Monday, June 27, 2011

The Home Stretch

Our first night with Mia went better than expected.  As with our son Ty, we slept with one eye open the whole night, anticipating the long flight the next day and wondering what challenge our little one would throw at us next.  But while 2010 trip to bring Ty home was filled with doubts and fears of the unknown, this 2011 blockbuster sequel allowed us to marvel as somewhat experienced parents at the marvelous transformation our family was once again undergoing.  Every time I awoke and saw her lying there sprawled out on our double sized bed I smiled and marveled at this blessing from God. 

Carrie and I dutifully stretched out along the perimeter of the bed to enclose our precious little one and keep her from falling off the bed.  It brought to mind the imagery of Psalm 139:5 "You hem me in, behind and before and lay your hand upon me."  Though we have been down this road once before, we were still dependent upon our God who lays His hand upon us.  In this knowledge which is "too wonderful for us" we were about to head down the home stretch.

One of the special blessings we have enjoyed while getting to know our Mia is the pleasant way she awakes.  Every time she woke we were expecting to find a grumpy, confused, irritated little girl, wondering why she has not yet woken from this bad dream, wondering when her foster mother would return.  We expected protesting and complaining but each time she awakes we are greeted with this smile, this gift from God that encourages our souls.  After close to a dozen of such greetings, it seems clear that God has been pleased to grant our Mia a gentle transition to her new family.

The flight home went as well as could be expected.  She didn't sleep the whole flight as we had hoped but she did sleep some in the bassinet mounted to the bulkhead.  Every time the seat belt sing turned back on, we had to take her out of the bassinet but at least we got some breaks.  It's like running a marathon.  When you think about those 26 miles it seems you will never reach the finish line, but you just keep running and eventually you get there.

When we finally touched down at JFK, it suddenly hit us that we were home, well almost.  But just setting foot (or landing gear) on American soil gave us a boost of encouragement.  We count it a privilege to call America our home and it sure feels good to be home.

Mia seems to be adjusting well, though all the changes have taken their toll on Ty who just hasn't been himself.  Please continue to pray for Ty as he adjusts to all these changes.  Despite his struggles it has been great seeing our kids get to know eachother.  Mia is fascinated with everything her big brother does.  Ty likes to check on Mia and wants to hold her and has even voluntarily shared things with her!  Well, as long as he has no pressing need for it at the time.

I have to admit, it was hard for me to imagine having a second child as special as Ty, but as each day goes by I am falling more and more in love with our precious Mia.  She is so sweet and happy and yes I know that may change but she is our daughter now and we love her more than words can say.  Carrie has been tremendous.  She has been staying up with Mia, sleeping on the floor in her room to make sure she is not scared when she awakes.  We are going to try leaving her alone tonight and I am on night duty so Carrie can finally get a full nights rest. 

Our family of 3 is now a family of 4 and we're home at last!  We have two beautiful children and can hardly believe what God has done for us.  It was a long journey but worth it all.  The journey is far from over but as David said "my cup overfloweth".  Blessed be the Lord who gives and takes away, who raises up and sets down, and does all things well.  Thanks for your continued prayers.  Hope you enjoy the photos. 





2 comments:

  1. I LOVE the pictures!! Such a beautiful family! I look forward to meeting Mia soon!!!

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  2. Love love love all around....

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