Custody Trip - day 6

Today was more challenging than the past two were, but it was also very rewarding.  He has really started to imitate our words really well and will even say since English words very clearly (okay, no, go, ice cream).
For our last full day on Seoul, we went to the Seoul zoo in children's grand park.  It's a good thing he does great in the subway because it was quite a long ride to our destination.  During our walk to the zoo, Richard had his first 'tantrum'.  He really wanted something he saw, and it wasn't an option.  He was whiny and asking over and over and over, but we moved on.  After a while, he was okay, but it was never an option to give into his tantrum once we said no.  I know everyone has different parenting styles, and I know that sometimes it's just easier to give in (even though no one wants to admit it). But we are working on our relationship with him, and parenting an adopted child requires more attention to attachment building since he didn't experience life with us from the start.  We have to be consistent in our words and actions.  Failure to be consistent with him shows him that what we say does not always hold true, and we cannot be trusted.

 We found the zoo to be a little overwhelming to him.  He was not his happy, excited self that we have gotten used to the past two days.  He did have fun, don't get me wrong, but he was also having some difficulties.

 We saw a few animals.

 We played around at a park.

 Then devoured our rice and kimchi lunch.  After lunch, we made our way slowly out of the park.

 Once we were back at the hotel, he was back to his happy self.  The racquetball court was there perfect place to get out some energy.

Tomorrow begins our journey home.  I'm so excited to see Elie and Levi, but my heart aches as we say goodbye to the only place Richard has ever known. Please pray for a smooth journey as we travel and as he gets settled into his forever home!