More Sticks

As if Mamush hasn't had enough "owies", we received a letter in the mail from Texas Children's Center stating that Mamush's labs require further testing.  You think?!!?  We only had those labs drawn in November...!  Good thing he is young because if we were in a race to begin growth hormone treatment before puberty, we'd  be in trouble.  So, Mamush now has to undergo a growth hormone stimulation test next month.  After fasting for 12 hours, he will have an IV placed in his arm.  The staff will then draw an initial growth hormone level.  After that, he will receive periodic IVs of arginine and something else (I can't remember.) which is supposed to stimulate the pituitary gland into producing growth hormone.  They draw blood samples over a 6 hour period.  I guess I have to be thankful that Mamush is the one undergoing this test because Maritu would have a fit if she couldn't eat for 18 hours!  She likes her food!  I just hope I don't have to wait another 3 months for those results. 

Meet Jane Kurtz

Jane Kurtz, the daughter of missionary parents, grew up in Ethiopia.  She is a talented author that writes children's stories based on her life in Ethiopia.  She is also on the board of Ethiopia Reads which is a non-profit organization designed to bring Ethiopian children books.  And today, I had the privilege of meeting her in Houston and having her sign some of her works I had purchased!

Athlete of the Decade

Here's to you Bekele of Ethiopia for this outstanding accomplishment!

What Did I Say?

I did say I would return to the Social Security office armed with their documents on Monday, but the laugh is on me because apparently there is another social security document that contains their policy.  So, while the Child Immigration Act of 2000 states that I won't need to obtain a US passport or Certificate of Citizenship, this SS document says otherwise if I want the kid's citizenship to be changed in their system.  I will be applying for the US Passport because it is the cheapest, but I also strongly urge everyone to obtain a COC because that is the "ultimate" proof of the children's citizenship status!