Welcome!

The compound is a buzz. All the kids are so excited that, “Today is Grammy and Grandpa!” Everyone that talks about them coming, has the biggest smile on their face and such a sparkle in their eye. I can tell the Waids are loved so much! They canceled school in the afternoon so everyone could be at the gate to welcome them. They spent yesterday and this morning decorating the pathways, gates, and even their door. At the beginning of the walkway to the staff building and to the apartment where they live, they made a bamboo arch and covered it with balloons that read “Happy Birthday.” The sides were also covered in bamboo leaves. Neon flags were lining all the pathways and connecting each flag were strings that had tissue paper triangles, reminding me of prayer flags, except these flags were all brightly colored. At one o’clock we heard the most awaited sound. The bell rang and kids started running out of their rooms toward the gate. Everyone lined up behind the gate waiting to catch the first sight of Mr. and Mrs. Waid. As soon as someone pointed out their van coming down the road, you could see everyone’s face beaming and they could hardly stand still. I hadn’t even met them yet and I found myself getting so excited to see them. I felt like I had known them for a long time. Their van pulled up and the door slid open. Cheers came up from all over. Hugs were given and smiles were everywhere. The Waids gave hugs to all and went to the children to give them their love. I could tell instantly why they are loved so much here. After the majority of the hugs were given, some of the kids had prepared a special dance for them. They were taken up to their room to finish off the welcoming ceremony. When I finally met the Waids, I just felt so warm and felt like it was my grandparents I was seeing. The afternoon was spent organizing their bags and eating dinner. Then I played a game of Badminton, which is Mr. Waids favorite. I feel like I have known them for a long time. When they talked to us at dinner, I could see the passion and love they have for the everyone here and that love is given straight back to them. The sign decorating their door tells so much, “Welcome back to home”.