One Year

Dear Eliana,

One year ago today you left the only home you had ever known.  You were driven to an unfamiliar building and escorted into an unfamiliar room, but you walked bravely into that room and smiled at people you had only seen in pictures.  You held your little arms up and said, "Mama" as I scooped you up.  You did not know it at the time, but in that moment you walked straight into your new Daddy and Mommy's hearts.

Just after meeting Eliana.

January 16, 2013

January 16, 2012

It has been a year of growth, physically and emotionally.  You have grown 9 inches taller and have gained almost ten pounds.  You have gone from being a tiny, frail, easily exhausted little thing to being strong and active.  You have gained confidence and physical stamina.  You have gone from walking unsteadily to running, jumping, skipping, turning somersaults, and dancing and swirling through your days.

When you first came home you were terrified by many things.  You screamed and ran in fear when your cousin walked in the door holding a doll.  You panicked when we tried to even walk into your bedroom, clutching at the door and screaming.  You clung to me like Velcro and would not even let Daddy hold you.

But you have faced your fears and moved beyond them.  You now love your dolls and care for them tenderly.  You go to sleep easily in your own bed with a happy, "Good-night".  You have become quite a Daddy's girl.  You are outgoing and friendly.  You have learned what it means to be loved and to love.

And oh, little girl, how I love you! I am so thankful that God graciously allows me to be your Mommy.  I think of your birth mother today.  I do not know why I am given the privilege of being your Mommy or why she could not.  But I thank her from the bottom of my heart for giving you life and placing you at a safe place where you would get the help you needed.  And I thank God for bring you to our family!

I love you, baby!  I'm looking forward to the year ahead as we move forward and keep learning and growing together!

All my love,
Mommy