Samuel

His first selfie:

 His new favorite toy:

 His awesome laugh:

His beaming smile:

Samuel is a smart boy who loves to be busy and climb everything! If you're not careful and watchful, you will find him climbing over the couch, up ladders, and up the shelves of the pantry! If you see him carrying a step stool, beware! He's getting taller so he can begin his climb on something!

The boy keeps me hoppin'! He's fun to watch and fun to listen to!

My new favorite thing is to listen to him sing. Oh, how I LOVE it!!!! I will try to capture a video soon. He usually stops, though, if he thinks anyone is paying attention to him.

So, since our last update on Sammy, his kidneys are still bleeding--though much less quantity now. His nephrologist thinks it may still be the effects of the HSP, which attacked his kidneys.

In addition, his congestion remains. In the mornings he sounds like he has bronchitis. The doctors have worked together to decide it is safer now to start his vaccinations rather than to wait any longer. Up until 6 weeks ago, he had not had even one vaccination. He is on a schedule to get all of his vaccinations caught up by June 12th. Poor little guy! He now completely comes unglued when he sees a nurse or doctor.

Also, Sammy is still struggling at night. He still has lots of nightmares. He loves to sleep with someone, and Cherish and I often team up to help him through the long nights. Sometimes, he cries out through the night but each time can be quickly comforted and returned to sleep. Sometimes, however, he's up much longer. Those nights, Derek and I take turns cuddling him and helping him feel safe.

Orphans live through more trauma than any of us can imagine. It takes time for a little one to finally pass through the nightmare stage.

God bless little Samuel!

May he feel safe and completely loved very soon!