Michael & James!

Today, April 29th Michael met our son James for the first time! Michael called me an hour after meeting James. Michael has described James as being very shy and quiet. He is very small and lacks muscle tone. His hair is very short and he has a skin rash. The diapers I got him fit and while Michael was talking to me James was playing with the toy cars we got him. The phone call was short but Michael will contact me again tomorrow. Michael sounded awesome and relieved.

Michael in Accra, Ghana

Michael called me this morning to say he has arrived safely in Accra, Ghana. The weather is hot with the humidity at 100%. The hotel is located on the out skirt of the city of Accra. It took a 30 minute cab ride from the airport to the hotel and most of the way was dark with the exception of a few generator powered bulbs. He is now only two days away from meeting our son James. It is hard to believe our dream is so close to coming true.
Parker is doing awesome and is loving his holiday in Calgary. He is getting a lot of snuggles and love. Yesterday he got to meet his cousins Patrick (13) and Christine (12) along with Aunty Louise and Uncle Mario. With the help of Uncle Denis I removed his cast yesterday and we will go back on May 8th to the doctor to see if another case will be required. Parker is a few days away from being 3 months old and weighs 14 lbs.
We want to thank all of you for your endless support, encouragement and happiness for us. Your comments, emails, phone calls and visits mean a lot to both Michael and I.
Peace and love,
Joanne & Michael

Africa Bound!

After many months of waiting, praying and hoping, the day has finally come. On April 25 I depart for Accra, Ghana and shortly thereafter will meet our 2 year old son, James Monrovia Epp for the first time. I will be gone for about 2 weeks barring any further complications. Once back, we are very much looking forward to family time with the boys, Allie's graduation and a Saskatchewan trip to introduce our two additions.

Grand-pa & Grand-ma Epp!

Parker got to meet his grand-pa, grand-ma and his sweet cousin Kaitlyn (3.5 years old) for the first time this weekend. We had an excellent time eating, visiting, playing ball and cards. Kaitlyn is quite a ball player and mother teaching us all about feeding her doll Phoebe.

Easter Weekend & More!

Here are some pictures that capture Parker enjoying his first Easter weekend with some of his Kelowna friends, hanging out with Jordan (6 mo) at Starbucks and him crying after we have exercised his leg.

An Alberta Visitor!

Last weekend we had my cousin Christine Wolinski visit us from Sherwood Park, AB! Parker received lots of snuggles from his Aunty Chris and as usual Chris and I chatted non-stop. We had lots of fun but next visit must include Ted, and the three munchkins: Steven, Isabelle and Daniel.

Yesterday Parker had his weekly visit to the hospital for his foot. X-rays were done on both his feet and Dr. O'Farrell is happy with the progress. Parker will continue to be cast free for another 2 weeks! Yippee!

Hope everyone has a Happy Easter!