We got there a little early and Jenny was setting up and testing her presentation. While I was at the counter buying the book, Ella went back to see what was going on. After I was done with my purchase, I went back and heard the tail end of Ella's chat. She was saying she felt different and sad because she missed her family in China. We have been talking about that at home too this week so this was one of those moments where I wasn't sure if she would be better from the event or not. Well no worries. Jenny and her assistant told Ella what she feels is normal and that alot of kids feel that way. They went on to tell her about groups that are just for kids that she can go to. They gave me a card with their contact information and I will find out the details for sure. I was so happy that they validated what I have been saying to my girls and it helped my girls to hear it from experts.
It got even better from there.
Elizabeth helped watch some of the little kids of friends but was near the presentation so she could hear it. Ella was with those kids and then when she heard the presentation start, she came by me. Jenny was introduced by Dr Dana Johnson of the U of M Adoption Clinic. I wish I had looked for him after as he or his staff reviewed Elizabeth's paperwork before I accepted her adoption. I think all of the Jiangxi families from our group did as well. Four of the girls are from the same orphanage and they all had a bit of cross eyed situation. They have all out grown it but way back when we all heard how they got all these pictures of cross eyed girls. Its a cute part of our story and I wish I had been able to chat with him.
Jenny was an excellent speaker and her short video was inspiring as well. Its amazing what one person has been able to do in a short amount of time. About 16 years ago Half the Sky started and were in two orphanages in China. They now are all over China and they have taught so many care givers the importance of showing children that they are loved. This helps in so many ways and lets the Orphans in China know their lives matter. Thank you Jenny and Half the Sky.
After the presentation Jenny opened it up for questions. Ella raised her hand first. She asked about the number of girls vs boys in orphanages and what if moms wanted a daughter. Jenny took her time and answered Ella's questions saying that yes, in the past there were more girls but now there are boys too and that depending on the area of China, families could have two children. Ella had more questions but I asked her to wait and let others ask. :-)
At the end we had our book signed and took a picture with Jenny. She told Ella that she could tell she was a sweet girl and I bet you have more questions. Ella agreed and said she wanted to be a nanny in an orphanage. Elizabeth told Jenny she was shy and Jenny said nope, I can see you are not... ;-) Anyway Jenny also told Ella to write her a letter with her questions and she will make sure to answer it. She thanked Ella for her time and let her know that it may be awhile before she will have time to answer the letter but she will.
Thank you Jenny Bowen - personally what you did last night will go a long way to helping my children know they matter, that what they feel is ok, and that it is important to show you care. Thank you also for all you have done to help China's Children! You are extraordinary and awesome (Ella's words).
Here is a picture from the event.
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