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We went to the placement center late morning and I got to see Gabi! They said I had to take full responsibility for the risk of getting chicken pox since the children are isolated but I've had chicken pox so I figured I was pretty safe. I got to play with her for at least 20 min., maybe longer. She is walking and "dancing" and claps her hands. She says ba ba and me me. She is still eating solid food from a spoon but can not feed herself. And she continues to not do too well with chewing.

Mostly she was on my lap giving kisses and playing with my hair. She is still ticklish so I got to hear that cute Gabi laugh. She seems a bit taller and her face is a bit thinner but all in all she seems to be doing well. No signs of chicken pox on her face. Unfortunately pictures aren't allowed at the placement center so I'll do my best to transmit my mental images to you telepathically! And did my best to transmit your love to her.

I also saw Maestra who played with us a little and Ionica who wasn't at Tutova but has been at the hospital. Sami was in a crib and looked like he had a rash. I also saw Ema who I had never seen before but I know other volunteers have worked with her.

Robin, Beth and Dan went to the another house and guess who was there, Delia! Apparently she returned from Iasi to the placement center. Dan said she saw a variety of specialists and they are looking at prosthetics for her after her birthday in June.

They also saw Ion who Dan thought seemed to be doing better. He is talking more. He was apparently quite excited to see them and immediately got into Robin's purse and got his hands on her camera. Sounds like our Ion.

They also saw Cristian Andrei, the little boy from last year who had been found in a barn. He seemed to be doing ok.

We agreed the houses at the placement center are very warm and inviting. Lots of toys and decorations. Don't know how much time kids are in their cribs or in the common rooms but all in all it seems like a good place. Unfortunate we aren't able to volunteer there.

We did find out that Cleo and Luca will be going back to the placement center tonight after we leave. This will make it easier for Coca when there are no volunteers as she will have fewer children.