his family. Sabeth is also very sad that he's leaving--he's a great dad and he really adores Esteban. And we know Esteban will miss him, too. Big thanks to Dawn for being here to help Sabeth for the next three weeks.