We made it!

Tuesday, around midnight we made it to our hotel after 28 hours of travel.  Luckily we arrived without a problem and so did our luggage.  Though the knob that releases the shoulder restraints on the carseat did not make it, but we can still make it work.

We are no longer "light" travelers

Wednesday morning we met with the our translator and facilitator.  They brought us to the minister of child welfare for the region for a brief meeting.  Then we were allowed to go visit our daughter.
The drive to the village was predicted to be 1 hour and a half, but just 2 weeks ago a new highway was completed- reducing the driving time to just 1 hour. 

We can't even explain what it was like seeing our daughter for the first time.  She clung to the foster mother for the first hour or so, then she warmed up to us.  She really warmed up to us after Chris pretended to ride away on her rocking horse.  By the time we left Wednesday, she was giving us kisses.  (We can't share photos here, but we have been able to Skype with our families)
We are grateful she was in such a loving foster home.  The family doesn't have much, but they really care for the children.  She also has access to good nutrition.  We had sent her gifts are Christmas, and we've heard stories of families arriving to see all that they sent the child still in its packaging.  We can gladly say this is not the case- the coloring book was used, the crayons, the stuffed puppy and the children's CDs- all loved by a 2 1/2 year old.  We had sent a book of photos and the foster mother had taught her to say "mommy" and "daddy" in English. 
Today, we got to visit with her again.  We had to take her to the local doctor to get all her files (she is now 12 kg and 83 cm!) But she was not pleased- she remembered the last time she was there- they drew blood.  The doctor was great and even spoke a bit of English.  Everything was in order and she traveled beautifully in the car seat for the first time. 
Tomorrow we are taking her to the nearest town to pick up some items and to practice riding in the car and stroller. 
We had heard that children, especially from orphanages, are sent with nothing- but her foster mother has packed a bag of her favorite items.  She has been so blessed, her foster mother is amazing.  She is definitely attached to her and leaving with be difficult.  But the foster mother has been careful to encourage our daughter to sit next to us, and go to us to be picked up while we are there. 
The translator and facilitator have been very helpful.  The facilitator has been doing this for 10+ years and knows exactly what needs to be done.  He is careful to prepare and have everything in order before it is needed.  He was able to arrange everything for our consulate visit next Wednesday.
Tuesday is our little one's birthday and it will also be the first day she is our custody!