On (approximately) January 20, Ethan turned 6! His birthdate is an estimate, as there was no information left with him when he was found. When he entered the orphanage, he appeared to be approximately 6 weeks old. That's all we will ever know. Last year, I had a difficult time with the idea that his birthday might not actually be his birthday. For a couple weeks before and a couple weeks after, I kept thinking, "maybe today is actually his birthday." This year, somehow, it kind of just didn't matter. I wonder if, when he is old enough to understand, it will ever bother him; if he will have to come to terms with the estimate of his birthdate. What never ceases to amaze me is the span of time between January 20th and March 1st, which is the day he entered the orphanage. 6 weeks...someone tried to care for him for 6 weeks before realizing they were unable. I will never be able to wrap my mind around the circumstances. So many possible explanations...that I will one day have to share with Ethan...with no real answers...
..but enough of the "emotional adoptive mother" stuff...
He had a great time at his party! His birthday was on a Wednesday, so we went out to dinner and opened family presents at home. On Sunday we went to McDonald's with some friends and cousins. He continues to be the most happy and resiliant child I've ever met!!!!
