Although Mia's birthday will always be special, I think that our referralversary will always maintain more memories, for me anyway. It's kind of like my "labor" story, as I can still recall every detail of the day. (Read more about the day here, if you like.) I often recount her referral story to Mia, along with her "story" and the details of her adoption. I still can't make it through without crying, but I hope that hearing it over and over again will make it familiar and easier for her to ask us questions as she gets older.
Dearest Mia,
This is the very first time I ever saw your sweet little face.
You have certainly grown by leaps and bounds in the last year! You were a teeny tiny 6 pounds in this picture. But even teeny tiny, you changed Daddy's and my life in the biggest way. Although waiting for your referral was hard, we had no idea that the most difficult wait lay before us. Now that we had seen you, all we could think about was how to get to you. Every month that passed brought us new pictures of you; we loved watching you grow and develop, but we were so sad that we weren't there to see it. We know and take comfort though, my love, that God was with you every step of the way. He has never nor will ever leave or forsake you.
May Updates
I couldn't believe that after all those months of waiting that we were finally together...forever. You were very excited to meet us, too. When they brought you out, I remember that you kept kicking your little legs and blowing us precious raspberries. So much drool for such a little girl! We loved spending time in your home country, seeing the orphanage that you were in, and learning more about Ethiopia. We promise to take you back one day.
The first time Mommy fed you a bottle.
The day we brought you "home" with us.They dressed you in one of the outfits we sent in your care packages!
On the bus in Addis Ababa. You were a pretty good traveler, considering you had only met us a couple of days before.It has been seven months since we brought you home, and every day is a new adventure. You certainly keep Mommy on her toes! You started walking at 11 months, and are now running everywhere! It is so fun to see you learn new things, and although you are claiming more independence, you still love and need your Mama, and that makes my heart melt. You, my love, are the best thing that has ever happened to me, and your Daddy and I couldn't have asked for a more beautiful daughter. It's quite amazing the draw you have on people; we can't go anywhere without someone stopping us to talk to you. Many stop us to tell us how lucky you are, but it's us, baby, who are the lucky ones. You make our life more complete and we are so thankful that you are in it. I can't wait to see what the future holds for you and me.
With all my heart,
Mama
Emilia Jane, 13 months22+ pounds
4 comments:
She has to be one of the most beautiful little girls that I know...seriously. I remember being so excited for you when you posted that message as you had been in my prayers for quite some time. Seeing the three of you together, you can definitely tell that God had a plan for your family for a long time. You are the most perfect family!
Happy Referralversary!!
I agree with Kristy! She is just gorgeous! I think that picture of the three of you together for the first time is my favorite family picture EVER! You are such a good mommy to your beautiful daughter. Happy Referralversary! Oh, and I know I don't know you that well, but when I found out last year about your referral I was a sobbing mess, so I can't imagine how that memory must be for you! :)
Congratulations!
Melodie
It's hard to believe she was that small just a year ago. Look at how she has grown and changed! What a blessing she is in ALL of our lives!
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