A Light At The End Of The Tunnel

As you know, we have been named by the local courts as the proud parents of AJ and Sonya - so far, the pinnacle of our pilgrimage!  We have visited the orphanage twice since our court date, and the visits seem different now... we are becoming more bold with AJ and Sonya;  strolling farther, feeding them drinks and treats, asking  more about their routines and schedules.  Perhaps this is our way of preparing for what is ahead - the journey back to the States!  So far, we have heard several stories of trips home with adoptive children.  Some trips have gone smoothly; others, not so.  With all of the unknowns regarding diet, medications, sleep patterns, etc., it seems like the journey home with AJ and Sonya will be like a box of chocolates; we're not sure what we're going to get! (assist: Forrest Gump).  We are now over half-way through our pilgrimage, and we can indeed see the light at the end of the tunnel.  This is a good simile for our journey, for it does feel like a tunnel being here.  We get a limited view of this country - the same route to the orphanage every day; the same sights and sounds accessed via foot power.  This tunnel vision will inevitably result in an opening that will reveal so much more for AJ and Sonya, with the aid of Johnny, Carolyn, Momma, Daddy, extended family and friends.  We pray for growth, stimulation, and fulfillment for our newest family members.  While they are largely unaware of the tunnel or the light at the end of it, we trust in God that this journey with our entire family will bear fruit for them via the relationship and trust that we have in our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ; a relationship that the Lord will cultivate in our newest charges.  Trusting in His providence, John, Amy, & Family

New Life!



Corner shop near the orphanage 



Juice AKA "Suk" - for our little ones

AJ is NOT used to a straw!

Sonya Noel Hinz

I think she likes her NEW name!

YOU are MY SON!

Alexei Joseph Hinz

I think he likes his NEW name too!

Another stroll to the corner market for a cookie!

Waiting for a cookie!

What is hiding behind AJ?

Our Daughter!



Our Son!