Some events between January and June 2008

This time I place some excerpts from the report even before sending it to the Commissioner and our lawyer in Sri Lanka. No photos with comments here (though we did put some in the report) coz they are already on the web.

This year was the first time we went to the Netherlands in Winter. That meant an extra air trip and all kinds of special celebrations such as Christmas and New Year with our friends and relatives in the Netherlands. Saman’s very first visit to the Netherlands had been in November 2003 but he was only 1 year old then and does not remember that. At first Saman and Yekuno were shocked that their faces and hands got cold outside, but once they were used to wearing winter coats, hats and mittens, they were fine. They marvelled at the scenery, so different from summer: trees without leaves, other trees with many lights; the short days.

Another major event during this period was the visit of Grand Dad (Eline’s father, Maarten Boelee) to our place in Ethiopia in April. Saman and Yekuno were counting the days and every day their grand father was with us, they went to him first thing in the morning. It was no holiday but Maarten enjoyed the daily routine of taking the children to school and picking them up again, which was a special treat to the boys as well! We also went out to Lake Langano together.

Saman has made amazing progress at horse riding. Even his trainer is surprised that Saman does so well, especially since he hasn’t even turned six yet! We have now bought a horse, Ambo, that is very suitable for children, so Saman can get used to the same horse and can also learn how to take care of him.

Saman is doing very well in school. He already knows how to write simple sentences in English, and some words in Dutch. He likes to study and is very interested in everything that is offered at school, including French, mathematics and geography.

Saman has also developed some special friendships. Unfortunately his best friend has gone to another school, but they still play together every Tuesday. He also meets and plays with other children of various ages in our safe street. But his very best friend is still his little brother Yekuno! They get along very well, play together nicely, fight every now and then, but also hug each other. Saman is very comfortable among people he knows well but keeps a safe distance when he is not at ease. The greater family in the Netherlands is becoming increasingly important. Saman talks about them and every now and then he wants to call somebody on the phone.